Moving from San Diego to Seattle?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Seattle Movers

Moving from the sun-kissed beaches of San Diego, CA to the lush, rain-soaked streets of Seattle, WA marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, teeming with adventure and fresh starts. As you bid farewell to the laid-back vibe of the "Birthplace of California" and prepare to embrace the tech-savvy, coffee-loving culture of the "Emerald City," it's essential to navigate this significant transition with a team you can trust. Recognizing the importance of such a journey, we ensure that finding reliable and professional movers for this long-distance move is as seamless as embracing your new home in Seattle.

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

5 Best San Diego to Seattle 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
People Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,624+ data points

Bothell, WA
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2895681 Verify

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

top 10 tacoma 2024 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in bellevue 2022 people movers image
#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 9/5/2024)

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
#5
All Service Moving Logo
Superb

based on 5,172+ data points

Seattle, WA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/14/2023)

USDOT: 2083124 Verify

About All Service Moving

All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>

top 10 lacey 2024 all service moving image
top 10 ranked movers in seattle 2023 all service moving image
top 3 ranked movers in seattle 2022 all service moving image

Relocating from San Diego to Seattle Neighborhood Guide

Moving can feel like a leap into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Seattle, WA . By identifying neighborhoods in Seattle that share a similar vibe, culture, and amenities to those in San Diego, we hope to make you feel right at home in your new city.

San DiegoSeattle
La JollaQueen Anne

Stunning views, affluent

North ParkCapitol Hill

Vibrant nightlife, artsy

Gaslamp QuarterBelltown

Lively, dining and entertainment hub

Pacific BeachBallard

Beach vibes, bustling nightlife

HillcrestCapitol Hill

LGBTQ+-friendly, eclectic dining

Ocean BeachFremont

Laid-back, counterculture spirit

Little ItalyPioneer Square

Historic, rich in culture

Del MarMadison Park

Upscale, peaceful beach town feel

Carmel ValleyGreen Lake

Family-friendly, outdoor activities

Mission HillsQueen Anne

Historical charm, quiet residential

In exploring these neighborhood pairings, you'll find that Seattle and San Diego share a dynamic blend of community vibes that cater to a multitude of preferences and lifestyles. For example, the scenic beauty and elite atmosphere of La Jolla are mirrored by Queen Anne's sweeping views of Seattle and its stately homes. If you thrive in the vibrant and artsy environment of North Park, you'll love Capitol Hill with its eclectic bars, restaurants like Mamnoon, and the ever-popular Capitol Hill Block Party. Meanwhile, the laid-back, beachy spirit of Ocean Beach finds its counterpart in Fremont, known for its annual Solstice Parade and unique landmarks such as the Fremont Troll. These neighborhoods not only resemble each other in atmosphere and demographics but also offer a plethora of parks, dining options, and local sights, ensuring you'll find a new home in Seattle that resonates with the San Diego lifestyle you cherish.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Seattle

Moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA presents a complex mix of advantages and disadvantages. In this comparison, we aim to present an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, highlighting how each city's unique characteristics might affect your life. Through carefully constructed charts, we will contrast the cons of leaving San Diego with the pros of moving to Seattle , and vice versa, to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High living costs
  • Sunny weather
  • Beach access
  • Limited rainfall
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More affordable housing
  • Lush greenery
  • Outdoor adventures
  • Seasonal variety
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More rain
  • Less sunshine
  • Smaller beaches
  • Less nightlife variety
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Warm climate
  • Outdoor lifestyle
  • Cultural diversity
  • Vibrant nightlife

When you move from San Diego to Seattle, you exchange endless sunny days and beach outings for a life amidst lush green landscapes and frequent rainfalls that nourish the city’s vast parks, such as the expansive Discovery Park and the tranquil Japanese Garden at the Washington Park Arboretum. Seattle's renowned outdoor activities, like hiking in the Cascades or kayaking on Lake Union, offer a different but equally fulfilling lifestyle. While San Diego boasts a variety of cultural festivals and a vibrant nightlife concentrated in areas like the Gaslamp Quarter, Seattle counters with its unique music scene, historic Pioneer Square, and innovative dining experiences, such as those found in Pike Place Market. Though you may miss San Diego’s consistently warm weather, Seattle’s seasonal variations provide a beautiful backdrop to city life, with cherry blossoms in spring and brilliant fall colors in the Arboretum.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Seattle

When relocating, diving into the local food scene is pivotal to understanding and embracing the culture of your new home. Here, we embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Seattle , providing you with a taste of what each city has to offer and allowing you to feel more at home once you've moved.

San DiegoSeattle

Most iconic local food item

California BurritoSalmon

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaTeriyaki

Most popular street food item

TacosPiroshky

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastVegan Pho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Phil's BBQ
  • Island Prime
  • Hodad's
  • Canlis
  • Elliott's Oyster House
  • Loulay

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

89

Abundance of Food Trucks

78

Foodie Scene

99

Vegan Friendly

89

In San Diego, the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines gives rise to its iconic California Burrito, while Seattle's proximity to the ocean ensures salmon is a staple in local diets. For those who indulge in carnivorous delights, Carne Asada reigns supreme in San Diego, whereas Teriyaki, influenced by Seattle's significant Asian-American community, serves as a must-try meat option. The San Diego food scene thrives in neighborhoods like Little Italy and North Park, where one can enjoy meals from Phil's BBQ or the famous Hodad's. On the other hand, Seattle offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, from the upscale dining at Canlis to the bustling Pike Place Market where foodies can relish fresh seafood like oysters from Elliott's Oyster House and handmade Piroshky.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Seattle

When moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA , discovering a new dining scene is pivotal for feeling at home. This comparison aims to ease the transition by matching San Diego's top restaurants to their Seattle equivalents , ensuring you can find a new favorite with ease. Whether it's high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic spots, this guide will help bridge the culinary gap between the two cities.

Juniper & IvyCanlis

Both are iconic for their innovative American cuisine and upscale dining experience.

Phil's BBQJack’s BBQ

Both renowned for smoked meats and a laid-back atmosphere.

Lolita's Mexican FoodEl Camión

Authentic Mexican meals that capture the essence of casual yet flavorful dining.

Cucina UrbanaSpinasse

While Italian at heart, both offer a sophisticated twist on traditional dishes, making for a memorable dining experience.

The Crack ShackBok a Bok Fried Chicken

Both specialize in gourmet chicken dishes, offering casual dining with a punch of flavor.

George's at the CoveRay’s Boathouse

Seafood lovers will find solace in these restaurants’ focus on fresh, local catches and stunning views.

Extraordinary DessertsMolly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream

A sweet tooth’s haven, both shops offer unique and decadent sweet treats.

PuestoBarrio

Both are beloved for their modern take on Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmospheres.

Pizza PortDelancey

For the love of pizza, both spots craft pies that pay homage to the art of pizza making.

Cowboy StarThe Butcher's Table

Steak enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on quality cuts and refined rustic dining at both locations.

By delving into the dining options that Seattle offers, new residents can find comfort and excitement in local flavors that reflect those they cherished in San Diego. For instance, Canlis in Seattle mirrors Juniper & Ivy's commitment to culinary excellence and innovation, providing an upscale dining experience that's hard to forget. Likewise, El Camión's authentic Mexican food offers a taste of home that's reminiscent of Lolita's Mexican Food, ensuring comfort through familiar flavors. Seattle's culinary scene, with places like The Butcher's Table, not only offers a new spot for steak lovers to gather but also exudes the warmth and quality reminiscent of Cowboy Star, making it easier for newcomers to settle in and find their go-to spots in a new city.

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Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, it's critical to compare the real estate markets of your current and future homes. Understanding how San Diego and Seattle stack up against each other in terms of housing can make your transition smoother. This comparison covers cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

In comparing San Diego and Seattle, you'll find that both cities offer unique living experiences geared towards diverse lifestyles. San Diego's real estate highlights include homes with Spanish Colonial architecture and features like pools and ocean views, emphasizing outdoor living and leisure. Seattle, on the other hand, leans towards Craftsman and contemporary styles, with listings often boasting mountain views and eco-friendly features. This reflects Seattle's emphasis on sustainability and nature. Moreover, Seattle ranks higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, suggesting a more condensed urban experience compared to the sprawling layout of San Diego. Whether your priority is being close to the ocean or having sustainable living options, both cities have distinct characters that cater to different preferences.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Seattle

If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help you adjust better and plan accordingly. Explore how the weather in San Diego and Seattle differs to make your transition smoother.

Summer icon
76°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 49°F

San Diego, CA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

37

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When comparing the weather in San Diego and Seattle, you'll find noteworthy differences that might affect your lifestyle. While both cities enjoy mild summers, Seattle's winter temperatures are considerably lower than San Diego's, necessitating warmer clothing and potentially affecting your daily routine. Seattle also experiences more rainy days, which contributes to its lush green scenery but might require an adjustment if you're used to the abundant sunshine of San Diego. Furthermore, the differences in air quality and natural disasters between the two locations highlight the importance of preparing for the specific challenges each city faces.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. Our chart highlights San Diego and Seattle's financial aspects , helping you gauge how your financial life might shift. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and income potential in both locations can ease your transition.

The financial landscapes of San Diego and Seattle display marked differences that could affect your living standards after moving. Seattle's higher average household income reflects its thriving economy, driven significantly by the technology and aerospace industries. However, this income comes with a higher cost of living, notably in housing and sales taxes, which could offset the advantage of having no state income tax. Moreover, each city's unique economic makeup —from San Diego's defense and tourism to Seattle's tech boom— presents varied job opportunities and living conditions that are important to consider in planning your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Diego, CA and Seattle, WA

This guide aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the political and religious makeup of the residents when moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA . Knowing this can help you get a sense of the community vibes in each city.

San DiegoSeattle

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Mixed on various issues, moderateProgressive on most issues

Religion

Varied, with a notable Catholic presence SD CatholicLess religiously affiliated overall

While both San Diego and Seattle lean towards Democratic values, your experience in local politics will likely shift considerably as Seattle is known for its progressive stance on many issues, from environmental policies to social justice. In terms of religion, if you're moving from San Diego, you might notice a change, as Seattle tends to have a higher percentage of residents who identify as non-religious. However, both cities embrace a variety of faiths and sects, ensuring you'll likely find a community that fits your beliefs.

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

Moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA? This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between the two cities to help you understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Whether considering public transit availability or wondering if you can get by without a car, we've got you covered.

San DiegoSeattle
24.727.7

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some difficultyYes, more easily

Can you get by without car?

In both cities, the average commute time reflects the urban spread and density, however, Seattle has a slightly higher average due to its more pronounced traffic congestion. This is mirrored by Seattle's higher public transit score, indicating a more developed and accessible public transportation system compared to San Diego. This also contributes to the ease of living without a car in Seattle versus San Diego, where it might be slightly more challenging but still possible. For those moving from San Diego to Seattle, it's encouraging to know that adapting to the transport and traffic dynamics in Seattle may be smoother than anticipated.

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