Best Rochester to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Rochester to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,695 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Rochester 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 The Rock 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 Rochester 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.

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Best Rochester to San Diego Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1The Rock Movers9.509.53Authorized For HHG
2Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.499.62Authorized For HHG
3Zippboxx9.379.16Authorized For Property, HHG
4Interior Moving Services, Inc.8.978.99Authorized For HHG
5Reliable Movers8.948.81Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Rochester to San Diego?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,695 miles from Rochester, NY to San Diego, CA will cost on average $4,073 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to San Diego move is roughly $9,846. 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$2,730300 ft³$9.10
1 Bedroom$4,073450 ft³$9.05
2 Bedrooms$6,751750 ft³$9.00
3 Bedrooms$9,8461100 ft³$8.95
4 Bedrooms$14,2421600 ft³$8.90
5+ Bedrooms$15,9321800 ft³$8.85
*Please note: These New York to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from New York & California. 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 NY to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Rochester guide.

Compare the 5 Best Rochester to San Diego 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
Zippboxx Logo

Zippboxx

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,003+ data points

923 Motor Pkwy

Hauppauge, NY, 11788

About Zippboxx

Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both locally...

Services

  • Local movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3077817 / 1043860

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Interior Moving Services, Inc. Logo

Interior Moving Services, Inc.

Superb
claimed company icon
8.97/10
based on 970+ data points

157 La Grange Ave

Rochester, NY, 14613

About Interior Moving Services, Inc.

Located in Rochester, New York, Interior Moving Services has close to three decades of moving expertise, serving both residential and commercial...

Services

  • Local residential moving
  • Local commercial moving
  • Long-distance residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1498819 / 600823

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Reliable Movers Logo

Reliable Movers

Superb
claimed company icon
8.94/10
based on 641+ data points

159 Hardenbergh Ave

Auburn, NY, 13021

About Reliable Movers

Reliable Movers is a family-owned and operated business specializing in moves from New York to Florida. Since 1996, this Auburn-based moving...

Services

  • Residential moving, local and long distance
  • Commercial factories and offices moving
  • Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1605981 / 837987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved79,441 (2023)
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.

Rochester vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving across the country can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with your new city using your current one as a baseline can make the transition smoother. This guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & San Diego, CA to help you find a new home that feels familiar. Discover which San Diego neighborhoods resemble your favorite Rochester spots!

RochesterSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Park AvenueHillcrestVibrant, walkable with diverse dining options
East AvenueNorth ParkHistoric, artsy with a strong community vibe
Highland ParkBankers HillScenic parks, chic cafes
South WedgeGolden HillTrendy, with a mix of modern and Victorian homes
SwillburgSouth ParkFamily-friendly, historic homes
Corn HillCoronadoUpscale, waterfront living
North Winton VillageNormal HeightsLively, with a strong sense of community
BrowncroftDel MarTranquil, with beautiful landscapes
Ellwanger-BarryEncinitasBeachside, with a laid-back lifestyle
MaplewoodLa JollaLuxurious, with stunning ocean views

For those moving from Rochester's vibrant Park Avenue to San Diego, Hillcrest will feel like home with its diverse dining scene and inclusive atmosphere. Both are known for their bustling streets and community-driven events. If you're a fan of Highland Park's lush, scenic spaces, Bankers Hill, with its breathtaking views of San Diego Bay and proximity to Balboa Park, will appeal to your love of nature and arts. Similarly, the historic charm of South Wedge finds its counterpart in Golden Hill, where the blend of trendy restaurants and classic homes creates a unique, welcoming atmosphere. Each San Diego neighborhood offers distinctive parks, dining experiences, and cultural sights, ensuring that no matter where you're coming from in Rochester, you'll find a slice of familiarity coupled with the excitement of exploring a new coastal lifestyle.

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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 Rochester to San Diego

Moving from one city to another carries both excitement and challenge, especially when the places are as diverse as Rochester, NY, and San Diego, CA. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from Rochester to San Diego, giving you a nuanced view of what to expect. Whether it's the weather, cost of living, or lifestyle changes, our charts will help you weigh the benefits against the drawbacks.

CONs
PROs
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Cold winters
  • Smaller city
  • Less dining variety
  • Lower diversity
  • More affordable
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Bigger city vibe
  • Greater culinary scene
  • Higher diversity
  • Costlier living
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • More impersonal
  • High rent prices
  • Less historic sites
  • Less green space
  • Longer commutes
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Cozy community
  • Affordable housing
  • Rich history
  • Abundant nature
  • Shorter commutes

While sunny weather and a greater culinary scene in San Diego are enticing, the city's charm goes beyond just good food and clear skies. Neighborhoods like La Jolla and Gaslamp Quarter offer vibrant lifestyle options, from shopping at La Jolla By The Sea to dining at acclaimed restaurants like Juniper & Ivy. Similarly, San Diego's parks, including the expansive Balboa Park, provide a variety of outdoor activities unparalleled by the more limited green spaces in Rochester. However, this comes at a cost, both literally and figuratively. The cost of living in San Diego, particularly housing, can be significantly higher than in Rochester, making it crucial to budget carefully. Nonetheless, for those seeking diversity and a dynamic city vibe, the move could be a rewarding adventure.

Rochester vs. San Diego Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & San Diego because food is an integral part of local culture and greatly influences the living experience in an area. Understanding the food scene in both cities will help you become better acquainted with your new home.

Rochester
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
Garbage Plate
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Beef on Weck
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
White Hots
California Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Tempeh Reuben
Acai Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Joe Bean Coffee Roasters
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Lolita's Mexican Food
  • Sushi Ota
  • Phil's BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In San Diego, you'll find the iconic Fish Tacos at spots like Oscar's Mexican Seafood, celebrated for its fresh, local seafood. For those who crave something heartier, the Carne Asada, particularly from places like Lolita's Mexican Food, is a must-try. The culinary diversity stretches to vegan options, too, with Acai Bowls being a popular choice among health-conscious eaters—head to neighborhoods like Little Italy or Ocean Beach for the ultimate foodie experience. San Diego's vibrant food scene is underscored by an abundance of food trucks and a high fitness/health consciousness, making it a paradise for food lovers of all kinds.

Rochester vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

For those making the transition from Rochester, NY to San Diego, CA, finding your new culinary "home away from home" can be just the thing to make your new city feel welcoming. This comparison aims to connect Rochester's top dining experiences with comparable restaurants in San Diego, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy your beloved dishes with a local twist. Let this be your guide to discovering your next favorite eateries.

RochesterSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Dinosaur Bar-B-QuePhil’s BBQBoth offer a robust selection of smoked meats and a lively atmosphere.
Good Luck RestaurantCampfireKnown for its creative and communal dining experience, much like Good Luck.
Joe Bean Coffee RoastersBird Rock Coffee RoastersBoth are known for their quality coffee and commitment to sustainability.
RoccoBencotto Italian KitchenOffers an authentic Italian dining experience with fresh, handmade pasta.
Swan MarketTip Top MeatsBoth serve top-notch German cuisine and meats in a casual setting.
Char Steak & LoungeBorn & RaisedElegant steakhouse experiences with a focus on high-quality meats and sophisticated ambiances.
The Owl HouseKindredBoth offer unique, veggie-friendly menus in eclectic, welcoming spaces.
DiBella's SubsBoard & BrewKnown for delicious sandwiches and a laid-back, surf-inspired atmosphere.
John's Tex-MexLucha Libre Gourmet Taco ShopBoth are beloved for their flavorful and hearty Mexican-American dishes.
Pane VinoIsola Pizza BarBoth restaurants celebrate Italian cuisine, with a particular focus on pizzas and pastas.

While the journey from Rochester to San Diego may bring about many changes, the passion for quality dining remains a shared trait between these two cities. Bird Rock Coffee Roasters and Joe Bean Coffee Roasters both celebrate the art of coffee making, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement, ensuring your morning cup is as fulfilling as ever. For those who relish in the communal aspect of dining, Campfire and Good Luck Restaurant offer atmospheres that encourage togetherness while serving innovative dishes. On evenings that call for a more refined experience, the elegance of Char Steak & Lounge finds a counterpart in Born & Raised, where the dedication to the finest cuts of meat and sophisticated dining settings resonate with steak connoisseurs. This guide serves as a culinary bridge, welcoming you to explore and embrace the flavors of San Diego with open arms.

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Rochester vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the real estate landscape is a critical component of relocating. When considering a move, it's especially important to weigh the differences between Rochester, NY, and San Diego, CA in terms of housing . This comparison will pave the way for you to make informed decisions about your future home.

Rochester
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Cape Cod
Spanish, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, historic details
Ocean views, close to nature

The stark contrasts in housing costs between Rochester and San Diego reflect the broader differences in the cost of living and lifestyle between these two cities. While Rochester offers a more affordable entry point into homeownership, San Diego's higher home prices are a testament to its coveted coastal location and climate. The typical architectural styles also speak volumes about the local culture and history of each city - with Rochester's homes often featuring traditional designs like Colonial and Cape Cod, and San Diego showcasing a blend of Spanish influences and modern aesthetics. Another aspect worth noting is the focus on outdoor living in San Diego, with many listings highlighting proximity to nature and ocean views, a rare find in Rochester's real estate market.

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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.

Rochester vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the climate differences is vital. This comparison aims to highlight the weather distinctions between Rochester, NY, and San Diego, CA , offering insights into what you can expect. Prepare to adjust from the seasonal extremes in Rochester to more consistent, mild weather in San Diego .

Rochester
San Diego
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Ice
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

80°F / 60°F
77°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

32°F / 18°F
66°F / 50°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

34
12
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

89
0


Moving from Rochester to San Diego means exchanging snowy winters and damp conditions for sunnier days and milder temperatures year-round. While Rochester's winters are characterized by heavy snowfalls averaging around 89 inches annually, San Diego offers mild winters and virtually no snow. Moreover, San Diego boasts significantly more sunny days, leading to higher UV exposure and a different set of considerations for daily sunscreen use and skin protection. Adjusting to the drier climate of San Diego may also mean changes in how you manage seasonal allergies, with less concern for the snow mold of Rochester winters.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to San Diego

When planning a move from one city to another, comprehending the financial dynamics between your current and future home is pivotal. This comparison dives into the cost and financial differences between Rochester, NY, and San Diego, CA , shedding light on essential economic factors that will affect your budget and lifestyle in your new locale.

Rochester
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$41,980
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
100
132.3
State Income Tax
6.33 to 10.9%
1 to 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax
2.87%
0.76%
Avg. Sales Tax
8%
7.75%
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Manufacturing
Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
High
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Severe

While San Diego boasts a higher average household income compared to Rochester, it's crucial to note the stark difference in the cost of living, which is considerably higher in San Diego. This disparity emphasizes the importance of budgeting for increased expenses, including housing and taxes, despite potentially higher earnings. The top industries also shift from education and health services in Rochester to defense and tourism in San Diego, suggesting potential career opportunities or shifts for newcomers. It's also noteworthy to consider the descriptions of affluence, poverty, and homelessness rates in both cities when making your move, as these factors can significantly impact community services and quality of life.

Rochester vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick comparison to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the residents in Rochester, NY and San Diego, CA . Whether you're curious about your future neighbors' political leanings or religious affiliations, this snapshot provides a foundational understanding of how these cities compare.

Rochester
San Diego
Political Make-up
Largely Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
City Government active in social issues
City Government focuses on environmental and housing initiatives
Religion
Mix of Catholic, Protestant, and other faiths
Diverse religious landscape, strong presence of Catholic and non-denominational Christian communities

While both Rochester and San Diego lean Democratic politically, you'll find that their local governments focus on different sets of issues that reflect the unique concerns of their residents. For instance, Rochester's local politics might be more engaged with social issues, reflecting its industrial and demographic makeup. On the other hand, San Diego's governmental priorities like environmental conservation and addressing housing shortages underscore the city's coastal location and real estate dynamics. The religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse, with a noticeable presence of Catholic and Protestant communities. However, San Diego's extensive variety of religions and non-denominational churches reflects its larger population and multiculturalism. This diversity might offer you a wider range of communities to engage with upon your move.

Rochester vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Rochester, NY to San Diego, CA brings about significant changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison aims to better understand the variances in driving and transiting options between these two cities, preparing you for what lies ahead on the roads.

Rochester
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
26
Traffic Congestion
3 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
More challenging

While Rochester offers a relatively smooth commuting experience with an average commute time of only 22 minutes and lower traffic congestion, making it easier to navigate during peak hours, moving to San Diego changes the dynamics. Despite the beauty and allure of San Diego, the city faces higher traffic congestion, noticeable by its score of 7 out of 10, and an increased average commute time. Though both cities offer public transit options, San Diego's slightly better score indicates a more extensive network possibly due to its larger size and urban spread. Yet, in both locales, living without a car presents its own set of challenges, necessitating careful planning and consideration for your daily transport needs.

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