Quick answer: For a 1,990-mile move from St. Paul to San Diego, expect to spend around $1,626–$9,178 and five to 16 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

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

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

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from St. Paul to San Diego

Choosing a long-distance moving company in St. Paul to go to San Diego can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

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

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 30 Minnesota 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 St. Paul to San Diego moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in St. Paul that also provides long-distance services to San Diego 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 St. Paul 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 St. Paul to San Diego.

  1. Matt's Moving Company : 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. Metcalf Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. College Muscle Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Nystrom Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/mattsmovingstp/, https://x.com/mattsmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
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.
Show more
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/metcalfmoving, https://twitter.com/metcalfmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Metcalf Moving & Storage consistently earns praise for having professional, careful, and efficient crews who communicate well and handle belongings with respect. Out of 234 feedback submissions, over 91% are positive, citing friendly staff, prompt service, and thoughtful packing. Affordable, transparent pricing and timely moves also set them apart from competitors who often lack Metcalf's reliability and care.
On the other hand, a small number of customers report issues such as damaged or missing items and frustration over inaccurate estimates. These negative experiences highlight the importance of monitoring for careful inventory tracking and clear cost communication. Compared to many moving firms, Metcalf stands out for strong communication, reliable timetables, and respectful, skilled teams, though customers should clarify estimates and special needs upfront to avoid rare but significant problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 484-0211

Company Info

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 1127088


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Piepho.Allied1/, https://x.com/piephomoving
92% of all reviews were positive
7% 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.
Show more
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/CollegeMuscleMovers/,
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Muscle Movers for their efficient service, attention to care, and professional, friendly crews. Out of 461 reviews, over 81% provided positive feedback, often noting careful handling and clear, proactive communication. Many found the team quick, polite, and able to move belongings without damage—standout qualities that set them above competitors charging more.
Still, a notable portion voiced concerns, mainly about damaged items, charges that exceeded initial estimates, and dissatisfaction with complaint resolution. Missteps such as property damage or underestimated quotes led to tough experiences that some felt were unresolved. Compared to many movers, College Muscle Movers stands out for consistent quality and speed, but buyers should pay close attention to contract terms and ask questions upfront about insurance and billing to avoid surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 917-4108

Company Info

State license #: 1443087

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1443087

Alternate Names: College Muscle, College Muscle Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057045086419,
78% of all reviews were positive
19% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-notch service stands out in the feedback for Nystrom Moving & Storage, Inc., with 78% of customers describing prompt, efficient movers who maintain professional and friendly attitudes. Clients often praise the staff for careful handling of items, fast moving times, and affordable pricing. Many noted how approachable and respectful the crews were during stressful moves, often exceeding expectations compared to other companies.
On the downside, about 19% of input focus on difficulty reaching the company, communication lapses, and occasional reports of damaged or missing items. A few found surprise charges and unsatisfactory issue resolution. Most customers experience reliable, value-driven service with minimal issues, distinguishing Nystrom from many competitors in the region. The company’s strengths in efficiency, professionalism, and courtesy are consistently recognized, while clear communication could further enhance customer satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 224-3722

Company Info

State license #: 1124693

Years in Business: 77

DOT #: 1124693

Alternate Names: Nystrom's Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from St. Paul to San Diego?

St. Paul movers charge $100 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 $1,706 - $6,442 $1,424 - $3,560 $1,431 - $2,705
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,432 - $9,178 $2,535 - $5,003 $1,626 - $3,449
4+ bedrooms $8,366 - $14,224 $3,403 - $6,891 $1,993 - $4,224
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,990 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 Minnesota to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Minnesota to California will cost between $1,706 and $6,442. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MN to CA will range from $4,432 to $9,178, and a large move from Minnesota to California will cost from $8,366 to $14,224.

Cost of moving containers from Minnesota to California

If you're moving from Minnesota to California, expect to pay between $1,424 and $3,560 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,535 up to $5,003. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,403 and $6,891. 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 Minnesota to California

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,431 and $2,705 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,626 to $3,449. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $1,993 to $4,224.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from St. Paul to San Diegotoggle

The cost of St. Paul movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from St. Paul to San Diego can be as low as $1,706 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $12,907.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in St. Paul so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,431 to $3,817. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from St. Paul to San Diego

Moving from St. Paul to San Diego means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in St. Paul than in San Diego, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how St. Paul compares to San Diego so you know what to expect before you relocate:

St. Paul San Diego
Average rent cost $1,350 $2,881
Average home value $278,221 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $63,483 $72,963
Cost of living (single person) $3,633 $3,346
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,290 $7,719
Unemployment rate 4.9% 6.6%
Sales tax 9.88% 7.75%
State income tax 9.85% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Diego, since prices are typically 113% higher than in St. Paul.
  • The home prices in San Diego are 260.7% higher than in St. Paul, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in San Diego, where incomes are, on average, 14.9% higher than in St. Paul. Major employers in San Diego include United States Navy, University of California, San Diego, and Sharp HealthCare.
  • 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 7.9% lower than in St. Paul.
  • 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 79.9% higher than in St. Paul.
  • The unemployment rate in San Diego is 34.69% higher than in St. Paul.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in San Diego, since the city's sales taxes in San Diego are 21.56% lower than in St. Paul.
  • State income taxes in San Diego are 35.03% higher than in St. Paul.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,763.01 in San Diego to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in St. Paul.

How life is different in St. Paul vs. San Diego

San Diego St. Paul
Population 1,386,932 303,176
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 8
Walkability score 53 60
Bike friendliness score 43 64
Crime Index 39.83 50.86
Safety Index 60.17 49.14
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • San Diego's population is about 357% greater than St. Paul.
  • San Diego's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus St. Paul's higher score of 8.
  • San Diego is less walkable than St. Paul with a score of 53 out of 100 vs St. Paul's 60 out of 100.
  • San Diego has a bike-friendliness score 43 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as St. Paul, which has a score of 64 out of 100.
  • San Diego's crime rate is lower than St. Paul with a score of 39.83 compared to St. Paul's 50.86. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and St. Paul neighborhoods are safer than 50.86%.
  • San Diego is considered to be safer than St. Paul with a safety index of 60.17 vs St. Paul's 49.14.
  • Air quality in San Diego is moderate, and in St. Paul it's good.

Other things to consider for your St. Paul vs. San Diego move

  • Weather: San Diego's climate is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, with most of the annual precipitation falling between December and March. The city has a mild climate year-round.
  • 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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 verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to San Diego. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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

With your sights set on America's Finest City, these are some of the most popular 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: 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, San Diego Air & Space Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's La Jolla Cove, Balboa Park, La Jolla Shores Park, and Sunset Cliffs Natural 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 San Diego Padres (MLB), San Diego Gulls (AHL), or San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from St. Paul to San Diego?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from St. Paul to San Diego?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from St. Paul 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 St. Paul to San Diego take?

Covering 1,990 miles, the move from St. Paul, MN to San Diego, CA typically takes five to 16 days. Some St. Paul movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Diego can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources