Moving from San Diego to Boston?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Boston Movers

Moving from the sun-kissed beaches of San Diego to the historic cobblestone streets of Boston is an adventure brimming with potential and new beginnings. You're leaving behind the laid-back SoCal lifestyle for the rich history and vibrant seasons of "The Hub." In this journey of over 3,000 miles, it's crucial to ensure your belongings are in the hands of trusted and reliable professional movers. Our objective is to guide you through understanding this significant life change and to connect you with the best movers, vetted by Great Guys Moving, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

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

5 Best San Diego to Boston Movers

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

#1
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#2
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,675+ data points

Cambridge, MA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3638077 Verify

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

top 3 boston 2024 centaur moving image
#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 9/11/2024)

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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#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 9/11/2024)

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
#5
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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Relocating from San Diego to Boston Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Boston, MA , pinpointing where you might feel most at home. By aligning San Diego's top neighborhoods with their Boston counterparts, you’ll better understand where you might want to start your next chapter.

San DiegoBoston
La JollaBeacon Hill

Historic charm, upscale living

Gaslamp QuarterNorth End

Vibrant nightlife, rich history

Pacific BeachSouth Boston

Lively, beach adjacent lifestyle

HillcrestJamaica Plain

Diverse community, arts scene

North ParkCambridge

Hip, with a strong indie spirit

Little ItalyNorth End again

Famous for Italian cuisine, festivals

Del MarBack Bay

Upscale, with a shopping and dining focus

Ocean BeachAllston

Laid-back, with a young vibe

CoronadoCharlestown

Historic with waterfront views

EncinitasBrookline

Family-friendly with a mix of urban and suburban

Discovering a new neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle is key to feeling at home. For instance, if the historic charm and upscale living of La Jolla have stolen your heart, Beacon Hill, known for its Federal-style rowhouses and gas-lit streets, might be your next haven. San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp Quarter shares its affinity for rich history and a lively atmosphere with Boston's North End, where the Freedom Trail and Paul Revere's house attract history buffs, and Italian restaurants like Mamma Maria offer a taste of Italy. For beach lovers, transitioning from Pacific Beach to South Boston means continuing the seaside lifestyle with added East Coast flair, where places like Castle Island Brewing offer local craft beers with a view. No matter where you land, each neighborhood's unique parks, restaurants, and sights ensure your new city feels like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Boston

Moving across the country is a significant life change that requires thoughtful consideration of both the benefits and challenges involved. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Boston, MA , helping you to weigh your options carefully.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less public transit
  • Milder winters
  • Lower education ranking
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich historical sites
  • Better public transit
  • Distinct four seasons
  • Top-ranked universities
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Harsh winters
  • No beach access
  • Faster pace of life
  • Smaller entertainment scene
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Beach access
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Broad entertainment options

When moving from San Diego to Boston, you're trading the year-round sunny, temperate climate for Boston's vibrant fall colors and snowy winters. While San Diego is known for its beaches like La Jolla Shores, Boston offers a rich tapestry of American history with landmarks such as the Freedom Trail and the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill. For dining experiences, you'll swap the laid-back, ocean-front eateries like George's at the Cove for Boston's bustling culinary scene featuring establishments like Neptune Oyster in the North End. While Boston's winters can be challenging, the city's efficient public transportation system, including the MBTA, makes it easier to navigate through the snow compared to San Diego's reliance on cars. This relocation presents an opportunity for change, embracing the new experiences that each city's unique offerings and lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Boston

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Boston, which is an integral part of understanding the cultural fabric of where you're moving to. This guide will help you navigate the food scenes of both cities, making your transition smoother and tastier.

San DiegoBoston

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosClam Chowder

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaLobster Roll

Most popular street food item

California BurritoFried Clams

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastSeitan Sandwich

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    • Phil's BBQ
    • Hodad's
    • Juniper & Ivy
    • Legal Sea Foods
    • Neptune Oyster
    • Union Oyster House

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

99

Vegan Friendly

98

In San Diego, the love for Mexican cuisine is palpable, with fish tacos and California burritos almost at every street corner, best enjoyed in neighborhoods like North Park and Little Italy. Phil's BBQ, Hodad's, and Juniper & Ivy are quintessentially San Diego, offering a taste of the city's diverse culinary scene. Boston, on the other hand, leans towards its rich seafood traditions. The clam chowder and lobster rolls, found at places like Legal Sea Foods and Neptune Oyster, highlight the fresh, local seafood. The city's food trucks and vegan options, although slightly less abundant than in San Diego, are still plentiful and vibrant, adding to Boston’s historical and cosmopolitan charm.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Boston

Finding a new favorite eating spot can make a new city feel like home, which is why this comparison of top restaurants in San Diego to their Boston equivalents is essential for those relocating. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual eateries, iconic dishes, or affordable bites, this guide will help ease your transition from San Diego, CA, to Boston, MA.

Juniper & IvyOleana

Creative American cuisine with a unique twist

Phil's BBQSweet Cheeks Q

Southern-style BBQ with a cozy vibe

Hodad'sCraigie On Main

Known for its burger, similar to Hodad’s iconic offering

Las Cuatro MilpasEl Pelón Taquería

Authentic Mexican food that rivals the best of San Diego

George's at the CoveLegal Harborside

Seafood with stunning views, mirroring George's atmosphere

Ironside Fish & OysterNeptune Oyster

High-quality seafood in a charming setting

CUCINA urbanaGiulia

Italian dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and robust flavors

Born & RaisedGrill 23 & Bar

Upscale steakhouse offering prime cuts and a refined setting

Café 21Tatte Bakery & Café

Eclectic coffee and brunch spot with a comforting ambiance

Broken Yolk CaféThe Friendly Toast

Quirky breakfast and brunch similar in vibe to Broken Yolk

Experiencing food in a new city is not just about eating; it's about savoring flavors and creating memories similar to those left behind. For instance, Oleana's innovative approach to American cuisine offers a blend of creativity and comfort, making it a perfect counterpart to Juniper & Ivy's cutting-edge dishes. On the casual side, El Pelón Taquería brings a slice of San Diego's Mexican food scene to Boston, serving up authentic tacos and burritos that could easily rival those from Las Cuatro Milpas. And when it comes to starting your day with a delicious brunch, the charming and eclectic atmosphere of Tatte Bakery & Café offers a variety of gourmet options that echo the vibes of Café 21, ensuring your breakfast in Boston is as delightful as it was in San Diego. Through these culinary bridges, you’ll find the transition between these two vibrant cities both smooth and savory.

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

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when moving. Understanding how San Diego, CA and Boston, MA compare in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability , and urban lifestyle ensures you're well-informed before making this big move.

When delving deeper into the housing market of San Diego and Boston, key differences become apparent. San Diego's sun-soaked beaches and Spanish Colonial architecture offer a laid-back lifestyle with an emphasis on outdoor living spaces and panoramic ocean views. On the other hand, Boston's compact urban environment is rich in history, featuring Victorian and Federal architectural styles, aligning with its deep historical roots. Walkability and access to excellent public transport are significantly higher in Boston, making it an ideal city for those who prefer to navigate the urban landscape without a car. This contrast shapes the very essence of what it means to live in these cities, influencing your day-to-day experiences and lifestyle choices.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA

1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.

2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.

3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Boston

When moving from one city to another, understanding the shift in climate is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison between San Diego and Boston weather highlights the differences and similarities in local climates, helping you adjust to your new environment more efficiently.

Summer icon
76 / 65

San Diego, CA

82 / 65

Boston, MA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66 / 50

San Diego, CA

37 / 22

Boston, MA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
10

San Diego, CA

44

Boston, MA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

48

Boston, MA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from San Diego to Boston entails a significant adaptation in terms of weather, particularly in coping with the cold, snowy winters and the more distinct seasons Boston experiences. While San Diego offers a mild climate with ample sunshine and minimal rainfall, Boston's weather conditions include a higher annual rainfall and substantial snowfall during winter. Furthermore, natural disasters in Boston typically involve blizzards and Nor'easters, quite a shift from San Diego’s wildfires and earthquakes. Adjusting to these differences requires preparation, especially in wardrobe and home maintenance practices to navigate Boston's more varied climate comfortably.

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

When moving from San Diego, CA to Boston, MA, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of your relocation. This comparison will help you grasp the differences in cost of living, taxes, and key economic factors between San Diego and Boston, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of money and finance.

The financial landscape of San Diego and Boston reveals some essential insights for anyone considering the move. While the average household income in Boston is slightly higher than in San Diego, both cities experience a cost of living significantly above the national average. Massachusetts benefits from a lower state income tax rate, which could mean more take-home pay despite Boston's slightly higher cost of living index. However, property taxes are higher in Boston, which could be a determining factor if you're planning to buy a home. Interestingly, the top industries in each city reflect their unique cultural and economic environments—defense and tourism in San Diego versus education and finance in Boston—hinting at potential career opportunities for you. These comparative points help paint a more detailed picture of what to expect financially when transitioning between these two vibrant cities.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Boston, MA

This guide offers a quick glance at the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Diego & Boston , designed to provide you with a snapshot of the demographic nuances you might experience upon relocating. Understanding these differences can significantly ease your transition between these two culturally rich cities.

San DiegoBoston

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive on environmental and social issuesProgressive with a historical focus on education and healthcare

Religion

Mixed, with a significant Catholic presenceDiverse, strong Catholic and Protestant presence

When you move from San Diego to Boston, you'll find both cities have a Democratic lean, though Boston's political landscape is notably more staunch in its Democratic roots, reflecting through its long-standing policies on education and healthcare. San Diego, while progressive, often highlights environmental initiatives and social justice. Religion in both cities showcases diversity, with a significant presence of Catholic communities; however, Boston also has a strong Protestant heritage. Navigating these shifts will involve understanding the local priorities and cultural underpinnings that drive community initiatives and social interactions.

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

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Boston is designed to give you a clear understanding of what to expect in your daily commute and traffic experiences when moving from one city to the other.

San DiegoBoston
2530

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible but challengingYes, easier than San Diego

Can you get by without car?

In Boston, you'll find the availability and efficiency of public transit, including the MBTA‘s buses and trains, significantly higher than in San Diego, making daily commutes without a car more feasible. The city's compact urban layout also contributes to this. However, this comes with a slight increase in traffic congestion, likely affecting your commute time. While San Diego offers a mild respite from heavy traffic, its spread-out nature makes owning a car more of a necessity for reaching many parts of the city efficiently. Whether in San Diego or Boston, planning your commute wisely and leveraging local transit options can greatly enhance your living experience.

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