Best San Diego to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,578 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 San Diego to Raleigh 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Raleigh. 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 San Diego to Raleigh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.50 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.49 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 | Active |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Diego to Raleigh?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,578 miles from San Diego, CA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $3,974 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Raleigh move is roughly $9,603. 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 | $2,664 | 300 ft³ | $8.88 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,974 | 450 ft³ | $8.83 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,585 | 750 ft³ | $8.78 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,603 | 1100 ft³ | $8.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,888 | 1600 ft³ | $8.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,534 | 1800 ft³ | $8.63 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Raleigh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (2022) |
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.
San Diego vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Raleigh, NC . This comparison aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Raleigh that shares the vibe and amenities you loved back in San Diego.
| San Diego | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Cameron Village | Upscale shopping, dining |
| Pacific Beach | Glenwood South | Vibrant nightlife, young professionals |
| North Park | Boylan Heights | Artsy, historical charm |
| Hillcrest | Five Points | Diverse, inclusive community |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Warehouse District | Entertainment, dining hub |
| Little Italy | Mordecai | Foodie paradise, historical feel |
| Point Loma | Hayes Barton | Quiet, upscale residential |
| Del Mar | North Hills | Family-friendly, outdoor shopping |
| Ocean Beach | Oakwood | Laid-back, community-focused |
| Mission Hills | Bloomsbury | Charming, older homes |
In your quest to find a new neighborhood in Raleigh that echoes the community and lifestyle you're leaving behind in San Diego, consider exploring neighborhoods like Glenwood South and the Warehouse District. Glenwood South, similar to Pacific Beach, is known for its lively nightlife and is popular among young professionals. Here, you'll find an array of bars and restaurants, such as The Raleigh Times Bar, a beloved local watering hole with an extensive beer selection and rooftop seating. The Warehouse District, comparable to San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, is Raleigh's entertainment and dining hub, home to establishments like Boxcar Bar + Arcade, where you can enjoy vintage games alongside craft brews. For those drawn to the upscale shopping and dining experience of La Jolla, Cameron Village offers a similar vibe in Raleigh, with chic boutiques and eateries such as The Fresh Market for gourmet groceries and fresh produce. Explore these Raleigh neighborhoods to find the same sense of community and lifestyle you cherished in San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Raleigh
Moving across the country is no small feat, and doing so from San Diego, CA to Raleigh, NC presents its own set of unique challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to highlight an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make a well-informed decision.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Limited seasons
- Water scarcity
Raleigh, NC- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
- Lush greenery
Raleigh, NC- No beaches nearby
- Quieter nightlife
- Colder winters
- Less diversity
San Diego, CA- Beach access
- Vibrant nightlife
- Warm winters
- Diverse cuisines
The transition from San Diego's lively beach scene and vibrant nightlife to Raleigh's quieter, leafier surroundings marks a significant change. The cost of living adjustment is notable, with Raleigh offering more affordable housing options, which can be evident in neighborhoods like Boylan Heights or Oakwood, where the community feel is strong, and local shops like Yellow Dog Bread Company add charm. While you might miss walking on the Pacific Beach, the Neuse River Trail in Raleigh provides a refreshing alternative with its scenic routes. Moreover, the culinary scene, although different, is still exciting, with Raleigh boasting incredible BBQ joints like The Pit and innovative restaurants in the Warehouse District. Embracing Raleigh's distinct seasons will introduce you to a new array of activities, from autumn leaf-peeping to spring festivals.
San Diego vs. Raleigh Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between San Diego & Raleigh serves as an intriguing lens through which we can explore what life tastes like in these vastly different locales. Food significantly shapes the local culture and the daily lives of its residents. This comparison aims to equip you with a better understanding of the food scene in your new home.
- Juniper & Ivy
- Hodad's
- Phil's BBQ
- Brewery Bhavana
- The Pit
- Poole's Diner
San Diego's culinary scene thrives on its proximity to fresh seafood and a strong Mexican influence, making fish tacos and carne asada favorites among locals. The laid-back yet health-conscious vibe of the city is reflected in its love for acai bowls. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter are culinary hotspots, hosting iconic establishments like Juniper & Ivy. Raleigh, on the other hand, deeply embraces its Southern roots, with pulled pork BBQ and a rising interest in vegan interpretations of classic dishes like BBQ jackfruit. Areas like Fayetteville Street and the Warehouse District offer a vibrant food scene where you can experience local favorites such as Brewery Bhavana.
San Diego vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. To help ease your transition from San Diego to Raleigh, we've compared top restaurants in San Diego to their Raleigh equivalents, aiming to find your next favorite eatery. This guide uses your current culinary loves as a beacon to delicious discoveries.
| San Diego | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Addison | Second Empire | Upscale dining with a unique historic atmosphere |
| Juniper & Ivy | Death & Taxes | High-quality, innovative American cuisine |
| Hodad's | MoJoe's Burger Joint | A go-to for classic, hearty American burgers |
| Mister A's | Angus Barn | An iconic steakhouse with a view |
| Born & Raised | Sullivan's Steakhouse | A modern take on the traditional steakhouse |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | José and Sons | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a Southern twist |
| Phil's BBQ | The Pit | Legendary BBQ in a casual setting |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | 42nd Street Oyster Bar | Fresh seafood in a historic setting |
| Puesto | Gonza Tacos y Tequila | Innovative tacos with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Cucina Urbana | Gravy | Italian-American comfort food in a cozy ambiance |
Finding a restaurant that hits all the right notes can be just as important as the meal itself. For example, if you’re missing the casual yet refined atmosphere of Juniper & Ivy in San Diego, Death & Taxes in Raleigh awaits with its innovative spin on American cuisine, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Those craving the authentic Mexican flavors of Las Cuatro Milpas will find José and Sons to be a delightful blend of Southern hospitality and Mexican culinary tradition. And for the seafood lovers left yearning for the freshness of Ironside Fish & Oyster, 42nd Street Oyster Bar in Raleigh not only promises the best catch of the day but also a dive into the city's rich history. In Raleigh, each meal is not just about the food; it's an invitation to experience the city's diverse culinary landscape and vibrant character.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's critical to compare real estate aspects between San Diego, CA and Raleigh, NC to make well-informed decisions. Understanding how housing attributes such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle conveniences align with your needs can significantly impact your living experience.
Delving deeper into the housing contrast between San Diego and Raleigh reveals a tale of two distinct lifestyles influenced greatly by local real estate. San Diego's higher median home price and rent reflect its coastal city allure and desirable climate, often accompanied by design elements like Spanish Colonial architecture and lavish outdoor living spaces to enjoy the ocean view. Conversely, Raleigh offers a more affordable entry into homeownership, fostering a different set of values such as spacious yards and a close-knit community atmosphere signaled by its preference for Colonial and Craftsman styles. This preference mirrors Raleigh's appreciation for tradition and functionality, coupled with its burgeoning research and tech sectors, exemplified by its listings' emphasis on proximity to the Research Triangle Park. Thus, your choice hinges not just on budget but on the lifestyle and values that resonate most with you.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC
1. Five Points : You’ll love the convenient access to several dog-friendly parks and walking trails that make exercising and socializing with your pet enjoyable.
2. North Hills : This area offers pet-friendly apartments and a variety of outdoor spaces, including a nearby dog park, making it easy to live and play with your furry friend.
3. Glenwood South : With its numerous pet-welcoming cafes, bars, and community events, you and your pet can enjoy vibrant social activities together.
San Diego vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares between San Diego, CA and Raleigh, NC is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in your daily life and how you might need to adjust your routines and wardrobe.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While San Diego is known for its mild climate with lower humidity and less precipitation, Raleigh presents more of a seasonal experience with hot, humid summers and cooler winters. This is reflected in Raleigh having fewer days of sunshine but more annual rainfall and even some snow, contrasting with San Diego's very rare snowfall and lower annual precipitation. The difference in natural disasters is also noteworthy, with San Diego facing risks from earthquakes and wildfires, whereas Raleigh is more prone to hurricanes and tornadoes. Adjusting to these variations can significantly impact your daily life and activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Raleigh
When planning a move, especially from San Diego, CA to Raleigh, NC, it’s crucial to understand the financial landscape you’re transitioning into. This comparison illuminates key money and finance metrics to help you gauge the cost of living and economic differences.
Upon examining the comparison, it becomes evident that Raleigh presents a notably lower cost of living compared to San Diego. This financial relief is not without trade-offs; the average household income is also lower in Raleigh. Additionally, moving from California to North Carolina, you will experience a substantial change in state income tax, which has a wider range in San Diego but is a flat rate in Raleigh. However, despite these differences, Raleigh’s burgeoning technology, healthcare, and education sectors offer burgeoning opportunities for career growth and stability, reflecting its growing affluence without the significant housing and homelessness challenges present in San Diego.
San Diego vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Diego, CA to Raleigh, NC, understanding the differences in community composition can help ease the transition. This comparison will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Raleigh . It aims to highlight how these elements shape the local culture and social environment you're moving into.
In moving from San Diego to Raleigh, you'll find both cities share a Democratic leaning in political makeup. However, the local political scene in Raleigh presents a more balanced mix, reflecting both conservative and liberal viewpoints, which could provide a different civic engagement atmosphere compared to San Diego's progressive tendencies. Religion in Raleigh tends towards more traditional Christian values, contrasting with San Diego's broadly diverse or non-affiliated religious landscape. This could influence the cultural events and community groups you may wish to engage with upon your arrival.
San Diego vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Raleigh, NC will bring significant changes to your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Raleigh look like, setting you up for a smoother transition.
In San Diego, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Raleigh, and traffic congestion is notably higher. While both cities present challenges for those attempting to live without a car, San Diego does offer a bit more in terms of public transportation options. The city is served by a network of buses and trolleys that can moderately ease a car-free lifestyle, especially within urban areas. Conversely, Raleigh's public transit system is less developed, making it more difficult to rely solely on public transportation for daily commutes. Understanding these differences can help you plan more effectively for your relocation and daily travel plans in your new home city.
Additional Resources
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