Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,068) Movers From San Francisco to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The average cost to move 501 miles from San Francisco to San Diego ranges from $1,954 to $5,348 for professional movers, though can be less expensive going more DIY. Expect the trip to take about one–six days. Final costs vary by distance, date, home size, and whether you go DIY or hire movers.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from San Francisco to San Diego

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from San Francisco to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 501-mile move from San Francisco to San Diego, CA, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified pricing data points from movers across the country and refreshes them each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on move size, add-on services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several companies to understand your true price.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,218 – $3,486
  • Moving Container $933 – $1,557
  • Rental Truck $407 – $726
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,954 – $5,348
  • Moving Container $1,125 – $2,309
  • Rental Truck $413 – $905
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,519 – $7,980
  • Moving Container $1,606 – $2,998
  • Rental Truck $509 – $1,027
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
PODS
Millbrae, CA Imperial Beach, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 22, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Corte Madera, CA Lakeside, CA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Albany, CA Santee, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 16, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Burlingame, CA Rancho San Diego, CA
Studio apartment
Nov 13, 2025
North American Van Lines
Piedmont, CA Chula Vista, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 10, 2025
Roadway Moving
Brisbane, CA Casa de Oro-Mount Helix, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 27, 2025
BLVD Moving
Oakland, CA La Presa, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Alameda, CA Hillcrest, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 25, 2025
American Van Lines
South San Francisco, CA Winter Gardens, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 19, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Pacifica, CA La Mesa, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Diego to San Francisco guide.

Local moving companies in San Francisco

Picking one of the 370 local movers in California for your San Francisco to San Diego relocation can take the stress out of moving. Local movers know the region well, provide tailored services, and handle everything from packing and loading to transporting your belongings so your move is quicker and smoother from start to finish.

  1. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Luigy’s Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Pure Moving Company: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.9% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 3670248

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStar’s efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Get a Quote (415) 635-3844

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1836576

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.6% of all reviews were positive
6.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer stories about Luigy’s Moving & Storage highlight a company that stands out for speed, professionalism, careful handling, and friendly, supportive movers. Out of 125 customer reports, 93.6% praise efficient work, courteous teams, precise scheduling, and protected furniture. People frequently mention that staff went out of their way to assist, arriving on time and wrapping or moving items safely. While most input speaks highly of dependable service and fair pricing, a few negative reports cite unexpected extra charges, missing belongings, and unresolved insurance concerns. These serious criticisms were rare compared to industry averages but are important for transparency. Compared to other movers, Luigy’s receives above-average marks for reliability, staff demeanor, and minimizing stress on moving day.
Get a Quote (415) 413-4646

Company Info

State license #: 0192210

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 02740355

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant’s efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.
Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Company Info

State license #: 0167668

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.6% of all reviews were positive
1.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A standout among moving companies, Pure Moving Company consistently earns praise for efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail. Input from 1,008 customers shows 97.6% positive feedback, making it one of the highest-rated moving services in the Bay Area. Clients highlight the team’s quick, organized approach and their careful handling of belongings, often noting that nothing was damaged and furniture was wrapped thoroughly. Customers also appreciate clear communication before and during moves, as well as polite staff and easy booking. Some mention affordable, transparent rates compared to local competitors. Feedback reveals a small number of negative experiences, mainly focused on item damage, slow arrival, or inexperienced staff, although management often responds and resolves complaints promptly. Compared to other moving services, Pure Moving stands out for combining efficient work with care and professional service. Most report smooth, stress-free moves, with only rare setbacks. For those seeking a reliable Bay Area mover, Pure Moving Company sets a benchmark for quality.
Get a Quote (415) 919-6497

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from San Francisco to San Diego

The table below shows average moving costs from San Francisco to San Diego. We’ve categorized pricing by home size and type of service for easy side-by-side comparison.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,068 – $3,167 $648 – $1,514 $383 – $749
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,954 – $5,348 $1,125 – $2,309 $413 – $905
4+ bedrooms $3,519 – $7,980 $1,606 – $2,998 $509 – $1,027
*The prices shown are rough estimates for a 501-mile move from San Francisco to San Diego, informed by moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points nationwide and updates the dataset monthly to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Your final cost can change due to move size, add-ons, parking/access limitations, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest comparing several mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to San Diego

Hiring movers for a studio or one-bedroom home from San Francisco to San Diego typically runs between $1,068 and $3,167. A two- to three-bedroom move from San Francisco to San Diego usually ranges from $1,954 to $5,348, while a larger move from San Francisco to San Diego often costs $3,519 to $7,980.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to San Diego

For moves from San Francisco to San Diego using moving containers, a small move usually costs $648–$1,514. Two- to three-bedroom moves often fall between $1,125 and $2,309. Larger (four-bedroom+) moves typically range from $1,606 to $2,998. Learn more about PODS cost.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move in California.

Cost of renting a moving truck from San Francisco to San Diego

Opting for a rental truck from San Francisco to San Diego typically saves the most money, but you’ll need to handle both the driving and the loading/unloading.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $383 to $749. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $413 to $905, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Francisco to San Diego costs around $509 to $1,027.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from San Francisco to San Diego

Cost of living: San Francisco vs. San Diego

The cost of living in San Francisco vs. San Diego isn’t just about housing costs. We’ll lay out everything that matters, including rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends, so you can easily see how life in San Diego compares to what you’re used to in San Francisco.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Francisco San Diego
Average rent cost $3,250 $2,881
Average home cost $1,241,003 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $136,689 $72,963
Cost of living (single person) $3,781 $3,346
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,717 $7,719
Unemployment rate 5.4% 6.6%
Average Sales Tax 8.63% 7.75%
  • Rent in San Diego is about 11% cheaper than in San Francisco. That means you’ll probably free up more of your budget for savings, fun, or other expenses.
  • Home prices in San Diego are 19% lower than in San Francisco. That means you’ll have an easier time buying a home, locking in an affordable mortgage, and still having money left over for what matters most to you.
  • Income in San Diego is 47% lower than in San Francisco, which might mean you’ll need to watch your budget, especially if your income doesn’t keep pace with the cost of living.
  • The cost of living for a single person in San Diego is 12% lower than in San Francisco, meaning you’ll likely have more financial flexibility, allowing for increased savings, spending, or investment opportunities.
  • Good news, living costs are 11% lower in San Diego than in San Francisco. That means your money goes further, giving you more room in your budget and a chance to boost your quality of life after the move.
  • The unemployment rate in San Diego is 22% higher than in San Francisco. This could make finding work more challenging and potentially affect job security, especially if you’re moving without a job lined up.
  • With sales taxes 10% lower in San Diego than San Francisco, everyday expenses like meals, clothing, and electronics could be easier on your wallet.

If you typically live on $3,000 a month in San Francisco, you’ll need about $2,640 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in San Diego.

How life is different in San Francisco vs. San Diego

Before you move, check out how life in San Diego measures up to San Francisco. You can easily compare the weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population side by side. This comparison makes it easier to tell which city better fits your lifestyle and needs.

San Francisco San Diego
Population 808,988 1,386,932
Political leaning Democratic 85-13 Democratic 60-37
Summer high 67ºF 79ºF
Winter low 46ºF 46ºF
Annual rain 25″ 12″
Annual snow 0″ 0″
Crime index 61.41 39.83
  • San Diego has a population roughly 71% higher than San Francisco. Relocating to a bigger city brings more people, possibilities, cultural experiences, and higher costs and a faster paced lifestyle. Whether that energizes or exhausts you all comes down to what you’re looking for.
  • During the last presidential election, both San Francisco and San Diego supported the Democratic candidate.
  • Summer temperatures in San Diego can reach 79°F, hotter than San Francisco at 67°F. Expect warmer days, higher cooling bills, and adjustments to your daily routine.
  • In the coldest months, you’ll find similar low temperatures in both San Francisco and San Diego—with winter lows around 46°F and 46°F.
  • Expect wetter weather in San Francisco, where it averages 25 inches of rain annually—more than the 12 inches you’ll see each year in San Diego.
  • Both San Francisco and San Diego receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • San Diego posts a lower crime rate than San Francisco, with a crime index of 39.83 compared to San Francisco’s 61.41.

Things to do in San Diego

Whether you prefer to be in the great outdoors, soak up some culture, or catch a live game, San Francisco has plenty to offer:

Museums in San Diego

  • USS Midway Museum
  • Birch Aquarium at Scripps
  • Maritime Museum of San Diego
  • San Diego Air & Space Museum
  • Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Parks in San Diego

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Balboa Park
  • La Jolla Shores Park
  • Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
  • Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Sports teams in San Diego

  • San Diego Padres (MLB)
  • San Diego Gulls (AHL)
  • San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship)

Universities in San Diego

  • California State University-San Marcos
  • California Western School of Law
  • San Diego Christian College
  • National University
  • Point Loma Nazarene University

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from San Francisco to San Diego?

Shipping furniture from San Francisco to San Diego with a moving company typically costs between $1,068 and $3,167. If you’re relocating a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay anywhere from $1,954 to $5,348. For a four-bedroom home or larger, prices generally fall between $3,519 and $7,980 for that same route.

How much are moving container companies from San Francisco to San Diego?

If you’re planning a move from San Francisco to San Diego and thinking about using moving containers, here’s a quick look at typical costs: For a studio or one-bedroom, prices usually fall between $648 and $1,514. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay from $1,125 to $2,309. Have an even larger house? Moves for four- or five-bedroom homes typically range from $1,606 to $2,998.

How much is a moving truck from San Francisco to San Diego?

If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is often the most budget-friendly choice. Keep in mind, though— you’ll need to handle both the driving and the heavy lifting yourself. To keep things transparent, we’ve factored estimated fuel costs into our pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

If you’re renting a truck for a studio or one-bedroom move, expect to pay between $383 and $749. Moving a larger apartment? Costs typically fall between $413 and $905. For four-bedroom homes or bigger going from San Francisco to San Diego, truck rentals usually range from $509 up to $1,027.

How far in advance should I book San Francisco-to-San Diego movers?

To make your move from San Francisco to San Diego as stress-free as possible, lock in your movers at least two months before your big day. If you’re planning a summer move, aim for three months ahead, because spots fill up fast! Booking early not only boosts your chances of getting the date you want, but you might also score a better deal since many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Diego?

The cheapest time of year to move to San Diego is between early October and late April. This period is outside of the moving industry’s peak season (May–September), which means demand — and therefore pricing — will typically be lower. A majority of U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months will help you save money.

Learn more about your move to San Diego

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle