Best San Diego to Salt Lake City Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightCaliforniaChevron RightSan DiegoChevron RightSan Diego to Salt Lake City

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from San Diego to Salt Lake City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 751 mile move from California to Utah go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 San Diego to Salt Lake City 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Salt Lake City. 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 Salt Lake City Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best San Diego to Salt Lake City Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1The Rock Movers9.509.53Authorized For HHG
2Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.499.62Authorized For HHG
3801 Moving Company9.439.49Authorized For HHG
4Best of Utah Moving Company9.358.73Authorized For Property, HHG
5Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.8.948.13Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Diego to Salt Lake City?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 751 miles from San Diego, CA to Salt Lake City, UT will cost on average $2,420 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Salt Lake City move is roughly $5,805. 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$1,628300 ft³$5.43
1 Bedroom$2,420450 ft³$5.38
2 Bedrooms$3,996750 ft³$5.33
3 Bedrooms$5,8051100 ft³$5.28
4 Bedrooms$8,3641600 ft³$5.23
5+ Bedrooms$9,3191800 ft³$5.18
*Please note: These California to Utah moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Utah. 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 UT mover.
California iconArrow iconUtah icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salt Lake City to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Salt Lake City Movers

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

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
1
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
2
801 Moving Company Logo

801 Moving Company

Exceptional9.43/10
based on 382+ data points

3735 Redmaple Rd

Millcreek, UT, 84106

About 801 Moving Company

801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this...

Services

  • Packing services
  • Long-distance moves
  • Local moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4140953 / 1587673

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
3
Best of Utah Moving Company Logo

Best of Utah Moving Company

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,351+ data points

10291 S 1300 E #142

Sandy, UT, 84094

About Best of Utah Moving Company

Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Office moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2920944 / 1476153

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo

Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Superb8.94/10
based on 1,818+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

877737 / 383831

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved8,778 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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. Salt Lake City Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make the transition smoother, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Salt Lake City, UT . This guide will help you find areas in Salt Lake City that share the vibe and amenities of your favorite spots back in San Diego.

San DiegoSalt Lake CityHow They're Similar
La JollaThe AvenuesHistoric homes, oceanic views similarity
Pacific BeachSugar HouseVibrant nightlife, young demographic
North Park9th & 9thEclectic shops, artistic scene
HillcrestMarmalade DistrictDiverse community, rich cultural scene
Gaslamp QuarterDowntown SLCBustling nightlife, historical buildings
Little ItalyCentral CityEuropean vibes, culinary scene
Ocean BeachLiberty WellsLaid-back atmosphere, community focus
CoronadoFederal HeightsUpscale living, panoramic views
Del MarYalecrestFamily-friendly, quiet streets
EncinitasEast BenchOutdoor activities, relaxed lifestyle

If you've enjoyed the eclectic shops and artistic atmosphere of North Park, you'll find a similar vibe in 9th & 9th, known for its quirky boutiques and vibrant arts scene, including local theaters like Salt Lake Acting Company. For those who love the beachside community and laid-back lifestyle of Ocean Beach, Liberty Wells offers a strong sense of community and plenty of local parks, such as Liberty Park, for outdoor activities. Meanwhile, Hillcrest's diverse and rich cultural scene finds its match in the Marmalade District, with landmarks like the Capitol and the Utah State Capitol offering both historical and modern attractions.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Salt Lake City

Making a move from San Diego, CA to Salt Lake City, UT requires weighing various factors carefully to understand what you're leaving behind and what awaits you. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the advantages and challenges of such a relocation.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited seasons
  • Lower air quality
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Distinct seasons
  • Cleaner air
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • No ocean access
  • Colder winters
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less variety
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Mild winters
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse food scene

Considering the move, you'll trade the vibrant nightlife of neighborhoods like Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego for the more serene evenings in Salt Lake City's 9th and 9th district, known for its unique shops and cozy restaurants, such as 9th & 9th. While you might miss the ocean and the diverse food scene epitomized by places like Lolita's Mexican Food in San Diego, Salt Lake City compensates with breathtaking mountain views and outdoor activities in areas like Big Cottonwood Canyon. The shift from San Diego's nearly constant climate to Salt Lake City's four distinct seasons also means embracing snowy winters with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, a stark contrast to San Diego's mild winters.

San Diego vs. Salt Lake City Food Guide

Food is an integral part of experiencing local culture and understanding what life is like in your new city. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Salt Lake City to ensure you're fully informed about the diverse food scenes awaiting you.

San Diego
Salt Lake City
Most iconic local food item
Fish Tacos
Fry Sauce
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Utah Scones with Honey Butter
Most popular street food item
California Burrito
Pastrami Burgers
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Vegetarian Salads
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • George's at the Cove
  • Juniper & Ivy
  • Las Olas
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When comparing the local cuisines of San Diego and Salt Lake City, you'll find distinct flavors and iconic dishes that typify each city's food landscape. In San Diego, the vibrant Mexican influence is palpable, with fish tacos and the famous California burrito being must-try items. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter offer an abundance of dining options, from the upscale George's at the Cove providing spectacular ocean views to the innovative menu of Juniper & Ivy. Conversely, Salt Lake City presents a mix of traditional American and international cuisines. The city is renowned for its fry sauce and Utah scones with honey butter. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the varied offerings at places like Red Iguana for authentic Mexican dishes and the crispy chicken at Pretty Bird. While both cities cater well to healthy and vegan diets, San Diego’s year-round access to fresh produce places it slightly higher in terms of health conscientiousness and vegan friendliness.

San Diego vs. Salt Lake City Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in transforming a new city into a home, making the quest for local eateries a vital part of any move. This San Diego to Salt Lake City restaurant comparison charts aim to ease your transition by helping you find your new favorite dining spots, styled after those you already love.

San DiegoSalt Lake CityWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyHSLHigh-end, innovative American cuisine
Phil's BBQR&R BBQAward-winning barbecue, casual vibe
George's at the CoveLog HavenMountain dining, stunning views, upscale
Las Cuatro MilpasRed IguanaAuthentic Mexican dishes, local favorite
Hodad'sLucky 13Great burgers with a unique local twist
Cafe 222Over the Counter CafeCozy breakfast spot, famous for pancakes
Born & RaisedThe New YorkerUpscale dining, renowned steaks
El Indio Mexican RestaurantChile-TepinFor a hearty Mexican meal in a vibrant atmosphere
AddisonFranck's RestaurantFine dining, exquisite and unique dishes
The Original Pancake HousePig & A Jelly Jarknown for breakfast and brunch, similar hearty and homey vibes

If your culinary journey begins with a desire to find a spot reminiscent of San Diego’s Phil's BBQ, the smoky flavors and hearty portions at R&R BBQ in Salt Lake City won't disappoint. Fans of cozy breakfast nooks like Cafe 222 will feel right at home at Over the Counter Cafe, where pancakes and a warm, inviting atmosphere make for a perfect morning. For those seeking an upscale dining experience akin to George's at the Cove, look no further than Log Haven, which offers not only exceptional cuisine but breathtaking mountain views that make dining out an unforgettable experience. Each match-up is more than just a comparison of food styles; it’s an invitation to explore and embrace the unique culinary scene that Salt Lake City has to offer, bringing a slice of San Diego’s foodie culture along for the journey.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Salt Lake City Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when planning a move. Comparing the housing aspects of San Diego and Salt Lake City will shed light on how these two vibrant cities measure up in terms of cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

San Diego
Salt Lake City
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial
Prairie Style
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Ocean views, outdoor living spaces
Mountain views, spacious yards

When considering the move from San Diego to Salt Lake City, you'll notice significant differences in housing costs, with Salt Lake City offering a more affordable market. Despite the lower home prices and rents, Salt Lake City boasts better scores in walkability and bikeability. The typical architecture in San Diego leans towards the Spanish Colonial style, emphasizing outdoor living spaces to take advantage of the coastal views. In contrast, Salt Lake City's Prairie Style homes often highlight spacious yards and breathtaking mountain views. These differences underscore the unique lifestyles each city supports, influenced heavily by their distinct natural surroundings and cultural vibes.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, UT

1. Sugar House : You'll find numerous pet-friendly parks, including the expansive Sugar House Park, and an array of pet-friendly shops and dining options welcoming your furry companions.

2. The Avenues : This charming neighborhood offers walkable streets, access to the picturesque City Creek Canyon trails, and many residents who share a love for pets.

3. Liberty Wells : With its close proximity to Liberty Park, your pets will enjoy the large green spaces, off-leash areas, and regular community events catered to pet owners.

San Diego vs. Salt Lake City Weather Considerations

When contemplating a move from San Diego, CA to Salt Lake City, UT , it's essential to grasp how the weather compares . Transitions in climate can significantly impact your lifestyle and daily routines, so understanding these differences ensures a smoother adaptation to your new home.

San Diego
Salt Lake City
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Earthquakes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

76°F / 65°F
90°F / 67°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

66°F / 49°F
37°F / 22°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

10.34
16.1
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
56.2


Moving from the mild, coastal climate of San Diego to the seasonal extremes of Salt Lake City presents a significant change, particularly in winter temperature and snowfall. Salt Lake City experiences much colder winters with significant snowfall, reflecting its continental, high elevation climate. This could necessitate a new winter wardrobe and possibly learning snow-related activities and maintenance. In contrast, San Diego's year-round mild weather and higher humidity levels mean lighter clothing and less concern for winter preparation. The difference in the number of sunny days can also affect daily outdoor activities and mood. Considering air quality and allergies is crucial, as Salt Lake City's "Moderate" air quality and diverse seasonal allergies pose considerations for those sensitive to pollutants or allergens.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Salt Lake City

When considering a move from one city to another, it's critical to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to illuminate the financial differences between San Diego and Salt Lake City , providing you with a clearer understanding of what to expect. The cost of living , income expectations , and tax implications will all play a significant role in your transition.

San Diego
Salt Lake City
Avg. Household Income
$93,042
$66,658
Cost of Living Index
132.3
100.6
State Income Tax
1 - 13.3
4.95 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax
0.76
0.66
Avg. Sales Tax
7.75
7.18
Top 3 Industries
Defense/Military, International Trade, Tourism
Information Technology, Manufacturing, Health Care
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Moderately affluent
Poverty
Noticeable
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

Moving from San Diego to Salt Lake City, you'll notice a considerable difference in the cost of living, with Salt Lake City being significantly more affordable. This is reflected in lower average incomes but also in a much more manageable cost of living index. The uniform state income tax in Utah is simpler to navigate compared to California's progressive tax system, which could potentially leave you with more disposable income in Salt Lake City. Additionally, the emphasis on technology and healthcare industries in Salt Lake City could open new career opportunities not as prevalent in San Diego's economy, which leans heavily towards defense, trade, and tourism.

San Diego vs. Salt Lake City Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from San Diego, CA to Salt Lake City, UT ? This quick overview offers you a snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup of the two cities. Understanding these aspects can help you anticipate the cultural shift and integrate more smoothly into your new community.

San Diego
Salt Lake City
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Leans Republican in the State, but more Democratic in the City
Local Politics
Progressive Policies
Mix of Progressive and Conservative Policies
Religion
Diverse
Dominated by LDS Church

Transitioning from San Diego to Salt Lake City, you'll notice distinctive shifts in both the political landscape and religious influence. San Diego's political climate is relatively progressive, reflecting a broad demographic diversity. In contrast, although Salt Lake City tends to lean Democratic—especially compared to the broader state—its politics are influenced by a mix of views resulting from the significant presence of the LDS Church. The religious makeup also differs markedly; San Diego enjoys a wide-ranging mix of faiths, whereas Salt Lake City's community and culture are heavily shaped by the LDS Church, impacting everything from local politics to social activities. Understanding these dynamics can facilitate a smoother adaptation to your new environment.

San Diego vs. Salt Lake City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Salt Lake City, UT, an essential factor to consider is the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between both cities. This guide aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, easing your transition.

San Diego
Salt Lake City
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24.7
22.1
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
Difficult

Both cities offer their unique sets of challenges and advantages when it comes to commuting. San Diego, with its slightly longer average commute time and higher traffic congestion, may prove a bit more challenging for daily travel. Public transit, including services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, offers a fairly good network across the city, making it possible, albeit challenging, to get by without a car. On the other hand, Salt Lake City, while having a shorter average commute and less traffic congestion, scores slightly lower in terms of public transit availability, reflecting its less dense urban layout and making it difficult to rely solely on public transportation. Understanding these dynamics can help plan your daily commute more effectively after your move.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best San Diego to Salt Lake City Movers Featured Image