Best San Diego to Alexandria Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the laid-back surf vibes of San Diego, CA to the rich historical tapestry of Alexandria, VA is an adventure that marks a significant life transition. You're trading the endless summers and taco Tuesdays of "America's Finest City" for the cobblestone charms and historical echoes of "Old Town". Given the distance and the life shift this move represents, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable movers. We at Great Guys Moving understand the nuances of such a journey, ensuring your belongings are in safe hands every step of the way.
Best San Diego to Alexandria Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alexandria to San Diego guide.
5 Best San Diego to Alexandria Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About ARS Movers
ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving (Residential Moving)
- Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
- Office Moving (Commercial Moving)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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 >>
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
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 >>
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
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 >>
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially when you're heading to an unfamiliar city. To make this transition smoother, we'll help you draw parallels between the neighborhoods you know and love in San Diego, CA, and find their equivalents in Alexandria, VA. This comparison of local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Alexandria, VA aims to provide you with a sense of familiarity and anticipation for your new surroundings.
| San Diego | Alexandria | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Old Town | Historic charm, seaside vibes |
| Pacific Beach | Del Ray | Laid back, community-focused |
| North Park | Potomac West | Artsy, vibrant nightlife |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Carlyle | Dynamic, entertainment-rich |
| Hillcrest | Rosemont | Diverse, inclusive community |
| Little Italy | Parker-Gray | Cultural hub, historic roots |
| Point Loma | Mount Vernon | Scenic views, historic estates |
| Coronado | Alexandria Waterfront | Prestigious, waterfront living |
| Mission Hills | Beverley Hills | Quiet, upscale residential |
| Ocean Beach | Braddock Road Metro | Eclectic, bohemian spirit |
For those coming from the laid-back, surf-centric vibe of Pacific Beach in San Diego, the Del Ray neighborhood in Alexandria will feel like home with its community-focused and relaxed environment. Del Ray offers a charming mix of local shops, such as the Del Ray Café, and community events that bring together residents in a uniquely tight-knit manner. On the other hand, if you're leaving the cultural and historic richness of Little Italy, Parker-Gray in Alexandria offers a similar blend of deep-rooted history and cultural diversity, with landmarks such as the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial providing context and depth to the neighborhood's character. Whether you're drawn to scenic vistas, vibrant nightlife, or peaceful residential areas, this guide aims to help you find a slice of home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Alexandria
Moving from one coast to another brings a unique set of challenges and advantages. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the transition from San Diego, CA to Alexandria, VA, highlighting both the positives and negatives of such a move. By examining the cons and pros through comparative charts, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in your new city.
San Diego, CA- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Limited seasons
Alexandria, VA- Lower cost of living
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
Alexandria, VA- Colder winters
- Less beach access
- Different culinary style
San Diego, CA- Warm weather year-round
- Vibrant beach culture
- Diverse food scene
Moving from San Diego to Alexandria presents a significant change in lifestyle. For instance, you will exchange the laid-back, sunny beaches like La Jolla or Coronado in San Diego for Alexandria's charming, historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets and waterfront parks such as Founders Park. The culinary scene also shifts from the diverse, international flavors found in restaurants like Juniper & Ivy in San Diego to more historic, locally-inspired eateries such as Gadsby's Tavern in Alexandria, which has been serving guests since the 18th century. Additionally, while you might miss the year-round warm weather, Alexandria offers beautiful, distinct seasons that bring their own array of activities, from cherry blossom viewing in spring to picturesque snowy days ideal for cozying up in one of the city's many quaint coffee shops like Misha’s.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between San Diego & Alexandria offers a window into the distinct flavors and dining experiences you’ll encounter as you transition from the Pacific shores to the historic East Coast. Understanding the food culture is indispensable as it enriches your relocation experience and prepares you for the culinary delights that await.
| San Diego | Alexandria | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Chesapeake Crab Cakes |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Virginia Ham |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Pupusas |
| Most popular vegan food | Açaí Bowl | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Diego, the surf culture deeply influences local cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, light, and innovative dishes like the iconic fish taco, often found along the Pacific coastline from food trucks to upscale dining establishments. The health consciousness of the city is reflected in the popularity of dishes like the açaí bowl, catering to a vibrant vegan community. On the flip side, Alexandria's culinary scene boasts a rich tapestry of colonial history and Southern charm, with Chesapeake crab cakes exemplifying the local love for seafood, encapsulated within quaint cobblestone streets and waterfront dining options. Alexandria’s devotion to local and organic ingredients shines in eateries around Old Town, ensuring your meals are not only delectable but also thoughtfully sourced.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be an adventure, especially when it comes to finding your new culinary favorites. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Alexandria aims to ease the transition by guiding you towards finding your next go-to dining spots, using your cherished experiences in San Diego as a compass.
| San Diego | Alexandria | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Restaurant Eve | High-end dining with innovative cuisine |
| Phil's BBQ | Myron Mixon's Pitmaster Barbeque | Iconic BBQ with a loyal following |
| Puesto | Taqueria Poblano | Casual eatery known for tacos and margaritas |
| Born & Raised | Warehouse Bar & Grill | Renowned for its steaks and upscale dining experience |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Los Tios Grill | Authentic Mexican food with a homely vibe |
| Cafe 21 | Brabo | Elegant setting with a creative and seasonal menu |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | Hank's Oyster Bar | Fresh seafood and a great oyster selection |
| Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens | Port City Brewing Company | Craft beer with a great tasting room |
| Hodad's | BurgerFi | Known for gourmet burgers and craft beer |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Lavender Moon Cupcakery | Boutique bakery with a focus on inventive sweets |
For those missing the upscale dining of Juniper & Ivy in San Diego, Restaurant Eve in Alexandria offers a transformative dining experience with its innovative cuisine, mirroring Juniper & Ivy's attention to creative food artistry. BBQ lovers transitioning from Phil's BBQ will find comfort in the smoky, tangy flavors at Myron Mixon's Pitmaster Barbeque, where the commitment to high-quality meats and traditional smoking techniques reigns supreme. Meanwhile, seafood aficionados will appreciate the dedication to freshness and variety at Hank's Oyster Bar, reminiscent of the bountiful seafood offerings back at Ironside Fish & Oyster. The move from San Diego to Alexandria doesn't have to mean leaving your culinary preferences behind; rather, it's an opportunity to explore and delight in the rich tapestry of flavors that Alexandria has to offer.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Alexandria Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate environments of your current and future cities is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide provides a focused look at the real estate aspects of San Diego, CA and Alexandria, VA, highlighting the need-to-know facts and figures for potential movers.
| Comparison | San Diego | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Colonial, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Beach proximity, Outdoor spaces | Historical significance, Walkability |
Moving from San Diego to Alexandria presents distinct changes in housing and lifestyle. San Diego's higher median home price reflects its beachfront allure and year-round sunshine, while Alexandria, steeped in history, offers a more accessible housing market. Alexandria's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more pedestrian-friendly environment, often a priority for those who value urban convenience and historical charm. The prevalent architectural styles in each city also hint at their unique cultural identities—San Diego's Spanish Colonial roots versus Alexandria's Colonial and Victorian influences. Considering these factors will help you find a home that not only fits your budget but also your lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Alexandria, VA
1. Del Ray: Known for its welcoming community and variety of pet-friendly cafes and restaurants, Del Ray lets you enjoy outdoor dining experiences with your furry friend by your side.
2. Old Town: With its waterfront parks, such as Founders Park, and abundance of pet-friendly shops, Old Town is perfect for leisurely strolls and shopping with your pet.
3. Potomac Yard: This neighborhood features spacious pet-friendly apartments and easy access to the Potomac Yard Park, which includes a dedicated dog park for your pet to play and meet other dogs.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Weather Considerations
Relocating requires adjusting to new environments. Understanding how the weather in San Diego will compare to Alexandria's climate is crucial. This comparison aims to simplify your transition by highlighting key weather differences.
San Diego, CA
Alexandria, VA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Alexandria, VA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Alexandria, VA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Alexandria, VA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Hurricanes, Snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While sunny days are more abundant in San Diego, Alexandria offers a distinct four-season experience with notably more rainfall and snow. You'll find San Diego's climate milder overall, but if you're moving to Alexandria, prepare for more humid summers and colder winters. Also noteworthy, Alexandria experiences different types of natural disasters, such as hurricanes and snowstorms, in contrast to San Diego's wildfires and earthquakes. Adapting to these changes will be key to enjoying your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Alexandria
Moving from one city to another can dramatically alter your financial landscape. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income options in San Diego compare to Alexandria is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison guide aims to decipher these differences, providing a clearer picture of what to expect financially.
| Comparison | San Diego | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $101,162 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 1-13.3 | 2-5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76 | 0.80 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Defense, Tourism, International Trade | Government, Professional Services, Education |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When moving from San Diego to Alexandria, you'll likely notice a decrease in the overall cost of living; however, this comes with a substantial increase in average household income. While Alexandria boasts a much lower sales tax, keep in mind that it offsets this with a higher property tax rate compared to San Diego. Furthermore, the shift from industries focused on defense and tourism in San Diego to government and professional services in Alexandria reflects not just a change in economic focus but possibly in the job market and opportunities available to you. Understanding these differences can help you plan your move and financial future in Alexandria more effectively.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Diego, CA, to Alexandria, VA, understanding the local demographics can help you adjust more smoothly. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Alexandria, enhancing your knowledge of what to expect in your new home.
| San Diego | Alexandria | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic leaning | Democratic stronghold |
| Religion | Mix of religions, with notable Rock Church presence | Diverse religious landscape, including Washington National Cathedral |
Both San Diego and Alexandria exhibit a liberal political makeup, though Alexandria is known as a Democratic stronghold, reflecting a potentially more pronounced liberalism in local politics. The religious landscapes in both cities are diverse, with San Diego hosting influential institutions like the Rock Church. Alexandria's religious diversity is also notable, with landmarks like the Washington National Cathedral and various houses of worship contributing to a vibrant spiritual community. Understanding these facets of your new city can help in making connections and finding communities that align with your beliefs and values.
San Diego vs. Alexandria Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can come with its share of changes, especially when it involves your daily commute. In this guide, we provide a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Alexandria to help you better understand what to expect in your new city regarding daily travel and commute times.
| Comparison | San Diego | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Easier |
In terms of daily commuting, you'll find noticeable differences between the two cities. San Diego generally sees shorter average commute times, but with slightly higher traffic congestion than Alexandria. When it comes to public transportation, Alexandria takes the lead offering more robust options. This includes the metro, which connects you easily to Washington D.C., making it feasible for many to forgo car ownership. Furthermore, Alexandria's urban planning with its walkable neighborhoods makes daily errands and activities more accessible without a car compared to the spread-out cityscape of San Diego.
Popular San Diego, CA to Virginia Moving Routes
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