Quick answer: A typical 1,226-mile move from San Diego to Tacoma runs $936–$7,406 and takes two to eight days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Tacoma to San Diego guide.

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

For a move from San Diego to Tacoma, you’ll have no shortage of options. There are 24 interstate movers in your area, giving you plenty of choices… but also a big decision to make about whether to go full-service or take on more of the work yourself.

We reviewed every San Diego company against key criteria, including service variety, affordability, and what people are saying in online reviews. Only the best long-distance movers in San Diego made our final list.

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Best professional movers from San Diego to Tacoma

For an interstate move from San Diego to Tacoma, choosing a full-service mover means you won’t have to manage the packing, loading, or transport yourself. These companies handle the details so you can concentrate on your schedule and plans for settling in.

Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for full-service movers equipped to get you from San Diego to Tacoma efficiently and with minimal stress.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in San Diego?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare San Diego with the broader CA landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service San Diego (Count) San Diego (%) California (Count) California (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 28 100% 351 99% 2835 98%
Unpacking 28 100% 346 98% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 11 39% 102 29% 717 25%
Packing materials 24 86% 239 68% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 28 100% 305 86% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 9 32% 69 20% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 23 82% 287 81% 1886 65%
Art 16 57% 226 64% 1400 48%
Antiques 16 57% 222 63% 1400 48%
Piano 21 75% 288 82% 2175 75%
Hot tub 12 43% 117 33% 669 23%
Pool table 13 46% 153 43% 943 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to WA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local movers servicing San Diego to Tacoma moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in San Diego that also provides long-distance services to Tacoma can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in San Diego who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from San Diego to Tacoma.

  1. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. McCarthy Transfer & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Grizzly Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Best California Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  5. One Stop Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/weliketomoveitsd, https://x.com/san_movers
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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/SanDiegoMover/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCarthy Transfer & Storage’s professionalism and efficiency. Out of 221 feedback entries, over 91% praise the team’s politeness, careful handling, prompt communication, and quick moving process, reporting moves completed with speed and concern for personal property. Input frequently emphasizes courteous, skilled crews and services handled with respect for homes and belongings.
Some note that the company regularly exceeds experiences with other movers—especially for military relocations—earning more trust for reliability and staff friendliness. A small portion of feedback points out issues such as damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or unexpected extra charges, particularly during military moves. Despite these isolated problems, most customer feedback compares McCarthy Transfer favorably to other moving companies for dependability and quality service.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 596-2594

Company Info

State license #: 0154190

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 2059504

Alternate Names: McCarthy Transfer & Storage Incorporated


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/grizzlymovingsd,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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/Onestopmoving, https://x.com/1StopMoving
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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

How much does it cost to move from San Diego to Tacoma?

San Diego movers charge $200 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,355 - $5,552 $1,047 - $2,463 $848 - $1,636
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,077 - $7,406 $1,819 - $3,582 $936 - $2,044
4+ bedrooms $5,140 - $9,470 $2,365 - $5,041 $1,189 - $2,300
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,226 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to Washington

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Washington, you can expect to spend between $1,355 and $5,552. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,077 to $7,406 on the same route (CA to WA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Washington typically runs between $5,140 and $9,470.

Cost of moving containers from California to Washington

If you're moving from California to Washington, expect to pay between $1,047 and $2,463 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,819 up to $3,582. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,365 and $5,041. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Washington

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $848 to $1,636. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $936 to $2,044, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from California to Washington costs around $1,189 to $2,300.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors influencing moving costs from San Diego to Tacomatoggle

The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from San Diego to Tacoma might cost just $1,355 for a one-bedroom, but up to $8,674 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in San Diego, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $848 and $2,170, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from San Diego to Tacoma

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move — Tacoma runs about 24% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than San Diego.

Singles spend around $4,133 in Tacoma versus $3,346 in San Diego; families pay $7,260 compared with $7,719.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

San Diego Tacoma
Average 1 BR rent $2,704 $1,935
Average 3 BR rent $4,914 $3,389
Average home value $1,003,444 $477,289
Average income (per capita) $72,963 $73,341
Unemployment rate 6.6% 7.3%
Sales tax 7.75% 10.3%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Tacoma are 43% 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 Tacoma.
    Home prices in Tacoma are 52.4% lower than in San Diego.
  • Income is the same in Tacoma and San Diego.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Tacoma, since the cost of living for a single person in Tacoma is 23.5% higher than in San Diego. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • A move to Tacoma 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 5.9% less than what it costs in San Diego.
  • The unemployment rate in Tacoma is 10.61% higher than in San Diego.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Tacoma, since its sales taxes are 32.90% higher than what you are paying in San Diego.
  • One perk of moving to Tacoma is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in San Diego.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between San Diego and Tacoma:

San Diego Tacoma
Basic utilities $277.55 $229.8
Cell phone plan $66.79 $71.5
Dozen eggs $5.26 $4.84
Loaf of bread $4.5 $4.21
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21 $16.5
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100 $72.5
Gym membership $65.68 $51.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Diego than in Tacoma.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in San Diego than in Tacoma.
  • Eggs cost more in San Diego than in Tacoma.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Diego than in Tacoma.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in San Diego than in Tacoma.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Diego than in Tacoma.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Diego than in Tacoma.

How life is different in San Diego vs. Tacoma

Tacoma San Diego
Population 223,968 1,386,932
Transportation Score 6 6
Walkability score 54 53
Bike friendliness score 48 43
Crime Index 55.55 39.83
Safety Index 44.45 60.17
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Tacoma's population is about 84% less than San Diego.
  • Tacoma's public transportation has a similar score to San Diego.
  • Tacoma and San Diego are similarily walkable.
  • With a score of 48 out of 100, Tacoma 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.
  • Tacoma's crime rate is higher than San Diego with a score of 55.55 compared to San Diego's 39.83. This means that Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
  • Tacoma is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 44.45 vs San Diego's 60.17.
  • Air quality in Tacoma is good, and in San Diego it's moderate.

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

  • Weather: Tacoma has one of the best weather in the state of Washington which is a desirable feature for residence. Humidity in Tacoma is generally tolerable. The most humid months are August, July and September which are the best months to schedule a move to avoid rainfall and snow.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Washington moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Washington doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Tacoma. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers' insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Tacoma

With your sights set on America’s #1 Wired City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Tacoma.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central
  • Eastside-Enact
  • North End
  • Northeast Tacoma
  • West End

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North End
  • West End

Things to do in Tacoma

Now that you've made the move to Washington it's the perfect time to explore Tacoma From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Tacoma features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the LeMay - America's Car Museum, Museum of Glass, LeMay Collections at Marymount, Washington State History Museum, and Tacoma Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Point Defiance Park, Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 5 Mile Drive & Trails, and Wright 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 Tacoma Defiance (Soccer) and Tacoma Rainiers (Baseball) game.

FAQ

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

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from San Diego to Tacoma. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in San Diego.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from San Diego to Tacoma moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

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

Covering 1,226 miles, the move from San Diego, CA to Tacoma, WA typically takes two to eight days. Some San Diego movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Tacoma can help bridge the gap.

Which movers in San Diego give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers here honor AAA discounts. 1 movers give special rates to military members.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in San Diego?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 21 movers in San Diego provide piano moving services. 16 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 288 piano movers and 222 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2175 and 1400.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources