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($1,375) Cost to Move From Minneapolis, MN to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 1,989 mile move from Minneapolis to San Diego, costs typically range from $1,236 to $7,255. Plan for the travel time to be around five–16 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis to San Diego

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Minneapolis to San Diego, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 26 interstate moving companies located in Minneapolis, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to San Diego seamless and enjoyable.

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 Minneapolis to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,989-mile move from Minneapolis to San Diego using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,518 – $5,495
  • Moving Container $1,581 – $2,941
  • Rental Truck $1,097 – $2,138
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,365 – $7,255
  • Moving Container $2,085 – $4,371
  • Rental Truck $1,236 – $2,726
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,743 – $10,682
  • Moving Container $2,662 – $5,560
  • Rental Truck $1,529 – $3,243
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.
North American Van Lines
Birchwood Village, MN Coronado, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Safeway Moving
Bayport, MN Escondido, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Delano, MN Camp Pendleton South, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 28, 2025
PODS
Sunfish Lake, MN Carlsbad, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 21, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Chaska, MN Hillcrest, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 30, 2025
American Van Lines
Medina, MN La Presa, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 21, 2025
Roadway Moving
Greenfield, MN San Marcos, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Cottage Grove, MN Bostonia, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Woodland, MN Encinitas, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Montrose, MN Poway, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Diego, CA to Minneapolis, MN guide.

The best local movers for Minneapolis to San Diego moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Minneapolis that also handles long-distance moves to San Diego. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 34 local movers in Minneapolis who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

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

  1. Matt’s Moving Company : 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  3. AAA Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. The Move Crew: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.5 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.2% of all reviews were positive
6.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Matt’s Moving Company earns rave reviews for speed, professionalism, careful handling, and great communication. Customer feedback highlights efficient, friendly teams who make relocation stress-free and consistently deliver on promises. Out of 268 reviews, 92% are positive, a rate few competitors meet. Most praise comes from fast, careful moves and courteous service. Some clients also note excellent organizational skills and timely arrival, making them a top choice among local movers. Negative input, making up less than 7%, focuses on property damage, late crews, and unexpected costs—issues seen in the moving industry but typically resolved at Matt’s Moving. Neutral feedback, just over 1%, references broken items and high pricing for smaller moves, though most still mention professionalism. Compared to similar companies, Matt’s Moving stands out for reliability, positive energy, and an ability to exceed expectations—balanced by the need for occasional improvement in scheduling accuracy and claims handling.
Get a Quote (651) 210-8271

Company Info

State license #: 374236

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1704106

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—Piepho Moving & Storage collects high marks from customers, with 91.6% of 250 reviews praising their service. Clients consistently note professional and courteous staff, clear communication, efficiency, careful handling, and quick moving processes. Many describe stress-free moves, punctual teams, and possessions arriving in perfect condition. Compared with many moving companies, Piepho receives more compliments for staff professionalism and responsiveness. Some negative input highlights item damage, issues with communication, and lateness on deliveries as main complaints. While problems do occur, especially during rare cross-country moves or complex shipments, these are much less common than positive feedback. Overall, most customers find Piepho reliable, skilled, and worth recommending for seamless moves.
Get a Quote (651) 372-3494

Company Info

State license #: 286311

Years in Business: 73

DOT #: 286311

Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company

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
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
61.3% of all reviews were positive
38.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving customers in the Twin Cities consistently rave about AAA Movers’ efficient, professional crews and careful handling of property—231 out of 377 feedback submissions (61%) praised these qualities. Clients commend fast-moving teams, polite and communicative staff, and reliable service. Many found booking straightforward and appreciated cost transparency when moves stayed on budget. Some even noted that their final bills came in under estimates due to speedy work—a step above many moving companies. Yet, 38% of input pointed to concerning problems. The most frequent issues involve damage to items, often with insufficient reimbursement, and costs exceeding initial quotes by substantial amounts. Poor complaint handling and slow response times are reported when problems need resolution. A noticeable number of customers experienced communication gaps after reporting losses or property damage. AAA Movers delivers reliable, courteous service at the truck, but dispute resolution leaves many dissatisfied. While positive experiences outpace negatives, those considering AAA should scrutinize contract details and expected costs to avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (612) 588-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 1140502

Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.2% of all reviews were positive
3.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top ratings and glowing feedback paint The Move Crew as a standout among moving companies. Out of 295 customer reviews analyzed, 94% expressed highly positive experiences. Reviewers frequently mention efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of belongings, smooth and quick moving processes, and clear communication. Customers highlight the movers’ punctuality, solid teamwork, and transparent rates that usually align with or come under estimates. Competitive pricing and a reputation for exceeding expectations contribute to frequent recommendations and repeat business. In comparison to many moving firms, The Move Crew consistently delivers reliable, fast, and considerate relocations—whether across town or interstate. Complaints are rare, but some users report issues with damaged furniture or property, costs higher than anticipated, and delays or lack of follow-up during claims or repairs. Neutral feedback most often points to billing minimums or subpar time management. While most customers praise speed, courtesy, and attention to detail, a small fraction urge future customers to clarify insurance claims and estimates closely. The Move Crew leads its industry in service quality, with only a handful of reported disappointments amid a vast majority of satisfied clients.
Get a Quote (612) 361-6787

Company Info

State license #: 380620

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2552505

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.5% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback about Ace Moving & Warehousing makes moving feel less daunting. With 238 total reviews, nearly 90% of customers describe positive experiences. Customers praise efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, and quick moves. Many report that staff handle belongings with great care, and booking is straightforward. Movers are consistently described as friendly, on time, and ready to go the extra mile. Some mention competitive pricing and knowledgeable estimators, which are rare assets among movers. Negative input centers around inaccurate cost estimates, lost items, and difficulty getting timely follow-up when something goes wrong. While most customers say their valuables arrive undamaged, a few report unresolved insurance claims or poor resolution of lost or damaged property. Ace is noted for professional service and efficiency well above many competitors, but those considering complex or long-distance moves should push for clear documentation and maintain open communication during the process.
Get a Quote (763) 755-2045

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 125550

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

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

The average hourly rate for movers in Minnesota is $209. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,375 – $4,891 $1,171 – $2,701 $1,177 – $2,182
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,365 – $7,255 $2,085 – $4,371 $1,236 – $2,726
4+ bedrooms $6,743 – $10,682 $2,662 – $5,560 $1,529 – $3,243
*Approximate cost ranges for a 1,989-mile move from Minneapolis to San Diego are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Minneapolis to San Diego

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Minneapolis to San Diego will cost between $1,375 and $4,891. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Minneapolis to Minneapolis will range from $3,365 to $7,255, and a large move from Minneapolis to San Diego will cost from $6,743 to $10,682.

Cost of moving containers from Minneapolis to San Diego

If you’re moving from Minneapolis to San Diego, expect to pay between $1,171 and $2,701 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,085 up to $4,371. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,662 and $5,560. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Minneapolis to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from Minneapolis to San Diego is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,177 and $2,182. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,236 and $2,726. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,529 up to $3,243 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Minneapolis to San Diego

The cost of Minneapolis movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,649, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $11,053.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Minneapolis, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,177–$2,845) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Minneapolis to San Diego

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about -14% higher for singles and 64% higher for families than Minneapolis.

Singles spend around $3,346 in Minneapolis versus $3,900 in Minneapolis; families pay $7,719 compared with $4,710.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Minneapolis San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $1,688 $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $2,707 $4,914
Average home value $312,602 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $70,099 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $3,900 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $4,710 $7,719
Unemployment rate 4.5% 6.6%
Sales tax 9.03% 7.75%
State income tax 9.85% 13.3%
  • Rent is estimated to be 94% higher in San Diego compared to Minneapolis; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 221% greater in San Diego than in Minneapolis.
  • Fortunately, the average income in San Diego and Minneapolis is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in San Diego. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 14% lower than in Minneapolis.
  • When relocating to San Diego, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in San Diego is 64% greater than in Minneapolis.
  • In San Diego, the unemployment rate is approximately 47% higher than in Minneapolis, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes drop 14% in San Diego compared to Minneapolis, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Income taxes are 35% higher in California than in Minnesota, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

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

Living Expense Minneapolis San Diego
Basic utilities $164.65 $277.55
Cell phone plan $50.68 $66.79
Dozen eggs $4.15 $5.26
Loaf of bread $3.75 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $100.00
Gym membership $55.00 $65.68
  • Basic utilities cost less in Minneapolis than in San Diego, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Minneapolis than in San Diego.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Minneapolis than in San Diego.
  • Bread costs less in Minneapolis than in San Diego.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Minneapolis than in San Diego.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Minneapolis than in San Diego.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Minneapolis than in San Diego.

How life is different in Minneapolis vs. San Diego

Minneapolis San Diego
Population 425,115 1,386,932
Transportation score 8 6
Walkability score 71 53
Bike friendliness score 83 43
Crime index 56.06 39.83
Safety index 43.94 60.17
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 226% greater than Minneapolis.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Minneapolis’s score of 8.
  • San Diego is less walkable than Minneapolis with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Minneapolis’s 71 out of 100.
  • San Diego has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Minneapolis, which has a score of 83.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is lower than Minneapolis with a score of 39.83 compared to Minneapolis’s 56.06. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Minneapolis neighborhoods are safer than 56.06%.
  • San Diego is considered to be safer than Minneapolis with a safety index of 60.17 vs Minneapolis’s 43.94.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Minneapolis it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Minneapolis to San Diego move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to San Diego. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in San Diego

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to America’s Finest City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

Once you’re settled into your new home in California, it’s time to get out and discover what San Diego has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout San Diego, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites 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 Minneapolis to San Diego?

The best time to move from Minneapolis to San Diego is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Minneapolis.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Minneapolis to San Diego, 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 Minneapolis to San Diego take?

Moving from Minneapolis, MN to San Diego, covers 1,989 miles and usually takes five to 16 days. Need to move faster? Some Minneapolis movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Diego.

Which movers in Minneapolis give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 3 movers here honor AAA discounts. 1 movers have deals for seniors.

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

Who can move pianos or antiques in Minneapolis?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 28 movers in Minneapolis advertise piano moving expertise. 13 movers in Minneapolis provide antique moving services. State totals show 42 piano movers and 17 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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