Best Nashville to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Nashville to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,026 mile move from Tennessee to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Nashville 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 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Nashville 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 Nashville 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
3Little Guys Movers Nashville9.119.01Authorized For HHG
46th Man Movers9.008.79Authorized For HHG
5Smooth Moving & Storage8.978.63Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,026 miles from Nashville, TN to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,504 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Nashville to San Diego move is roughly $8,456. 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$2,351300 ft³$7.84
1 Bedroom$3,504450 ft³$7.79
2 Bedrooms$5,803750 ft³$7.74
3 Bedrooms$8,4561100 ft³$7.69
4 Bedrooms$12,2191600 ft³$7.64
5+ Bedrooms$13,6561800 ft³$7.59
*Please note: These Tennessee to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Tennessee & 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 TN to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Nashville guide.

Compare the 5 Best Nashville 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
Little Guys Movers Nashville Logo

Little Guys Movers Nashville

Exceptional9.11/10
based on 170+ data points

Nashville, TN, 37201

About Little Guys Movers Nashville

Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater to...

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4004993 / 1506293

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
6th Man Movers Logo

6th Man Movers

Superb9.00/10
based on 4,696+ data points

309 Hermitage Ave

Nashville, TN, 37210

About 6th Man Movers

As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance
  • Labor Only

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2315850 / 853001

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved12,508 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo

Smooth Moving & Storage

Superb8.97/10
based on 317+ data points

3620 Trousdale Dr

Nashville, TN, 37204

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2472874 / 1244900

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (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.

Nashville vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. This guide is designed to simplify your transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Nashville, TN & San Diego, CA . Using neighborhoods you know in Nashville as a baseline, we'll help you find similar areas in San Diego, making it easier to find your next favorite spot.

NashvilleSan DiegoHow They're Similar
East NashvilleNorth ParkVibrant arts scene, eclectic dining
12 SouthLittle ItalyBoutique shopping, trendy restaurants
The GulchGaslamp QuarterDiverse nightlife, modern living
Green HillsLa JollaUpscale shopping, scenic views
Belmont/HillsboroHillcrestHistorical charm, bustling main street
GermantownLittle ItalyRich history, culinary hotspot
MidtownPacific BeachYouthful energy, beachside bars
Sylvan ParkNormal HeightsCommunity-focused, local businesses
West EndPoint LomaStunning waterfronts, historic sites
Berry HillUniversity HeightsCreative vibe, indie music scene

When you think of East Nashville with its strong sense of community and artsy flair, North Park in San Diego mirrors this vibe with an eclectic mix of galleries, murals, and indie music venues like The Observatory. Similarly, if the boutique shopping and café culture of 12 South is what you're after, Little Italy offers a charming European-esque experience combined with a modern twist, including places like Piazza della Famiglia for an outdoor dining experience. For those who love the upscale and relaxed atmosphere of Green Hills, La Jolla presents an unparalleled scenic coastal experience paired with luxury shopping at places like La Jolla Village. Exploring these comparable neighborhoods can give you a sense of continuity and help you quickly feel at home in your new city.

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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 Nashville to San Diego

Moving across the country from Nashville, TN to San Diego, CA is a significant change that warrants a close look at the benefits and challenges it presents. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of transitioning from Nashville to San Diego, providing a balanced view of what to expect in this relocation journey.

CONs
PROs
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Higher humidity
  • Fewer beaches
  • Limited public transit
  • More traditional cuisine
  • Lower cost of living
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Bountiful beaches
  • Better public transit
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Higher cost of living
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Less country music
  • Higher living expenses
  • More impersonal
  • Younger city
  • Far from other cities
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Lower living expenses
  • Warm community
  • Rich history
  • Easy road trips

Moving from Nashville to San Diego brings a change in lifestyle and environment. In Nashville, you might be used to the unique blend of music history found on every corner, like the legendary Country Music Hall of Fame, to the vibrant performances at The Ryman Auditorium. San Diego, while lacking the country music ubiquity, offers its own rich tapestry of cultural experiences. You'll find breathtaking beaches like La Jolla Shore, a wide array of global cuisines in neighborhoods such as Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, and scenic parks—including the sprawling Balboa Park. The higher cost of living in San Diego is balanced by its diverse offerings and milder climate, making it an attractive destination for many, though it's worth noting the unique charm and warmth of Nashville's community may be missed.

Nashville vs. San Diego Food Guide

When relocating, it's crucial to immerse yourself in the local culture, and what better way to do that than through food? This guide provides a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Nashville & San Diego to help you understand the culinary landscape of your new home.

Nashville
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
Hot Chicken
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Barbecue Ribs
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Biscuits
California Burrito
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Hattie B's Hot Chicken
  • Arnold's Country Kitchen
  • The Loveless Cafe
  • George's at the Cove
  • Las Cuatro Milpas
  • The Marine Room
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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Nashville and San Diego offer contrasting but equally tantalizing culinary experiences. Nashville's Hot Chicken, a local delicacy, can be found at places like Hattie B's, bringing heat to your palate. In contrast, San Diego's laid-back coastal vibe is perfectly captured in its Fish Tacos, with outstanding versions available at spots near the beach, such as George's at the Cove. San Diego's higher health conscientiousness is evident in its food scene, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and offering a plethora of vegan options, making it a haven for health-conscious eaters and vegans alike. Meanwhile, Nashville's burgeoning food truck scene and barbecue joints provide a hearty welcome to Southern comfort food lovers.

Nashville vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

As you embark on your move from Nashville to San Diego, finding your new go-to eateries is crucial for feeling at home. Our comparison of top Nashville restaurants to their San Diego equivalents is designed to smoothly transition your culinary favorites from one vibrant city to another.

NashvilleSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
The Catbird SeatAddisonBoth offer an intimate, high-end dining experience with a focus on inventive tasting menus.
Prince's Hot ChickenThe Crack ShackWhile focusing on chicken, both provide a unique twist on classic dishes, mixing comfort with innovation.
Arnold's Country KitchenGrand Ole BBQ y AsadoBoth are iconic spots embracing the tradition of local cuisine, Arnold's with Southern comfort and Grand Ole with BBQ.
Rolf and DaughtersHerb & WoodOffers a comparable rustic-chic vibe where inventive, locally-sourced plates shine.
HuskJuniper & IvyBoth prioritize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in their innovative American cuisine.
Martin's Bar-B-Que JointPhil's BBQBrings the essence of Southern BBQ to the West Coast with a focus on smoky flavors and tender meats.
City HouseBuona ForchettaNeighborhood gems that provide a cozy setting for enjoying Italian comfort foods with a contemporary twist.
Mas TacosLas Cuatro MilpasBoth are beloved for their authentic, hearty tacos that have garnered a dedicated following.
Loveless CafeHash House A Go GoFamous for hearty, nostalgically American breakfasts and comfort foods that keep patrons returning.
Peg Leg PorkerCoop's West Texas BBQBoth places serve up true to the bone, authentic BBQ with a focus on the love of smoked meat.

Transitioning your palate from Nashville's diverse culinary scene to San Diego's vibrant dining culture is an adventure in itself. Experience the rustic elegance of Rolf and Daughters recreated at Herb & Wood with its farm-to-table approach that mirrors Nashville's culinary creativity. For those nostalgic for the authentic Southern barbecue experience, Phil's BBQ in San Diego provides a smoky, tender embrace akin to Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint. And for mornings when you crave a hearty, comfort-laden breakfast reminiscent of Loveless Cafe, San Diego's Hash House A Go Go will welcome you with open arms, offering large portions and reminiscent flavors that bridge the gap between your old and new homes.

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Ready to start your move?

Nashville vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly affects the relocation process. Recognizing how Nashville, TN, and San Diego, CA, compare in terms of housing is essential to making an informed decision. This comparison covers aspects like cost, architecture, walkability, and more to ensure you have a comprehensive overview.

Nashville
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Craftsman
Spanish Revival, 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
Large yards, Open floor plans
Ocean views, Proximity to beaches

When considering a move from Nashville to San Diego, several key aspects stand out. The difference in median home prices and rent indicates San Diego is significantly more expensive, reflecting its coastal premium. However, the higher costs also come with perks, like better walkability and a more pronounced urban lifestyle, which matches San Diego's higher urban lifestyle score. Architecture in San Diego leans towards Spanish Revival and Modern styles, offering a distinct aesthetic compared to Nashville's Colonial and Craftsman homes. This might appeal to those seeking a vibrant city vibe along with the natural beauty and climate of Southern California. For outdoor enthusiasts, San Diego’s higher bikeability score, coupled with proximity to beaches and ocean views, suggests a more active and scenic lifestyle. Making the move requires weighing these factors and considering what aligns best with your lifestyle preferences and budget.

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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.

Nashville vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

Embarking on a move can be a big decision, especially when considering the vast differences in climate you may encounter. Understanding how the weather compares between Nashville, TN, and San Diego, CA is crucial for planning and adjusting to what you are accustomed to.

Nashville
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
Tornadoes, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

88°F / 67°F
77°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

49°F / 30°F
66°F / 49°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47
12
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4
0


Moving from Nashville to San Diego, you'll notice a significant difference in weather patterns and natural phenomena. San Diego offers milder summers and warmer winters, with an abundance of sunny days that far exceed Nashville's average. The humidity level is slightly more comfortable in San Diego, contributing to its reputation for having one of the most pleasant climates in the United States. Moreover, while both cities face their share of natural disasters, the types vary greatly, from tornadoes and floods in Nashville to earthquakes and wildfires in San Diego. This highlights the importance of preparing for different environmental risks depending on your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When deciding to move from Nashville, TN to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison will provide insight into the various aspects of money and finance, ensuring you're prepared for the differences in cost of living, taxes, and more between Nashville and San Diego.

Nashville
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$64,857
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
88.9
132.3
State Income Tax
0
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.93
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Music, Healthcare, Education
Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Lower
Homelessness
High
Very High

When comparing Nashville and San Diego, the most noticeable difference is in the cost of living index; San Diego is significantly higher. This is crucial to consider as your income may need to be higher in San Diego to maintain a similar lifestyle. While Tennessee has no state income tax, California's rate can go up to 9.3%, affecting your net income. The sales tax in Nashville is higher, but this may be offset by other costs in San Diego. The industries driving each city's economy are also different, potentially impacting job opportunities depending on your career field. Understanding these differences will help you prepare financially for your move.

Nashville vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Nashville & San Diego offers you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents from the city you're moving from to the city you're moving to.

Nashville
San Diego
Political Make-up
Largely Democratic
Mostly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive in urban areas
Progressive with a strong military presence
Religion
Christianity prominent, diverse religious communities
Varied, with a significant presence of Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist communities

Nashville and San Diego share a democratic political leaning, though each city has its own local political nuances shaped by their unique cultures and communities. Nashville's urban areas tend to lean more progressive, while San Diego's politics are influenced by its substantial military presence. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though they boast diverse religious communities. Nashville's Christian heritage is visible throughout the city, with numerous churches and faith-based initiatives. In contrast, San Diego's religious landscape is broader, featuring a significant Catholic community alongside vibrant Jewish and Buddhist communities, reflecting the city's diverse population.

Nashville vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Nashville, TN to San Diego, CA, it’s essential to compare the traffic and transportation options to better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This guide will help you navigate through this aspect of your relocation.

Nashville
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
24
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
More feasible

In comparing the traffic and transportation between Nashville and San Diego, it’s clear that each city offers a unique living experience. In Nashville, the slightly lower traffic congestion score might seem appealing, but the city's limited public transportation makes car dependency higher. On the other hand, San Diego, despite having somewhat higher congestion, compensates with a more developed public transit system, making it more plausible to live without a car. Notably, San Diego's investment in trolley and bus services enhances its accessibility, highlighting a crucial difference for those opting for a car-free lifestyle.

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