Local moving companies in San Diego

  1. Best California Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. One Stop Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Grizzly Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving day stress gets left behind with Best California Movers, according to an overwhelming 1,177 reviews—of which 98.5% were positive. Customers repeatedly point out efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moving, and excellent communication—attributes not seen as consistently in most moving companies. Feedback shows that belongings arrive safe and undamaged, with movers working swiftly and showing courtesy at every stage. Many notice that clear communication and transparent pricing make the process easier, and crews are praised for problem-solving in tough situations. A handful of reviewers, though, cite incidents involving damaged items, unexpected charges from inaccurate price quotes, or difficulty with claims and follow-up. These lapses are rare compared to industry averages but noteworthy for those prioritizing accountability. While neutral reviews mention minor flaws with after-move support, they still highlight professionalism and care by the moving teams. Compared to other moving services, Best California Movers stands out for reliability, speed, and the personal touch so often missing in the industry.
Get a Quote (858) 997-2487

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RepublicMovingStorageSanDiego/, https://twitter.com/sdmovingstorage
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/Onestopmoving, https://x.com/1StopMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
One Stop Moving & Storage stands out for its efficient, professional service, with a remarkable 76% of customer feedback describing a positive experience. Out of 628 reviews, most customers report quick moves, careful handling of belongings, polite staff, and clear communication—qualities that set this company above many competitors. Many mention moving day being stress-free thanks to a hardworking team skilled at protecting furniture and executing moves seamlessly. Pricing is usually transparent and estimates tend to be accurate compared to other movers. On the downside, about 23% of feedback details more serious problems: some moves resulted in furniture damage, missing items, or unexpected charges, and customers who experienced these issues struggled to get satisfactory help after the fact. A few reviews also describe poor claims handling and communication gaps. While most people recommend One Stop Moving & Storage for careful, professional relocations, anyone booking a move should confirm all terms and insurance coverage in writing to help avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (858) 633-8600

Company Info

State license #: 0190616

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1956864

Alternate Names: One Stop Moving & Storage Inc, San Diego Expert Movers, Quick San Diego Movers, Coastal Movers, Manpower Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/weliketomoveitsd, https://x.com/san_movers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/grizzlymovingsd,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Factors influencing moving costs from San Diego to Philadelphiatoggle

The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from San Diego to Philadelphia can be as low as $1,534 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,428.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in San Diego so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,828 to $4,675. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from San Diego to Philadelphia

Moving from San Diego to Philadelphia means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in San Diego than in Philadelphia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how San Diego compares to Philadelphia so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Diego Philadelphia
Average rent cost $2,881 $1,695
Average home value $1,003,444 $216,914
Average income (per capita) $72,963 $70,746
Cost of living (single person) $3,346 $2,541
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,719 $6,190
Unemployment rate 6.6% 10.6%
Sales tax 7.75% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 3.07%
  • Rent prices in Philadelphia are 41% lower than in San Diego, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Philadelphia.
    Home prices in Philadelphia are 78.4% lower than in San Diego.
  • Income in Philadelphia is 3.0% lower than in San Diego, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Philadelphia — including Amtak, Comcast, and COFCO — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Philadelphia. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 24.1% lower than in San Diego.
  • A move to Philadelphia can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 19.8% less than what it costs in San Diego.
  • The unemployment rate in Philadelphia is 60.61% higher than in San Diego.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Philadelphia, since its sales taxes are 3.23% higher than what you are paying in San Diego.
  • One perk of moving to Philadelphia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 76.92% lower than in San Diego.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,278.24 in Philadelphia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in San Diego.

How life is different in San Diego vs. Philadelphia

Philadelphia San Diego
Population 1,603,797 1,386,932
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 6
Walkability score 75 53
Bike friendliness score 67 43
Crime Index 66.09 39.83
Safety Index 33.91 60.17
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Philadelphia's population is about 16% greater than San Diego.
  • Philadelphia's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus San Diego's lower score of 6.
  • Philadelphia is more walkable than San Diego with a score of 75 out of 100 vs San Diego's 53 out of 100.
  • With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia is more bike-friendly than San Diego, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Philadelphia's crime rate is higher than San Diego with a score of 66.09 compared to San Diego's 39.83. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
  • Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 33.91 vs San Diego's 60.17.
  • Air quality in Philadelphia is good, and in San Diego it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Diego vs. Philadelphia move

  • Weather: Philadelphia has hot and muggy summers and the fall and spring are generally mild, and winter is moderately cold. If you are planning a summer move make sure to check the weather to avoid overall humid and hot days,
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Pennsylvania moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Pennsylvania, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Philadelphia Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Philadelphia

With your sights set on Philly, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Philadelphia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cedar Park
  • Fishtown
  • Manayunk
  • Point Breeze
  • Washington Square West

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bella Vista
  • Bustleton
  • Chestnut Hill
  • Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
  • Foxchase

Things to do in Philadelphia

After getting comfortable in your new Pennsylvania home, it's time to see what Philadelphia is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Philadelphia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, Museum of the American Revolution, and The Franklin Institute.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), or Philadelphia Phillies (MLB) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Diego to Philadelphia?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Diego to Philadelphia You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Diego.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Philadelphia?

Because spring and fall moves from San Diego to Philadelphia are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from San Diego to Philadelphia take?

The 2,692-mile journey from San Diego, CA to Philadelphia, PA, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in San Diego offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Philadelphia.

Helpful moving resources