($1,313) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to San Diego

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to San Diego from Des Moines, you can expect prices to land between $1,313 and $5,079. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,246 to $7,291 for the trip from Des Moines to San Diego. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,686 and $9,850.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to San Diego

Moving containers from Des Moines to San Diego will cost you $1,004 to $2,582 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,867 to $3,851. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,471 to $4,910. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from Des Moines to San Diego typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,009 and $1,941 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,113 to $2,355. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,307 to $2,881.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to San Diego? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 151% higher than in Des Moines, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in San Diego are about 422% higher than those in Des Moines.
• Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 25% higher in San Diego compared to Des Moines, which might allow for more savings or investments.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in San Diego, as living costs for a single person are 77% higher than in Des Moines. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• If you’re moving your family to San Diego, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Diego is 76% higher than in Des Moines.
• San Diego shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Des Moines by around 12%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
• Sales taxes in San Diego are 11% more than in Des Moines, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• Income taxes in California are 202% above those in Iowa. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• San Diego’s population is about 98% greater than Des Moines.
• San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
• San Diego is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
• With a score of 43 out of 100, San Diego is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
• San Diego’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 39.83 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
• San Diego and Des Moines have a similar safety level, with scores of 60.17 and 57.8.
• Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• 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 San Diego. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Gaslamp Quarter
• Hillcrest
• North Park
• Ocean Beach
• Pacific Beach

Best neighborhoods for families

• Carmel Valley
• Del Mar Heights
• Loma Portal
• Rancho Bernardo
• Rancho Penasquitos

Things to do in San Diego

After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, San Diego has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: San Diego features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the USS Midway Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum of San Diego, and San Diego Air & Space Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s La Jolla Cove, Balboa Park, La Jolla Shores Park, and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an San Diego Padres (MLB)San Diego Gulls (AHL)San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.