How Much Do San Diego, CA Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The typical cost for hiring movers in San Diego is $200 per hour, with the total cost to move ranging from $499 to $6,363, on average. If you’re moving out of California, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in San Diego really depends on where you’re moving.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • East coast focus
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  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
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  • Unlimited storage
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  • 10% discount

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Average cost to hire interstate movers in San Diego, CA

Since the cost of moving out of San Diego depends so much on where you’re moving, we’ve included some example costs below to give you a better idea of pricing. For more detailed guides on your specific destination, find your moving route to San Diego or use our moving cost calculator to get quotes from the top interstate movers.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from San Diego

The cost to move a studio apartment or one-bedroom home out of state from San Diego depends on the moving method you choose, how much stuff you have, and how far you’re moving.

Take a look at some example costs to move a one-bedroom cross-country:

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of state from San Diego

As with any move, the cost to relocate a two- or three-bedroom from San Diego can vary widely based on move size, distance, and time of year.

Here is a look at some two- and three-bedroom move costs out of San Diego:

Cost to move a four-bedroom (or larger) home out of state from San Diego

The cost to move a four-bedroom or larger home out of California will be significantly higher than for one- or two-bedroom houses, since a bigger house typically means more items. Movers calculate long-distance moves, in part, based on the total estimated volume and weight of your household belongings.

While moving costs can vary, take a look at these cost ranges for moving four or more bedrooms out of San Diego:

Best interstate moving companies in San Diego, CA

Now that you have an idea of what your move from San Diego should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best interstate moving companies. We vetted each one, examining their pricing, services, and our own real-life customer reviews to pick the best options for you.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best for Quick Quotes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 794-6004
At A Glance
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Binding estimates
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(844) 794-6004
Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
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Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

Average cost to hire a local moving company in San Diego, CA

Hiring a full-service San Diego mover is definitely the most convenient option, but that convenience comes at a cost — professional movers tend to be more expensive than other moving options. If you want movers to do all the heavy lifting for you and you can afford it, hire a full-service moving company for your San Diego move.

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading and they transport your belongings in San Diego for you, or by renting a moving truck and handling it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from San Diego to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Houston $3,083 - $6,556 $1,708 - $3,677 $1,002 - $1,965
Jacksonville $3,792 - $7,368 $2,351 - $5,015 $1,391 - $3,237
Virginia Beach $4,127 - $7,691 $2,447 - $5,158 $1,654 - $3,631

And here's how much professional movers cost in San Diego based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $499 $280 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $779 $280 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedroom $1,395 $392 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedroom $3,513 $549 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedroom $4,062 $549 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedroom $6,363 $768 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: The average cost to hire movers in San Diego to move a studio apartment is $280 per hour for three hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • One bedroom: Moving a one-bedroom San Diego apartment or home will typically take four hours, at an hourly rate of $280, and require two movers.
  • Two bedrooms: It will cost $392 an hour, on average, to hire a three-person crew in San Diego to move a two-bedroom home. Two-bedroom moves usually take about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Local San Diego movers charge an average hourly rate of $549 for a three-bedroom home. A move of this size will usually take eight hours to complete using four movers.
  • Four bedrooms: For a four-bedroom house in San Diego, you can expect to pay $549 per hour for nine hours. You’ll likely need a four-person moving crew.
  • Five or more bedrooms: If your San Diego home is a five-bedroom or larger, you will pay $768 an hour, on average, for five movers. Moves this size usually take about ten hours to complete.

It's worth noting the cost per hour for San Diego movers remains the same for all home sizes, ranging from $280 per hour for two movers to $768 per hour for five movers. As the size of your home increases, the number of movers and hours required for the move also increases, resulting in a higher total cost.

Overall, hiring local San Diego movers is a convenient and stress-free way to move within the city. By knowing the approximate cost for your home size, you can budget accordingly and make informed decisions for your upcoming move.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your San Diego move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in San Diego, CA

Our expert team of analysts has dug deep into licensing, insurance options, online reviews, and hundreds of other data points to find you the best local moving companies in San Diego.

  1. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Two Men and a Truck: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. 24/7 Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Cube Moving and Storage Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Pros
  • Excellent Customer Service
  • Professional and Efficient Movers
  • Careful Handling of Belongings
Cons
  • Potential for Damage to Property
  • Issues with Communication
  • Variability in Final Costs
Review Analysis
We Like to Move It Movers is highly regarded for their excellent customer service, including friendly and responsive coordination from staff like Maya. Customers consistently praise the professionalism and efficiency of the moving teams, particularly members like Chad, Gustavo, and Sergio, who are noted for their careful handling of belongings and positive attitudes during stressful moves. However, some reviews mention issues such as damage to property and overcharging, indicating a variability in experiences, especially concerning communication and final costs.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2843171


We Like To Move It Moving is a trusted local moving company serving San Diego, CA, and nearby areas since 2017. Specializing in local residential moves, they provide comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and moving specialty items such as pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. With an impressive track record of 175 Yelp reviews averaging 4.8 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, this company stands out among other local movers for its reliability and customer satisfaction. For convenience, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making them an excellent choice for stress-free moving.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and Efficient Movers
  • Careful Handling of Belongings
  • Good Communication and Scheduling
Cons
  • Issues with Damaging Property
  • Poor Claims Management
  • Overcharging and Lack of Transparency on Pricing
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck has received a mix of feedback from customers. Their employees are often praised for being professional, efficient, and careful with belongings. Many movers, such as Ali, Lowrell, and Demetrius, have been acknowledged for exceptional service and positive attitudes. However, several customers have reported issues with damage to items during moves, poor communication from the company's office, and dissatisfaction with their handling of claims for damaged property. The overall sentiment suggests a firm that shows potential in its workforce but struggles with operational management and customer service.
Get a Quote (858) 935-8392

Company Info

State license #: 0190947

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: TMT SoCal Inc


Two Men and a Truck has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA since 2013. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and an average Yelp rating of 3.6 from 346 reviews, they have a solid reputation for customer satisfaction. Unlike some nearby moving companies, Two Men and a Truck offers a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, and they can handle specialty items like pianos and safes. They accept credit cards and require no deposit, making the moving process straightforward and hassle-free.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient Service
  • Professional Staff
  • Transparent Pricing
Cons
  • Communication Issues
  • Damage During Move
  • Missing Items
Review Analysis
Customers praised Stella Moving & Delivery for their excellent customer service, efficiency, and professionalism during the moving process. Many noted the crew's attentiveness in handling their belongings and the transparent pricing structure without hidden fees. However, there were significant concerns regarding damage to items and communication issues with management regarding complaints, particularly around the handling of damages and missing items.
Get a Quote (619) 393-6426

Company Info

State license #: 0191958

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3299407

Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery, The Remarkable Movers


Stella Moving & Delivery offers exceptional local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, establishing itself as a reliable choice since 2020. With glowing reviews, an average of 4.8 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, Stella Moving boasts a reputation for high customer satisfaction, further reinforced by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby movers, they provide comprehensive packing and unpacking services, fragile-only packing, and specialized moving services for items like pianos and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, though a deposit is required, and they offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.

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 cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
Pros
  • Professional and Efficient Service
  • Friendly and Caring Movers
  • Fast Turnaround Time
Cons
  • Potential for Hidden Fees
  • Inconsistent Communication
  • Occasional Damage to Belongings
Review Analysis
Cube Moving has gained a strong reputation for their professionalism, efficiency, and friendly service. Customers frequently praise the movers for handling their belongings with care, showing up on time, and completing moves faster than expected. However, some reviews highlight concerns about communication, hidden fees, and occasional differences between service expectations and actual performance during moves, leading to mixed experiences for a few.
Get a Quote (619) 366-9806

Company Info

State license #: 0190874

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2764870


Cube Moving and Storage Inc, a reputable moving company serving the San Diego, CA area since 2011, specializes in local residential relocations. They stand out among nearby competitors with their comprehensive range of services, including packing and unpacking, office moves, and even piano transport. Garnering praise from customers, Cube Moving boasts an impressive 4.6-star rating on Yelp and a 4.8-star rating on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. For those seeking a reliable and well-reviewed local mover, Cube Moving and Storage Inc offers quality service and peace of mind.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Visit our best movers in San Diego page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews. And if you’re moving outside of San Diego, consider one of San Diego’s top long-distance movers.

City moving costs in California

Average cost of PODS in San Diego, CA

PODS will cost $220–$7,448, on average, in San Diego. The exact PODS cost you’ll pay will depend on whether you use an eight-, 12-, or 16-foot container (note: 12-foot containers are only available for local moves). The distance of your move will also greatly impact cost.

A local San Diego move within 50 miles of your home will run between $220 and $813, while long-distance moves (100-250 miles) will typically cost $250–$2,107. Container pricing on cross-country moves from San Diego can cost an average range of $2,068–$7,448.

Here's a breakdown of related PODS costs:

  • Storage fee: $149–$359 (first 30 days is free)
  • Damage coverage: 10–$439.95 per month, depending on the protection plan. Coverage ranges from container-only (no contents protection) to $300,000. All plans have a deductible of $100.
  • Door lock (if necessary): $25 (if purchased through PODS; you can also purchase from home improvement stores or online retailers)

If you’re looking for the cost-savings of a DIY move and the convenience of full-service movers, moving containers like PODS are a great option. You’ll handle loading and unloading, but they will drop off your empty container at your current home, pick it up once it’s loaded, and deliver it to your new location. This means you won’t have to worry about driving.

PODS is our overall top pick for moving containers in Phoenix based on their stellar reputation, nationwide availability, and multiple container sizes and insurance plans. But you should take a look at least two other highly rated moving container companies on our list to see which one offers the right combination of services and pricing for your move.

Best moving containers in San Diego, CA

The best San Diego moving container companies provide multiple container sizes, pricing transparency and deals, and secure, state-of-the-art facilities for longer-term storage needs. They should also have a solid reputation for quality customer service and efficient drop-off and pickup of containers.

Check out these highly rated moving containers:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in San Diego, CA

You'll definitely have to break a sweat, but moving truck rentals in San Diego will be much easier on your wallet than full-service movers. The average cost to rent a moving truck in San Diego ranges from $19-$39 per day.

While cheaper than full-service moving companies, you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading them on the truck, hauling them to your new spot, and unloading everything there.

Here are the typical costs of San Diego rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19–$39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $0.79–$1.09 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20–$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you drive the truck
  • How long you have the truck rental
  • Additional insurance
  • Parking
  • Toll fees
  • Fuel
  • Accommodations and dining
  • Moving equipment rentals

Best moving truck rentals in San Diego, CA

The best moving truck rentals in San Diego provide affordable rates with no hidden fees, a variety of truck sizes, and plenty of physical locations across the U.S. for convenient rental returns.

These top moving truck rentals certainly fit the bill:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517
Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
  • Round-trip and one-way moves available
  • User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
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Average cost of labor-only moving companies in San Diego, CA

The average cost of labor-only moving companies in San Diego is an hourly rate of $100 for each crew member. Most moves — even small one-bedroom apartments — require a crew of two movers, so plan on about $199.9 per hour to hire labor assistance in San Diego.

Best labor-only moving companies in San Diego

The best San Diego labor-only movers have a reputation for professional and efficient service, but also provide reasonable hourly rates and a variety of optional services like packing that you can pick and choose from to create a customized plan suited to your specific needs.

We like these top-notch labor-only movers:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Factors that affect the cost of movers in San Diego, CA

The biggest factor that affects the cost of movers in San Diego, CA, is distance, but there are several other price considerations to keep in mind, including:

  • The size of your move: The more belongings you have, the more your move will cost. Moving a four-bedroom home will typically be more expensive than moving a studio apartment.
  • When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May–September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
  • The type of move: Professional movers are the most convenient option, but they will cost you more than going with a DIY option like moving container companies or moving truck rentals.
  • Any add-on services you select: Even if you go with a DIY move, you may want to hire third-party movers to assist you with loading and unloading. And professional movers offer a variety of optional services like packing and unpacking to help customize and streamline your relocation. But these additional services will come at an extra cost.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Have important documentation. Places like high rises and managed apartments will often require a copy of your mover's insurance and elevator reservation on moving day.
  • Get approval. Check ahead with any neighborhood, community, or HOA rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Secure a parking permit (if needed). Type 1 Moving Permits: Applications must be submitted at least 2 working days prior to the intended move $16.00 permit fee Type 2 Moving Permits: Applications must be submitted at least 5 working days prior to the intended move for extra -legal loads that do not meet each of the Type 1 criteria. These moves require route evaluations prior to issuance of the permit. $212.00 Permit review and route evaluation fee is required.
  • Check state licensing laws. 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.
  • Invest in moving 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.

Work with your movers to ensure all these items are taken care of before moving day.

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