Best Tempe to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Tempe to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 365 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Tempe 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 Tempe 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.

Best Tempe to San Diego Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.76 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | The Rock Movers | 9.50 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.49 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.33 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property |
5 | Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.31 | 9.18 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Tempe to San Diego?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 365 miles from Tempe, AZ to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,092 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tempe to San Diego move is roughly $5,003. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,409 | 300 ft³ | $4.70 |
1 Bedroom | $2,092 | 450 ft³ | $4.65 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,449 | 750 ft³ | $4.60 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,003 | 1100 ft³ | $4.55 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,197 | 1600 ft³ | $4.50 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,006 | 1800 ft³ | $4.45 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Tempe guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tempe to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |

The Rock Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |

New Beginnings Moving Solutions
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1877603 / 1173916 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2023) |

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.

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.
Tempe vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be an overwhelming experience, especially to a new city. To ease your transition, we compare Tempe, AZ & San Diego, CA local neighborhoods , finding equivalents to help you feel right at home in no time. By understanding the similarities between neighborhoods, you can quickly familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.
Tempe | San Diego | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Maple-Ash | North Park | Vibrant community, artsy vibe |
Tempe Lakes | Point Loma | Waterfront living, recreational activities |
Mitchell Park | Golden Hill | Historic homes, central location |
Daley Park | University Heights | Young, dynamic atmosphere |
Broadmor | Normal Heights | Family-friendly, walkable |
Rural-Geneva | Kensington | Quiet, upscale residential area |
Meyer Park | South Park | Eclectic, community-focused |
Alegre Community | Little Italy | Cultural hub, culinary hotspots |
Hudson Manor | Hillcrest | LGBT-friendly, lively nightlife |
Pepperwood | Encinitas | Beach town, surf culture |
If you're moving from Tempe's Maple-Ash neighborhood, known for its vibrant community and arts scene, you'll find a similar spirit in North Park with its wealth of galleries, indie shops, and lively festivals. For those accustomed to the water-side tranquility and outdoor activities of Tempe Lakes, Point Loma offers an idyllic waterfront lifestyle with marinas like Harbor Island West Marina, ensuring you don't miss out on boat days or waterfront dining. Meanwhile, the historic charm of Mitchell Park finds its match in Golden Hill, where landmarks like the Balboa Park blend history with urban green space, offering a rich array of cultural institutions and recreational activities amidst rolling hills and historic homes.

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 Tempe to San Diego
Moving from Tempe, AZ to San Diego, CA involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad aspects of this relocation, highlighting how living in San Diego compares to Tempe . It's designed to help you visualize the advantages and disadvantages clearly, aiding in your transition.
- Extreme heat
- Less coastal access
- Smaller city vibe
- More affordable housing
- Milder climate
- Beaches galore
- Larger urban experience
- Higher cost of living
- Expensive housing
- Spread out city
- Longer commutes
- More touristy areas
- Lower cost of living
- Compact city layout
- Easier commutes
- Vibrant local culture
Moving to San Diego offers an unparalleled experience with its stunning beaches, such as La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach, presenting a significant lifestyle change from the desert landscape of Tempe. The vibrant Gaslamp Quarter and North Park neighborhoods are known for their lively dining scenes, with establishments like Juniper & Ivy offering upscale dining experiences. In addition to the coastal benefits, San Diego's mild climate enables year-round outdoor activities, contrasting with Tempe's extreme summer heat. While the cost of living might be higher, the cultural richness, from the historic sites in Old Town San Diego to the sprawling Balboa Park, offers a diverse range of experiences making it a compelling choice for many.
Tempe vs. San Diego Food Guide
Food deeply enriches the local culture and what it's like to live in an area. Understanding the culinary scene can greatly enhance your experience in a new city. For this reason, we're embarking on a flavorful journey to explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Tempe, AZ, and San Diego, CA . This comparison will equip you with insights into the food scene of your future home.
- House of Tricks
- Casey’s Woodshed
- Postino Annex
- Hodad’s
- Juniper & Ivy
- Cucina Urbana
When moving from Tempe to San Diego, you'll quickly find that the local cuisine takes on a coastal twist, reflective of the city's proximity to the ocean. Fish tacos from neighborhoods like La Jolla and Point Loma are a testament to San Diego's fresh, oceanic bounty. Additionally, the California burrito, a San Diego staple found in spots like Lolita's Mexican Food, incorporates fries inside the burrito, showcasing the city's unique culinary creativity. The thriving vegan scene is also notable, with offerings such as vegan sushi making San Diego a paradise for plant-based eaters. Whether it's the diverse food trucks scattered around Ocean Beach or the health-conscious eateries of Hillcrest, San Diego's food scene caters to a myriad of tastes and dietary preferences.
Tempe vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Discovering a new favorite eatery can truly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart aims to ease the transition from Tempe to San Diego by matching top restaurants, ensuring you’ll find places that resonate with your taste buds and dining preferences.
Tempe | San Diego | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
House of Tricks | Juniper & Ivy | Both offer innovative American cuisine in a cozy, yet upscale atmosphere. |
Cornish Pasty Co. | Shakespeare Pub & Grille | English pub vibes and hearty dishes mirror the Cornish Pasty experience. |
Postino Annex | Wine Vault & Bistro | Both known for their excellent wine selections paired with gourmet small plates. |
Four Peaks Brewing Company | Ballast Point Brewing Company | Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the similar commitment to quality and taste. |
Culinary Dropout | Liberty Station | Features a similar eclectic, laid-back vibe with a variety of food and entertainment options. |
La Bocca Urban Pizzeria | Buona Forchetta | Both spots offer authentic, wood-fired pizzas and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. |
Thai Basil | Supannee House of Thai | Authentic Thai cuisine that focuses on fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. |
Kabuki Japanese Restaurant | Sushi Ota | Sushi enthusiasts will find a similar commitment to quality, fresh fish, and traditional techniques. |
Casey Moore’s Oyster House | Ironside Fish & Oyster | Both provide a wide selection of seafood in a unique and inviting setting. |
Snooze an AM Eatery | Great Maple | Modern diner fare with a twist, perfect for those who love a hearty brunch. |
For a true taste of home away from home, dive into San Diego's vibrant food scene with options that mirror Tempe's best. At Juniper & Ivy, you'll discover an ambiance and menu reminiscent of House of Tricks, both fostering a love for refined American dining. Cornish Pasty Co. loyalists will be delighted by Shakespeare Pub & Grille, where the essence of British comfort food and the warmth of a traditional pub are ever-present. If unique brews captured your heart at Four Peaks Brewing Company, Ballast Point Brewing Company in San Diego continues the tradition, offering a diverse range of craft beers that cater to aficionados and newcomers alike. Each pair in this comparison offers a seamless transition, ensuring the flavors of Tempe find their echoes in the heart of San Diego.

Ready to start your move?
Tempe vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, it's crucial to understand how the real estate markets in Tempe, AZ, and San Diego, CA compare. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of what you can expect in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyles, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
The stark contrast in housing costs between Tempe and San Diego highlights the premium placed on the coastal lifestyle offered in San Diego, with median home prices and monthly rents significantly higher than in the desert city of Tempe. Architecture styles in both cities reflect their environments, from the Spanish Colonial and modern designs that mesh with San Diego's historical roots and seaside backdrop to Tempe's Ranch and Pueblo styles that echo the Southwestern landscape. San Diego edges out Tempe in urban lifestyle, attributed to its vibrant coastal communities and higher walkability scores. However, Tempe holds its own with slightly better bikeability and its appeal to students and professionals alike, due to its proximity to Arizona State University and thriving outdoor spaces.

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.
Tempe vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Tempe, AZ to San Diego, CA, understanding the differences in weather between these two locations is crucial for a seamless transition. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare both mentally and physically for your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
In moving from Tempe to San Diego, you'll trade the extreme heat and lower humidity for milder temperatures and higher humidity levels, enhancing outdoor activities comfort year-round. Tempe's scorching summer highs contrast sharply with San Diego's ideal beach weather. Despite fewer days of sunshine, San Diego's climate remains one of the most pleasant nationwide, offering a balanced combination of warmth without excessive heat and coolness without the cold. Note the different sets of natural disasters to prepare for, with Tempe facing heatwaves and dust storms, while San Diego's concerns lean towards earthquakes and wildfires.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tempe to San Diego
When considering a move from Tempe, AZ to San Diego, CA, understanding how your finances will adjust is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between Tempe and San Diego, providing a clearer picture of what to expect.
While Tempe offers a relatively affordable lifestyle with moderate income levels, moving to San Diego brings a significant increase in the cost of living and average household income. The variance in state income tax and property tax rates between the two cities makes a noticeable impact on monthly budgets. Furthermore, San Diego's high affluence is contrasted by its moderate poverty levels and higher homelessness rates, highlighting the economic disparities within the city. Understanding these factors can help you prepare financially for the move.
Tempe vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Tempe & San Diego offers a quick glance at the differences and similarities in political and religious makeup of the two cities. The goal is to provide new residents with a useful snapshot of their new community.
While both Tempe and San Diego lean liberal politically, you might find San Diego to possess a more pronounced Democratic dominance in its local governance. This could reflect in more progressive policies and initiatives within the city. The religious makeup in both cities is quite diverse, with Christianity being the most common faith, but there's also a significant presence of other religious communities offering a vibrant interfaith environment. Establishments and places of worship such as Tempe's local churches and San Diego's diverse religious centers highlight the inclusive nature of both cities. Understanding these nuances can help ease your transition and connect with local communities more effectively.
Tempe vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tempe & San Diego is crafted to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like as you consider the move.
While the average commute times in Tempe and San Diego are fairly similar, only differing by about a minute, the experience of commuting in these cities can feel quite different. San Diego offers slightly better public transit options, reflected by its higher score, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle, though effort and planning are required. Traffic congestion in San Diego is a bit more pronounced than in Tempe, which might be a factor to consider if you heavily depend on driving for your daily activities. Being prepared and understanding your commuting options can greatly improve your transition and daily life in your new city.



Additional Resources
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