Moving from San Diego to Cary?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Cary Movers

Moving from the sun-soaked beaches of San Diego, affectionately known as "America's Finest City", to the tree-lined streets of Cary, known as the "Technology Town" of North Carolina, is nothing short of an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. While you're bidding farewell to endless summers and welcoming seasons of vibrant fall colors and mild winters, the transition between these two fascinating cities is bound to be a mixture of excitement and nostalgia. Understanding the paramount importance of a smooth journey, we emphasize the need to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring that your long-distance move is handled with the utmost care and efficiency.

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

5 Best San Diego to Cary Movers

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

#1
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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#2
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 >>

top 10 san diego 2024 coast 2 coast moving inc image
#3
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#4
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
top ranked movers in raleigh 2022 athens moving experts image
#5
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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top 3 ranked movers in wagner 2023 motivated military movers image

Relocating from San Diego to Cary Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city is an adventure, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Cary, NC. This comparison will help you quickly familiarize yourself with an unknown city by comparing it to what you already know. Whether you're seeking a vibrant community or a quiet retreat, this comparison aims to match your preferences with your new home in Cary.

San DiegoCary
La JollaPreston

Upscale living, golf community

North ParkDowntown Cary

Artsy, cultural hub

Pacific BeachLochmere

Waterfront activities, family-friendly

HillcrestMacGregor Downs

Diverse community, close to amenities

Gaslamp QuarterAmberly

Vibrant nightlife, walkable

Little ItalyWeston Pointe

Culinary scene, charming

Del MarCarpenter Village

Quiet, upscale, family-oriented

Ocean BeachLake Pine

Laid back, community feel

CoronadoWellsley

Exclusive, family-friendly with parks

Point LomaHighcroft

Scenic views, nature trails

In exploring these neighborhoods, you'll discover that Downtown Cary shares North Park's devotion to arts and culture, with local highlights including The Cary Theater and Downtown Cary Festivals. If you're drawn to the vibrant community and waterfront activities of Pacific Beach, Lochmere presents an enticing alternative with its serene lake views and active neighborhood events. For those enchanted by the culinary dynamism and Italian flair of Little Italy, Weston Pointe offers a captivating dining scene highlighted by favorites like CinéBistro for an upscale movie and dining experience. Through this guide, we aim to make your transition as smooth as possible, connecting you with neighborhoods in Cary that resonate with the essence of your favorite spots in San Diego.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Cary

Moving from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC offers a chance to reflect on what you're leaving behind and what awaits. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your decision carefully. The charts below will highlight the cons of leaving San Diego and the benefits of moving to Cary, as well as the advantages of San Diego living against the drawbacks of Cary.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less seasons
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic
  • Distinct seasons
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Fewer beaches
  • Quieter nightlife
  • More varied weather
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Year-round sunshine

While San Diego is famed for its breathtaking beaches such as La Jolla Cove and a vibrant nightlife with countless bars and restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter, you might find Cary's offerings different but equally enticing. Cary boasts beautiful green spaces like Fred G. Bond Metro Park, offering a tranquil escape with trails, picnic spots, and boating opportunities. The town's downtown area may have a quieter nightlife compared to San Diego, but it has a growing food scene with gems like Ashworth Drugs for a classic soda shop experience and Poole's Diner in nearby Raleigh for upscale comfort food. Despite the difference in weather patterns, those moving from San Diego to Cary will find the distinct seasons bring their own beauty, from vibrant fall leaves to spring blossoms.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Cary

Food deeply enriches the cultural experience of living in a new area. Through this comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Cary, you'll gain insights into the culinary scenes of both destinations, helping you navigate your upcoming move.

San DiegoCary

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosNorth Carolina BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaPulled Pork

Most popular street food item

California BurritoFried Pickles

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastBarbecue Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Hodad's
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Cucina Urbana
  • Ashworth Drugs
  • Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen
  • Brewery Bhavana

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

97

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

97

In San Diego, the food scene is vibrant and diverse, with areas like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter offering an array of culinary delights. Fish Tacos and California Burritos reflect the city's love for Mexican-inspired cuisine, readily available at beachside shacks or bustling food trucks. Iconic restaurants such as Hodad's serve up some of the best burgers in a laid-back, surf-inspired atmosphere, while Phil's BBQ is a go-to for meat lovers. Conversely, Cary showcases Southern hospitality through its food, with places like Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen giving you a taste of traditional North Carolina flavors. The shift from San Diego's seafood and Mexican cuisine to Cary's barbecue and Southern comfort food marks a significant culinary transition, yet both cities boast an active foodie scene that caters to a range of dietary preferences.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Cary

Finding your new favorite eatery is key to feeling at home in a new city. This guide compares restaurants from San Diego, CA, to those in Cary, NC, to help you discover places where you can enjoy similar vibes and dishes. By using your current hometown favorites as a guide, we aim to make your transition smoother and tastier.

Juniper & IvyHerons

High-end dining with creative American cuisine

Hodad'sCorbett's Burgers & Soda Bar

Classic burgers with a nostalgic feel

Phil's BBQDanny's Bar-B-Que

Authentic, smokey BBQ flavors

Richard Walker's Pancake HouseFirst Watch

Breakfast and brunch with an innovative twist

Cucina UrbanaAcademy Street Bistro

Italian cuisine with a local, farm-to-table approach

Oscar's Mexican SeafoodChuy's

Fresh Tex-Mex with a fun atmosphere

The Crack ShackBBQ Chicken

Korean fried chicken that offers a unique and flavorful twist

La PuertaTorcida Taqueria

Authentic Mexican flavors and street-style tacos

Mister A'sPrestonwood Country Club

Elegant setting and fine dining, membership required

Extraordinary DessertsLa Farm Bakery

European-style desserts with an artisan touch

When diving deeper into the dining experiences, places like Herons in Cary offer a luxurious dining atmosphere akin to Juniper & Ivy's in San Diego, but with a unique Southern charm and an emphasis on local ingredients that North Carolina is known for. For those missing the casual, beach vibe of Oscar's Mexican Seafood, Chuy's in Cary brings a fun Tex-Mex flair and the same commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. Meanwhile, BBQ lovers transitioning from Phil's BBQ will find solace and satisfaction at Danny's Bar-B-Que, where the smoked meats and down-to-earth atmosphere resonate with San Diego's best. This demonstrates how, whether you're seeking high-end dining or craving casual eats, Cary's diverse culinary scene offers a welcoming taste of home.

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

When planning your move, comparing real estate aspects between San Diego, CA and Cary, NC , is crucial. By doing so, you'll gain insights into how your lifestyle preferences and budget align with what each city offers. This comparison will help ensure your next home feels just right.

In deeper detail, the San Diego housing market is marked by its higher median home prices and monthly rents, reflecting the city's vibrant urban lifestyle and desirable coastal location. San Diego homes often promote their stunning ocean views and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, catering to those who value the natural beauty and temperate climate of Southern California. On the other hand, Cary offers a more affordable entry point into homeownership or renting, along with an emphasis on family-friendly living and quiet, well-kept neighborhoods. Its real estate listings frequently highlight community-focused features and a slower pace of life, making it an attractive option for people seeking a balance between urban conveniences and suburban tranquility.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Cary, NC

1. Preston: This neighborhood is known for its picturesque walking paths and local parks, perfect for morning walks or jogs with your furry friends.

2. Lochmere: Offering you access to several greenways and the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, it’s a paradise for pets who love outdoor adventures.

3. Carpenter Village: With its close-knit community feel, pet-friendly amenities, and a dedicated dog park, it’s an ideal spot for pet owners looking for a supportive neighborhood environment.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Cary

Moving from one city to another, it's essential to compare the climates you'll experience. This guide focuses on the weather differences between San Diego and Cary, providing a clear understanding of what to expect. Whether you're worried about humidity, sunshine, or seasonal allergies, our comparison will help you prepare for your new home environment.

Summer icon
76°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

89°F / 68°F

Cary, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

50°F / 30°F

Cary, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

43

Cary, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

6

Cary, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from San Diego to Cary, you'll note significant differences in climate patterns. While San Diego is renowned for its mild year-round temperatures and abundant sunshine, Cary presents more distinct seasons with higher humidity and increased rainfall. This results in Cary having a lush, green landscape contrasting San Diego's more arid scenery. Seasonal allergies are common in both cities due to pollen, but Cary's higher humidity might exacerbate these conditions for some. Understanding these variances will help you adapt more comfortably to your new surroundings.

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

When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC, it's essential to grasp the differences in financial and economic factors you'll encounter. Understanding these variations can significantly affect your budgeting and lifestyle in your new home.

While both San Diego and Cary are desirable locations, Cary tends to lead in terms of financial attractivity for many. The average household income in Cary is significantly higher than in San Diego, coupled with a substantially lower cost of living index, indicating that your dollar might stretch further in Cary. Furthermore, North Carolina's lower state income tax at 5.25% compared to California's high 13.3% could result in significant annual savings. Moreover, Cary's robust technology, healthcare, and education industries offer diverse employment opportunities, perhaps making it an ideal place for both your career and your wallet.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Cary, NC

This guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious landscapes between San Diego & Cary , providing insight into the communities you're moving from and to. This overview aims to give you a foundational understanding of the local culture and societal makeup of each city.

San DiegoCary

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticModerately Democratic

Local Politics

High engagement in urban development issuesStrong focus on community services and growth management

Religion

Diverse religious landscape with a notable Catholic presenceDiverse, with a significant Protestant presence

When moving from San Diego to Cary, you'll find both cities share a tendency toward Democratic political leanings, though Cary might present a more moderate stance in comparison. San Diego's political discussions often revolve around urban development and coastal preservation, reflecting its geographical and social diversity. In contrast, Cary's local politics prioritize community services and managing suburban growth, aiming to maintain its reputation for high quality of life amidst rapid development. The religious landscapes of both cities are diverse, with a notable Catholic presence in San Diego and a significant Protestant presence in Cary, reflecting the broader religious composition of their respective states.

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

When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC, it's important to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what your daily commute and navigating each city might look like.

San DiegoCary
24.724.1

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

63

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

DifficultVery Difficult

Can you get by without car?

In San Diego, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Cary, NC, reflecting the city's larger geographic area and higher traffic congestion. San Diego scores higher in terms of public transit availability, thanks to its extensive network of buses and trolleys. While it's somewhat possible to get by without a car in San Diego, particularly if you live and work in more central areas, in Cary, the public transit options are more limited, making car ownership almost a necessity for navigating the area effectively. The lower traffic congestion score in Cary, however, can make for a smoother daily commute by car compared to San Diego.

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