Best Tampa to San Diego Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the vibrant, bay-front life of Tampa, FL to the laid-back, sunny vibes of San Diego, CA is an adventure that promises both excitement and a beautiful change of scenery. Leaving behind the "Cigar City" for the "Birthplace of California" means swapping humid summers and lively Latin influences for endless beaches and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Given the distance and the life-changing nature of this move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers the country has to offer, ensuring your journey is smooth and stress-free.
Best Tampa to San Diego 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 |
| Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Big Man's Moving Company | 8.18 | A- | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Tampa guide.
5 Best Tampa to San Diego 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 Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a comprehensive range of se...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (2023) |
About Big Man's Moving Company
Big Man’s Moving Company is a top-rated local and long-distance mover in Tampa, FL. It has helped over 6,000 people relocate successfully si...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Out of State Moving
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.
Tampa vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help someone familiarize themselves with an unfamiliar city by using their existing city as a baseline. We'll explore the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tampa, FL & San Diego, CA, identifying similar areas based on lifestyle, culture, and amenities. This guide aims to make you feel right at home in your new neighborhood.
| Tampa | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Hyde Park | North Park | Trendy, historic homes |
| South Tampa | Point Loma | Upscale, coastal charm |
| Ybor City | Hillcrest | Vibrant nightlife, rich history |
| Davis Islands | Coronado | Luxurious, island living |
| Seminole Heights | Golden Hill | Artsy, eclectic vibe |
| New Tampa | Carmel Valley | Family-friendly, modern |
| Westchase | Rancho Bernardo | Well-planned, community-focused |
| Carrollwood | Del Cerro | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Channelside | Little Italy | Bustling, urban waterfront |
| Palma Ceia | La Jolla | Upscale, picturesque beaches |
Exploring these neighborhoods further, if you love the quaint, tree-lined streets of Hyde Park, with its charming bungalows and vibrant dining scene, including hotspots like Bartaco, you'll find a similar appeal in North Park. San Diego's North Park boasts historic homes and trendy eateries such as Crazee Burger. For those intrigued by Ybor City's rich cultural tapestry and bustling nightlife, Hillcrest offers a comparable experience with its colorful festivals and renowned establishments like Urban MO's Bar & Grill. Lastly, if the luxurious island life of Davis Islands appeals to you, Coronado will captivate you with its world-famous Hotel del Coronado, pristine beaches, and exclusive lifestyle, mirroring the opulent yet serene ambiance you're accustomed to.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tampa to San Diego
Moving across the country is a major life decision that deserves a deep dive into the benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA . Through carefully crafted charts, we'll explore how your lifestyle might change for better or worse.
Tampa, FL- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Less cultural diversity
- More affordable
San Diego, CA- Mild climate
- Lower disaster risk
- Greater cultural diversity
- Better job market
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Less affordable housing
- Cooler summers
Tampa, FL- Beach access
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Lower cost of living
- Warmer winters
Moving from Tampa to San Diego means trading in Florida's high humidity and hurricane seasons for California's mild climate and lower risk of natural disasters. While Tampa may offer a more affordable cost of living, San Diego's vibrant job market in sectors like biotech and defense may balance the scales. The transition from the Gulf Coast's laid-back lifestyle to the West Coast's dynamic diversity can be a thrilling change. In San Diego, neighborhoods such as Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter offer an array of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences that are unmatched. Balboa Park, a cultural icon with numerous museums, gardens, and the famed San Diego Zoo, is a testament to the city's rich cultural fabric. For beach lovers, the shift from Tampa's beaches to the iconic shores of La Jolla or Coronado in San Diego presents a unique blend of surf, sand, and sunsets, making the move a gateway to new adventures.
Tampa vs. San Diego Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tampa & San Diego to help you understand the food scene in your new city. Food is a crucial part of local culture, and knowing what culinary delights await can make your move exciting.
| Tampa | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cuban Sandwich | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Grouper Sandwich | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Deviled Crab | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Tampa, the Cuban Sandwich reigns supreme, especially in historic Ybor City, where you can experience its rich flavor at numerous local shops. Similarly, San Diego's food scene is synonymous with the California Burrito, with spots like Lolita's Mexican Food and Tacos El Gordo being local favorites. Both cities offer a vibrant food scene, but San Diego slightly edges out with a stronger focus on health-conscious and vegan options, reflective of its fitness-centric lifestyle. Explore the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego or take a stroll down Tampa's Riverwalk to savor diverse culinary delights that encapsulate the essence of each city.
Tampa vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering local dining gems is key to feeling at home in a new city. Through this restaurant comparison from Tampa to San Diego , find familiar flavors and ambiance to ease your transition. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or casual, iconic meals, this guide will assist in finding your next favorite eatery, turning your move into a delicious adventure.
| Tampa | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bern's Steak House | Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop | High-end steaks with a commitment to quality meats |
| Columbia Restaurant | Café Sevilla | Authentic Spanish cuisine with live performances |
| Ulele | Kettner Exchange | Creative American cuisine with a local twist |
| Charley's Steak House | Fleming's Prime Steakhouse | Upscale dining for steak enthusiasts |
| Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe | Great Maple | Unique comfort foods with an eclectic flair |
| La Terrazza Restaurant | Bencotto Italian Kitchen | Masterfully crafted Italian dishes in a cozy setting |
| Datz | Hash House A Go Go | Creative and oversized versions of American classics |
| Guppy's on the Beach | George’s at the Cove – Ocean Terrace | Oceanfront dining with fresh seafood |
| Oxford Exchange | Liberty Public Market | Diverse culinary experiences in a market setting |
| Rooster & the Till | Juniper & Ivy | Innovative and refined modern American cuisine |
As you embark on your culinary journey in San Diego, establishments like Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop and Café Sevilla stand out for their dedication to quality and authentic experiences, mirroring the cherished dining spots of Tampa. San Diego’s Kettner Exchange offers innovative dishes with a local San Diego twist, reminiscent of Ulele’s commitment to creative American cuisine. For those seeking comfort with a side of creativity, Great Maple in San Diego echoes the eclectic charm and unique flavors found at Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe. Each restaurant on this list not only serves as a bridge between your old and new homes but also showcases the distinctive culinary flair that makes each city special.
Ready to start your move?
Tampa vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. This comparison aims to provide insights into how Tampa, FL and San Diego, CA stack up against each other regarding housing . From costs to lifestyle, understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Tampa | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mediterranean, Craftsman | Spanish Colonial, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront, Dock | Ocean View, Eco-Friendly |
Moving from Tampa to San Diego means preparing for higher housing costs, but also enjoying a more urban lifestyle with better walkability and bikeability. San Diego’s median home price and rent are significantly higher than Tampa's, reflecting its desirability and the cost of living near the coast. The typical architecture in San Diego leans more towards Spanish Colonial and modern designs, aligning with the city's historical roots and contemporary ethos. Urban lifestyle scores higher in San Diego, supported by its diverse neighborhoods and the emphasis on eco-friendly living. These factors contribute to making San Diego an attractive, albeit pricier, place to call home.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Tampa vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will illustrate what climate changes you can expect and how well you'll adapt to your new environment. Let’s compare the Tampa and San Diego weather to see how they stack up.
Tampa, FL
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tampa, FL
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tampa | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Tampa and San Diego both offer warm environments conducive to outdoor activities year-round, they differ significantly in humidity and rainfall. San Diego's lower humidity and sparse rainfall offer a more comfortable climate, especially for those not fond of Florida's intense summer humidity. Additionally, with more days of sunshine and better air quality, San Diego may provide a healthier living environment. It's also worth noting the difference in natural disasters, from hurricanes in Tampa to earthquakes in San Diego, which could affect your insurance and emergency planning.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tampa to San Diego
When considering a move from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA, it's essential to grasp how your finances will be affected. This comparison aims to shed light on the cost of living and financial landscape in both cities , ensuring you're well-prepared for your transition.
| Comparison | Tampa | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,404 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.4 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | Approx. 9.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.97% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Retail | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | moderate | higher |
| Poverty | present | less visible |
| Homelessness | issue | significant concern |
Understanding the financial implications of moving from Tampa to San Diego is crucial for a smooth transition. The average household income in San Diego is significantly higher than in Tampa, which mirrors the city's substantially higher cost of living index. California's state income tax also presents a notable adjustment for those moving from tax-free Florida. Despite this, the allure of San Diego's robust defense, tourism, and international trade industries might offset these financial challenges for some. Additionally, while both cities face challenges with homelessness, San Diego reports it as a significant concern, reflecting broader statewide issues.
Tampa vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Tampa to San Diego? This quick overview offers an at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand how the political and religious makeup between Tampa & San Diego compares. This comparison aims to prepare you for the community you're planning to call home.
| Tampa | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive city initiatives | Strong military influence |
| Religion | Christian majority, diverse religious presence | Christian majority, with significant diverse religious groups |
Both Tampa and San Diego lean Democratic in their political makeup, reflecting a somewhat progressive stance in political perspectives shared by their inhabitants. While Tampa has been known for pushing forward progressive city initiatives, San Diego's political climate is deeply influenced by its strong military presence, shaping local politics and community values in unique ways. Religion in both cities is marked by a Christian majority, but there's also a rich tapestry of diverse religious communities. This creates an environment where various faiths coexist, contributing to the cities’ cultural diversity and inclusivity.
Tampa vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic to ensure a smooth transition. This comparison aims to give you insights into what driving and transiting are like in each city, helping you to plan your day more effectively.
| Comparison | Tampa | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25.4 | 24.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, with planning |
When comparing Tampa and San Diego, while both cities have relatively similar average commute times, San Diego presents slightly higher traffic congestion rates. However, the availability of public transit in San Diego is notably better, making it more feasible to live without a car – a significant distinction from Tampa. San Diego's public transit includes a broader network of buses and trolleys, linking key areas and attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and Seaport Village, thus, offering both residents and visitors more flexibility in their travel plans.
Popular Tampa, FL to California Moving Routes
- Tampa to Los Angeles
- Tampa to San Jose
- Tampa to San Francisco
- Tampa to Fresno
- Tampa to Sacramento
- Tampa to Long Beach
- Tampa to Oakland
- Tampa to Bakersfield
- Tampa to Anaheim
- Tampa to Santa Ana
- Tampa to Riverside
- Tampa to Stockton
- Tampa to Irvine
- Tampa to Chula Vista
- Tampa to Fremont
- Tampa to San Bernardino
- Tampa to Modesto
- Tampa to Fontana
- Tampa to Moreno Valley
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
