Quick answer: The cost to move from Nashville to San Diego ranges from $1,488 to $9,849 and the journey will take approximately five to 16 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 1,988-mile move on your own.

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

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Nashville to San Diego

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from Nashville to San Diego can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

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 TN to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 41 Tennessee 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 Nashville

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Move On: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. 6th Man Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Tie Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/Bellhop-Moving-101924881203981/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79% of all reviews were positive
21% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback describes Bellhop Moving as fast, friendly, and highly professional. Of the 222 reviews analyzed, nearly 79% praise the company’s efficient staff, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, good communication, and professionalism. Many customers enjoyed smooth coordination, punctual crews, and worry-free moving days, setting Bellhop apart from less reliable moving services.
While most moves run seamlessly, about 21% of input relates serious complaints, mainly about damages to property or furniture, late arrivals or cancellations, and communication lapses. Such negative experiences often involve inadequate compensation for damages or confusion about scheduling. Bellhop earns widespread recommendations for speed and care, but some users report avoidable setbacks other moving companies are better equipped to handle.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/choosemoveon/, https://twitter.com/choosemoveon
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback on Move On highlights standout performance, with 92.9% of 267 reviews sharing positive experiences. Clients consistently praise the movers’ professionalism, careful handling, efficient work, swift moving process, and clear communication. Many mention polite staff, quick and safe moves, and well-coordinated teams who address stressful situations with care and a cheerful attitude.
Reports show tight organization and strong attention to detail, from transparent quotes to protection of furniture and property. A few outliers mention serious setbacks, with the chief complaints being property damage, lost belongings, and slow or insufficient complaint resolution—more frequently noted if large or valuable items were involved or if communication broke down after claims. Compared to many movers, Move On frequently delivers exceptional customer satisfaction and service reliability, but those requiring full insurance or dedicated claims follow-up should carefully review policies and set expectations. The vast majority of input shows customers would enthusiastically recommend Move On for both local and long-distance relocations, noting moves are handled faster, friendlier, and with greater care than industry rivals.
Show more
Get a Quote (615) 727-8300

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2016813


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/nashvillesbestmovers/, https://twitter.com/6thmanmovers?lang=en
90% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for 6th Man Movers is overwhelmingly positive, with 90% of 483 reviews rating the company favorably. Most people describe fast, efficient moves and highlight careful, professional crews who keep communication clear and show genuine courtesy. Many customers praise the team's friendly attitudes and attention to detail, saying their possessions were carefully handled and no damage occurred during even complicated or long-distance moves.
Booking is often described as straightforward, with pricing transparent and competitive for the service level. On the negative side, customers sometimes report damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses, and a few mention slow responses to damage claims. Some negative input references delays in arrival or completion, or items left behind or arriving at the wrong destinations. Compared to similar moving companies, 6th Man Movers stands out for its consistency, care, and reliability, though higher-value or more fragile shipments may require especially clear instructions. The ratio of glowing reviews to complaints positions 6th Man Movers a cut above most moving companies in delivering value and customer satisfaction, while showing they can improve damage prevention and responsiveness when issues arise.
Show more
Get a Quote (615) 830-1313

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2315850

Alternate Names: 6th Man Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/btmnashville/, https://x.com/BlackTieMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Black Tie Moving stands out for its consistent efficiency and professionalism, with 81% of the 365 customer feedback entries praising fast service, courteous crews, and careful handling of belongings. Many users valued the clear communication, punctuality, and respect movers showed for homes and furniture, especially compared to other moving services. Crews often exceeded expectations by making moving days easier and stress-free.
Still, 17% reported problems like property damage, late arrivals or deliveries, and unexpected expenses due to inaccurate quotes and extra fees. These situations left some customers facing higher costs and unresolved claims. Just 1.6% of input was neutral, usually noting a mix of good service and some overlooked items or minor damage. While most experiences with Black Tie Moving are positive and rank better than typical movers in reliability and professionalism, recurring complaints about careless damage and billing surprises indicate areas where the company should improve its customer assurance and transparency.
Show more
Get a Quote (877) 392-6168

Company Info

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2407712

Alternate Names: Black Tie Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/allmysonsnashville/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
47% of all reviews were positive
52% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day with All My Sons Moving & Storage hits extremes. We analyzed 456 pieces of input, and about 47% praised the movers’ fast work, courteous attitude, careful handling, and supportive help. Teams often impressed with their efficiency, professional approach, and genuine care for customers' belongings.
Many noted helpful and friendly movers packed up homes under tight timelines and challenging conditions, separating the company from slower, less attentive providers. Yet, 52% of customer feedback cited serious problems: damage to valued items, surprise fees, missing or unclear communication, and inconsistent billing. Several noted costly final bills far above the original quote and poor cooperation from corporate when things went wrong. Complaints about valuables broken in transit, property damage, and difficulty getting claims resolved appear often. This company stands out for efficient, respectful help from their moving staff—but concerns about reliability, transparent billing, and damage to possessions overshadow the positive notes. Those comparing moving companies should weigh professional teamwork and speed against risk of billing surprises and potential item damage.
Show more
Get a Quote (615) 205-9240

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

Nashville movers charge $120 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 $1,544 - $6,509 $1,468 - $3,561 $1,361 - $2,707
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,134 - $9,849 $2,638 - $5,425 $1,488 - $3,253
4+ bedrooms $8,288 - $14,095 $3,614 - $6,896 $1,935 - $3,905
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,988 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 Tennessee to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Tennessee to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,544 and $6,509. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,134 to $9,849 for the trip from TN to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,288 and $14,095.

Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to California

If you’re relocating from Tennessee to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,468 and $3,561 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,638 up to $5,425. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,614 and $6,896. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Tennessee.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee to California

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,361 and $2,707. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,488 and $3,253. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,935 up to $3,905 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Nashville to San Diego movetoggle

The cost of Nashville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Nashville to San Diego can be as low as $1,544 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $12,796.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Nashville so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,361 to $3,744. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Nashville to San Diego

Moving from Nashville to San Diego comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since San Diego is generally more expensive than Nashville, 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:

Nashville San Diego
Average rent cost $1,971 $2,881
Average home value $428,678 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $79,020 $72,963
Cost of living (single person) $3,108 $3,346
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,447 $7,719
Unemployment rate 4.5% 6.6%
Sales tax 9.75% 7.75%
State income tax 0.0% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Diego, since prices are typically 46% higher than in Nashville.
  • The home prices in San Diego are 134.1% higher than in Nashville, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in San Diego is 7.7% lower than in Nashville, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in San Diego — including United States Navy, University of California, San Diego, and Sharp HealthCare — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Diego, since the cost of living for a single person in San Diego is 7.7% higher than in Nashville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • A move to San Diego can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 8.6% less than what it costs in Nashville.
  • The unemployment rate in San Diego is 46.67% higher than in Nashville.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in San Diego, since the city's sales taxes in San Diego are 20.51% lower than in Nashville.
  • State income taxes in San Diego are 13.30% higher than in Nashville.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,229.73 in San Diego to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Nashville.

How life is different in Nashville vs. San Diego

San Diego Nashville
Population 1,386,932 689,447
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 4
Walkability score 53 96
Bike friendliness score 43 72
Crime Index 39.83 49.1
Safety Index 60.17 50.9
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • The population of San Diego is about 101% greater than Nashville, 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 Nashville, based on public transportation ratings. San Diego has a transit score of 6 out of 10 compared to 4 in Nashville. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • San Diego neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Nashville. Based on its score of 53 out of 100, San Diego isn't as walkable as Nashville, which has a score of 96 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in San Diego, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Nashville. While Nashville has a bike-friendliness score of 72 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 Nashville based on scores of 39.83 and Nashville's 49.1, 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 Nashville, based on San Diego's safety index of 60.17 versus 50.9 for Nashville. 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 Nashville, 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 Nashville 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 Nashville 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: 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.

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

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what San Diego has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: San Diego is home to museums and cultural arts 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 — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer 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 Nashville to San Diego?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Nashville to San Diego. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Nashville.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Nashville to San Diego moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Nashville to San Diego take?

Covering 1,988 miles, the move from Nashville, TN to San Diego, CA typically takes five to 16 days. Some Nashville movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Diego can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources