Best overall value
Local moving companies in New York City
- Roadway Moving : 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Flatrate Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves arenโt a mythโRoadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move. Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focusโmaking them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
Company Info
State license #: 38589
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1854436
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Affordable rates
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs. Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problemsโunexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyaltyโor frustrationโin a crowded industry.
Company Info
State license #: 36990
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 1543241
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Poor complaint handling
- Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
FlatRate Moving receives glowing feedback from most customers, with 94% of input highlighting efficiency, skilled handling, professional and courteous staff, clear communication, and speedy moves. Clients mention organized packing and care for belongings, with many moves completed ahead of schedule. Transparent pricing and a streamlined process set the company apart from many competitors in the industry, reducing stress typically linked to moving. Negative experiences are far less common but mainly report damaged or lost items, unresolved claims, and challenges with customer support for complaints. A small segment also notes issues with repeated follow-up needed for claim resolutions or communication lapses after damage occurred. Out of 271 reviews analyzed, an overwhelming majority found the company reliable and highly recommended FlatRate Moving, reflecting a track record that outperforms many moving services in both satisfaction and consistency.
Company Info
State license #: 32557
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 488466
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions. Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxesโand a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but itโs important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Company Info
State license #: 40244
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3066988
Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Across 741 customer reviews, White Glove Moving & Storage shines for their meticulous handling, professionalism, and swift, efficient workโnearly 90% of feedback expresses satisfaction. Movers are repeatedly recognized for careful treatment of items, reliable communication, and prompt execution, often exceeding expectations. Customers cite friendly, organized teams and well-wrapped belongings as standout features. A minority report issues like damaged goods, delayed delivery, or unexpected fees, especially with long-distance jobs or storage. Compared to typical moving companies, White Glove receives notably fewer complaints about lost or mishandled property. While most customers strongly recommend them, a few warn to clarify terms up front to avoid delivery surprises or extra expenses. White Gloveโs track record for dependable, courteous service sets them ahead in the industry, as reflected in consistently positive input from clients.
Company Info
State license #: 648262
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 648262
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Factors that influence moving costs from New York City to San Diego
What to know before moving from New York City to San Diego
Moving from New York City to San Diego means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in San Diego, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how New York City compares to San Diego so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| New York City | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $4,340 | $2,881 |
| Average home value | $752,778 | $1,003,444 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,058 | $72,963 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $5,683 | $3,346 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $15,081 | $7,719 |
| Unemployment rate | 11.2% | 6.6% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 7.75% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 13.3% |
- Rent prices in San Diego are 34% lower than in New York City, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
- The home prices in San Diego are 33.3% higher than in New York City, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
- Income in San Diego is 6.5% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in San Diego โ including United States Navy, University of California, San Diego, and Sharp HealthCare โ may pay more.
- 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 41.1% lower than in New York City.
- A move to San Diego can help cut down on a familyโs routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 48.8% less than what it costs in New York City.
- The unemployment rate in San Diego is 41.07% lower than in New York City.
- You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in San Diego, since the city's sales taxes in San Diego are 3.13% lower than in New York City.
- State income taxes in San Diego are 22.02% higher than in New York City.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,766.32 in San Diego to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.
How life is different in New York City vs. San Diego
| San Diego | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 8,258,035 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 6 | 10 |
| Walkability score | 53 | 88 |
| Bike friendliness score | 43 | 69 |
| Crime Index | 39.83 | 50.83 |
| Safety Index | 60.17 | 49.17 |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
- San Diego's population is about 83% less than New York City.
- San Diego's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus New York City's higher score of 10.
- San Diego is less walkable than New York City with a score of 53 out of 100 vs New York City's 88 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 New York City, which has a score of 69 out of 100.
- San Diego's crime rate is lower than New York City with a score of 39.83 compared to New York City's 50.83. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
- San Diego is considered to be safer than New York City with a safety index of 60.17 vs New York City's 49.17.
- Air quality in San Diego is moderate, and in New York City it's good.
Other things to consider for your New York City 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: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a โT Numberโ issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license 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: 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: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection โ 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in San Diego
Now that you've chosen America's Finest City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in San Diego to check out.
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 getting comfortable in your new California home, it's time to see what San Diego is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ there's plenty to check out:
- 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, 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 โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an San Diego Padres (MLB), San Diego Gulls (AHL), or San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.
source: AttractionsofAmerica
FAQ
When is the best time to move from New York City to San Diego?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from New York City to San Diego are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in New York City. are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to San Diego?
Because most people are moving from New York City 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 New York City to San Diego take?
Moving from New York City, NY to San Diego, CA covers 2,760 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days Need to move faster? Some New York City movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Diego.
