Best Salinas to Albuquerque Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salinas to Albuquerque and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,007 mile move from California to New Mexico go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 13 Salinas to Albuquerque 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 JP Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salinas compared to Albuquerque. 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 Salinas to Albuquerque Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1JP Moving9.399.63Authorized For Property
2Mod Movers8.818.1Authorized For HHG
3Poulos Moving Systems8.378.48Authorized For HHG
4Pro-Move Logistics8.127.78Authorized For Property, HHG
5Cardinale Moving & Storage7.627.06Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Salinas to Albuquerque?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,007 miles from Salinas, CA to Albuquerque, NM will cost on average $2,638 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salinas to Albuquerque move is roughly $6,337. 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$1,773300 ft³$5.91
1 Bedroom$2,638450 ft³$5.86
2 Bedrooms$4,358750 ft³$5.81
3 Bedrooms$6,3371100 ft³$5.76
4 Bedrooms$9,1381600 ft³$5.71
5+ Bedrooms$10,1901800 ft³$5.66
*Please note: These California to New Mexico moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & New Mexico. 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 CA to NM mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Albuquerque to Salinas guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salinas to Albuquerque Movers

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

JP Moving Logo

JP Moving

Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,004+ data points

1503 Golf Course Rd SE # D

Rio Rancho, NM, 87124

About JP Moving

JP Moving is a licensed and insured moving company based in Rio Rancho, NM. It provides residential and commercial moving services...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3585744 / 1212778

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.81/10
based on 960+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.37/10
based on 464+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Pro-Move Logistics Logo

Pro-Move Logistics

Very Good8.12/10
based on 157+ data points

7608 Crouch Ct

Santa Fe, NM, 87507

About Pro-Move Logistics

Pro-Move Logistics is a top-rated full-service company with over 15 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers in Santa Fe...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3942498 / 1464643

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Cardinale Moving & Storage Logo

Cardinale Moving & Storage

7.62/10
based on 328+ data points

11360 Commercial Pkwy

Castroville, CA, 95012

About Cardinale Moving & Storage

Cardinale Moving & Storage is owned and operated by the Cardinale family who has lived on the Monterey peninsula for well...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Moves within California
  • Interstate moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

45193 / 138022

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
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.

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new surroundings. To ease this transition, we've compared local neighborhoods between Salinas, CA & Albuquerque, NM . By mapping the top neighborhoods from Salinas to their closest equivalents in Albuquerque, we hope to help you find a new community that feels like home.

SalinasAlbuquerqueHow They're Similar
South SalinasNob HillVibrant, historic
North SalinasNorth ValleyFamily-friendly, rural charm
Maple ParkRidgecrestQuiet, leafy streets
CreekbridgeHigh DesertUpscale, scenic views
Monterey ParkFour Hills VillageSecluded, with natural beauty
Laurel HeightsVolterraNewer, family-oriented
Southwest SalinasOld TownCultural, historical
Corral de TierraTanoanExclusive, gated community
East SalinasInternational DistrictDiverse, vibrant community
Mission ParkUniversity HeightsCollege town vibe, eclectic

When considering the move from Salinas to Albuquerque, understanding what each neighborhood offers becomes crucial. For instance, Nob Hill in Albuquerque mirrors the vibrancy and historic charm of South Salinas, boasting eclectic shops and trendy dining spots like Zinc Wine Bar & Bistro. For those accustomed to the family-friendly atmosphere and rural charm of North Salinas, North Valley offers a similar ambiance with its open spaces and community-focused living. And for outdoor enthusiasts, transitioning from Creekbridge to High Desert could be seamless, thanks to High Desert's access to hiking trails and its panoramic views, including the picturesque Sandia Foothills Open Space. These comparisons demonstrate not just the physical but also the cultural and lifestyle continuities that might make Albuquerque feel just a bit more like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Salinas to Albuquerque

Moving can be a big decision, and it's essential to weigh the bad against the good. This guide provides an honest reflection of the attributes when relocating from Salinas, CA to Albuquerque, NM. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, you'll get a clearer picture of what to expect from your new city.

CONs
PROs
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Frequent fog
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower job growth
Albuquerque, NM iconAlbuquerque, NM
  • More affordable housing
  • Sunnier days
  • Rich cultural foods
  • Emerging job market
Albuquerque, NM iconAlbuquerque, NM
  • Hotter summers
  • No nearby ocean
  • Less green scenery
  • Fewer water activities
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Closer to beaches
  • Vibrant agriculture
  • More coastal activities

While Salinas offers a mild climate and proximity to the ocean, making beach days and lush landscapes part of the daily life, Albuquerque presents a different set of attractions. In Albuquerque, you'll embrace sunnier days and a drier climate, offering an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the unique desert landscape. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and annual events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. You'll find a variety of restaurants to try, from traditional New Mexican cuisine at El Modelo Mexican Foods to innovative dishes at Farina Pizzeria. Despite the lack of nearby beaches, the city compensates with beautiful parks such as the ABQ BioPark, offering plenty of green spaces for relaxation and recreation. The move might be a significant change, but Albuquerque’s warm community and vibrant life offer a welcoming new chapter.

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salinas & Albuquerque, highlighting the essence of living in these areas through their food culture. This analysis should help you get acquainted with the local food scene as you plan your move.

Salinas
Albuquerque
Most iconic local food item
Artichokes
Green Chile
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip
Carne Adovada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Burritos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tamales
Calabacitas
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Steinbeck House
  • Patria
  • Gino’s Fine Italian Food
  • Mary & Tito’s Cafe
  • Frontier Restaurant
  • El Pinto
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
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Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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Foodie Scene (out of 10)
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Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
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As you prepare to move from Salinas to Albuquerque, you'll find yourself transitioning from the artichoke-rich fields of California to the spice-laden airs of New Mexico. Albuquerque's love for green chile is evident in nearly every culinary offering, from the iconic carne adovada to the staple side of calabacitas. Places like Mary & Tito's Cafe exemplify traditional New Mexican cuisine, while the Frontier Restaurant provides a casual setting known for its burritos. Albuquerque's growing food scene is marked by an abundance of food trucks and vegan-friendly options, ensuring you'll discover a diverse and vibrant culinary landscape ready to explore.

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat that remind you of home. This Salinas to Albuquerque restaurant comparison chart will aid in that journey, helping you find your new favorite spots to dine, using your experiences in Salinas as a guide. Whether you're craving upscale dining experiences or casual eats, let this comparison serve as your culinary compass in Albuquerque.

SalinasAlbuquerqueWhat You'll Love
Eagle RestaurantFarina AltoCozy atmosphere with gourmet pizza options, mirroring Eagle's eclectic menu.
Salinas City BBQThe County LineOffering a similar down-home vibe with a focus on smoked meats and Southern sides.
Gino's Fine Italian FoodScalo Northern Italian GrillBoth places excel in providing an authentic Italian dining experience with a touch of local flavor.
First AwakeningsGrove Cafe & MarketComparable commitment to fresh, locally sourced breakfast dishes and a charming ambiance.
Giorgio's Italian Food & PizzeriaAmore Neapolitan PizzeriaSimilar emphasis on traditional Italian dishes and Neapolitan pizzas, baked in wood-fired ovens.
PatriaVernon’s SpeakeasyBoth offering a unique, upscale dining experience with a focus on craft cocktails and exquisite dishes.
Zamora's CarnitasEl Modelo Mexican FoodsA close match in serving authentic Mexican dishes with a focus on traditional cooking methods.
La Casa del SazónMary & Tito’s CafeKnown for their homemade New Mexican cuisine, evoking a similar homely feel to La Casa del Sazón.
YokohamaSakura Sushi and GrillOffering a similar range of sushi and Japanese dishes, praised for freshness and authenticity.
Monterey Coast Brewing Co.Marble BreweryWhile primarily a brewery, Marble offers a selection of gastropub fare that rivals the quality and atmosphere of Monterey Coast Brewing Co.

As you transition from the agricultural landscapes of Salinas to the high desert beauty of Albuquerque, it's comforting to know you can still enjoy familiar flavors. Farina Alto brings a slice of Salinas through its gourmet pizza, resembling the Eagle Restaurant's eclectic offerings. For those missing the comforting embrace of southern BBQ from Salinas City BBQ, The County Line's smoked meats will welcome you with open arms. If Italian cuisine is what you crave, Scalo Northern Italian Grill stands ready to offer a taste of home, much like Gino's Fine Italian Food. And for the mornings when you're yearning for First Awakenings' homely breakfasts, Grove Cafe & Market in Albuquerque prepares locally sourced dishes that start your day on the right note. This transition might take you across maps, but your culinary journey can continue seamlessly in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. Understanding the differences between your current home and future destination can markedly impact your decision-making process. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences in the housing market between Salinas, CA, and Albuquerque, NM, focusing on aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

Salinas
Albuquerque
Typical Architecture Style
Mission Revival
Pueblo Revival
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious gardens, proximity to agribusinesses
Mountain views, outdoor living spaces

When comparing Salinas and Albuquerque, the difference in the cost of living is stark. Salinas, with its proximity to the Bay Area, has a much higher median home price and rent. However, Albuquerque offers a more affordable alternative without significantly sacrificing urban lifestyle perks. The typical architecture style is also distinct between the two cities, with Salinas featuring Mission Revival homes while Albuquerque showcases the Pueblo Revival style, reflecting their unique cultural histories. Both cities offer outdoor attractions, but Albuquerque scores slightly higher in walkability and bikeability, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize an active lifestyle. Popular mentions in real estate listings in Salinas often highlight spacious gardens and its agribusiness scene, whereas in Albuquerque, listings emphasize the enchanting mountain views and outdoor living spaces, appealing to nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil urban life.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Albuquerque, NM

1. Nob Hill : You'll enjoy the vibrant community spirit, with numerous local pet-friendly cafes and parks for daily strolls with your furry friend.

2. North Valley : With its spacious yards and easy access to the beautiful Rio Grande trails, you and your pet can enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures together.

3. Taylor Ranch : This neighborhood offers plenty of pet-friendly amenities, including nearby open spaces and dedicated dog parks for your pet to play and socialize.

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Weather Considerations

If you're moving from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather can greatly influence your preparation and adaptability. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather characteristics that differentiate Salinas, California, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, providing valuable insights for your relocation.

Salinas
Albuquerque
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Wildfires, Flooding
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

68°F / 52°F
93°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

61°F / 43°F
49°F / 26°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15
9
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
11


When relocating from Salinas to Albuquerque, you'll experience more drastic temperature shifts between seasons, notably hotter summers and colder winters in Albuquerque. The city boasts more sunny days annually, but with significantly lower humidity, which can influence your daily comfort and hydration needs. Additionally, preparing for different natural disaster risks and understanding the higher annual UV index in Albuquerque, which necessitates proactive sun protection measures, will be essential in adapting to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salinas to Albuquerque

When considering a move from Salinas, CA to Albuquerque, NM, it's essential to grasp how your financial situation might change. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and income potential in these cities will help you make an informed decision and prepare for your new life.

Salinas
Albuquerque
Avg. Household Income
$80,154
$58,512
Cost of Living Index
136.4
96.45
State Income Tax
1-13.3%
1.7-4.9%
Avg. Property Tax
0.79%
0.55%
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25%
7.88%
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Aerospace, Film and Digital Media, Energy
Affluence
Moderate
Lower-Moderate
Poverty
High
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

In Salinas, CA, the cost of living is significantly higher than in Albuquerque, NM, largely due to housing costs and taxes. The average household income in Salinas is higher, but this is somewhat offset by the state's higher income tax rates and cost of living. Conversely, Albuquerque offers lower living costs and tax rates, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollar further. However, it's important to consider that the top industries in Albuquerque differ greatly from those in Salinas, which could affect job prospects depending on your field. Additionally, while both cities face challenges with poverty and homelessness, the dynamics and scale of these issues vary, impacting social and community services.

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves more than just changing locations; it's about transitioning into a new community with its unique political and religious landscape. This guide aims to provide a comparison of the politics between Salinas & Albuquerque , offering a quick snapshot of what to expect in both cities. Understanding these aspects can help you settle in more comfortably and align with a community that shares your values.

Salinas
Albuquerque
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Mixed, with a slight Democratic lean
Local Politics
Focus on agriculture, education
Diverse topics including sustainability and urban development
Religion
Majority Christian, with a significant Catholic presence
Multicultural religious landscape, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam

While both Salinas and Albuquerque have a Democratic tendency, the political conversation in Albuquerque is slightly more varied, reflecting its diverse population. Local politics in Salinas revolve considerably around agriculture and education, sectors vital to its economy. In contrast, Albuquerque's political discussions span a broader range of topics, including sustainability and urban development, reflecting its larger and more varied demographic. The religious makeup of Salinas leans heavily toward Christianity, particularly within the Catholic community, evident in the local churches and community events. Albuquerque, on the other hand, offers a more multicultural religious scene, accommodating a wide range of faiths and places of worship, making it an inclusive city for people from various religious backgrounds. Understanding these nuances can help you find your community and participate in meaningful ways.

Salinas vs. Albuquerque Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can bring significant changes to your daily life, particularly in how you commute. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Salinas & Albuquerque , we've compiled a comparison. This will aid in anticipating adjustments you might need to make in your transportation habits.

Salinas
Albuquerque
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
26
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Possibly, with some planning
Difficult, but doable for some areas

When comparing Salinas and Albuquerque, you'll notice that while average commute times are fairly similar, with Albuquerque being slightly higher, the approach to daily travel might vary. Salinas offers moderate traffic congestion and a somewhat better public transit system, making it possible to navigate the city without a car, though planning is essential. On the other hand, Albuquerque, despite less traffic congestion, has a less robust public transit offering, making car independence more challenging. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust your transportation strategies and expectations as you make your move.

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