Best Mesa to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Mesa to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 374 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Mesa to San Diego moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Mesa compared to San Diego. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Mesa to San Diego Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2The Rock Movers9.509.53Authorized For HHG
3Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.499.62Authorized For HHG
4New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
5Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.319.18Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Mesa to San Diego?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 374 miles from Mesa, AZ to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,099 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Mesa to San Diego move is roughly $5,022. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,415300 ft³$4.72
1 Bedroom$2,099450 ft³$4.67
2 Bedrooms$3,461750 ft³$4.62
3 Bedrooms$5,0221100 ft³$4.57
4 Bedrooms$7,2241600 ft³$4.52
5+ Bedrooms$8,0371800 ft³$4.47
*Please note: These Arizona to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AZ to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Mesa guide.

Compare the 5 Best Mesa to San Diego Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,100+ data points

7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306

San Diego, CA, 92111

About The Rock Movers

The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 421+ data points

2020 Camino De La Reina

San Diego, CA, 92108

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.31/10
based on 3,672+ data points

4012 W Turney Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85019

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Mesa vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

To help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline, we'll compare popular neighborhoods between Mesa, AZ & San Diego, CA. This will make your transition smoother by highlighting the similarities and giving you a point of reference.

MesaSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Alta MesaLa JollaUpscale with golf courses and coastal views
Red Mountain RanchRancho BernardoFamily-friendly, golf communities
Downtown MesaGaslamp QuarterHistoric district, vibrant nightlife
LehiDel MarEquestrian activities, suburban feel
Dobson RanchMission ValleyCentral location, lakes, and parks
Las SendasTorrey HighlandsPlanned communities, nature trails
West MesaNorth ParkTrendy, artistic vibe
Grove ParkPacific BeachYoung crowd, beach-centric lifestyle
Mesa GrandeCarmel ValleyModern suburban homes, good schools
Sunland VillageClairemontAffordable, family-oriented

If you enjoy the community feel of Alta Mesa and its premier golfing facilities, you'll love La Jolla's blend of luxury resorts and stunning coastal views, including the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course. Downtown Mesa's artsy yet bustling environment is mirrored by San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, known for its vibrant nightclubs, restaurants, and historic charm. If equestrian activities are part of your lifestyle in Mesa's Lehi neighborhood, check out Del Mar, which offers a similar suburban serenity along with its horse racing scene. For those familiar with the family-friendly ambiance and lush green spaces of Red Mountain Ranch, San Diego's Rancho Bernardo offers similar perks with its extensive golf courses and community parks like the nearby Lake Hodges.

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Things to Do in San Diego

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo
  • Tour the USS Midway Museum
  • Explore Balboa Park
  • Relax at Coronado Beach
  • Dine in Little Italy
  • Experience SeaWorld San Diego
  • Play golf at Torrey Pines

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Mesa to San Diego

Moving from Mesa, AZ, to San Diego, CA, presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Mesa to San Diego . Exploring these aspects can help you weigh the balance of your decision more effectively.

CONs
PROs
Mesa, AZ iconMesa, AZ
  • Higher summer temperatures
  • Less beach access
  • Fewer major attractions
  • Smaller cultural scene
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Beaches everywhere
  • More attractions
  • Larger cultural scene
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living expenses
  • Denser urban living
  • Less desert landscape
  • Louder nightlife
Mesa, AZ iconMesa, AZ
  • Lower cost of living
  • Spacious suburbs
  • Easy desert access
  • Quiet nightlife

When moving from Mesa to San Diego, you'll find yourself trading the intense heat and limited water-related activities for a climate that encourages outdoor living year-round, with immediate access to famous beaches like La Jolla Shores. San Diego's vibrant cultural scene is punctuated by landmarks such as Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, offering a stark contrast to Mesa's more laid-back atmosphere. However, this comes at the cost of higher living expenses and a busier nightlife, especially in popular areas like the Gaslamp Quarter. Each city provides a unique living experience tailored to different preferences, whether you're seeking Mesa’s calm desert landscapes or San Diego's bustling beachfronts.

Mesa vs. San Diego Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Mesa & San Diego, aimed at giving you a snapshot of the food culture you’ll immerse in. Understanding the local cuisine is pivotal, as it significantly contributes to the living experience in a new area.

Mesa
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
Navajo Taco
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Sonoran Hot Dog
California Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • TQLA
  • Que Bueno Mexican Grill
  • Nunthaporn's Thai Cuisine
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Hodad's
  • Juniper & Ivy
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
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When moving from Mesa to San Diego, you’ll experience a vibrant shift in the food culture. San Diego is renowned for its Fish Tacos, found in beachside stands like those in Ocean Beach, and the iconic California Burrito, a local twist you can taste in neighborhoods such as North Park. In contrast, Mesa's culinary scene offers unique flavors like the Navajo Taco, with establishments such as TQLA reflecting the city's diverse cuisine. San Diego’s emphasis on health and a plethora of vegan options, like the famous Avocado Toast in places like Little Italy's cafes, highlights the city’s fitness-conscious lifestyle. The abundance of food trucks along San Diego’s streets, from Gaslamp Quarter to La Jolla, showcases an eclectic mix of cuisines sure to excite any foodie.

Mesa vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Finding a city's culinary gems can turn a new city into home sweet home. This guide will help you discover San Diego's dining scene, using your favorites from Mesa as a compass. We've compared top restaurants in Mesa to their closest equivalents in San Diego, ensuring that transitioning palates can find new go-to spots effortlessly.

MesaSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Red White & BrewStone Brewing World Bistro & GardensBoth offer an extensive selection of craft beers and hearty, American-inspired cuisine.
Bobby Q BBQCoop's West Texas BBQRenowned for authentic, smoky BBQ flavors and a laid-back dining atmosphere similar to Bobby Q BBQ.
Republica EmpanadaPuestoBoth are cherished for their Latin American dishes, particularly specializing in handhelds: empanadas at Republica and tacos at Puesto.
Worth TakeawayCrack ShackBoth are celebrated for modern takes on comfort food with a commitment to quality ingredients and creative flavors.
Jin ShabuTajima Ramen BarWhile Jin Shabu offers a divine shabu-shabu experience, Tajima offers a premier ramen experience, both spotlighting their mastery of broth-based dishes.
Blue Adobe GrilleLas Cuatro MilpasBoth restaurants are local favorites for their traditional and heartwarming Mexican cuisine.
Organ Stop PizzaCorvette DinerBoth places provide a unique dining atmosphere, with Organ Stop offering musical entertainment and Corvette Diner offering a retro-themed experience.
Nunthaporn's Thai CuisineBahn ThaiBoth are highly regarded for their authentic Thai dishes, creating a faithful following among locals for their flavorsome and traditional menus.
Charleston's RestaurantThe Prado at Balboa ParkBoth offer a classic dining experience with a menu that highlights American cuisine, perfect for family gatherings or date nights.
Green Corner RestaurantAlforonBoth specialize in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.

When making the move from Mesa to San Diego, you'll find that both cities boast an impressive array of dining options that cater to a diverse set of tastes and preferences. For instance, aficionados of hearty American cuisine and craft beer who frequent Red White & Brew in Mesa will feel right at home in San Diego's Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens. Meanwhile, lovers of authentic barbecue will rejoice at the smoky and tender meats served at Coop's West Texas BBQ, reminiscent of the flavors found at Bobby Q BBQ. San Diego's dining scene, renowned for its emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients across cuisines from Mexican at Las Cuatro Milpas to Mediterranean at Alforon, mirrors Mesa's varied and vibrant offerings, promising an easy culinary transition for new residents.

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Ready to start your move?

Mesa vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the nuances of real estate in your destination city is key. Comparing Mesa, AZ, and San Diego, CA, will help highlight differences in living standards and preferences, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Mesa
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch, Pueblo
Spanish, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, community pools
Ocean views, proximity to beaches
Mesa
San Diego
Nationwide
$1022k$1022k$817.6k$817.6k$613.2k$613.2k$408.8k$408.8k$204.4k$204.4k0020152015201620162017201720182018201920192020202020212021202220222023202320242024
source: zillow.com
Mesa
San Diego
Nationwide
$3k$3k$2.4k$2.4k$1.8k$1.8k$1.2k$1.2k6006000020152015201620162017201720182018201920192020202020212021202220222023202320242024
source: zillow.com

Comparing Mesa and San Diego unveils significant differences in living experiences. In San Diego, the emphasis on an urban lifestyle with higher walkability and bikeability scores indicates a community designed for outdoor activity and accessibility. The median home prices and rents reflect San Diego's coastal premium, while Mesa offers a more affordable housing market, often characterized by spacious homes perfect for families. San Diego's real estate listings frequently highlight ocean views and beach proximity, showcasing the city's appeal to those who prioritize coastal living. This comparison underscores the importance of considering lifestyle priorities and budget when deciding between these two vibrant cities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA

1. Ocean Beach : You'll find this laid-back community perfect for you and your pet, thanks to its dedicated Dog Beach and numerous pet-friendly establishments.

2. North Park : This vibrant neighborhood offers you plenty of parks and outdoor cafes where pets are always welcome, making it easy to enjoy the day with your furry friend.

3. Carmel Valley : With its abundance of trails and wide-open spaces, you and your pet can enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures in this family-friendly neighborhood.

Mesa vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When preparing for a move from Mesa, AZ to San Diego, CA, recognizing how the weather conditions will shift is crucial. This guide compares Mesa's desert climate to San Diego's coastal environment, providing insight into what you can anticipate. Understanding these variations ensures you're well-prepared for your new local weather.

Mesa
San Diego
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves, Dust Storms
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

104°F / 75°F
77°F / 66°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

67°F / 41°F
66°F / 50°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

9
12
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Moving from Mesa to San Diego means exchanging intense summer heats for milder, more consistent temperatures year-round, with a noticeable increase in humidity. This shift greatly affects not only daily comfort but also the choice of activities you'll enjoy outdoors. While Mesa boasts a larger number of sunny days, San Diego's moderate climate opens the door to enjoying the outdoors without the extreme heat. Both locations have their unique natural disaster risks, with Mesa experiencing more heatwaves and dust storms, and San Diego having a higher risk of earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for life in coastal California.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Mesa to San Diego

When contemplating a move from Mesa, AZ to San Diego, CA, grasping the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison illuminates the cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities, providing a solid foundation for your decision-making process.

Mesa
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$69,266
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
101.2
132.3
State Income Tax
2.59 - 4.50
1.00 - 13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.66
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
8.05
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Aerospace
BioTech, Military, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderately Low
Low
Homelessness
Concerning
Significant

While San Diego boasts a higher average household income compared to Mesa, it's essential to factor in the significantly higher cost of living. The wide range in state income tax in California can greatly affect your take-home pay, especially when compared to Arizona's more consistent rate. Additionally, the top industries in each city reflect diverse economic landscapes. In San Diego, the prominent Biotech and Military presence suggests specialized employment opportunities, contrasting Mesa's focus on Healthcare and Education. Understanding these distinctions is key to navigating your financial future post-move.

Mesa vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Mesa, AZ and San Diego, CA . Exploring these aspects will help you understand the sociocultural environment you're moving into.

Mesa
San Diego
Political Make-up
Lean Conservative
Lean Liberal
Local Politics
Business-oriented
Environment and diversity-focused
Religion
Strong Christian, notably LDS
More religiously diverse

While Mesa's conservative leanings are reflected in its business-oriented political climate, San Diego tends to embrace more liberal views, focusing on environmental protection and diversity in its local politics. Mesa is known for its significant LDS (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) community, contributing to the city’s more traditional values. In contrast, San Diego offers a mosaic of religious beliefs, underpinning its rich cultural diversity. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the community dynamics and social values of your new home.

Mesa vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Mesa, AZ, to San Diego, CA, it’s essential to understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Mesa & San Diego. This insight will help you better grasp what the daily commute and traffic is like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new city life.

Mesa
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
26
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Difficult
Moderately Easy

When you move from Mesa to San Diego, you'll notice differences in daily commutes and the viability of public transportation options. Mesa offers shorter average commute times but has a lower public transit score, making it challenging to get around without a car. On the other hand, San Diego, despite slightly longer commutes and higher traffic congestion, provides better public transit services. This allows for a more flexible lifestyle when considering whether or not a vehicle is necessary. Understanding these nuances will facilitate your adjustment to San Diego, where commuting might be moderately easy without personal transportation, contrasting with Mesa's reliance on cars.

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