Best San Diego to Alexandria Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from San Diego to Alexandria and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,720 mile move from California to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 San Diego to Alexandria 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 ARS Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Alexandria. 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 Alexandria Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | ARS Movers | 9.64 | 9.76 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | The Rock Movers | 9.50 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.49 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Diego to Alexandria?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,720 miles from San Diego, CA to Alexandria, VA will cost on average $4,094 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Alexandria move is roughly $9,898. 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 | $2,745 | 300 ft³ | $9.15 |
1 Bedroom | $4,094 | 450 ft³ | $9.10 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,786 | 750 ft³ | $9.05 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,898 | 1100 ft³ | $9.00 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,317 | 1600 ft³ | $8.95 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,017 | 1800 ft³ | $8.90 |


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

ARS Movers
Herndon, VA, 20170
About ARS Movers
ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a...
Services
- Local Moving (Residential Moving)
- Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
- Office Moving (Commercial Moving)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3260258 / 1027666 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 3 (2022) |

Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
Registered Drivers | 21 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |

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) |

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. Alexandria Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially when you're heading to an unfamiliar city. To make this transition smoother, we'll help you draw parallels between the neighborhoods you know and love in San Diego, CA, and find their equivalents in Alexandria, VA. This comparison of local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Alexandria, VA aims to provide you with a sense of familiarity and anticipation for your new surroundings.
San Diego | Alexandria | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
La Jolla | Old Town | Historic charm, seaside vibes |
Pacific Beach | Del Ray | Laid back, community-focused |
North Park | Potomac West | Artsy, vibrant nightlife |
Gaslamp Quarter | Carlyle | Dynamic, entertainment-rich |
Hillcrest | Rosemont | Diverse, inclusive community |
Little Italy | Parker-Gray | Cultural hub, historic roots |
Point Loma | Mount Vernon | Scenic views, historic estates |
Coronado | Alexandria Waterfront | Prestigious, waterfront living |
Mission Hills | Beverley Hills | Quiet, upscale residential |
Ocean Beach | Braddock Road Metro | Eclectic, bohemian spirit |
For those coming from the laid-back, surf-centric vibe of Pacific Beach in San Diego, the Del Ray neighborhood in Alexandria will feel like home with its community-focused and relaxed environment. Del Ray offers a charming mix of local shops, such as the Del Ray Café, and community events that bring together residents in a uniquely tight-knit manner. On the other hand, if you're leaving the cultural and historic richness of Little Italy, Parker-Gray in Alexandria offers a similar blend of deep-rooted history and cultural diversity, with landmarks such as the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial providing context and depth to the neighborhood's character. Whether you're drawn to scenic vistas, vibrant nightlife, or peaceful residential areas, this guide aims to help you find a slice of home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Alexandria
Moving from one coast to another brings a unique set of challenges and advantages. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the transition from San Diego, CA to Alexandria, VA, highlighting both the positives and negatives of such a move. By examining the cons and pros through comparative charts, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in your new city.
- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Limited seasons
- Lower cost of living
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
- Colder winters
- Less beach access
- Different culinary style
- Warm weather year-round
- Vibrant beach culture
- Diverse food scene
Moving from San Diego to Alexandria presents a significant change in lifestyle. For instance, you will exchange the laid-back, sunny beaches like La Jolla or Coronado in San Diego for Alexandria's charming, historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets and waterfront parks such as Founders Park. The culinary scene also shifts from the diverse, international flavors found in restaurants like Juniper & Ivy in San Diego to more historic, locally-inspired eateries such as Gadsby's Tavern in Alexandria, which has been serving guests since the 18th century. Additionally, while you might miss the year-round warm weather, Alexandria offers beautiful, distinct seasons that bring their own array of activities, from cherry blossom viewing in spring to picturesque snowy days ideal for cozying up in one of the city's many quaint coffee shops like Misha’s.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between San Diego & Alexandria offers a window into the distinct flavors and dining experiences you’ll encounter as you transition from the Pacific shores to the historic East Coast. Understanding the food culture is indispensable as it enriches your relocation experience and prepares you for the culinary delights that await.
- George’s at the Cove
- Hodad’s
- Phil’s BBQ
- Restaurant Eve
- Hank’s Oyster Bar
- Virtue Feed & Grain
In San Diego, the surf culture deeply influences local cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, light, and innovative dishes like the iconic fish taco, often found along the Pacific coastline from food trucks to upscale dining establishments. The health consciousness of the city is reflected in the popularity of dishes like the açaí bowl, catering to a vibrant vegan community. On the flip side, Alexandria's culinary scene boasts a rich tapestry of colonial history and Southern charm, with Chesapeake crab cakes exemplifying the local love for seafood, encapsulated within quaint cobblestone streets and waterfront dining options. Alexandria’s devotion to local and organic ingredients shines in eateries around Old Town, ensuring your meals are not only delectable but also thoughtfully sourced.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be an adventure, especially when it comes to finding your new culinary favorites. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Alexandria aims to ease the transition by guiding you towards finding your next go-to dining spots, using your cherished experiences in San Diego as a compass.
San Diego | Alexandria | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Juniper & Ivy | Restaurant Eve | High-end dining with innovative cuisine |
Phil's BBQ | Myron Mixon's Pitmaster Barbeque | Iconic BBQ with a loyal following |
Puesto | Taqueria Poblano | Casual eatery known for tacos and margaritas |
Born & Raised | Warehouse Bar & Grill | Renowned for its steaks and upscale dining experience |
Las Cuatro Milpas | Los Tios Grill | Authentic Mexican food with a homely vibe |
Cafe 21 | Brabo | Elegant setting with a creative and seasonal menu |
Ironside Fish & Oyster | Hank's Oyster Bar | Fresh seafood and a great oyster selection |
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens | Port City Brewing Company | Craft beer with a great tasting room |
Hodad's | BurgerFi | Known for gourmet burgers and craft beer |
Extraordinary Desserts | Lavender Moon Cupcakery | Boutique bakery with a focus on inventive sweets |
For those missing the upscale dining of Juniper & Ivy in San Diego, Restaurant Eve in Alexandria offers a transformative dining experience with its innovative cuisine, mirroring Juniper & Ivy's attention to creative food artistry. BBQ lovers transitioning from Phil's BBQ will find comfort in the smoky, tangy flavors at Myron Mixon's Pitmaster Barbeque, where the commitment to high-quality meats and traditional smoking techniques reigns supreme. Meanwhile, seafood aficionados will appreciate the dedication to freshness and variety at Hank's Oyster Bar, reminiscent of the bountiful seafood offerings back at Ironside Fish & Oyster. The move from San Diego to Alexandria doesn't have to mean leaving your culinary preferences behind; rather, it's an opportunity to explore and delight in the rich tapestry of flavors that Alexandria has to offer.

Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Alexandria Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate environments of your current and future cities is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide provides a focused look at the real estate aspects of San Diego, CA and Alexandria, VA, highlighting the need-to-know facts and figures for potential movers.
Moving from San Diego to Alexandria presents distinct changes in housing and lifestyle. San Diego's higher median home price reflects its beachfront allure and year-round sunshine, while Alexandria, steeped in history, offers a more accessible housing market. Alexandria's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more pedestrian-friendly environment, often a priority for those who value urban convenience and historical charm. The prevalent architectural styles in each city also hint at their unique cultural identities—San Diego's Spanish Colonial roots versus Alexandria's Colonial and Victorian influences. Considering these factors will help you find a home that not only fits your budget but also your lifestyle preferences.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Alexandria, VA
1. Del Ray : You will love Del Ray for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly parks and cafes.
2. Old Town : This neighborhood is perfect for you and your pet with its scenic waterfront paths and dog-friendly events.
3. Rosemont : Rosemont offers you ample green spaces and a community spirit that warmly welcomes pets into its fold.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Weather Considerations
Relocating requires adjusting to new environments. Understanding how the weather in San Diego will compare to Alexandria's climate is crucial. This comparison aims to simplify your transition by highlighting key weather differences.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While sunny days are more abundant in San Diego, Alexandria offers a distinct four-season experience with notably more rainfall and snow. You'll find San Diego's climate milder overall, but if you're moving to Alexandria, prepare for more humid summers and colder winters. Also noteworthy, Alexandria experiences different types of natural disasters, such as hurricanes and snowstorms, in contrast to San Diego's wildfires and earthquakes. Adapting to these changes will be key to enjoying your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Alexandria
Moving from one city to another can dramatically alter your financial landscape. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income options in San Diego compare to Alexandria is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison guide aims to decipher these differences, providing a clearer picture of what to expect financially.
When moving from San Diego to Alexandria, you'll likely notice a decrease in the overall cost of living; however, this comes with a substantial increase in average household income. While Alexandria boasts a much lower sales tax, keep in mind that it offsets this with a higher property tax rate compared to San Diego. Furthermore, the shift from industries focused on defense and tourism in San Diego to government and professional services in Alexandria reflects not just a change in economic focus but possibly in the job market and opportunities available to you. Understanding these differences can help you plan your move and financial future in Alexandria more effectively.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Diego, CA, to Alexandria, VA, understanding the local demographics can help you adjust more smoothly. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Alexandria, enhancing your knowledge of what to expect in your new home.
Both San Diego and Alexandria exhibit a liberal political makeup, though Alexandria is known as a Democratic stronghold, reflecting a potentially more pronounced liberalism in local politics. The religious landscapes in both cities are diverse, with San Diego hosting influential institutions like the Rock Church. Alexandria's religious diversity is also notable, with landmarks like the Washington National Cathedral and various houses of worship contributing to a vibrant spiritual community. Understanding these facets of your new city can help in making connections and finding communities that align with your beliefs and values.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can come with its share of changes, especially when it involves your daily commute. In this guide, we provide a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Alexandria to help you better understand what to expect in your new city regarding daily travel and commute times.
In terms of daily commuting, you'll find noticeable differences between the two cities. San Diego generally sees shorter average commute times, but with slightly higher traffic congestion than Alexandria. When it comes to public transportation, Alexandria takes the lead offering more robust options. This includes the metro, which connects you easily to Washington D.C., making it feasible for many to forgo car ownership. Furthermore, Alexandria's urban planning with its walkable neighborhoods makes daily errands and activities more accessible without a car compared to the spread-out cityscape of San Diego.



Additional Resources
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