Moving from San Diego to Orlando?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Orlando Movers

Moving from the sunny shores of San Diego, often dubbed 'America's Finest City', to the magical heart of Orlando, known as 'The Theme Park Capital of the World', marks an exciting chapter in your life's journey. While you're trading the laid-back California vibes for Florida's enchanting allure, each city offers a unique blend of food, neighborhoods, and culture. Recognizing the importance of a smooth transition, we believe in connecting you with trusted and reliable professional movers for this long-distance move, ensuring your adventure starts on the right note.

California iconArrow iconFlorida icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Orlando to San Diego guide.

5 Best San Diego to Orlando Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Sebastian Moving and More Logo
Exceptional

based on 5,993+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full Service Moves in Orlando, Air-Conditioned Storage, Packing and Unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1575104 Verify

About Sebastian Moving and More

Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloadi...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in orlando 2023 sebastian moving and more image
top 3 ranked movers in orlando 2022 sebastian moving and more image
#2
The Rock Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,305+ data points

San Diego, CA
Local Residential, Furniture Moving, Full Packing Service See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3653432 Verify

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 ...Read More >>

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#3
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 477+ data points

San Diego, CA
Local Moves, Long-Distance Moves, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3177184 Verify

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, the compan...Read More >>

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#4
M
Exceptional

based on 1,080+ data points

San Diego, CA
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2403743 Verify

About Motivated Military Movers

Motivated Military Movers is a veteran-owned moving company founded in 2008 by a Navy Corpsman, based in San Diego, California. With over 13...Read More >>

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#5
Orlando Express Movers Inc. Logo
Superb

based on 2,582+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full-service residential moving, Local and long-distance relocation, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2521724 Verify

About Orlando Express Movers Inc.

Orlando Express Movers Inc. has been customizing full-service moves since 2008. This Orlando company emphasizes individual needs and unique ...Read More >>

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Relocating from San Diego to Orlando Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can be an exciting journey, especially when moving between two vibrant cities like San Diego, CA & Orlando, FL . To help you navigate this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the top neighborhoods from your current city with their closest counterparts in your new city. This guide aims to familiarize you with an unknown city using the comfort of your current locale as a baseline.

San DiegoOrlando
La JollaWinter Park

Scenic views, upscale shopping

North ParkThornton Park

Booming arts, youthful vibe

Pacific BeachCollege Park

Lively nightlife, young professionals

HillcrestMills 50

Diverse, progressive community

Gaslamp QuarterDowntown Orlando

Vibrant nightlife, entertainment

CoronadoBaldwin Park

Family-friendly, tranquil atmosphere

Little ItalyLake Eola Heights

Historic charm, culinary scene

Del MarDr. Phillips

Upscale residential, fine dining

Ocean BeachAudubon Park

Bohemian vibe, eco-conscious community

EncinitasWinter Garden

Quaint downtown, vibrant community

For those moving from La Jolla's serene coasts to Winter Park, you'll appreciate the similarly picturesque settings and abundant upscale shopping opportunities, like those found at Park Avenue. North Park's energetic environment finds a match in Thornton Park, where striking street art and a myriad of youth-oriented events fill the calendar. Transitioning from Pacific Beach to College Park means swapping ocean waves for charming brick streets still teeming with bustling nightlife and a thriving community of young professionals. Hillcrest and Mills 50 share a dedication to diversity and inclusivity, brimming with eclectic dining options, such as the inventive fare found at Maxine’s on Shine. Lastly, for those accustomed to Del Mar's luxury, Dr. Phillips offers an equally sophisticated lifestyle with fine dining spots like Christini’s Ristorante Italiano, ensuring a seamless transition into Orlando’s high-end living.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Orlando

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and drawbacks. The following comparison charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Orlando, FL . By examining the cons and pros, these charts will help you gauge the overall impact of such a move on your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High Cost of Living
  • Less Theme Parks
  • Lower Salaries
  • Cooler Ocean Water
Orlando, FL iconOrlando, FL
  • More Affordable
  • More Entertainment Options
  • Competitive Job Market
  • Warmer Beaches
Orlando, FL iconOrlando, FL
  • Less Authentic Cuisine
  • Higher Humidity
  • More Touristy
  • Hotter Summers
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Better Mexican Food
  • More Outdoor Activities
  • Laid-back Lifestyle
  • Milder Summers

While the cost of living in San Diego might be higher, the city is known for its incredible Mexican cuisine, with iconic spots like Lolita's Mexican Food that you might miss in Orlando. However, Orlando compensates with a vibrant entertainment scene, being the theme park capital of the world, home to Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World. The outdoor activities in San Diego, including surfing at La Jolla Shores and hiking Torrey Pines State Reserve, contrast with Orlando's humid climate that might not be everyone's preference. Orlando's warmer beaches and competitive job market present a strong appeal, despite the area being considerably more touristy than the laid-back vibe San Diego offers.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Orlando

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Orlando, understanding that food is an integral part of local culture and reflects what it's like to live in a region. This side-by-side look will help you get a taste of the culinary scene you're moving into.

San DiegoOrlando

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosGator Bites

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaCuban Sandwich

Most popular street food item

California BurritoEmpanadas

Most popular vegan food

Acai BowlImpossible Burger

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. George's at the Cove
    2. Phil's BBQ
    3. Hodad's
    1. The Edison
    2. Kres Chophouse
    3. 4 Rivers Smokehouse

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

97

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

98

If you're venturing into San Diego's vibrant food scene, you'll find neighborhoods like Little Italy and La Jolla brimming with culinary delights, from the fresh fish tacos that have come to define the city's taste palette to the health-conscious acai bowls loved by locals. Iconic eateries such as George's at the Cove offer breathtaking ocean views paired with gourmet cuisine, encapsulating the laid-back yet refined essence of San Diego's food culture. On the flip side, Orlando's diverse culinary scene, highlighted by dishes such as the Cuban sandwich and gator bites, showcases the city's melting pot of cultures. Places like The Edison combine unique dining experiences with the creative flair for which Orlando is known.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Orlando

Discovering local eateries plays a pivotal role in turning a new city into your home. This comparison aims to ease your transition from San Diego, CA to Orlando, FL, by matching you with new favorite restaurants based on your old preferences.

Juniper & IvyVictoria & Albert's

Both offer a fine dining experience with a focus on innovative, high-end cuisine.

Hodad'sBurgerFi

Known for their gourmet burgers and casual, laid-back atmosphere, making it a great counterpart.

Phil's BBQ4 Rivers Smokehouse

Both are popular for their authentic BBQ flavors and family-friendly vibe.

Las Cuatro MilpasBlack Rooster Taqueria

Offers a similar commitment to authentic, traditional Mexican cuisine in a casual environment.

Craft & CommerceThe Ravenous Pig

Both restaurants are known for their innovative craft cocktails and a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Café GratitudeDandelion Communitea Café

Both focus on healthy, plant-based dishes in a relaxed and inviting setting.

George's at the CoveCanvas Restaurant & Market

Both provide stunning views along with a menu that highlights local and seasonal ingredients.

PuestoChuy's

While Chuy’s has a more Tex-Mex vibe, both offer a lively atmosphere and creative takes on traditional Mexican dishes.

Pizza PortLazy Moon Pizza

Both boast a laid-back ambiance and serve large, shareable pizzas, perfect for a group outing.

Oscar's Mexican SeafoodReyes Mezcaleria

Reyes emphasizes fresh seafood in its Mexican-inspired dishes, reminiscent of Oscar's approach.

For a taste of home away from home, these restaurant pairings offer a seamless transition from San Diego to Orlando. Ventures like Juniper & Ivy and Victoria & Albert's promise an unforgettable fine dining experience that could become your next special occasion go-to. On the casual side, the transition from Hodad's to BurgerFi ensures that your burger cravings are well catered to, with each establishment celebrating the art of the gourmet burger. Meanwhile, BBQ enthusiasts will appreciate the similar authentic flavors and homely atmosphere when moving from Phil’s BBQ to 4 Rivers Smokehouse. Whether it’s high-end dining or casual eats, these Orlando counterparts provide the diverse flavors and comforting dining experiences that San Diego residents have come to love.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from San Diego to Orlando

Real estate is a pivotal factor when relocating, demanding a keen understanding of how living environments match up. This comparison is dedicated to illustrating the distinctions and similarities in the housing market between San Diego and Orlando, focusing on aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle offerings to inform your move decisively.

While San Diego boasts higher property costs, reflecting its beachfront luxury and Spanish Colonial-style homes that cater to an upscale lifestyle, Orlando offers more affordable housing with a family-friendly vibe in modern suburban communities. The difference in median home prices and rent illustrates the distinct cost of living and real estate markets in each city. Moreover, San Diego's slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores suggest a more condensed urban layout conducive to pedestrian activities and cycling. Meanwhile, Orlando's attractions, including lake access and proximity to theme parks, are emphasized in its real estate listings, showcasing the city's appeal to families and entertainment seekers.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Orlando, FL

1. Baldwin Park: Known for ample community events, Baldwin Park is filled with dog-friendly parks, like Lake Baldwin Park which includes a large dog park area where your pets can roam leash-free.

2. College Park: This tranquil neighborhood has several outdoor spaces like Dartmouth Park which allows dogs, and pet-friendly establishments such as Infusion Tea that allows you to bring your pet for a coffee run.

3. Thornton Park: In the heart of downtown, Thornton Park is a bustling neighborhood with pet-friendly retail stores, restaurants with outdoor seating where dogs are welcomed, and local pet care services like Park Avenue Dogs Pet Grooming.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Orlando

Moving to a new city means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between San Diego and Orlando helps you anticipate the changes and plan accordingly. Whether it's the sunny days, humidity levels, or the risk of natural disasters, understanding these differences is crucial for a smooth transition.

Summer icon
76°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

92°F / 74°F

Orlando, FL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 49°F

San Diego, CA

73°F / 52°F

Orlando, FL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

50

Orlando, FL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

0

Orlando, FL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When comparing San Diego and Orlando, it's important to note the differences that might affect your daily life. San Diego's weather is milder with lower humidity and fewer rainy days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Orlando, on the other hand, experiences a hotter and more humid climate, which can affect comfort and requires more frequent use of air conditioning. Moreover, while both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine, San Diego boasts more sunny days annually. Additionally, the risk of natural disasters varies significantly between the two, with San Diego prone to earthquakes and wildfires, and Orlando to hurricanes and thunderstorms. Understanding these nuances can help you better prepare for life in your new city.

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

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that requires careful financial planning. Understanding how the cost of living and financial climate of San Diego compares to Orlando can help you prepare for what lies ahead. This comparison will provide valuable insights into several monetary aspects critical for anyone planning the move.

When examining the financial aspects of moving from San Diego to Orlando, one immediately notices the significant difference in average household income and cost of living, with San Diego being notably higher in both categories. However, Orlando's lack of state income tax compared to California's high rates presents a potential offset. This, alongside a lower cost of living, may ease the transition for some. The contrast in predominant industries showcases the potential for diverse career opportunities in your new home. Furthermore, the differences in affluence, poverty, and homelessness levels between the two cities highlight the varied socio-economic environments you'll encounter, emphasizing the importance of preparing financially for such a move.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Orlando, FL

Relocating from the Pacific coastline to the heart of Florida? It's handy to know how the cities you're moving between might differ, beyond just the weather. Here, we'll give you a comparison of the politics between San Diego & Orlando , as well as a look into the religious landscape, offering a quick glimpse into the social fabric of each city.

San DiegoOrlando

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticLean Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive on environmental and social issuesProgressive, with strong focus on tourism and economic development

Religion

Diverse, with Rock Church and First Unitarian Universalist Church among the notable establishmentsDiverse, with First Baptist Church of Orlando and other communities reflecting a wide range of faiths

In the political arena, both San Diego and Orlando lean Democratic, which might suggest similar core values on various issues, though the specifics can vary by locale. San Diego's progressivism often shines through its environmental and social policies, perhaps reflecting its coastal lifestyle. Orlando, while also progressive, tends to focus more on nurturing its tourism industry and economic growth, crucial given its status as a theme park hub. Religion in both cities is notably diverse, providing a wealth of communities for newcomers. In San Diego, establishments like Rock Church and the First Unitarian Universalist Church offer spiritual homes to diverse congregations, while Orlando's religious landscape is similarly varied, with prominent places like the First Baptist Church of Orlando. Each city's rich tapestry of faiths supports a broad spectrum of religious expressions and places of worship.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Orlando

Making the move from San Diego, CA, to Orlando, FL, involves not just a change of scenery but also an adjustment in daily life, especially in terms of your commute. This guide aims to provide a clear understanding of what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Orlando. Knowing these differences will help you better prepare for your new life in Orlando.

San DiegoOrlando
2527

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

64

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible but challengingDifficult

Can you get by without car?

In both cities, having a car can significantly ease your daily commute, though it's somewhat more manageable in San Diego due to a slightly better public transit system. The average commute time in Orlando is marginally longer, possibly due to less traffic congestion but lower availability and convenience of public transportation options. In San Diego, the availability of services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System makes it feasible, albeit challenging, to navigate the city without a car. Conversely, Orlando's reliance on cars is more pronounced, with fewer public transit options, making it essential to have a vehicle to comfortably access the broader metropolitan area, including attractions and workplaces.

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