Moving from San Diego to Tacoma?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Diego to Tacoma Movers

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.

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

5 Best San Diego to Tacoma 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 >>

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#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
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,542+ data points

Preston, WA
Residential Moves, Commercial Moves, Long-Distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1990914 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in tacoma 2023 first due movers image
top 10 ranked movers in tacoma 2022 first due movers image
#4
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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in bellevue 2022 people movers 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 Tacoma Neighborhood Guide

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 DiegoTacoma
La JollaOld Town

Waterfront views, upscale living

Pacific BeachNorth End

Vibrant community, beach access

HillcrestStadium District

Diverse, inclusive community

North Park6th Avenue

Artsy vibe, local boutiques

Gaslamp QuarterDowntown Tacoma

Historic buildings, nightlife

Little ItalyProctor District

Charming, family-friendly area

Point LomaRuston

Waterfront activities, scenic views

Del MarFircrest

Quiet, upscale neighborhood

Ocean BeachTitlow Beach

Laid-back atmosphere, beachside locale

CoronadoBrowns 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.

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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
  • Attend Tacoma Art Walk

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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.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less rainfall
  • Heavy traffic
  • Broad beaches
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • More affordable housing
  • Greener landscapes
  • Less congestion
  • Lush parks
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Frequent rain
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Cooler climate
  • Smaller food scene
San Diego, CA iconSan 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.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Diego to Tacoma

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 DiegoTacoma

Most iconic local food item

Fish TacosDungeness Crab

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaTeriyaki Chicken

Most popular street food item

California BurritoFish & Chips

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastVegan Pho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Hodad's
  • Phil's BBQ
  • George's at the Cove
  • The Fish Peddler
  • MSM Deli
  • Stanley & Seafort's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

96

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

97

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.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Diego to Tacoma

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.

Juniper & IvyOver the Moon Café

Offers a similarly innovative and upscale dining experience

Phil’s BBQTexas BBQ

Local favorite for a relaxed atmosphere and smoked meats

Hodad'sShake Shake Shake

Known for their quality burgers and retro vibe

Las Cuatro MilpasTaqueria El Sabor

Authentic Mexican food with a focus on tacos and homemade salsas

PuestoMexican Paradise Cafe

Offers inventive Mexican cuisine in a casual setting

Mister A’sStanley & Seafort's

Refined dining with a spectacular view, mirroring Mister A’s ambiance

Cucina UrbanaViva

Brings a modern twist to Italian classics in a trendy setting

Sushi OtaSushi Tama

Renowned for their fresh, high-quality sushi and traditional atmosphere

Herb & WoodTable 47

Offers creative, farm-to-table dishes in an upscale environment

Born & RaisedBoathouse 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.

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Ready to start your move?

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

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.

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.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Tacoma

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.

Summer icon
76°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

77°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 49°F

San Diego, CA

47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

San Diego, CA

40

Tacoma, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

6

Tacoma, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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.

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.

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

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 DiegoTacoma

Political Make-up

Lean DemocratLean Democrat

Local Politics

Diverse and activeCommunity-focused

Religion

Mixed, with notable Christian churchesMixed, 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.

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

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.

San DiegoTacoma
24.725.4

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

75

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

64

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingMore challenging

Can you get by without a car?

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.

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