Local moving companies in Massachusetts
When you’re moving from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Bay State to the vibrant America’s Finest City.
Out of 94 Massachusetts movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to San Diego, CA.
- Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Marathon Moving Co.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Poseidon Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Pricing: $115/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2820253
Alternate Names: Esquire Moving Inc
Esquire Moving & Storage, a trusted local residential moving company in Waltham, MA, has been delivering exceptional service since 2015. Known for their comprehensive packing and unpacking services, they stand out from other nearby movers by offering specialized handling for pianos, art, and antiques. Customers consistently commend their professionalism and efficiency, reflected in their stellar average ratings of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, as well as an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. With transparent pricing at $115 per hour and no deposit required, Esquire Moving & Storage is a reliable choice for a hassle-free local move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 31391
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1718049
Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Boston Best Rate Movers has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Waltham, MA since 2006. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them an excellent choice for meticulous movers. Clients consistently praise their reliability, as evidenced by their 4.7 average rating across 32 Yelp reviews and 530 Google reviews, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards add to their customer-friendly approach.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Gentle Giant Moving Company has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Marshfield, MA since 1981. Setting themselves apart from other nearby movers, they also offer packing, unpacking, and storage services, and are equipped to handle special items like pianos with care. The company boasts an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and consistently high customer reviews, averaging 4.2 stars on Yelp and 4.9 stars on Google. With a strong reputation and a comprehensive range of services, Gentle Giant Moving Company is a reliable choice for those looking to move locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 943487
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 943487
Alternate Names: Marathon Moving Company, Inc.
Marathon Moving Co., a reputable and seasoned moving company based in Canton, MA, has been serving the local community with excellence since 2001. Highly regarded by customers, the company boasts a 4.3 average rating on Yelp from 75 reviews and a stellar 4.7 average rating on Google My Business from 190 reviews; it also holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby moving services, Marathon Moving Co. offers an extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques. With full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking available, they ensure peace of mind throughout the moving process, though a deposit is required.
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 cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 31816
Pricing: $120/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2522855
Alternate Names: Poseidon Moving, LLC
Poseidon Moving, a reputable local moving company based in Brookline, MA, has been providing dependable residential moving services since 2015. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and 4.1 on Google, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes compared to many nearby competitors. They offer a comprehensive suite of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items such as pianos, art, and antiques. Though a deposit is required and rates start at $120 per hour, Poseidon Moving accepts both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible and professional moving experience for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Cost to move from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA
This table details typical cost ranges to move from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,437 – $5,941 | $1,510 – $3,585 | $1,682 – $3,297 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,080 – $8,108 | $2,728 – $5,718 | $1,822 – $3,887 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,147 – $13,082 | $3,769 – $7,296 | $2,237 – $4,774 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,026-mile move from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA, typically costs between $1,437 and $5,941. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,080 and $8,108. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,147 up to $13,082.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA
When relocating from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA, you’ll typically spend between $1,510 and $3,585 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,728 up to $5,718. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,769 and $7,296. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA, expect to pay between $1,682 and $3,297. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,822 to $3,887. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,237 and $4,774.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Esquire Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Boston Best Rate Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Gentle Giant Moving Company | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Marathon Moving Co. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Poseidon Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
After evaluating 3,175 movers, here’s how Massachusetts movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| Massachusetts | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 99% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in San Diego, CA differs from what you’re used to in Massachusetts. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. San Diego, CA
| Massachusetts | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,588 | $2,881 |
| Average home cost | $623,131 | $1,003,444 |
| Average income (per capita) | $96,505 | $72,963 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 155 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.9% | 6.6% |
| State Income Tax | 9.0% | 13.3% |
San Diego sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in San Diego is approximately 81% higher than in Massachusetts. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Home prices are about 61% higher in San Diego than in Massachusetts. It’s important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
- Expect salaries in San Diego to be approximately 24% lower than in Massachusetts. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making your move.
- Even though unemployment in San Diego is 69% higher than in Massachusetts, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
- Income taxes are 48% higher in California than in Massachusetts. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in San Diego from Massachusetts
| San Diego | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 7,001,399 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 60-37 | Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 16ºF |
| Annual rain | 12″ | 49″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 13.92 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Massachusetts and San Diego both voted Democratic in the last election.
- Summer temperatures in San Diego typically reach 79ºF, which is about the same as the average 82ºF you’re used to in Massachusetts. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in San Diego usually drop to around 46ºF, while in Massachusetts, they can fall as low as 16ºF. Moving to San Diego means you’ll enjoy milder winters, which makes daily life more comfortable, helps you save on heating costs, and lets you spend more time outdoors.
- You can expect only about 12 inches of annual rainfall in San Diego vs the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- San Diego doesn’t get snow, while Massachusetts sees around 47 inches annually. Relocating to San Diego means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in San Diego are higher than in Massachusetts, with a crime index of 39.83 versus 13.92. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in San Diego
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in San Diego.
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
Other considerations when moving to San Diego, CA
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in California, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to California on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: 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: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Massachusetts to San Diego take?
The time it takes to move from Massachusetts to San Diego, CA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in Massachusetts, the longer the drive time to San Diego will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from Massachusetts to San Diego can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Massachusetts to San Diego?
If you’re planning a 3,026-mile move from Massachusetts to San Diego, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Diego, CA?
Summer temperatures in San Diego can soar to 79°F, while winters can get as chilly as 46°F. That’s why most people making the move from Massachusetts to San Diego prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
Helpful moving resources
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