Moving from St. Paul to San Diego?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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St. Paul to San Diego Movers

Moving from the vibrant, snowy cityscape of St. Paul, MN to the sunny shores of San Diego, CA, represents an exhilarating life adventure, full of new possibilities. You're trading the "Twin City's" charm and seasonal festivities for "America's Finest City," known for its endless beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and bustling tech scene. Given the vast distance and lifestyle change between these cities, securing trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we've thoroughly vetted at Great Guys Moving, becomes crucial for a smooth transition to your exciting new chapter.

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

5 Best St. Paul to San Diego Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,008+ data points

Location DotHopkins, MN
GearResidential Moving, Business Moving, Long Distance Residential Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/12/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3742268 Verify

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in fertile 2023 metro movers image
#2
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 477+ data points

Location DotSan Diego, CA
GearLocal Moves, Long-Distance Moves, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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 >>

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#3
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 528+ data points

Location DotMinneapolis, MN
GearCheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2846187 Verify

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in blaine 2023 general expert moving service llc image
top 10 ranked movers in bloomington 2022 general expert moving service llc image
#4
Goal Line Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 664+ data points

Location DotPlymouth, MN
GearLocal Moving, Commercial Moving, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2926126 Verify

About Goal Line Moving

Located in Ham Lake, MN, Goal Line Moving is a family-owned and operated company with four years in the business and over 3,000 local moves....Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in st paul 2023 goal line moving image
top 10 ranked movers in st paul 2022 goal line moving image
#5
M
Exceptional

based on 1,080+ data points

Location DotSan Diego, CA
GearCheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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 St. Paul to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

When relocating from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with the new environment is crucial. To help with this, we've created a comparison to assist in transitioning from St. Paul, MN to San Diego, CA using local neighborhoods as a baseline. This guide identifies neighborhoods in St. Paul and pairs them with their San Diego counterparts, highlighting their similarities to make your move feel a little closer to home.

St. PaulSan Diego
Macalester-GrovelandNorth Park

Artsy, vibrant community

Summit-UniversityHillcrest

Diverse, historic charm

Highland ParkDel Mar

Upscale, coastal living

LowertownEast Village

Urban, creative spaces

Merriam ParkKensington

Quiet, family-friendly

St. Anthony ParkLa Jolla

Academic, ocean proximity

Dayton's BluffGolden Hill

Historic homes, views

ComoEncinitas

Laid-back, beach lifestyle

Cathedral HillBankers Hill

Architectural beauty, walkable

West SeventhLittle Italy

Foodie paradise, lively

In discovering your new home in San Diego, places like North Park will resonate with lovers of Macalester-Groveland's artsy vibe, offering a plethora of galleries, indie shops, and craft coffee spots akin to those in St. Paul. For a taste of coastal living with an upscale flair reminiscent of Highland Park, Del Mar provides exquisite beachfront dining and boutique shopping. History buffs moving from Dayton's Bluff will find Golden Hill's historic homes and sweeping city views captivating, maintaining a connection to the past in a new setting. And for those who have enjoyed the lively atmosphere and dining options of West Seventh, Little Italy's vibrant food scene and frequent festivals will quickly feel like home, bridging your transition with familiar joys and new experiences.

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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

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Pros and Cons of Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

Moving from one city to another often involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from St. Paul, MN to San Diego, CA . The purpose of the forthcoming charts is to visually represent the pros and cons on each side of the move, helping you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
St. Paul, MN iconSt. Paul, MN
  • Cold winters
  • Lesser cultural diversity
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less ocean access
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Warm weather
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Larger city vibe
  • Beaches & ocean
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Less personal
  • Fewer green spaces
  • Less seasonality
St. Paul, MN iconSt. Paul, MN
  • Low cost of living
  • Tight-knit communities
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Seasonal changes

While the transition from St. Paul to San Diego involves leaving behind the charm of tight-knit communities such as the neighborhood around Grand Avenue, known for cozy cafés like Café Latte, and the lush green spaces of Como Park, it also opens up a new world of experiences. San Diego offers an unbeatable year-round climate that makes every day perfect for enjoying its famed beaches, like La Jolla Shores. The cultural diversity in areas like the Gaslamp Quarter enriches life with a variety of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options, including favorites like Lolita's Mexican Food. Though the cost of living is higher, the quality of life and outdoor activities in places such as Balboa Park, often justify the expense for many.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

Food is a crucial aspect of understanding local culture and the living experience in a new area. To help you grasp what culinary delights await, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Paul & San Diego so you can get a taste of what your new home has to offer.

St. PaulSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

Jucy Lucy
Fish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Walleyed Pike
Carne Asada

Most popular street food item

Hot Dish
California Burrito

Most popular vegan food

Wild Rice Soup
Avocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Matt's Bar
  • Meritage
  • The Lexington
  • Hodad's
  • Phil’s BBQ
  • George’s at the Cove

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

6
9

When moving from St. Paul to San Diego, you'll transition from the hearty, comfort foods such as the iconic Juicy Lucy to the fresh and vibrant flavors iconic to Southern California, like the renowned Fish Tacos. San Diego's culinary scene is deeply influenced by its beach lifestyle and proximity to Mexico, making seafood and Mexican dishes staples. The Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy are must-visit neighborhoods for foodies, offering a plethora of dining options from high-end to street food, such as California Burritos from food trucks. Vegan options are abundantly more available in San Diego, with neighborhoods like Hillcrest offering a variety of plant-based dining experiences. The shift to San Diego's dining landscape is a vivid reflection of its health-conscious and diverse culinary culture.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

Food plays a vital role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison charts the journey from St. Paul to San Diego, helping you find new favorite spots that echo the familiar flavors of your current hometown.

MeritageJeune et Jolie

French-inspired cuisine with modern flair

HeartlandFarmers Table

Focus on farm-to-table dining and sustainability

Cossetta'sLittle Italy Food Hall

Varied Italian offerings in a lively setting

Mancini's Char HouseLou & Mickey's

Classic steaks and seafood with a similar old-school vibe

The LexingtonMadison on Park

Upscale dining with a unique and modern approach

Brasa Premium RotisserieCori Pastificio

Emphasis on rotisserie and simple, high-quality ingredients

Happy GnomeBallast Point Brewing

Expansive craft beer selection and elevated pub fare

Khyber Pass CaféKous Kous Moroccan Bistro

Authentic flavors and a cozy, intimate setting

Grand CatchIronside Fish & Oyster

Exceptional seafood with an innovative twist

Blue Door PubHodad's

Beloved for burgers and a laid-back, classic atmosphere

While you may miss the cozy, nostalgic ambiance of Cossetta's in St. Paul, the vibrant and eclectic environment of the Little Italy Food Hall in San Diego offers a multitude of Italian offerings that will surely become a new favorite. Similarly, if you loved the rotisserie flavors of Brasa Premium Rotisserie, then Cori Pastificio's focus on high-quality ingredients and Italian cuisine presents a delightful new dining experience. On the other hand, the transition from Happy Gnome’s expansive craft beer selection to the rich and diverse beer offerings at Ballast Point Brewing ensures your taste buds remain thrilled by local craft excellence in your new city. Exploring these culinary equivalents offers a delicious pathway to discovering the unique flavors and dining cultures between St. Paul and San Diego.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

Understanding the nuances of real estate is crucial when considering a move, particularly when comparing St. Paul and San Diego. Deciding where to lay down roots involves a deep dive into housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.

When delving deeper into the housing specifics between St. Paul and San Diego, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rent prices stands out, reflecting the premium for California's sought-after climate and ocean proximity. St. Paul offers a different charm with its Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, appealing to those who appreciate a mix of historical and cozy neighborhood vibes. Meanwhile, San Diego's Spanish Revival and modern homes cater to those seeking a blend of traditional elegance and contemporary design. Despite the geographical distance and lifestyle differences, both cities tout unique traits that cater to diverse preferences, whether you're leaning towards the Midwestern charm of St. Paul or the coastal allure of San Diego.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison between St. Paul, MN, and San Diego, CA, will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for new weather patterns, ensuring a smoother transition.

Summer icon
83°F / 63°F

St. Paul, MN

77°F / 68°F

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
23°F / 7°F

St. Paul, MN

66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
32

St. Paul, MN

10

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
52

St. Paul, MN

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from St. Paul, MN to San Diego, CA represents a significant change in weather patterns. You'll exchange harsh winters with considerable snowfall for mild, comfortable winters and a substantial increase in days of sunshine per year. Prepare to adapt to more UV exposure in San Diego, meaning sunscreen and skin protection become more crucial. The drastic decrease in annual rainfall and absence of snow in San Diego might be a welcome change, but it comes with its challenges, such as adapting to a different set of natural disasters, including the risk of wildfires and earthquakes.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

When moving from St. Paul, MN to San Diego, CA, it's essential to grasp the financial landscape you're entering. This comparison sheds light on the financial implications of relocating from St. Paul to San Diego , focusing on various economic factors that will influence your pocket. Understanding these differences will ensure a smoother transition to your new city.

Moving from St. Paul to San Diego will introduce you to a new financial climate. You'll notice a higher average household income in San Diego, which may seem appealing, but it's matched by a significantly higher cost of living index. This underscores the importance of budgeting effectively for expenses such as housing, which generally command a premium due to the coastal city's desirability. The diversity of top industries between the two cities reflects distinct economic landscapes, with San Diego's emphasis on defense/military, tourism, and technology offering unique job opportunities. Additionally, while both cities face challenges with homelessness, preparing for the economic realities of San Diego, including higher state income and property taxes, will be crucial for a smooth transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between St. Paul, MN and San Diego, CA

This comparison of the politics and religious demographics between St. Paul & San Diego offers a quick glimpse into the cultural and societal makeup of your current and future home. Understanding these factors can help you better assimilate into your new community.

St. PaulSan Diego

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Active civic engagementHigh involvement in local issues

Religion

Mixed, with Christian majorityDiverse, strong presence of Christian and non-Christian faiths

Both St. Paul and San Diego boast a politically liberal and Democratic-leaning citizenry, yet the specific ways in which residents engage with their local communities might offer new experiences for you. In St. Paul, community engagement is high, with forums and initiatives aimed at keeping residents involved in civic matters. San Diego mirrors this to an extent but also offers a broader spectrum of interests, with a noticeable emphasis on environmental and cross-border issues, given its proximity to Mexico. When it comes to religious communities, while both cities present a diverse array of faiths, you'll find San Diego's climate fosters an even wider variety, from large Christian congregations to Buddhist temples and Islamic centers, reflecting its more varied demographic. Transitioning between these vibrant communities might offer you a rich cultural shift to appreciate and adapt to.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to San Diego

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between St. Paul & San Diego is key to easing your transition and helping you better prepare for your daily commute.

St. PaulSan Diego
2325

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

56

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingManageable

Can you get by without car?

In St. Paul, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in San Diego, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easier to get around. While both cities experience their fair share of traffic, San Diego’s congestion levels are a tad higher, which makes sense given its sprawling layout and reliance on freeways. However, San Diego compensates with better public transit options, making it a bit easier for those without cars. In St. Paul, not having a car can be quite challenging due to less extensive public transit systems, although efforts are being made to improve this. Understanding these differences can help you plan your commute more effectively and choose the right transportation method for your lifestyle in your new city.

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