Quick answer: A move from Columbus to San Diego costs $1,717–$9,273 and takes six to 17 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 2,226-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from San Diego to Columbus 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 Columbus to San Diego

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Columbus to San Diego isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

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 OH to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 68 Ohio 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 moving companies in Columbus

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  3. MVM Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. All American Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/bellhopmoving?lang=en
58% of all reviews were positive
40% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When timing and professionalism count, Bellhop Moving stands out in customer feedback. Of the 38 reviews assessed, almost 58% delivered positive sentiment, while almost 40% reflected dissatisfied experiences. Customers highlight consistent professionalism, efficiency, careful attention to belongings, and approachable movers.
Friendly attitudes and reliable performance under tough conditions, like bad weather, set Bellhop apart from many low-cost alternatives. Reports of fast, careful moves and easy booking are frequent. On the downside, damaged items, delayed or canceled moves, and unexpected extra charges surface often. Some clients experienced property damage or last-minute cancellations that created major issues, and several found the compensation process unsatisfactory if things went wrong. Compared to other movers, Bellhop is more frequently praised for politeness and efficiency but criticized more than average for inconsistent arrival and resolution of complaints.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving, Bellhops, Inc., Bellhops


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/LeadersMoving/, https://twitter.com/LeadersMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers who hustle for you—customer feedback on Leaders Moving & Storage Co. shows why many choose them over the competition. Out of 369 reviews, 84% are positive, highlighting outstanding efficiency, professional and polite crews, careful handling, quick move times, and strong communication. Customers repeatedly mention pleasant, energetic staff who deliver moves faster than expected and care for items and property.
Pricing transparency, flexible options, and true-to-estimate billing set Leaders apart from many other movers. Negative input, making up 14%, focuses on damaged items, slow or unhelpful claims handling, and occasional late arrivals. Customers reporting issues describe damaged or mishandled items, and say resolution for complaints or claims can be frustratingly slow or inadequate compared to what industry leaders deliver. A small number of customers also mention unprofessional or unreliable crews, and a lack of follow-up from management. Still, positive feedback vastly outnumbers complaints, with most reviewers highly recommending Leaders for an easy, stress-free moving experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 885-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00136562

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

Alternate Names: Leaders Moving, Leaders Moving & Storage Co., L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co., Leaders Moving And Storage Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/mvmcolumbus/, https://twitter.com/mvmcolumbus?lang=en
97% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple — that’s what customers consistently report after hiring MVM Moving & Storage. Out of 257 customer reviews, an impressive 96.9% express satisfaction. MVM’s team stands out for being efficient, professional, and attentive, with many mentioning careful treatment of their belongings and quick, well-organized moves.
Communication is seamless at every step, from booking to delivery. Feedback sharply contrasts these strengths with a handful of dissatisfied customers. The most significant complaints center around damaged items, inaccurate estimates, and rare instances of unprofessional or rude staff. Despite isolated issues, MVM earns more praise for speed, staff demeanor, and the care taken with property than nearly any competitor in the industry. Their approach creates a noticeably smooth and stress-free moving experience that sets a high bar for local moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 230-0667

Company Info

State license #: 156647

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1444491

Alternate Names: MVM Columbus, MVM Columbus Incorporated.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/AllAmericanMovingStorageandDelivery, https://twitter.com/AllAmericanMvg?ref_src=twsrctfw&ref_url=httpwww.all-americanmoving.com
90% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Choosing the right moving company matters, and customers say All American Moving and Storage rises above most. Analysis of 251 pieces of feedback shows that 90% of customers praised courteous, professional movers, efficient service, careful handling, and good communication. Many highlighted how quickly and safely their belongings were moved, often noting better experiences compared to other moving companies in the area.
Customers especially valued staff professionalism and the care shown to fragile or valuable items. About 9% voiced major concerns, pointing to damage to items during moves, final costs far higher than original quotes, and infrequent complaints about delays or missed appointments. Only two neutral reviews were found, indicating rare middle-ground input and suggesting most customers felt strongly about their experiences. Positive feedback outpaces negative by a significant margin, placing All American well ahead of many competitors in satisfaction, but those considering their services should pay close attention to estimate details and clarify expectations to avoid the main downsides experienced by some.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 224-0077

Company Info

State license #: 147426

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1239401

Alternate Names: American Moving & Storage, Ltd., All American Moving & Storage of Columbus, All American Moving and Storage, All American Delivery, Daniel R Dragin All American Moving, Storage and Delivery Prime Agent for Arpin Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/EEwardMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/eewardmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage stands out for its remarkable record with customers, earning 92% positive feedback from 256 reviews. Many praised the professional and polite staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient service, excellent communication, and the speed of the moving process.
Customers also highlighted how team members accommodated last-minute changes and consistently treated property with respect. In contrast, some highlighted concerns mainly about damage to items, misplacement or loss during moves, and difficulties with after-move communication or claims resolution. Issues like denied insurance claims or delayed responses were the chief negatives, though these were comparatively rare. In terms of reliability, professionalism, and customer care, E.E. Ward ranks among the best in the industry, with significantly fewer negative experiences than typical moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 401-6796

Company Info

State license #: 11470

Years in Business: 143

DOT #: 1222904

Alternate Names: E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC, E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

Columbus movers charge $145 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 $1,711 - $6,885 $1,555 - $3,821 $1,602 - $2,913
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,487 - $9,273 $2,794 - $5,778 $1,717 - $3,721
4+ bedrooms $8,087 - $14,283 $3,724 - $7,899 $2,062 - $4,428
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,226 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 Ohio to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ohio to California typically costs between $1,711 and $6,885. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,487 and $9,273 when moving from OH to CA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Ohio to California, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,087 up to $14,283.

Cost of moving containers from Ohio to California

When you’re heading from Ohio to California, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,555 and $3,821. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,794 and $5,778. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,724 to $7,899. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Ohio easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio 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 $1,602 and $2,913 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,717 to $3,721. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,062 to $4,428.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors influencing moving costs from Columbus to San Diegotoggle

The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Columbus to San Diego might cost as little as $1,711, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,361.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Columbus, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,602 to $4,161 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Columbus to San Diego

Moving from Columbus to San Diego comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since San Diego is generally more expensive than Columbus, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Columbus San Diego
Average rent cost $1,441 $2,881
Average home value $238,832 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $65,075 $72,963
Cost of living (single person) $2,784 $3,346
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,249 $7,719
Unemployment rate 5.7% 6.6%
Sales tax 7.5% 7.75%
State income tax 3.5% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Diego, since prices are typically 100% higher than in Columbus.
  • The home prices in San Diego are 320.1% higher than in Columbus, 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, 12.1% higher than in Columbus. Major employers in San Diego include United States Navy, University of California, San Diego, and Sharp HealthCare.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Diego, since the cost of living for a single person in San Diego is 20.2% higher than in Columbus. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • 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 6.5% higher than in Columbus.
  • The unemployment rate in San Diego is 15.79% higher than in Columbus.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in San Diego, since its sales taxes are 3.33% higher than what you are paying in Columbus.
  • State income taxes in San Diego are 280.00% higher than in Columbus.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,605.60 in San Diego to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Columbus.

How life is different in Columbus vs. San Diego

San Diego Columbus
Population 1,386,932 905,748
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 5
Walkability score 53 41
Bike friendliness score 43 48
Crime Index 39.83 49.65
Safety Index 60.17 50.35
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • The population of San Diego is about 53% greater than Columbus, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • San Diego offers better access to buses and trains than Columbus, based on public transportation ratings. San Diego has a transit score of 6 out of 10 compared to 5 in Columbus. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in San Diego means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Columbus. San Diego is considered more walkable than Columbus, with a score of 53 out of 100 versus 41 out of 100 in Columbus. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in San Diego, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Columbus. While Columbus has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, San Diego earned a 43. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • San Diego has a lower crime rate than Columbus based on scores of 39.83 and Columbus's 49.65, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in San Diego than in Columbus, based on San Diego's safety index of 60.17 versus 50.35 for Columbus. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in San Diego isn't as good as it is in Columbus, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. San Diego has an air quality rating of Moderate, and Columbus is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.

Other things to consider for your Columbus 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: 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 — 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.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbus to San Diego?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Columbus to San Diego are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Columbus. are lower.

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

Because most people are moving from Columbus 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 Columbus to San Diego take?

Moving from Columbus, OH to San Diego, CA covers 2,226 miles and usually takes six to 17 days Need to move faster? Some Columbus movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Diego.

Helpful moving resources