Best Salt Lake City to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salt Lake City to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 751 mile move from Utah to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Salt Lake City 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City 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
3801 Moving Company9.439.49Authorized For HHG
4Best of Utah Moving Company9.358.73Authorized For Property, HHG
5You Move Me Salt Lake City9.278.96Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 751 miles from Salt Lake City, UT to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,420 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salt Lake City to San Diego 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 Utah to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Utah & 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 UT to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Salt Lake City guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salt Lake City 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
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
You Move Me Salt Lake City Logo

You Move Me Salt Lake City

Exceptional9.27/10
based on 2,320+ data points

Woods Cross, UT, 84087

About You Move Me Salt Lake City

You Move Me Salt Lake City is a top-rated local moving company offering a wide range of services such as packing,...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3820939 / 1382615

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
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.

Salt Lake City vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease this transition, we've put together a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Salt Lake City, UT & San Diego, CA . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in San Diego that shares the same vibe and characteristics as your old stomping ground in Salt Lake City.

Salt Lake CitySan DiegoHow They're Similar
The AvenuesHillcrestDiverse, vibrant community
Sugar HouseNorth ParkEclectic, youthful energy
Downtown SLCDowntown SDUrban, lively atmosphere
9th & 9thSouth ParkQuaint, tight-knit vibe
Capitol HillBankers HillHistoric, upscale feel
Liberty WellsGolden HillCentral, historic homes
Harvard/YaleKensingtonPeaceful, charming streets
FoothillDel MarUpscale, coastal lifestyle
University DistrictLa JollaElite, educational environment
BallparkEast VillageTrendy, developing area

For those moving from Sugar House in Salt Lake City, you'll find North Park in San Diego to be a familiar mix of eclectic shops, trendy restaurants, and active nightlife, similar to what you're used to back home. Enjoy an evening out at popular spots like Urban Mo’s in Hillcrest or a leisurely afternoon exploring the historic architecture in Bankers Hill, which mirrors the charm of Capitol Hill. San Diego's La Jolla neighborhood, comparable to the University District, offers not only stunning ocean views but also a plethora of educational institutions and cultural experiences, such as the renowned Birch Aquarium. Whether you're craving the vibrant, lively atmosphere of downtown areas or the quaint, tight-knit vibe of smaller neighborhoods, this guide will help translate your Salt Lake City locale preferences into your new San Diego life.

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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 Salt Lake City to San Diego

Moving from one city to another is a complex decision that involves weighing the advantages against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Salt Lake City, UT to San Diego, CA , showcasing both the gains and sacrifices involved in such a relocation. Examine the pros and cons to understand how your lifestyle might change for the better or otherwise.

CONs
PROs
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Colder Winters
  • Less Beach Access
  • Smaller City Vibes
  • Higher Altitude
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder Climate
  • Beachfront Living
  • Vibrant City Life
  • Sea Level Living
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher Living Costs
  • More Crowded
  • Higher Crime Rates
  • Expensive Housing
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Close-knit Community
  • Lower Crime Rates
  • Lower Housing Costs

The transition from Salt Lake City's chilly winters to San Diego's perennial sunshine is often a significant draw, particularly for those who prefer a milder, beach-friendly climate. San Diego boasts incredible beachfront locations such as La Jolla Shores and Pacific Beach, offering not just stunning views but a vibrant local scene brimming with restaurants and cafés like Cafe Mono in Mission Beach. While Salt Lake City is prized for its close-knit community and lower cost of living, it's San Diego's dynamic urban lifestyle—with landmarks like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter—that often captivates newcomers. However, this comes at the cost of higher living expenses and housing prices, challenging new residents to find a balance between the perks of coastal living and the financial adjustments required.

Salt Lake City vs. San Diego Food Guide

Understanding that food is an integral part of local culture and reflects the essence of living in an area, we will embark on a journey to explore how the culinary scenes differ and delight. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salt Lake City & San Diego to arm you with knowledge about the food landscape where you're headed.

Salt Lake City
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
Fry sauce
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Utah Scones
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Navajo Taco
California Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Cauliflower Buffalo Wings
Vegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Red Iguana
  • The Clucking Oyster
  • Valter's Osteria
  • Hodad's
  • Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
  • 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 comparing the local cuisine of Salt Lake City with San Diego, you'll find that Salt Lake City offers unique dishes like Fry sauce and Utah Scones that reflect its heritage and landscape. Notably, establishments like Red Iguana and Valter's Osteria are must-visit spots for newcomers. San Diego, known for its laid-back coastal vibe, shines with its Fish Tacos and Carne Asada, emblematic of its proximity to the ocean and Mexican influence. Neighborhoods like Ocean Beach, with spots like Hodad's, and Pacific Beach, home to numerous vegan dining options, are great starting points to dive into the city's vibrant food scene. Moving to San Diego, you will discover a city deeply passionate about health, fitness, and an abundance of food trucks, offering a wide range of culinary delights to suit any palate.

Salt Lake City vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery can truly make a new city feel like home. This comparison is designed to seamlessly transition your taste buds from the flavors of Salt Lake City to the diverse culinary landscape of San Diego, helping you discover your next go-to dining spots based on your current preferences.

Salt Lake CitySan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Red IguanaLas Cuatro MilpasAuthentic Mexican cuisine, family-run vibe
Valter's OsteriaBencotto Italian KitchenHandmade pasta, upscale dining experience
The RestProhibition LoungeUnique speakeasy atmosphere, craft cocktails
Moochie's Meatballs and More!Buona ForchettaCozy spot for Italian classics, known for meatballs
Bruges Waffles & FritesBleu BohèmeEuropean-inspired dishes, casual yet chic vibe
Log HavenThe Marine RoomHigh-end dining with a view, similar romantic setting
Lucky 13Hodad'sLegendary burgers, similar laid-back atmosphere
PagoJuniper & IvyInnovative American cuisine, focus on local ingredients
Settebello PizzeriaBuona ForchettaAuthentic Neapolitan pizzas, warm ambience
HSL (Handle Salt Lake)Herb & WoodCreative dishes, similar upscale yet comforting setting

Among these culinary gems, The Rest and Prohibition Lounge offer an intriguing spin on the dining experience with their speakeasy vibes, craft cocktails, and a curated atmosphere that promises an evening of intimate conversations and memorable moments. Meanwhile, those pining for a touch of Mediterranean in San Diego will find solace at Bencotto Italian Kitchen and Buona Forchetta. Both establishments cater to the penchant for handmade pasta and authentic flavors, ensuring that the essence of Valter's Osteria and Settebello Pizzeria is not missed. On the other end, the robust and flavorful experiences offered by Red Iguana and Las Cuatro Milpas reflect the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine available in both cities, showcasing the depth and authenticity that are paramount to a truly memorable meal.

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

When planning a move, comparing real estate aspects between Salt Lake City, UT , and San Diego, CA , is crucial. This overview highlights differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle, aiding you in making an informed decision.

Salt Lake City
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Prairie, Victorian
Spanish Revival, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Mountain views, open space
Beach access, outdoor living

Moving from Salt Lake City to San Diego involves a significant shift in housing environment and living expenses. San Diego, known for its Spanish Revival architecture and emphasis on outdoor living, presents a unique urban lifestyle rated highly at 8 out of 10, compared to Salt Lake City’s more moderate urban experience. The higher cost of living in San Diego is reflected in its median home price and rent, attributing to its coastal location and dense urban structure which offers less space but enhanced bikeability. On the other hand, Salt Lake City offers more affordable housing options with stellar mountain views, making it a haven for those who cherish open spaces and a connection with nature.

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.

Salt Lake City vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When moving from Salt Lake City, UT to San Diego, CA, understanding how the weather varies between these two locations will help you adjust better to your new environment.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

90°F / 70°F
76°F / 68°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

37°F / 20°F
66°F / 50°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

16.1
10.34
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

56.2
0


Moving from Salt Lake City to San Diego, you will notice a significant change in weather patterns. San Diego enjoys more days of sunshine with milder temperatures throughout the year, offering an ideal climate for outdoor activities. The absence of snowfall in San Diego is a stark contrast to Salt Lake City's winter landscape. Additionally, the higher humidity in San Diego might take some getting used to, but it's also a factor in the city's lush, vibrant outdoor scenery. Adjusting to these differences will be key to enjoying your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison between Salt Lake City and San Diego highlights key economic indicators to help you gauge how your cost of living and financial health may change.

Salt Lake City
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$66,658
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
100.6
132.3
State Income Tax
4.95
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.66
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
7.18
8.75
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Lower
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
High

Moving from Salt Lake City to San Diego, you'll notice several financial adjustments. The average household income in San Diego is higher, but so is the cost of living, significantly influenced by the housing market. While both cities enjoy diverse economic activities, San Diego's reliance on defense/military, tourism, and international trade presents a different job market. Additionally, the higher state and sales taxes in California can affect your take-home pay and spending. Understanding these dynamics will help you plan your finances effectively for a smooth transition.

Salt Lake City vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

This quick glimpse offers a comparison of the politics between Salt Lake City & San Diego to help you understand the local demographic backdrop. Specifically, it provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup, ensuring you’re well-acquainted with your potential new neighbors.

Salt Lake City
San Diego
Political Make-up
Liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Mixed, with a strong influence of the LDS Church
Diverse, with a strong focus on environmental and social issues
Religion
Predominantly LDS (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
Diverse, higher concentration of Catholic and non-religious individuals

In moving from Salt Lake City to San Diego, you’ll find both cities share a liberal political makeup. However, the local politics paint a different picture. Salt Lake City's politics are somewhat influenced by the LDS Church, making the city unique in its political landscape. On the other hand, San Diego's politics prominently highlight issues such as environmental conservation and social justice, reflecting its diverse population. Religion plays a vital role in the cultural fabric of Salt Lake City, home to the LDS Church's headquarters. San Diego, with its varied religious beliefs, tends to be more religiously diverse, offering a broad spectrum of religious communities, including a significant Catholic presence.

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

Moving from Salt Lake City, UT to San Diego, CA can bring significant changes to your daily commute and traffic experience. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Salt Lake City & San Diego helps you understand what to expect and how to prepare for your new life in terms of getting around.

Salt Lake City
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
25
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Possible, but difficult in some areas

Moving to San Diego from Salt Lake City means preparing for busier roads and a slightly longer average commute time. However, you'll benefit from a more robust public transit system, making getting around without a car more feasible, especially in the core urban areas. While Salt Lake City offers a decent public transit system, the lower traffic congestion makes driving more palatable for many. However, navigating San Diego's vibrant urban landscape can be more rewarding for those willing to explore its diverse neighborhoods and scenic routes, despite the higher traffic congestion.

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