Moving from San Diego to Salem?

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San Diego to Salem Movers

Moving from the sunny shores of San Diego, CA, to the lush landscapes of Salem, OR, is an adventure filled with anticipation and new beginnings. You're trading the laid-back vibes and endless summers of "America's Finest City" for the rich history and verdant beauty of the "Cherry City." Amidst this significant life change, the importance of entrusting your journey to reliable professional movers cannot be overstated, ensuring your transition is as smooth as the Pacific Coast breeze. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the intricacies of long-distance moves, offering you peace of mind with the best movers in the business, vetted by our unbiased ranking algorithm.

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

5 Best San Diego to Salem 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 >>

top 10 san diego 2024 the rock movers image
#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
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

top 10 portland 2024 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#4
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Portland, OR
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1863079 Verify

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

top 10 salem 2024 all service moving image
top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in portland 2023 all service moving 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 Salem Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with its neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've done a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Salem, OR . This comparison is designed to help you quickly familiarize yourself with your future home by using neighborhoods you already know as a baseline.

San DiegoSalem
La JollaFairmount

Affluent, with scenic views

North ParkEnglewood

Artistic, with community focus

Pacific BeachMorningside

Vibrant nightlife, youthful

HillcrestGrant

Diverse, with active LGBTQ+ scene

Gaslamp QuarterDowntown Salem

Historic, with bustling nightlife

CoronadoWest Salem

Quiet, with exclusive feel

Ocean BeachSouth Salem

Laid back, community-oriented

Carmel ValleySunnyslope

Family-friendly, upscale

Little ItalyLansing

Cultural hotspot, dining-centric

Point LomaIllawood

Nautical flair, quiet neighborhoods

For those who relish the unique blend of culture and dining in San Diego's Little Italy, Lansing in Salem offers an enticing parallel with its abundance of local eateries and cultural events. Comparatively, the family-friendly and upscale atmosphere of Carmel Valley finds its match in Salem's Sunnyslope neighborhood, which is appreciated for its welcoming community and quality schools. Those moving from the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter will find Downtown Salem a bustling hub of activity, with a plethora of historic sights, restaurants, and nightlife options such as Venti's Cafe and The Elsinore Theatre, ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible while maintaining a sense of familiarity.

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Things to Do in Salem

  • Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
  • Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
  • Visit the Willamette National Forest
  • Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
  • Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
  • Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
  • Join a Salem Saturday Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Salem

Moving from San Diego, CA to Salem, OR requires a genuine reflection on both cities. This comparison aims to showcase a balanced view, helping you to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks of such a relocation. It's all about understanding what you're leaving behind and what you're moving towards to make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • Competitive job market
  • Mild winters
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • More affordable
  • Less traffic
  • Emerging job market
  • Fresh, crisp winters
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Fewer beach options
  • Quieter nightlife
  • More limited options
  • More rainy days
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beaches nearby
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Year-round sun

When you move from San Diego, you're leaving behind its stunning beaches, such as La Jolla Cove, and its vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, known for its bustling nightlife and diverse dining options. However, Salem offers its own charm with less crowded living, emerging job opportunities, and unique spots like the Riverfront Park for leisure. You’ll find local treasures such as Enchanted Forest Theme Park for family outings and a range of cafes and restaurants like Word Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro that provide a cozier, community-focused dining experience. Moving to Salem may mean adapting to more rainy days, but it also opens up a door to embrace Oregon's lush, green landscapes, offering a refreshing change of scenery and lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Salem

Food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and the overall experience of living in an area. To help you better understand what culinary delights await you in your new home, we've prepared a comparison. This guide will illuminate the distinctive flavors of the local cuisine between San Diego & Salem, ensuring you're well-informed about the food scene in your future city.

San DiegoSalem

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosMarionberry Pie

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaPinot Noir Braised Short Ribs

Most popular street food item

California BurritoFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastVegan Bibimbap

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • George's at the Cove
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Hodad's
  • Willow's Lakehouse Grill
  • Rafn’s
  • Word of Mouth

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

97

Abundance of Food Trucks

86

Foodie Scene

107

Vegan Friendly

98

In San Diego, the robust Mexican influence means you're never far from an authentic taco or burrito, especially if you venture into neighborhoods like Barrio Logan or Hillcrest, renowned for their culinary scene. Fish tacos, in particular, have become synonymous with San Diego's identity, with beachside stands and upscale eateries alike offering their takes on this local staple. Meanwhile, Salem offers a bounty of local produce and wines, most notably characterized by the Marionberry, an Oregon-native berry that you'll find in pastries, jams, and delicacies throughout the city. Salem's thriving vegan scene, highlighted by dishes such as Vegan Bibimbap, showcases Oregon's focus on sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients, making it a paradise for those who lean towards plant-based diets.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Salem

Settling into a new city means finding places that feel like home, and what better way than through its culinary scene? This chart aims to ease the transition from San Diego, CA to Salem, OR by comparing restaurants , ensuring you can find new favorites that echo the flavors of your former hometown. Whether you're in the mood for a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, this guide has got you covered.

Juniper & IvyRafns' Restaurant

offering a farm-to-table dining experience similar to Juniper & Ivy's innovative American cuisine

Phil's BBQAdam's Rib Smoke House

known for its hearty portions and smoky flavors reminiscent of Phil's BBQ

George's at the CoveDaVinci Ristorante

With its scenic views and gourmet dishes, it parallels the experience at George's at the Cove

Hodad'sBo & Vine Burger Bar

offers gourmet burgers and a laid-back atmosphere akin to Hodad's

Cafe 21Word of Mouth Bistro

known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a similar commitment to quality as Cafe 21

Las Cuatro MilpasLa Margarita Express

serves authentic Mexican food that echoes the flavors found at Las Cuatro Milpas

PuestoDonatello's Pizza

While primarily a pizzeria, it offers an eclectic menu that shares Puesto's innovative approach to Mexican cuisine

Sushi OtaKyoto Japanese Restaurant

Offers fresh, quality sushi that rivals the offerings at Sushi Ota

Ironside Fish & OysterBentley's Grill

Its seafood selection and ambience provide a dining experience reminiscent of Ironside Fish & Oyster

The Crack ShackYardbird Chicken

Offers a casual but delicious take on chicken dishes, similar to The Crack Shack’s approach

When you explore the culinary scene in Salem, you'll discover places like Rafns' Restaurant, which offers a farm-to-table experience that mirrors the innovative American cuisine you loved at Juniper & Ivy in San Diego. For those BBQ cravings, Adam's Rib Smoke House in Salem serves up smoky flavors and hearty portions that will remind you of your visits to Phil's BBQ. And when you're in the mood for something casual yet unforgettable, Bo & Vine Burger Bar presents gourmet burgers in a laid-back atmosphere, reminiscent of the vibes at Hodad's. These comparisons not only help bridge the gap between two cities but also introduce you to the rich, diverse dining scene Salem has to offer, ensuring you never miss a beat in finding your next favorite meal.

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Ready to start your move?

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

Real estate is a crucial consideration when relocating. Understanding how San Diego and Salem compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision-making process. This comparison aims to provide a deeper insight into each city's unique living conditions.

When assessing housing between San Diego and Salem, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rents stands out. San Diego's real estate market is notably more expensive, reflecting the city's desirable coastal location and urban appeal. Conversely, Salem offers a more affordable option with a closer connection to nature and spacious living environments. The typical architecture styles also reflect the geographical and cultural differences of each city, from San Diego's Spanish Colonial designs to Salem's Craftsman and Ranch homes. Lastly, San Diego boasts a more vibrant urban lifestyle with better walkability, while Salem scores higher in bikeability, offering residents a more relaxed and nature-oriented living experience.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR

1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.

2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.

3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Salem

When planning a move from one city to another, one crucial aspect to consider is how the weather compares. This comparison will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for the weather differences between San Diego, CA and Salem, OR . Whether you're concerned about the heat, the cold, or the number of sunny days, this guide has got you covered.

Summer icon
76°F / 65°F

San Diego, CA

82°F / 52°F

Salem, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
65°F / 49°F

San Diego, CA

47°F / 36°F

Salem, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

39

Salem, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

6

Salem, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While San Diego enjoys a mild climate with plenty of sunshine, moving to Salem will introduce you to more varied seasons. Salem experiences a higher average annual humidity and more rainfall, making it lush and green, but it also has fewer sunny days compared to San Diego. Additionally, winters in Salem are colder, with some snowfall, something not typically seen in San Diego. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more comfortably to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating from San Diego, CA to Salem, OR, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications. Understand how the cost of living, taxes, and job market between San Diego and Salem will affect your wallet to make an informed move.

Transitioning from San Diego to Salem, you'll notice a significant shift in financial dynamics. The average household income is notably lower in Salem, but this is balanced by its much lower cost of living. Salem's absence of sales tax is a unique benefit not seen in many states, giving you a direct break on day-to-day purchases. However, it’s worth noting the increase in state income tax, depending on your income bracket. The top industries in each city reflect the regional strengths and economic focus, suggesting a potential pivot in career opportunities. Understanding these contrasts and preparing for them can help smooth your transition financially.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Salem, OR

When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Salem, OR, it's useful to get a quick overview of how the communities compare, especially in terms of their residents' political and religious leanings. This guide offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Diego & Salem , providing insights to help you understand your potential new home.

San DiegoSalem

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticMore Mixed, with a Democratic lean

Local Politics

Progressive social policiesProgressive with a focus on community initiatives

Religion

Diverse; notable for its Catholic and non-religious communitiesReligious landscape consists primarily of Christian denominations with a significant non-religious community

When comparing San Diego to Salem, it’s evident that both cities lean toward Democratic values, albeit Salem presents a slightly more mixed political atmosphere. This diversity in Salem often translates to a unique blend of progressive initiatives that focus heavily on community improvement and engagement. In terms of religious makeup, both cities boast a diverse religious landscape, with San Diego having a significant Catholic presence, while Salem is characterized by a variety of Christian denominations alongside a noteworthy non-religious cohort. Understanding these aspects can provide a deeper insight into what life may feel like in your new home, allowing for an easier transition and integration into the community.

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

When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Salem, OR, it's important to compare the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Salem. This comparison will help you better understand what to expect in regards to your daily commute and traffic experiences in both cities.

San DiegoSalem
2523

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

73

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

64

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingMore difficult

Can you get by without car?

San Diego offers a variety of public transport options, such as the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, which includes buses and the trolley, making it somewhat possible to get around without a car, though still challenging. In contrast, Salem's public transit system, Cherriots, is less extensive, making reliance on a car more common for daily commuting. Traffic congestion in Salem is significantly lower compared to San Diego, leading to a slightly shorter average commute time. This information should help you prepare for the transportation differences you'll encounter when moving from San Diego to Salem.

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