Best Tulsa to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tulsa to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,475 mile move from Oklahoma to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Tulsa 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 $2,000 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tulsa 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 Tulsa 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
3Serenity Moving Services9.129.28Authorized For HHG
4Bigger Better Movers8.578.97Authorized For Property, HHG
5Emrick's Van & Storage8.197.64Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,475 miles from Tulsa, OK to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,036 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tulsa to San Diego move is roughly $7,310. 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$2,039300 ft³$6.80
1 Bedroom$3,036450 ft³$6.75
2 Bedrooms$5,022750 ft³$6.70
3 Bedrooms$7,3101100 ft³$6.65
4 Bedrooms$10,5531600 ft³$6.60
5+ Bedrooms$11,7821800 ft³$6.55
*Please note: These Oklahoma to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Oklahoma & 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 OK to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Tulsa guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tulsa 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
Serenity Moving Services Logo

Serenity Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.12/10
based on 862+ data points

3217 Bart Conner Dr suite d

Norman, OK, 73072

About Serenity Moving Services

Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, community. This...

Services

  • Full Service Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking
  • Piano Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2439364 / 988784

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Bigger Better Movers Logo

Bigger Better Movers

Fabulous8.57/10
based on 2,651+ data points

829 NW 116th St

Oklahoma City, OK, 73120

About Bigger Better Movers

Founded in 2017, Bigger Better Movers is a local Oklahoma moving company that offers residential and commercial relocation services to Oklahoma...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3910852 / 1443568

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Emrick's Van & Storage Logo

Emrick's Van & Storage

Very Good8.19/10
based on 236+ data points

4021 NW 3rd St

Oklahoma City, OK, 73107

About Emrick's Van & Storage

Since 1904, Emrick's Van and Storage has provided relocation services to much of Oklahoma, including Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The company's...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Commercial moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

34233 / 135250

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans20
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2024)
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.

Tulsa vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, getting to know your new city can be challenging. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing the most popular neighborhoods in Tulsa, OK & San Diego, CA . By using Tulsa's neighborhoods as a baseline, we'll help familiarize you with similar areas in San Diego, making it easier to find a new home that feels right.

TulsaSan DiegoHow They're Similar
BrooksideNorth ParkVibrant nightlife and arts scene
Cherry StreetHillcrestEclectic shops and restaurants
Maple RidgePoint LomaHistoric homes with ocean views
MidtownBankers HillCentral location, historic buildings
RiversideLa JollaScenic waterfronts and upscale living
South TulsaCarmel ValleyFamily-friendly with good schools
Brady Arts DistrictLittle ItalyRich cultural scene, lively atmosphere
GreenwoodGaslamp QuarterHistoric district, entertainment hub
OwassoPowaySafe, suburban feel with amenities
Sand SpringsEncinitasRelaxing beach town vibe

For those moving from the thriving Brady Arts District in Tulsa, where art and culture flourish on every corner, San Diego's Little Italy offers a seamless transition. You'll find yourself enchanted by the vibrant festivals, like the Sicilian Festival, and the weekly Little Italy Mercato Farmer's Market. If Brookside's bustling nightlife and trendy boutiques are what you're leaving behind, North Park will welcome you with open arms, boasting an array of craft beer breweries, like Modern Times Beer, and local boutiques lining University Avenue. Meanwhile, the scenic beauty and upscale living in Tulsa's Riverside find a match in La Jolla, where the oceanfront scenery at La Jolla Cove and upscale dining at places like George's at the Cove provide a truly comparable lifestyle amidst San Diego's natural beauty.

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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 Tulsa to San Diego

Moving from one city to another is a major decision that comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection from Tulsa, OK to San Diego, CA, showing both the good and the bad aspects of such a relocation. Understanding both sides will help in making an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Tulsa, OK iconTulsa, OK
  • Lower Job Opportunities
  • Extreme Weather
  • Fewer Cultural Venues
  • Limited Nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher Job Market
  • Mild Climate
  • Vibrant Cultural Scene
  • Lively Nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • More Crowded
  • Smaller Outdoor Spaces
  • Heavier Traffic
Tulsa, OK iconTulsa, OK
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • Community Feel
  • Spacious Outdoor
  • Less Traffic

When moving from Tulsa to San Diego, you'll transition from a city known for its community feel to one celebrated for its Balboa Park, the heart of San Diego's cultural scene. While Tulsa offers spacious outdoor areas at places like Gathering Place, San Diego counters with stunning beaches and recreational parks, albeit with smaller spaces. The culinary scene also sees an upgrade, with San Diego's renowned cuisine from establishments like Juniper & Ivy and bustling nightlife areas such as the Gaslamp Quarter. However, this comes at the price of higher living costs and more crowded spaces, elements that might take time to adjust to after the more laid-back lifestyle of Tulsa.

Tulsa vs. San Diego Food Guide

Understanding local cuisine is a vital aspect of immersing oneself in the new surroundings when moving. Whether Tulsa, OK or San Diego, CA, each city offers distinct flavors and dining experiences. Through this guide, we will explore a comparison of the local cuisine between Tulsa & San Diego to help you get acquainted with the culinary scene of your new home.

Tulsa
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
BBQ Ribs
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Chicken Fried Steak
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
California Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Vegetarian Chili
Vegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Joe's BBQ
  • Molly's Landing
  • Elmer's BBQ
  • Hodad's
  • Las Olas
  • 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
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you arrive in San Diego, the local cuisine immediately greets you with its diverse flavors, particularly its reputable fish tacos found in neighborhoods like La Jolla or Pacific Beach. Vegan foodies will revel in the array of options, with vegan tacos being a crowd favorite, available in trendy spots dotted around the city, such as Hillcrest and North Park. San Diego's emphasis on health consciousness is evident in its extensive vegan offerings and active foodie scene, making it a paradise for those who value both taste and wellness. The city's vibrant food truck culture, best experienced during weekly food truck gatherings or events, adds an adventurous element to dining, offering everything from gourmet bites to traditional Mexican street food.

Tulsa vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a key role in turning a new city into your home. This comparison is designed to help you transition smoothly by finding new favorites in San Diego using your Tulsa favorites as a guide. Discover eateries that echo the spirit of those you loved back home, ensuring a comforting sense of familiarity in your new surroundings.

TulsaSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Burn Co BBQCoop's West Texas BBQAuthentic smoked flavors
Villa RavennaBencotto Italian KitchenHandmade pasta heaven
JuniperHerb & WoodCreative and seasonal New American cuisine
El Rancho GrandeLas Cuatro MilpasHomestyle Mexican comfort food
White River Fish MarketPoint Loma SeafoodsFresh seafood market and dining
Sisserou'sIsland PrimeTropical vibes with waterfront dining
Andolini's PizzeriaBuona ForchettaNeapolitan pizza with an authentic twist
Amelia's Wood Fired CuisineFirenze TrattoriaItalian flavors with a California twist
Lassalle's New Orleans DeliBud & Rob's New Orleans BistroA taste of the Big Easy
Leon's Smoke Shack BBQPhil's BBQInfamous BBQ with a cult following

If you've relished the tastes of Tulsa and are seeking similar culinary experiences in San Diego, you'll find solace in these handpicked selections. Venture to Coop's West Texas BBQ for a taste that mirrors the deeply smoked flavors of Burn Co BBQ. For those evenings when only the finest Italian will do, the handmade, artisanal pastas at Bencotto Italian Kitchen offer a comforting reminder of Villa Ravenna’s beloved dishes. Furthermore, transitioning from the vibrant island flavors at Sisserou's to the tropical and scenic dining experience at Island Prime ensures the spirit of your culinary adventures continues unabated, melding Tulsa's charm with San Diego’s coastal flair.

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Ready to start your move?

Tulsa vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape between Tulsa, OK, and San Diego, CA, is crucial. This comparison sheds light on key housing aspects to consider, facilitating a smoother transition.

Tulsa
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Art Deco, Ranch
Spanish Revival, Modern
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, Quiet neighborhoods
Proximity to beaches, Views

Choosing between Tulsa and San Diego involves evaluating not just the substantial difference in housing costs, but also lifestyle. In San Diego, the higher home prices and rent reflect its coastal location and desirability, but they come with perks like better walkability and access to vibrant urban life. Unlike Tulsa's more suburban feel with spacious lots and emphasis on quiet neighborhoods, San Diego offers a bustling urban experience with beautiful Spanish Revival architecture and modern homes, often boasting ocean views. Considering these factors can guide you in finding a home that meets your budget and lifestyle needs in your new city.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Tulsa vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When moving from Tulsa, OK to San Diego, CA, understanding the differences in weather becomes crucial to your adaptation. This comparison will illuminate how these climates diverge, ensuring you can anticipate the changes and plan accordingly.

Tulsa
San Diego
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Hail
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

93/73
77/66
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

48/29
66/50


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

41
10
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

6
0


In comparing Tulsa and San Diego, the stark contrast in weather patterns becomes evident. San Diego's temperate climate, with its mild summers and winters, significantly differs from Tulsa's extremes of hot summers and cold winters. The increased number of sunny days and lower annual rainfall in San Diego offer a promising allure for those tired of the often unpredictable and severe weather in Tulsa. Additionally, while both cities contend with their respective natural disaster risks—tornadoes and hail in Tulsa, versus earthquakes and wildfires in San Diego—the overall air quality and milder UV index of San Diego might be more appealing to health and outdoor enthusiasts.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from Tulsa, OK to San Diego, CA, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in cost of living and key economic indicators between Tulsa and San Diego , providing a clearer picture of what to expect. Understanding these differences will ensure you are better prepared for the financial aspects of your relocation.

Tulsa
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$51,008
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
88.4
132.3
State Income Tax
5.0
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.9
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
8.9
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Energy, Aerospace, Healthcare
Defense, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Tulsa to San Diego presents significant financial adjustments. While San Diego boasts a higher average household income at $79,000 compared to Tulsa’s $54,000, it also has a substantially higher cost of living index—160 vs. 84—which can largely offset the income difference. State income tax is another consideration; it's nearly double in California (9.3%) than in Oklahoma (5.0%). However, San Diego's appeal isn't just in its beaches and weather; its dynamic economy, driven by defense, tourism, and international trade, presents diverse job opportunities not as readily available in Tulsa's energy, aerospace, and healthcare-focused market. While affluence is more pronounced in San Diego, so is homelessness, signaling a nuanced economic landscape that requires consideration.

Tulsa vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Tulsa, OK to San Diego, CA, it's useful to know what kind of political and religious environment you're entering. This quick comparison provides a snapshot of the politics and religious landscape between Tulsa & San Diego , offering insights to better prepare you for your new home.

Tulsa
San Diego
Political Make-up
Conservative
Liberal
Local Politics
Republican stronghold
Democratic stronghold
Religion
Christian dominated, with significant Evangelical presence
Diverse, with a larger proportion of non-religious residents

As you transition from Tulsa to San Diego, you'll find yourself moving from a typically conservative, Republican stronghold to a more liberal, Democratic environment. This shift reflects not just in the general political discourse but also in local policies and priorities. While Tulsa has a stronger presence of Evangelical Christianity affecting its community and political climate, San Diego boasts a more diverse religious landscape, with a significant portion of its population identifying as non-religious. This diversity in San Diego can offer a broader perspective and a variety of cultural experiences compared to what you're used to in Tulsa.

Tulsa vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tulsa, OK to San Diego, CA brings with it a change in scenery and lifestyle, especially when it comes to your daily commute. To help you better understand what the traffic and transportation options are like between Tulsa & San Diego, this comparison aims to highlight key differences. Whether you’re driving to work, utilizing public transit, or planning your weekend outings, knowing what to expect can significantly ease your transition.

Tulsa
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
20
25
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Difficult
Possible with effort

When you move from Tulsa to San Diego, you'll notice a few significant changes in your daily travel routine. Although the average commute time in San Diego is slightly longer, the increased traffic congestion reflects the city's size and vibrant economy. However, San Diego compensates with a better public transit system, ranking higher in availability thanks to services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), which includes trolleys, buses, and train services. While Tulsa might rely more heavily on personal vehicles for transportation, San Diego offers a glimmer of hope for those wishing to transit or even live without a car, despite it needing some planning and willingness to adapt to transit schedules and routes.

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