Top Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA Movers

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

1. Bellhop Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
2. Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
3. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
5. BR Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Pennsylvania to California

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Pennsylvania to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,566 and $6,435. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,625 to $9,735 for the trip from PA to CA. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $8,700 and $14,211.

Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to California

When you're heading from Pennsylvania to California, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,808 and $4,245. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $3,026 and $6,056. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,172 to $9,119. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Pennsylvania to California

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, expect to pay between $1,771 and $3,470. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $2,020 to $4,517. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,450 and $5,174.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• You may want to budget more for rent in San Diego, since prices are typically 70% higher than in Philadelphia.
• The home prices in San Diego are 362.6% higher than in Philadelphia, 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, 3.1% higher than in Philadelphia. 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 31.7% higher than in Philadelphia. 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 24.7% higher than in Philadelphia.
• The unemployment rate in San Diego is 37.74% lower than in Philadelphia.
• 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 Philadelphia.
• State income taxes in San Diego are 333.22% higher than in Philadelphia.

• San Diego's population is about 14% less than Philadelphia.
• San Diego's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Philadelphia's higher 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 43 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67 out of 100.
• 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.

• 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
• Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

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 — there's plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout San Diego, such as 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 — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an San Diego Padres (MLB), San Diego Gulls (AHL), or San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.