Best San Diego to Tacoma Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sun-kissed beaches of San Diego, CA, to the lush, evergreen landscapes of Tacoma, WA, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're transitioning from the laid-back vibe of "America's Finest City" to the rich cultural tapestry and rainy days of "The City of Destiny." Recognizing the vast distance and change in environment, it's paramount you entrust your journey to professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the most reliable and trusted movers, ensuring your adventure begins on the best note possible.
Best San Diego to Tacoma Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Rock Movers | 9.50 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.47 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| First Due Movers | 9.26 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.95 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to San Diego guide.
5 Best San Diego to Tacoma Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
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. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Finding your perfect neighborhood in a new city can be challenging. To ease the transition, we've created this guide to compare the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Tacoma, WA . This will help you match your current favorite local spots with new ones, making Tacoma feel like home in no time.
| San Diego | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Old Town | Waterfront views, upscale living |
| Pacific Beach | North End | Vibrant community, beach access |
| Hillcrest | Stadium District | Diverse, inclusive community |
| North Park | 6th Avenue | Artsy vibe, local boutiques |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Downtown Tacoma | Historic buildings, nightlife |
| Little Italy | Proctor District | Charming, family-friendly area |
| Point Loma | Ruston | Waterfront activities, scenic views |
| Del Mar | Fircrest | Quiet, upscale neighborhood |
| Ocean Beach | Titlow Beach | Laid-back atmosphere, beachside locale |
| Coronado | Browns Point | Exclusive, with waterfront access |
Exploring Tacoma's neighborhoods akin to those in San Diego will lead you to discover wonderful local spots such as the cozy Old Town Tacoma, perfect for waterfront dining and splendid views similar to La Jolla. For arts and culture enthusiasts accustomed to North Park's bustling scene, the 6th Avenue in Tacoma offers an eclectic mix of shops, eateries, and events reminiscent of that artsy vibe. Those moving from Hillcrest may find a new haven in the Stadium District, rich with diverse eateries and inclusive community events, mirroring the ambiance of its San Diego counterpart. And if you're from the Gaslamp Quarter looking for that blend of historic charm and vibrant nightlife, Downtown Tacoma will not disappoint with its array of shops, museums, and dining options.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another brings its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Tacoma, WA, ensuring you're well-informed to make your decision. Let's delve into the contrasts to better understand this transition.
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less rainfall
- Heavy traffic
- Broad beaches
Tacoma, WA- More affordable housing
- Greener landscapes
- Less congestion
- Lush parks
Tacoma, WA- Frequent rain
- Quieter nightlife
- Cooler climate
- Smaller food scene
San Diego, CA- Warm beaches
- Vibrant nightlife
- Year-round sun
- Diverse dining
Moving from San Diego's perpetual sunshine and sprawling beaches to Tacoma's lush, green landscapes and vibrant community offers both an exciting new chapter and an adjustment. While you may miss the bustling Gaslamp Quarter's vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options, Tacoma invites you to explore its own unique charm. The city's heart pulses in locations like Point Defiance Park, with its expansive gardens and hiking trails, and the Ruston Way waterfront providing stunning views of Puget Sound. Don't overlook the burgeoning food scene in neighborhoods like 6th Avenue, where cozy cafes like Metronome Coffee and innovative dining spots like The Parkway Tavern offer a taste of Tacoma's culinary diversity. Moving from San Diego to Tacoma presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in a community rich with natural beauty, a more affordable cost of living, and a slower-paced lifestyle, all of which contribute significantly to the quality of life.
San Diego vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Tacoma, showcasing how food is a vital part of local culture and what living in either area might taste like. We aim to give readers a flavorful preview of their potential new home.
| San Diego | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Teriyaki Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Fish & Chips |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Diego, the culinary scene is deeply influenced by its proximity to Mexico, which brings a fantastic variety of Mexican-inspired dishes to the table, notably the iconic fish tacos. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter are bustling with food venues, where locals and visitors alike savor dishes from award-winning restaurants such as George's at the Cove. Moving up the coast to Tacoma, the food scene embraces its maritime heritage, with Dungeness crab and other seafood delights taking center stage. The city's Ruston Way Waterfront provides a scenic backdrop to enjoy these local dishes, offering both a robust culinary experience and picturesque views. Tacoma also treasures its unique blend of global cuisines, evident in the popularity of vegan pho and a plethora of teriyaki spots scattered throughout the city.
San Diego vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the role familiar flavors play in making a new city feel like home is crucial when relocating. This restaurant comparison aims to bridge the culinary gap between San Diego and Tacoma, guiding you towards discovering your next go-to spots for exceptional dining experiences. Whether it's upscale dining, casual bites, or iconic meals, this comparison will ease your transition by connecting you with equivalent eateries in your new city.
| San Diego | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Over the Moon Café | Offers a similarly innovative and upscale dining experience |
| Phil’s BBQ | Texas BBQ | Local favorite for a relaxed atmosphere and smoked meats |
| Hodad's | Shake Shake Shake | Known for their quality burgers and retro vibe |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Taqueria El Sabor | Authentic Mexican food with a focus on tacos and homemade salsas |
| Puesto | Mexican Paradise Cafe | Offers inventive Mexican cuisine in a casual setting |
| Mister A’s | Stanley & Seafort's | Refined dining with a spectacular view, mirroring Mister A’s ambiance |
| Cucina Urbana | Viva | Brings a modern twist to Italian classics in a trendy setting |
| Sushi Ota | Sushi Tama | Renowned for their fresh, high-quality sushi and traditional atmosphere |
| Herb & Wood | Table 47 | Offers creative, farm-to-table dishes in an upscale environment |
| Born & Raised | Boathouse 19 | Similar upscale steakhouse experience with a focus on local ingredients |
When settling into Tacoma, you won't have to leave your culinary preferences behind. For instance, Over the Moon Café’s imaginative dishes provide a welcoming, upscale setting that mirrors Juniper & Ivy's creativity back in San Diego. Meanwhile, BBQ enthusiasts will find solace in Texas BBQ's hearty smoked delights, echoing the laid-back vibe and mouth-watering plates of Phil’s BBQ. Taco aficionados mourning the distance from Las Cuatro Milpas will be pleased to discover Taqueria El Sabor's commitment to authentic Mexican flavors and handcrafted salsas. These careful pairings ensure that even though the scenery may change, the essence of your favorite meals can still be found and savored in Tacoma.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is crucial. This guide looks at San Diego, CA and Tacoma, WA , focusing on various housing aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences will help you navigate your relocation process more smoothly.
| Comparison | San Diego | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean View, Modern Amenities | Mountain View, Large Yards |
When comparing San Diego and Tacoma, the stark contrast in median home prices and rents stands out, making Tacoma a more affordable option. However, affordability isn't the sole factor to consider. San Diego's higher cost of living is accompanied by a more urban lifestyle and modern amenities in the homes, reflective of its Spanish Colonial architecture. Contrastingly, Tacoma's Craftsman-style homes and larger yards offer a different appeal, promoting a blend of city life with a touch of nature. Walkability and bikeability scores show that while San Diego is slightly more walkable, Tacoma offers better opportunities for cyclists. Considering these factors gives a rounded perspective on what each city has to offer beyond just the financial aspects.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
San Diego vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one city to another, comparing the climate and weather conditions is crucial. This comparison will provide insights into how the weather in San Diego and Tacoma differs, helping you adjust to your new environment more easily. Understanding variations in temperature, sunlight, and natural phenomena is key to preparing for your relocation.
San Diego, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The stark contrast in the number of sunny days—San Diego enjoys 266 days of sunshine, while Tacoma sees around 142—might surprise newcomers. This considerable difference impacts not just daily life but also affects mood and activities available in the area. Moreover, Tacoma's higher humidity and annual rainfall make for a lush, green environment, but it also means more overcast days. The cooler, more variable climate of Tacoma compared to San Diego's mild, arid conditions necessitates a wardrobe adjustment, preparation for more indoor activities during the colder months, and perhaps even adjusting your home for better insulation and humidity control.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Tacoma
When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Tacoma, WA, it's essential to grasp how the financial and economic aspects of your life might shift. This comparison aims to highlight differences in cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities between San Diego and Tacoma , providing a clearer picture of what to expect in your new home.
| Comparison | San Diego | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76 | 1.08 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 10.2 |
| Top 3 Industries | Biotech, Tourism, Defense | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
While San Diego boasts a higher average household income compared to Tacoma, it's crucial to note the significant difference in the cost of living and state income tax. Tacoma offers a more affordable lifestyle with a lower cost of living index and no state income tax, which can be particularly beneficial for your budget. Moreover, Tacoma's property and sales taxes are higher, yet this is somewhat mitigated by the overall affordability of the city. Understanding these financial aspects will enable you to make an informed decision and plan your move effectively, taking into consideration your income, preferred lifestyle, and potential savings.
San Diego vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
If you're contemplating a move from San Diego, CA to Tacoma, WA, understanding the communities you're transitioning between can help ease the adaptation process. This comparison gives a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing particularly on the comparison of the politics between San Diego & Tacoma alongside religious inclinations.
| San Diego | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democrat | Lean Democrat |
| Local Politics | Diverse and active | Community-focused |
| Religion | Mixed, with notable Christian churches | Mixed, presence of diverse faith communities |
In both San Diego and Tacoma, you'll find a political climate that leans towards Democrat, reflecting a potentially smoother transition for you in terms of political ideologies. However, the nature of local politics does vary. San Diego's political scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting its status as a large city with a wide range of issues and interests. In contrast, Tacoma's local politics are deeply community-focused, with an emphasis on local issues and community well-being. On the religious front, both cities offer a mix of faith communities. San Diego is home to notable Christian congregations, while Tacoma prides itself on a broad spectrum of faith groups, highlighting the diversity and inclusivity found within both cities.
San Diego vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Tacoma, WA offers a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options between these two coastal cities. Understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic situations can enhance your relocation experience and help you prepare for your new life in Tacoma.
| Comparison | San Diego | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 25.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | More challenging |
Considering the move from San Diego to Tacoma, you'll find slight differences in commute times, with Tacoma averaging a minute longer. However, a more notable difference is seen in traffic congestion levels, with Tacoma experiencing less congestion compared to San Diego. This could result in a more pleasant daily commute in Tacoma. On the other hand, Tacoma's public transit options are not as robust as San Diego's, making it more challenging to get around without a car. This highlights the importance of considering your transportation options and possibly revisiting your decision about keeping or acquiring a vehicle for your new home in Tacoma.
Popular San Diego, CA to Washington Moving Routes
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