Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,174) Cost to Move From St. Louis, MO to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,847 miles from St. Louis to San Diego typically costs between $1,100 and $7,213. The trip is expected to last from five–16 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from St. Louis 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 St. Louis to San Diego

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from St. Louis to San Diego much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In St. Louis, there are 11 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to San Diego.

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 St. Louis to San Diego

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,159 – $5,066
  • Moving Container $1,456 – $2,868
  • Rental Truck $1,047 – $2,078
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,988 – $7,213
  • Moving Container $1,864 – $4,175
  • Rental Truck $1,100 – $2,545
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,023 – $10,158
  • Moving Container $2,627 – $5,455
  • Rental Truck $1,371 – $2,966
Recent Moving Price Estimates
Colonial Van Lines
Jennings, MO Spring Valley, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
PODS
Manchester, MO San Diego Country Estates, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Winchester, MO Lakeside, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
Roadway Moving
Des Peres, MO Oceanside, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Pasadena Hills, MO Solana Beach, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Country Life Acres, MO National City, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Twin Oaks, MO Winter Gardens, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Weldon Spring, MO Imperial Beach, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 12, 2025
American Van Lines
St. John, MO Lemon Grove, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
Safeway Moving
Greendale, MO Carlsbad, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 02, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your St. Louis to San Diego move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in St. Louis that offers long-distance services to San Diego can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 13 top local movers in St. Louis who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from St. Louis to San Diego.

  1. Arch Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Simple Moves: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. McGuire Moving and Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. ABC Quality Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
57.9% of all reviews were positive
32.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input reveals Arch Moving stands out for efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling—traits that rank it higher than many competitors. Out of 76 reviews analyzed, 58% were positive. Customers highlight quick moving, helpful movers, and care for belongings as main strengths.
On the other hand, 33% of input cited problems, mainly damage to items, inexperienced movers, and lack of communication. Multiple customers experienced property or item damage, with some reports of lost items and unsatisfactory claims processes. Others found crews lacking experience or communication lacking, particularly from office staff. While many noted friendly, hardworking movers and fast, well-organized moves, negative feedback points to greater risk of damage or mishandling than top-rated moving companies. Those seeking value and efficiency often found the service met or exceeded expectations, yet those who value reliability and item safety should proceed with caution and discuss coverage and experience with the company before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 964-5557

Company Info

State license #: 2969512

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2969512

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.9% of all reviews were positive
21.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple: feedback from 361 reviewers shows two out of three customers raved about Two Men and a Truck’s speed, careful handling, and positive, professional attitude. Three out of four reviews praised efficient service, noting teams that work quickly while respecting belongings and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful staff making moves less stressful.
On the downside, about 22% flagged issues, with damaged items as the top concern. Some reported belongings arrived scratched or broken, while others found their final bills exceeded estimates by hundreds of dollars. Delays or late arrivals also frustrated a portion of customers. Compared to many movers, Two Men and a Truck earns higher marks for courtesy and efficiency, but shoppers sensitive to cost or worried about valuables should stay vigilant and clarify terms before moving day.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 270-5758

Company Info

State license #: 714664

Years in Business: 31

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
82.4% of all reviews were positive
16.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Simple Moves racks up an impressive 82% positive feedback across 450 customer reviews, with just under 17% reporting negative experiences. Clients praise the company’s efficient service, careful handling of belongings, professional and polite staff, quick moving times, and affordable rates. Many remark on how the team completes moves swiftly while maintaining great care and friendliness, often outperforming bigger-name competitors on both price and customer service.
On the downside, the majority of criticisms mention damage to furniture or property, delayed arrivals or missed time windows, and a lack of follow-up or response from management when issues arose. While most find the moving crews helpful and reliable, those with more complex moves or high-value items should note the feedback on inconsistent packing quality and rare breakdowns in communication. Compared to other movers, Simple Moves stands out for affordability and efficiency but, like most budget-friendly services, careful attention to special handling details may require clear advance coordination.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 963-3416

Company Info

State license #: 1653733

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 1653733

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.3% of all reviews were positive
16.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints McGuire Moving and Storage as a leader for professionalism and skilled handling. Of 130 reviews, 82% were favorable, with clients praising the courteous staff, careful approach, efficiency, and effective communication. The company’s teams consistently earn recommendations, with multiple customers reporting stress-free and damage-free moves.
Negative feedback, making up about 17%, centers on item damage, lost belongings, and select instances of unprofessionalism or poor service recovery. Despite a few cases of unresolved issues, customers more often highlight reliability and a hands-on approach not easily found with competitors. McGuire sets itself apart by maintaining a highly praised team and strong follow-up, though, on rare occasions, resolution on damage or loss lags behind client expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 241-0600

Company Info

State license #: 2256609

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 2256609

Alternate Names: McGuire Moving Co.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.7% of all reviews were positive
16.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call ABC Quality Moving & Storage a top pick for efficient moves, friendly crews, and professional handling, with 263 reviews showing 83.7% positive feedback. People highlight how quickly movers work, their politeness, and care with belongings. Many say teams go above and beyond—packing thoroughly and sharing a helpful attitude.
Customers also praise how approachable the staff is and report competitive, transparent pricing compared to other movers. On the other hand, negative input makes it clear damage to items happens more often than expected, and reports of unprofessional behavior and missed deadlines appear in several reviews. Some say response to complaints or claims lags, or that movers lacked care when handling furniture and property. Service reliability and professionalism seem above average for the local market, but unresolved damage and communication problems place ABC behind standout companies. Clients looking for fast, careful service will likely enjoy a smooth experience; those who value guarantee against mishaps or perfect support post-move should review terms closely before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 772-1887

Company Info

State license #: 987335

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 987335

Alternate Names: ABC Quality Moving

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 money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

In Missouri, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,174 – $4,889 $1,100 – $2,717 $1,036 – $2,118
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,988 – $7,213 $1,864 – $4,175 $1,100 – $2,545
4+ bedrooms $6,023 – $10,158 $2,627 – $5,455 $1,371 – $2,966
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,847-mile move from St. Louis to San Diego, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from St. Louis to San Diego

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to San Diego from St. Louis, you can expect prices to land between $1,174 and $4,889. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,988 to $7,213 for the trip from St. Louis to San Diego. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,023 and $10,158.

Cost of moving containers from St. Louis to San Diego

Moving containers from St. Louis to San Diego will cost you $1,100 to $2,717 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,864 to $4,175. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,627 to $5,455. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from St. Louis to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from St. Louis 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 $1,036 and $2,118 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,100 to $2,545. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,371 to $2,966.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your St. Louis to San Diego move toggle

The cost of St. Louis movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,539 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,018 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in St. Louis.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,036 to $2,655, but require more effort than hiring movers.

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

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about 29% higher for singles and 17% higher for families than St. Louis.

Singles spend around $3,346 in St. Louis versus $2,589 in St. Louis; families pay $7,719 compared with $6,573.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

St. Louis San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $4,914
Average home value $171,463 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $66,090 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $2,589 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $6,573 $7,719
Unemployment rate 6.3% 6.6%
Sales tax 9.68% 7.75%
State income tax 4.8% 13.3%
  • Planning a move to San Diego? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 130% higher than in St. Louis, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in San Diego are about 485% higher than those in St. Louis.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 10% higher in San Diego compared to St. Louis, 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 29% higher than in St. Louis. 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 17% higher than in St. Louis.
  • With San Diego and St. Louis having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
  • Sales taxes are 20% less in San Diego relative to St. Louis. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in California are 177% above those in Missouri. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between St. Louis and San Diego:

Living Expense St. Louis San Diego
Basic utilities $277.55
Cell phone plan $66.79
Dozen eggs $5.26
Loaf of bread $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00
Gym membership $65.68

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

St. Louis San Diego
Population 293,310 1,386,932
Transportation score 8 6
Walkability score 66 53
Bike friendliness score 58 43
Crime index 69.65 39.83
Safety index 30.35 60.17
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 373% greater than St. Louis.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than St. Louis’s score of 8.
  • San Diego is less walkable than St. Louis with a score of 53 out of 100 vs St. Louis’s 66 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 St. Louis, which has a score of 58.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is lower than St. Louis with a score of 39.83 compared to St. Louis’s 69.65. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and St. Louis neighborhoods are safer than 69.65%.
  • San Diego is considered to be safer than St. Louis with a safety index of 60.17 vs St. Louis’s 30.35.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in St. Louis it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your St. Louis to San Diego move

  • 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.

Where to live in San Diego

Planning your move to America’s Finest City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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

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.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from St. Louis to San Diego? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in St. Louis.

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

Because most people are moving from St. Louis to San Diego in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from St. Louis to San Diego take?toggle

The 1,847-mile journey from St. Louis, MO to San Diego, , typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in St. Louis offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in San Diego.

Are there special savings available from movers in St. Louis?toggle

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in St. Louis?toggle

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In St. Louis, 9 movers can manage piano relocations. 5 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Missouri has 38 piano movers and 22 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle
SunMonTueWedThuFriSat
262728293031123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930123456