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($1,265) Cost to Move From Ann Arbor, MI to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,301 miles from Ann Arbor to San Diego is generally between $1,358 and $7,919. The trip duration should be approximately seven–18 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Ann Arbor 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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Ann Arbor to San Diego

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Ann Arbor to San Diego, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Ann Arbor, you have a choice of 25 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach San Diego smoothly and with confidence.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Ann Arbor to San Diego

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,526 – $5,778
  • Moving Container $1,707 – $3,196
  • Rental Truck $1,345 – $2,576
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,860 – $7,919
  • Moving Container $2,122 – $4,672
  • Rental Truck $1,358 – $3,006
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,319 – $11,518
  • Moving Container $3,130 – $6,333
  • Rental Truck $1,768 – $3,685
Recent Moving Price Estimates
United Van Lines
Cement City, MI El Cajon, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
BLVD Moving
Milford, MI Hillcrest, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Safeway Moving
South Rockwood, MI Imperial Beach, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Estral Beach, MI Solana Beach, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 06, 2025
PODS
Walled Lake, MI La Mesa, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lake Angelus, MI Valley Center, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Howell, MI Casa de Oro-Mount Helix, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025
American Van Lines
Melvindale, MI National City, CA
2 Bedrooms
Jul 23, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Berkley, MI San Marcos, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 23, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Gibraltar, MI Carlsbad, CA
4 Bedrooms
Jul 23, 2025

Top local movers for Ann Arbor to San Diego moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Ann Arbor that also provides long-distance services to San Diego can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 31 local movers in Ann Arbor who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Ann Arbor to San Diego.

  1. Handle With Care Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Bos Moving & Services, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Handle With Care Moving’s exceptional efficiency, careful handling of belongings, and courteous, hard-working team. Feedback often highlights polite staff, excellent communication, and rapid, damage-free moves that stand out from other moving companies. Most clients appreciate straightforward estimates, transparent pricing, and how the company keeps moves stress-free.
Negative feedback, though rare, centers on occasional item damage, challenges in resolving complaints, and unexpected charges or discrepancies in estimates. Handle With Care outpaces competitors in reliability and professionalism, making it one of the most trusted choices for moves in and out of Ann Arbor. Over 92% of the 249 reviews express strong satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Corrigan Moving Systems for delivering reliable service, with 92% of input being positive among 25 feedback entries. Professional, polite staff and their careful handling of belongings stand out, along with efficient moving, clear communication, and rapid job completion. Many customers praise the team’s organization, responsive office staff, and ability to reduce stress during moves.
Negative input points primarily to damaged or poorly handled items, especially on long-distance moves, along with claims about rude crew behavior and slow claims processing. Corrigan typically outshines other movers for its consistency and dependable teams, but these rare complaints show that insurance and furniture care on certain moves can require more attention.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 973-9393

Company Info

State license #: 117864

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Corrigan Moving Systems , Midland Moving & Storage Company , Corrigan United Moving & Storage Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
9.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers are raving about how smoothly Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage handles moving day. Nearly 90% of the 348 reviews are positive, standing out with efficiency, careful handling of belongings, professionalism, fair pricing, and excellent communication. Many mention a courteous and capable moving crew, stress-free organization, and no hidden fees.
People appreciate how quickly and gently items are moved, even under challenging conditions such as snowstorms or tight schedules. Some say this company is better—friendlier, faster, and more affordable—compared to other movers they’ve hired before. Negative feedback makes up less than 10% of reviews, with most complaints centered on occasional damaged items, delayed arrivals without updates, and moves costing more than originally estimated. While infrequent, a few customers describe frustrations about reaching support or compensation for damages. Overall, the strong pattern of positive input shows that Campus Concepts consistently delivers reliable, efficient, and well-priced moving services that outshine many other local options.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 545-5617

Company Info

State license #: 36269

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2582190

Alternate Names: Wondermove

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.5% of all reviews were positive
12.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback highlights the professionalism and reliability of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, with 256 reviews analyzed and over 85% reporting a positive experience. Customers often describe courteous, efficient staff, careful handling of belongings, and quick moving processes. Several note good communication and up-front transparency, setting this company above many local competitors.
A smaller share of input, about 12%, details frustrations such as damaged items, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected charges, and occasional unclear pricing. Neutral feedback (2%) mentions issues with packing quality and unforeseen costs, though staff remain friendly. Overall, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives praise for their dependable, friendly service and speed, but a few recurring complaints about damages and pricing accuracy suggest that some moves may not meet expectations on protection or price. Most reviewers say the moving team’s professionalism and care stand out in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 418-0575

Company Info

State license #: 33371

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.2% of all reviews were positive
22.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving days feel easier for most customers of Bos Moving & Services, Inc. The majority of feedback praises their efficient service, careful handling of items, professionalism, quick process, and solid communication. Many highlight friendly movers and accurate, stress-free execution, which stand out compared to typical moving companies.
About 76% of input is positive, drawn from 214 customer comments. Still, nearly one in four customers report issues, mostly with damaged belongings, cost overruns, or unprofessional attitudes. These negative comments often point to broken items, estimates much lower than the final bill, and rude behavior from some staff. Bos Moving receives strong praise for reliable handling and friendly teams but receives substantial criticism when things go wrong, particularly for unresolved damage and billing disputes, marking a sharper contrast than most local moving services. The review base gives a clear signal: many experience smooth, hassle-free moves, but reported problems, especially with item care and final costs, warrant caution.
Show more
Get a Quote (248) 360-6644

Company Info

State license #: 22006

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 1672903

Services Offered

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

How much does it cost to move from Ann Arbor to San Diego?

Movers in Michigan generally charge an average of per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,265 – $5,356 $1,282 – $3,025 $1,241 – $2,399
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,860 – $7,919 $2,122 – $4,672 $1,358 – $3,006
4+ bedrooms $7,319 – $11,518 $3,130 – $6,333 $1,768 – $3,685
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,301-mile move from Ann Arbor to San Diego, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Oct 22, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Ann Arbor to San Diego

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ann Arbor to San Diego typically costs between $1,265 and $5,356. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,860 and $7,919 when moving from Ann Arbor to San Diego. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Ann Arbor to San Diego, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,319 up to $11,518.

Cost of moving containers from Ann Arbor to San Diego

If you’re relocating from Ann Arbor to San Diego, you’ll typically spend between $1,282 and $3,025 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,122 up to $4,672. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,130 and $6,333. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ann Arbor to San Diego

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Ann Arbor to San Diego move, 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, expect to pay between $1,241 and $2,399. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,358 to $3,006. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,768 and $3,685.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Ann Arbor to San Diego toggle

The cost of Ann Arbor movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Ann Arbor to San Diego might be as low as $2,612, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,427.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Ann Arbor.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,241 to $3,462 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to San Diego

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about 54% higher for singles and 44% higher for families than Ann Arbor.

Singles spend around $3,346 in Ann Arbor versus $2,176 in Ann Arbor; families pay $7,719 compared with $5,344.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Ann Arbor San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $1,831 $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $3,763 $4,914
Average home value $474,909 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $66,964 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $2,176 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $5,344 $7,719
Unemployment rate 3.5% 6.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.75%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 27% higher in San Diego than in Ann Arbor, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 111% higher in San Diego than in Ann Arbor.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 9% higher in San Diego than in Ann Arbor, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in San Diego, as the cost of living for a single person in San Diego is 54% greater than in Ann Arbor. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to San Diego, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 44% more than it is in Ann Arbor.
  • The unemployment rate in San Diego exceeds that of Ann Arbor by about 89%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes in San Diego exceed those in Ann Arbor by 29%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 213% higher in California than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Ann Arbor and San Diego, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Ann Arbor San Diego
Basic utilities $158.05 $277.55
Cell phone plan $48.64 $66.79
Dozen eggs $2.70 $5.26
Loaf of bread $3.60 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $100.00
Gym membership $44.00 $65.68
  • Basic utilities cost less in Ann Arbor than in San Diego, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ann Arbor than in San Diego.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Ann Arbor than in San Diego.
  • Bread costs less in Ann Arbor than in San Diego.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Ann Arbor than in San Diego.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ann Arbor than in San Diego.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Ann Arbor than in San Diego.

How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. San Diego

Ann Arbor San Diego
Population 123,851 1,386,932
Transportation score 7 6
Walkability score 52 53
Bike friendliness score 71 43
Crime index 31.0 39.83
Safety index 79.18 60.17
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 1020% greater than Ann Arbor.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Ann Arbor’s score of 7.
  • San Diego and Ann Arbor are similarly walkable.
  • San Diego has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 39.83 compared to Ann Arbor’s 31.0. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
  • San Diego is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 60.17 vs Ann Arbor’s 79.18.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Ann Arbor it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor to San Diego move

  • 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: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to San Diego without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in San Diego

Ready to relocate to America’s Finest City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in San Diego.

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

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore San Diego. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in San Diego include museums and art centers like the USS Midway Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum of San Diego, and San Diego Air & Space Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate La Jolla Cove, Balboa Park, La Jolla Shores Park, and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an San Diego Padres (MLB)San Diego Gulls (AHL)San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to San Diego?toggle

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to San Diego?toggle

With many people choosing to move from Ann Arbor to San Diego in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Ann Arbor to San Diego take?toggle

Covering 2,301 miles, the move from Ann Arbor, MI to San Diego, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Diego can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Ann Arbor can handle specialty items for my move to San Diego?toggle

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Ann Arbor, 19 movers can handle pianos. 7 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 46 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,173 and 1,401 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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