Moving from San Diego to Austin?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Austin Movers

Moving from the coastal charm of San Diego, CA, to the vibrant streets of Austin, TX, is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. You're trading the laid-back surf culture of "America's Finest City" for the live music and bustling tech scene of the "Live Music Capital of the World." Understanding the importance of this transition, we emphasize the need for trusted and reliable movers to ensure a smooth journey to your new chapter, which is why our rankings help you find the best fit for your long-distance move.

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

5 Best San Diego to Austin 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
Heavenly Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,606+ data points

Austin, TX
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Full-service packing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3429695 Verify

About Heavenly Moving and Storage

Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-qu...Read More >>

top 10 round rock 2024 heavenly care moving storage image
top 3 ranked movers in austin 2023 heavenly care moving storage image
top 3 ranked movers in austin 2022 heavenly care moving storage image
#4
A
Exceptional

based on 606+ data points

Volente, TX
Out of state moving services, Packing services, Office moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3119927 Verify

About Amen Moving

Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing services, offic...Read More >>

top 3 hutto 2024 amen 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 Austin Neighborhood Guide

Understanding a new city can be daunting, but comparing it to what you already know can make the transition smoother. This guide aims to help by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Austin, TX . By identifying the closest equivalent neighborhoods, we hope to provide a familiar reference point for those planning to move from beachside vibes to the heart of Texas.

San DiegoAustin
La JollaTarrytown

Affluent, scenic waterfront

North ParkEast Austin

Trendy, artsy scene

Gaslamp QuarterDowntown Austin

Vibrant nightlife

Little ItalySouth Congress

Quaint shops, eateries

Ocean BeachZilker

Laid-back, nature-oriented

Pacific BeachBarton Hills

Youthful, outdoor activities

HillcrestTravis Heights

Inclusive, community vibe

Del MarHyde Park

Historic, family-friendly

Carmel ValleyCircle C Ranch

Suburban, upscale living

CoronadoClarksville

Quiet, prestigious living

If you love the vibrant street life and iconic restaurants like Juniper & Ivy in Little Italy, you'll feel right at home in South Congress, Austin, where spots like Home Slice Pizza offer a slice of local culture. The laid-back beach culture of Pacific Beach, with its surf shops and endless bars along the boardwalk, finds its match in Barton Hills, where outdoor enthusiasts gather for concerts at Barton Springs Pool and hiking trails in Barton Creek Greenbelt. Meanwhile, for those who appreciate the inclusive and vibrant community of Hillcrest, Travis Heights in Austin provides a similar sense of belonging, with a diverse community and an array of local cafes and boutiques lining South Congress Avenue.

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Things to Do in Austin

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Austin

Moving from sunny San Diego, CA to vibrant Austin, TX brings its own set of changes. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on both the good and bad aspects of this relocation, illuminating the pros and cons of leaving San Diego for Austin. Whether it's the weather, lifestyle, or cost of living, understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living cost
  • Less live music
  • Cooler water beaches
  • Traffic congestion
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • More affordable housing
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Warmer inland climate
  • Less traffic
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • No beaches nearby
  • Hotter summers
  • Less coastal activities
  • Different cuisine focus
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Mild winters
  • Outdoor lifestyle
  • Diverse food scene


When considering the move from San Diego, CA to Austin, TX, it's essential to recognize the unique offerings of each city. San Diego is famed for its stunning beaches like La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach, offering unparalleled opportunities for surfing, sunbathing, and oceanfront dining, such as at Crown Room. On the other hand, Austin is renowned for its live music scene which can be experienced at iconic venues like C3 Concerts. Austin's warmer climate appeals to those who prefer hot summers and mild winters, perfect for exploring outdoor hotspots such as Zilker Metropolitan Park. Each city boasts a vibrant food scene, though Austin takes the lead with its focus on BBQ and Tex-Mex, highlighted by local favorites like Franklin Barbecue. Despite the transition from coastal to inland living, both cities offer unique lifestyles and communities that cater to diverse preferences.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Austin

Comparing the local cuisine between San Diego and Austin reveals striking contrasts and delightful similarities. Food isn't just sustenance; it's a profound expression of local culture and a significant factor in the quality of life in a new area. By examining the food scenes of these vibrant cities, you're better equipped to dive into the local lifestyle where you're headed.

San DiegoAustin

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosBrisket

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaBrisket BBQ

Most popular street food item

California BurritoTacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Mexican CuisineBBQ Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Georges at the Cove
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Hodad's
  • Franklin Barbecue
  • Uchi
  • Torchy's Tacos

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

810

Foodie Scene

910

Vegan Friendly

98

In San Diego, the coastal influence is palpable in its cuisine, with fish tacos standing as an iconic dish that encapsulates the city's love for fresh, ocean-sourced ingredients. You'll find the best fish tacos in neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach, where the proximity to the ocean ensures the freshest catch. Vegan Mexican cuisine, reflecting the city's health-conscious ethos, is widely celebrated, with places like Kindred offering innovative plant-based dishes. Conversely, Austin's heart beats to the rhythm of smoked brisket, a local obsession that reaches its zenith at Franklin Barbecue, where people queue for hours to savor this quintessential Texan delight. The city's food truck parks, such as those found on South Congress Avenue, offer a kaleidoscope of flavors, from gourmet tacos to inventive vegan BBQ, showcasing Austin's eclectic and inclusive food scene.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Austin

Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. This guide is designed to help you transition smoothly from San Diego to Austin by finding familiar tastes and new favorites. San Diego to Austin restaurant comparison will ease your move by aligning your culinary preferences .

Juniper & IvyOlamaie

Southern cuisine with a sophisticated twist

Phil's BBQFranklin Barbecue

Iconic slow-smoked meats

Hodad'sPool Burger

Casual vibe with quality burgers

AddisonUchi

High-end dining with innovative sushi

The Fish MarketPerla's

Fresh seafood with a coastal feel

Café 21Hillside Farmacy

Quaint eatery with local organic fare

Las Cuatro MilpasVeracruz All Natural

Authentic Mexican cuisine

CUCINA urbanaItalic

Rustic Italian in a chic setting

PuestoLa Condesa

Modern Mexican dishes in a stylish space

George's at the CoveOasis

Stunning views with distinctive meals

If you're a fan of the innovative Southern cuisine at Juniper & Ivy in San Diego, you're going to love the sophisticated twist on Southern staples at Olamaie in Austin. Both restaurants offer dishes that are deeply rooted in tradition yet presented with a modern flare. For barbecue enthusiasts missing Phil's BBQ, Franklin Barbecue in Austin needs no introduction; its reputation for slow-smoked meats precedes it, reminiscent of the iconic status Phil's BBQ holds in San Diego. Lastly, sushi aficionados accustomed to the high-end dining experience at Addison will find a new home at Uchi, where the innovative sushi menu and intimate dining atmosphere create a culinary adventure that rivals San Diego's finest.

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

When considering a move, real estate emerges as a crucial factor that demands thorough comparison. This guide aims to elucidate the differences in housing aspects between San Diego, CA, and Austin, TX, providing insights into costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle metrics to inform your decision-making process.

Moving from San Diego to Austin introduces you to different housing landscapes, reflecting each city's unique cultural and environmental characteristics. San Diego's housing market is steeped in Spanish Colonial architecture, emphasizing outdoor living to take advantage of its coastal climate. Alternatively, Austin's real estate highlights a blend of Modern and Traditional Texas Hill Country styles, with a growing emphasis on smart home features and energy efficiency. Despite a higher bikeability score in Austin, indicating a slightly more bike-friendly environment, San Diego offers a richer urban lifestyle tied closely to its ocean views and vibrant outdoor culture.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

1. Zilker: This neighborhood is a paradise for your pets, offering the sprawling Zilker Metropolitan Park and the leash-free Barkin Springs, where your furry friends can play and splash to their heart's content.

2. South Congress: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, South Congress is pet-friendly with numerous cafes and shops like Jo's Coffee that welcome pets, making it the perfect neighborhood for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry companions.

3. Travis Heights: With its close proximity to the Stacy Parks and off-leash areas, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a community that values outdoor activities and has access to pet-friendly spaces.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Austin

Moving from one location to another is a significant change, especially when considering how the weather will impact your lifestyle. Understanding the weather comparisons between San Diego and Austin is essential for preparing for your new environment. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and plan accordingly.

Summer icon
77°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

95°F / 72°F

Austin, TX

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

62°F / 42°F

Austin, TX

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
10.34

San Diego, CA

34.25

Austin, TX

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

0.6

Austin, TX

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When considering a move from San Diego to Austin, you'll encounter more than just a change in scenery. Austin experiences hotter summers and slightly cooler winters compared to San Diego, with a significant difference in summer temperatures. Additionally, while both cities enjoy abundant sunshine, San Diego edges out with more sunny days per year. It's also worth considering the shift in natural disaster risks, moving from an area prone to earthquakes and wildfires in San Diego to facing potential tornadoes and flooding in Austin. Lastly, although both cities suffer from air pollution and seasonal allergies, the types of allergens and air quality levels differ, potentially affecting your daily comfort and health.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to help you understand the financial differences you’ll encounter when moving from San Diego to Austin. Knowing these details can ensure a smooth transition, keeping unexpected costs and financial shocks at bay.

Moving from San Diego to Austin could significantly impact your finances, mainly due to the zero state income tax in Texas compared to California's high rates, potentially giving you more disposable income. However, consider Austin's higher property tax rates, which might affect homeowners differently. The cost of living index is another critical factor; Austin's score of 119 versus San Diego's 160 highlights Austin's relatively more affordable living costs. Finally, while both cities boast vibrant economies, the leading industries differ, possibly affecting job opportunities in your field.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Austin, TX

As you consider moving from San Diego, CA to Austin, TX, understanding the comparison of the politics between San Diego & Austin and the religious landscape is crucial. This quick snapshot offers insight into the societal dynamics of your new city, preparing you for the cultural and ideological environment you'll be entering.

San DiegoAustin

Political Make-up

Lean LiberalLean Liberal

Local Politics

Diverse RepresentationProgressive Policies

Religion

Mix of Catholic and ProtestantVaried, with a strong non-religious community

San Diego and Austin both share a lean towards liberal politics, reflecting their younger, more diverse populations. Austin, however, is often noted for its particularly progressive policies, even within Texas, a traditionally conservative state. This city prides itself on being a "blue dot" in a red sea, appealing to those who cherish inclusive and forward-thinking local governance. While both cities boast a religious diversity, Austin stands out with its large non-religious community, making it a vibrant, eclectic spiritual landscape. Here, you'll find a wide range of places of worship, including innovative spaces like the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Austin, alongside those who prioritize philosophical or secular community gatherings.

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

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Austin is crucial for anyone planning to make the move. This comparison will help you get a better grasp of what your daily commute and overall transit experience might be like in these two cities.

San DiegoAustin
24.726.4

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible but challengingChallenging

Can you get by without car?

In both San Diego and Austin, having a personal vehicle can greatly enhance your mobility and convenience, given the moderate to high traffic congestion and limitations in public transit options. However, San Diego slightly edges out Austin in terms of public transportation availability, making it somewhat more feasible to get by without a car. The average commute times are fairly close, but Austin's slightly higher figure may reflect its rapidly growing population and infrastructure trying to keep up. In either city, planning your commute and considering alternate modes of transportation, like biking or public transit, might not only save you time but also introduce you to a different aspect of city life.

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