Moving from San Diego to Honolulu?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Honolulu Movers

Moving from the vibrant sun-drenched beaches of San Diego, the birthplace of California, to the tropical paradise of Honolulu, where aloha spirit and island adventures await, marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the laid-back surf culture of "America's Finest City" for the rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes of "The Big Pineapple" is a journey filled with new discoveries. Understanding the importance of this transition, we emphasize the necessity of securing trusted and reliable professional movers for such a long-distance relocation, ensuring your adventure begins on the right note.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Honolulu to San Diego guide.

5 Best San Diego to Honolulu Movers

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

#1
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 9/11/2024)

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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#2
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 9/11/2024)

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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top 3 ranked movers in wagner 2023 motivated military movers image
#3
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo
Superb

based on 2,147+ data points

Poway, CA
Long Distance Moving, International Moving, Storage Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 877737 Verify

About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san diego 2023 atlas transfer storage co image
top 10 ranked movers in san diego 2022 atlas transfer storage co image
#4
Ewa Moving Co. Logo
Very Good

based on 209+ data points

Ewa Beach, HI
Residential moving services in Oahu, Local moving services in Oahu, Hourly rate moving services in Oahu See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3786678 Verify

About Ewa Moving Co.

Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial mo...Read More >>

#5
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo
Good

based on 73+ data points

Honolulu, HI
Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Office Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3396143 Verify

About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all Ha...Read More >>

Relocating from San Diego to Honolulu Neighborhood Guide

When relocating, getting to know your new city can feel like deciphering a foreign dialect. To ease this transition, we're comparing San Diego, CA & Honolulu, HI neighborhoods . This guide aims to match you with a Honolulu neighborhood that mirrors your San Diego locale, making the move feel like stepping into a familiar part of town.

San DiegoHonolulu
La JollaKahala

Affluent, beachfront living

North ParkKaimuki

Hip, with a strong local vibe and eateries

Gaslamp QuarterWaikiki

Bustling nightlife and tourist hub

Little ItalyChinatown

Cultural hotspot with diverse dining

Ocean BeachKailua

Laid-back beach town, family-friendly

HillcrestWaialae

Progressive, with a mix of local boutiques

Del MarLanikai

Upscale, serene beachside community

Pacific BeachAla Moana

Vibrant, with a mix of beach and urban living

EncinitasManoa

Lush, with a laid-back atmosphere

Carmel ValleyHawaii Kai

Family-friendly, with outdoor activities

In the vibrant Kaimuki, akin to San Diego's North Park, you can immerse yourself in the local culture with a plethora of unique eateries, such as the renowned Leonard's Bakery known for its malasadas. For outdoor enthusiasts attracted to Ocean Beach's laid-back vibe, Kailua presents an ideal match with its inviting beaches and community-oriented atmosphere, best explored through spots like Lanikai Brewing Company. Those drawn to La Jolla's upscale beachfront living will find similarities in Kahala's luxurious properties and elite ambiance, where a day might include a visit to the exclusive Kahala Mall or a relaxing time at Kahala Beach. Each Honolulu neighborhood provides a unique blend of Hawaiian culture with aspects reminiscent of San Diego's diverse and vibrant communities.

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Things to Do in Honolulu

  • Explore Diamond Head State Monument
  • Swim at Waikiki Beach
  • Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial
  • Shop at Ala Moana Center
  • Enjoy Honolulu Night Market
  • Discover Bishop Museum

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Honolulu

Moving from one paradise to another comes with its set of adjustments. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from San Diego, CA to Honolulu, HI , detailing the good and the bad. By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what to expect, ensuring you're well-informed for your big move.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • More crowded beaches
  • Water usage restrictions
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Richer cultural experiences
  • Better beach access
  • Lush landscapes
  • Unique island adventures
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Island fever
  • Higher grocery prices
  • Less public transportation
  • More limited nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Lower housing costs
  • Varied job market
  • Easier city navigation
  • Vibrant nightlife

Moving to Honolulu from San Diego introduces you to a whole new world of natural beauty and cultural richness. For example, instead of the crowded beaches of Ocean Beach or Pacific Beach, you'll get to explore the serene sands and clear waters of Lanikai Beach or Waikiki Beach. Honolulu's unique island adventures like hiking up Diamond Head or visiting the historic Pearl Harbor offer unmatched experiences you won't find in mainland cities. Although the cost of living might be higher, the diverse local cuisines and markets, such as those at the Honolulu Night Market, provide a taste of the vast Pacific cultures. Furthermore, switching from San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp Quarter nightlife to the more laid-back evenings in Honolulu's Waikiki Beach Walk offers a different kind of nightlife enjoyment emphasizing relaxation and natural beauty.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Honolulu

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Honolulu, aiming to illuminate the vibrant food scenes that contribute significantly to each area’s culture. Understanding the culinary landscape is essential for anyone considering a move, as it deeply influences the local lifestyle and your overall experience in a new city.

San DiegoHonolulu

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosPoke

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaKalua Pig

Most popular street food item

California BurritoSpam Musubi

Most popular vegan food

Acai BowlTaro Dishes

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Juniper & Ivy
  • Hodad's
  • CUCINA urbana
  • Alan Wong's
  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Roy's Hawaii

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

98

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

In San Diego, the Fish Tacos, best sampled in neighborhoods like Pacific Beach and the Gaslamp Quarter, echo the city's affinity for fresh, maritime flavors melding Mexican culinary traditions with California's zest for innovation. Conversely, Honolulu's culinary landscape is steeped deeply in Pacific and Asian influences, with Poke bowls best experienced in spots such as Ono Seafood or Tamura's Market. This stark contrast in flavors—from the fish tacos by San Diego's sunny beaches to the savory depths of Honolulu's poke—highlights the unique gastronomic journeys awaiting in each city. Both destinations also boast a thriving street food scene, with San Diego's California Burrito and Honolulu's Spam Musubi offering quick, delicious insights into their respective food cultures.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Honolulu

Finding comfort in new surroundings often starts with savoring familiar flavors. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Honolulu aims to ease your transition by guiding you towards your next favorite dining spots. Inviting both cities to the table, let's embark on a culinary journey, helping to make your new locale feel like home.

Juniper & IvySenia

High-end contemporary cuisine with a creative twist

Phil's BBQRay's Cafe

American BBQ with a local touch

George's at the CoveHouse Without a Key

Ocean views with exceptional seafood

Hodad'sKua 'Aina Sandwich

Renowned for burgers and laid-back vibe

Cucina UrbanaTown

Farm-to-table Italian cuisine with a local flair

The Crack ShackHelen's Haven

Casual with a twist on classic chicken dishes

Las Cuatro MilpasHelena's Hawaiian Food

Authentic local dishes, a cultural journey

Mister A'sMichel’s at the Colony Surf

Fine dining with a view

Ironside Fish & OysterNico's Pier 38

Waterfront dining, fresh catches

Buona ForchettaArancino at The Kahala

Authentic Italian in an upscale setting

When it comes to satisfying your culinary cravings, both San Diego and Honolulu offer vibrant and diverse food scenes. For instance, the transition from Phil's BBQ in San Diego to Ray's Cafe in Honolulu means you won't miss out on mouthwatering BBQ dishes prepared with a unique island twist. Similarly, seafood enthusiasts will find solace in swapping George's at the Cove’s ocean vistas and seafood for the unparalleled views and offerings at House Without a Key. Lastly, those yearning for the comforting flavors of authentic Italian cuisine will feel right at home at Arancino at The Kahala, mirroring the charm and quality of Buona Forchetta. These comparisons not only showcase the culinary richness of both locales but also help weave the fabric of your new Hawaii lifestyle with threads of familiar comfort.

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Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial. This comparison between San Diego and Honolulu highlights important aspects of housing, offering insight to make an informed decision.

San Diego and Honolulu offer unique living experiences, reflecting their distinct environments. For instance, the preference for Spanish Revival architecture in San Diego ties to its historical roots and climate, contrasting with Honolulu's Plantation Style homes, which are designed to maximize breezes in a tropical setting. Moreover, Honolulu edges out San Diego slightly in walkability and bikeability, potentially due to its compact urban layout and extensive biking paths. These differences underline the importance of considering lifestyle preferences and needs when deciding between these two beautiful cities. Both cities prioritize outdoor living, but in distinct ways, from the solar panels adorning many San Diego homes to the emphasis on outdoor living spaces in Honolulu, embodying the indoor-outdoor living that's so cherished in Hawaii.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Honolulu, HI

1. Kaka'ako: This vibrant neighborhood boasts numerous pet-friendly parks like Mother Waldron Park, along with several pet care options including Petco for your furry friend's needs.

2. Waikiki: Known for its world-famous beaches, Waikiki welcomes pets with open paws, offering dog-friendly areas along the beach and pet-friendly dining options like Barefoot Beach Cafe.

3. Manoa: This lush and serene neighborhood is a paradise for pets, featuring ample green spaces and walking trails such as those found at Manoa Valley District Park, perfect for the active pet and owner alike.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Honolulu

Moving from one city to another involves adjustments, particularly when it comes to the weather. Comparing San Diego, CA and Honolulu, HI reveals key differences and similarities that are essential to understand. This comparison will highlight what weather changes you can expect, aiding in your transition.

Summer icon
76°F / 68°F

San Diego, CA

89°F / 75°F

Honolulu, HI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

80°F / 65°F

Honolulu, HI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

17

Honolulu, HI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

0

Honolulu, HI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Although both San Diego and Honolulu boast a high number of sunny days annually, Honolulu experiences a warmer tropical climate with higher summer temperatures and milder winters compared to San Diego's more temperate weather. The shift in humidity levels may also be noticeable, with San Diego having higher average annual humidity than Honolulu. It's interesting to note the contrast in natural disasters prevalent in each location, highlighting the importance of preparing for different emergency scenarios. Furthermore, while moving to Honolulu, you might encounter different air quality and allergen profiles, aspects that could influence lifestyle decisions for those with sensitivities.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare the financial implications of such a transition. This guide contrasts the cost of living and finance nuances between San Diego and Honolulu , providing valuable insights to adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.

Exploring deeper into the financial comparison, it's worth noting that while the average household income is slightly higher in Honolulu, the cost of living index there is substantially higher than in San Diego, primarily due to the high costs of housing and goods. Despite the lower average sales tax in Honolulu, the overall expense of maintaining a similar lifestyle can be much steeper. Additionally, the major industries driving the economy in both cities reflect their geographic and strategic importance, with tourism playing a critical role in both locales. Understanding these dynamics can help you make informed decisions about your move and prepare financially for the transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Honolulu, HI

In planning your move from San Diego to Honolulu, it's essential to grasp the local culture and community you're stepping into. This brief overview provides a comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between San Diego & Honolulu , offering a quick glance at what to expect from your new home. Discover how political inclinations and religious affiliations could influence your experience in these vibrant cities.

San DiegoHonolulu

Political Make-up

Lean LiberalStrongly Liberal

Local Politics

Mixed representation in city leadershipDemocratic dominance in local government

Religion

Christianity prevalent, but diverse religious populationPluralistic, with large Buddhist and Christian communities

When you move from San Diego to Honolulu, you'll transition from an area where political views are liberally inclined to a region with an even stronger liberal stance, predominantly reflected in Honolulu's local government makeup. This could mean changes in the types of policies and initiatives you encounter daily. Moreover, Honolulu's religious landscape is notably pluralistic, hosting large Buddhist and Christian communities among others, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual experiences. This contrasts with San Diego's diverse yet predominantly Christian religious setting. Embracing these differences enriches your understanding and appreciation of your new community.

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

When moving from San Diego, CA to Honolulu, HI, understanding the differences in the daily commute and traffic is crucial. This comparison between San Diego & Honolulu will shed light on what to expect and how to navigate your new city effectively.

San DiegoHonolulu
2527

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible but difficult

Can you get by without car?

In transitioning from San Diego to Honolulu, you’ll find that while the average commute times are relatively close, Honolulu experiences slightly higher traffic congestion, likely due to its island geography limiting expansion of road networks. Public transit options are marginally better in San Diego, reflecting the city's broader commitment to accessible transportation options such as the San Diego Trolley. However, living without a car is more feasible in Honolulu, thanks to its compact urban layout, but it still presents its challenges, particularly when needing to travel outside of urban centers. Adjusting to these differences will be key to making your move as smooth as possible.

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