($1,288) Cost to Move From Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA

1. Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
2. Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
5. Transtar Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Philadelphia to San Diego

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to San Diego from Philadelphia, you can expect prices to land between $1,288 and $4,983. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,656 to $7,769 for the trip from Philadelphia to San Diego. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,533 and $11,806.

Cost of moving containers from Philadelphia to San Diego

Moving containers from Philadelphia to San Diego will cost you $1,361 to $3,491 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,344 to $4,837. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,397 to $6,728. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Philadelphia to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from Philadelphia 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 $1,547 and $2,743 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,517 to $3,571. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,977 to $4,340.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to San Diego? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 70% higher than in Philadelphia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in San Diego are about 363% higher than those in Philadelphia.
• In terms of average income, San Diego and Philadelphia are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in San Diego, as living costs for a single person are 32% higher than in Philadelphia. 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 25% higher than in Philadelphia.
• The unemployment rate in San Diego is about 38% lower than in Philadelphia. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
• Sales taxes hold steady between San Diego and Philadelphia (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
• Income taxes in California are 333% above those in Pennsylvania. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• San Diego’s population is about 14% less than Philadelphia.
• San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Philadelphia’s score of 9.
• San Diego is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Philadelphia’s 75 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 Philadelphia, which has a score of 67.
• San Diego’s crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 39.83 compared to Philadelphia’s 66.09. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
• San Diego is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 60.17 vs Philadelphia’s 33.91.
• Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Philadelphia it’s Good.

• 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.

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.