Local moving companies in New York
When you’re moving from New York to San Diego, CA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Empire State to the vibrant America’s Finest City.
Out of 130 New York movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to San Diego, CA.
- Men On The Move: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Al’s Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Triangle Movers Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 11671
Years in Business: 37
DOT #: 526079
Alternate Names: Men On The Move Self Storage Company, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 40118
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
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
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 10492
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 292755
Alternate Names: Al’s Moving & Storage Co. , Al & Son Moving & Storage Co. , Veral Corp. , Al’s Student Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
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
Company Info
State license #: 33402
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 2256609
Alternate Names: Triangle Movers, Inc
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
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Cost to move from New York to San Diego, CA
This table details typical cost ranges to move from New York to San Diego, CA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,147 – $4,932 | $1,325 – $3,470 | $1,400 – $2,944 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,490 – $6,807 | $2,278 – $5,159 | $1,581 – $3,335 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,568 – $10,445 | $3,276 – $6,625 | $2,059 – $4,009 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,759-mile move from New York to San Diego, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from New York to San Diego, CA
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New York to San Diego, CA, typically costs between $1,147 and $4,932. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,490 and $6,807. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from New York to San Diego, CA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,568 up to $10,445.
Cost of moving containers from New York to San Diego, CA
When relocating from New York to San Diego, CA, you’ll typically spend between $1,325 and $3,470 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,278 up to $5,159. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,276 and $6,625. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New York to San Diego, CA
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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 from New York to San Diego, CA, expect to pay between $1,400 and $2,944. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,581 to $3,335. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,059 and $4,009.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from New York to San Diego, CA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men On The Move | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Seka Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Al’s Moving and Storage | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Piece of Cake Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Triangle Movers Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
After evaluating 3,180 movers, here’s how New York movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| New York | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 93% | 96% |
| Antiques | 55% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 4% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from New York to San Diego, CA
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in San Diego, CA differs from what you’re used to in New York. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: New York vs. San Diego, CA
| New York | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,507 | $2,881 |
| Average home cost | $482,742 | $1,003,444 |
| Average income (per capita) | $81,386 | $72,963 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 155 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.4% | 6.6% |
| State Income Tax | 10.9% | 13.3% |
San Diego sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in San Diego is approximately 91% higher than in New York. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Home prices are about 108% higher in San Diego than in New York. It’s important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
- Expect salaries in San Diego to be approximately 10% lower than in New York. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making your move.
- Even though unemployment in San Diego is 50% higher than in New York, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
- Income taxes are 22% higher in California than in New York. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in San Diego from New York
| San Diego | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 19,571,216 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 60-37 | Democratic 60-40 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 16ºF |
| Annual rain | 12″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 62″ |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 21.51 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- New York and San Diego both voted Democratic in the last election.
- Summer temperatures in San Diego typically reach 79ºF, which is about the same as the average 81ºF you’re used to in New York. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in San Diego usually drop to around 46ºF, while in New York, they can fall as low as 16ºF. Moving to San Diego means you’ll enjoy milder winters, which makes daily life more comfortable, helps you save on heating costs, and lets you spend more time outdoors.
- You can expect only about 12 inches of annual rainfall in San Diego vs the 44 inches you’re used to in New York. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- San Diego doesn’t get snow, while New York sees around 62 inches annually. Relocating to San Diego means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in San Diego are higher than in New York, with a crime index of 39.83 versus 21.51. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in San Diego
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in San Diego.
Museums in San Diego
- USS Midway Museum
- Birch Aquarium at Scripps
- Maritime Museum of San Diego
- San Diego Air & Space Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Parks in San Diego
- La Jolla Cove
- Balboa Park
- La Jolla Shores Park
- Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
- Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Sports teams in San Diego
- San Diego Padres (MLB)
- San Diego Gulls (AHL)
- San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship)
Universities in San Diego
- California State University-San Marcos
- California Western School of Law
- San Diego Christian College
- National University
- Point Loma Nazarene University
Other considerations when moving to San Diego, CA
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in California, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to California on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from New York to San Diego take?
The time it takes to move from New York to San Diego, CA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in New York, the longer the drive time to San Diego will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from New York to San Diego can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from New York to San Diego?
If you’re planning a 2,759-mile move from New York to San Diego, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Diego, CA?
Summer temperatures in San Diego can soar to 79°F, while winters can get as chilly as 46°F. That’s why most people making the move from New York to San Diego prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
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