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St. Louis to San Diego Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Embarking on a move from the Gateway City to America's Finest City is not just a change of address; it's an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind St. Louis's iconic Gateway Arch and hearty BBQ for San Diego's endless beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and sunny disposition. Understanding the monumental shift from Midwestern charm to coastal allure underscores the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers for this long journey. At Great Guys Moving, we ensure your transition is smooth by connecting you with the best movers in the business, guaranteeing peace of mind from start to finish.

5 Best Movers for Moving from St. Louis to San Diego

#1
Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,711+ data points

St Charles, MO
Full Moving Service, Commercial Moving Service, Long Distance Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 3/5/2024)

USDOT: 4004648 Verify

About Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC

Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC is a full-time moving company servicing the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Thi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in st louis 2023 sunrise moving and packing llc image
top 10 ranked movers in st louis 2022 sunrise moving and packing llc image
#2
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 5/24/2024)

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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#3
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 5/23/2024)

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 >>

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#4
BEK Moving Co. Logo
Superb

based on 2,046+ data points

Arnold, MO
Residential moves (houses, apartments, high rises, etc.), Long-distance moves, Furniture disassembly & reassembly See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3237297 Verify

About BEK Moving Co.

Although BEK Moving Co. started in 2017, it has over 45 years of working experience performing residential moves, commercial relocations, an...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in st louis 2023 bek moving co 1 image
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#5
Modern Moving Company Logo
Superb

based on 811+ data points

St. Louis, MO
Cheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3876556 Verify

About Modern Moving Company

Modern Moving Company will take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy your move. This locally owned and operated business is based i...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in ofallon 2022 modern moving company image

Relocating from St. Louis to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with your new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison between neighborhoods in St. Louis, MO & San Diego, CA. This guide is designed to help you find a new community that feels like home by drawing parallels with what you already know and love. Let's find your new neighborhood.

St. LouisSan Diego
Central West EndHillcrest

Vibrant, diverse community

The HillLittle Italy

Rich cultural heritage

SoulardGaslamp Quarter

Lively nightlife and history

ClaytonLa Jolla

Upscale, sophisticated living

Forest ParkBalboa Park

Expansive parks and museums

Lafayette SquareBankers Hill

Historic, charming architecture

Tower Grove SouthNorth Park

Eclectic, artsy vibe

Saint Louis HillsPoint Loma

Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere

Cherokee StreetBarrio Logan

Vibrant art scene

MaplewoodNormal Heights

Quaint, with a strong sense of community

If you've enjoyed the vibrant and diverse atmosphere of Central West End with its mix of dining, shopping, and culture, you'll find Hillcrest in San Diego a perfect fit. Hillcrest is known for its welcoming community, bustling with various eateries and cafes like Bread & Cie and trendy retail options. For those who admire the rich cultural heritage and culinary wonders of The Hill, Little Italy in San Diego offers a similarly enriching experience, highlighted by its annual Little Italy Festa. Enjoy the historic charm and architectural beauty akin to Lafayette Square in San Diego's Bankers Hill, where you can walk down streets lined with ornate Victorian homes and have access to spectacular views of the San Diego Bay.

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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. Louis to San Diego

Moving from one city to another can be a life-changing decision. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from St. Louis, MO to San Diego, CA. Understanding both the pros and cons will help you make a well-informed decision about your move. Here's a closer look at what this shift means for you.

CONs
PROs
St. Louis, MO iconSt. Louis, MO
  • Higher crime rate
  • Harsh winters
  • Less job opportunities
  • Lower average income
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Safer neighborhoods
  • Mild climate
  • More job opportunities
  • Higher average income
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less cultural landmarks
  • More impersonal
  • Far from other cities
St. Louis, MO iconSt. Louis, MO
  • Lower cost of living
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Friendly locals
  • Central location

While relocating from St. Louis, MO to San Diego, CA presents the challenge of adjusting to a higher cost of living, the benefits may outweigh the cons for many. San Diego's mild climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Places like Balboa Park, with its lush gardens and museums, and the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, famous for its dining and nightlife, offer endless entertainment and cultural experiences. Despite the higher living costs, the increase in job opportunities in tech and biotech industries and the overall higher average income in San Diego could make this transition rewarding. On the other hand, St. Louis, with its rich history, offers cultural landmarks such as the iconic Gateway Arch and a plethora of gorgeous parks like Forest Park. Its central location in the United States also makes travel to other major cities more manageable. This move requires consideration of what you value most in your living environment.

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

Understanding the local cuisine is a key part of getting to know your new home. As you consider moving, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Louis & San Diego to help you get a taste of what culinary delights await you in each city.

St. LouisSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

St. Louis-style PizzaCalifornia Burrito

Most popular meat dish

St. Louis BBQ RibsCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

St. Louis Gooey Butter CakeFish Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ Jackfruit SandwichAvocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Pizzeoli
  • Bogart's Smokehouse
  • Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
  • Lolita's Mexican Food
  • Bronx Pizza
  • Plumeria Vegetarian

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

69

Abundance of Food Trucks

58

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

78

When it comes to food, both St. Louis and San Diego offer distinctive and delicious options that reflect their local cultures. For example, while St. Louis is famous for its unique style of pizza with a crispy thin crust, San Diego steals the spotlight with its signature California burrito, wrapped with fries inside for a unique twist. In San Diego, neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach are bustling hubs for food lovers, offering a range of eateries from high-end restaurants to casual food trucks, serving everything from fresh seafood to authentic Mexican cuisine. Meanwhile, in St. Louis, places like The Hill and South Grand are known for their diverse culinary scene, blending traditional American fare with international flavors. Whether you're craving St. Louis-style BBQ or San Diego's fresh fish tacos, both cities promise an exciting culinary adventure.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from St. Louis to San Diego

Finding comfort in your new city often begins at the dinner table. This chart offers a mouthwatering match-up, guiding you from the beloved flavors of St. Louis to comparable culinary delights in San Diego. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this comparison will help make San Diego feel like home.

Pappy's SmokehouseGrand Ole BBQ y Asado

Authentic slow-smoked BBQ reminiscent of Pappy's

Sidney Street CafeJuniper & Ivy

Innovative New American cuisine mirroring Sidney's creativity

Zia's on the HillBencotto Italian Kitchen

Homemade pasta and Italian classics akin to Zia's

Blueberry HillHash House a Go Go

Similar quirky vibe and hearty, eclectic dining options

Bogart's SmokehousePhil’s BBQ

A destination for BBQ lovers seeking a taste akin to Bogart's tender meats

Rooftop Bar at the Moonrise HotelThe Nolen

Rooftop bar offering panoramic views and a chic atmosphere, like the Moonrise

Charlie Gitto'sMona Lisa Italian Foods

Authentic Italian dining experience similar to Charlie Gitto's charm

The Shaved DuckCoop's West Texas BBQ

Coop's smoky flavors and rustic vibe channel The Shaved Duck's essence

Ted Drewes Frozen CustardMariposa Ice Cream

Home-style ice cream offering a nostalgic twist comparable to Ted Drewes

Crown Candy KitchenGhirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop

Historical charm and sweet treats akin to Crown Candy's legacy

Moving from the comfort food and iconic barbecue hubs of St. Louis to San Diego doesn't mean you have to compromise on your culinary favorites. Take Grand Ole BBQ y Asado, for example, which captures the essence of Pappy's Smokehouse's slow-cooked, smoky flavors. Or treat yourself to a nostalgic dessert at Mariposa Ice Cream, where the handcrafted, creamy delights are reminiscent of Ted Drewes' famous frozen custard. Such culinary gems in San Diego not only promise a seamless transition for your taste buds but also offer an opportunity to create new dining traditions in your new home.

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Ready to start your move?

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

Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move. Understanding how the housing markets of St. Louis and San Diego stack up against each other can significantly influence your decision. This comparison sheds light on various housing dimensions to help you make an informed choice.

When comparing St. Louis to San Diego, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rent speaks volumes about the cost of living in each city. St. Louis offers a more affordable housing market, with a focus on historic, brick colonial-style homes. On the other hand, San Diego, known for its beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture, presents a pricier housing market, justified by its ocean views and beach proximity. Urban lifestyle scores higher in San Diego, reflecting its vibrant city life. Both cities offer unique amenities and lifestyles, and understanding these disparities can help you choose the city that best aligns with your preferences and budget.

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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. Louis to San Diego

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison chart will help you grasp how the weather in St. Louis and San Diego differs significantly, informing your expectations for seasonal changes, sunlight, and overall climate conditions. Here's what you can expect in each location.

Summer icon
89/69

St. Louis, MO

76/64

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
40/24

St. Louis, MO

65/49

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41

St. Louis, MO

12

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
16

St. Louis, MO

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from St. Louis to San Diego means preparing for a significant change in weather, particularly in terms of sunnier days and milder temperatures throughout the year in San Diego. You'll experience fewer days of extreme heat or cold, making outdoor activities more enjoyable year-round. Notably, San Diego's lower annual rainfall and essentially nonexistent snowfall contrast sharply with St. Louis, which experiences a full range of seasons, including snow in the winter. Adjusting to these changes can enhance your lifestyle, offering more opportunities for outdoor leisure and potentially impacting health positively due to better air quality and less humidity.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, it's vital to understand how the cost of living and finance in St. Louis and San Diego compare. This insight will help you better prepare for the economic differences you'll encounter.

The economic landscapes of St. Louis and San Diego present stark contrasts in affordability and opportunities. In San Diego, households enjoy a higher average income, but this is offset by a substantially higher cost of living index, particularly in housing costs. Despite this, San Diego's dynamic industries such as defense, tourism, and international trade offer unique professional opportunities not as prevalent in St. Louis. Each city has its challenges with homelessness, despite the difference in affluence and poverty levels. Understanding these differences will ensure you're financially prepared for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between St. Louis, MO and San Diego, CA

As you plan your move from St. Louis, MO to San Diego, CA, it's valuable to understand who your neighbors will be. This comparison will give you a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents between St. Louis & San Diego , offering insights into the communities you're moving from and to.

St. LouisSan Diego

Political Make-up

Primarily DemocraticMostly Democratic

Local Politics

Liberal-leaning policiesProgressive policies

Religion

Mixed, with a strong Catholic presenceDiverse, including Christianity and other faiths

Although both cities lean Democratic, San Diego is recognized for its progressive stance on several policies, reflecting its liberal West Coast setting. Religion in both cities presents a vibrant tapestry of beliefs, but St. Louis has a notably strong Catholic community, in part due to its historical roots and large Catholic Archdiocese. Meanwhile, San Diego's religious scene is characterized by its diversity, including a significant presence of Christianity alongside other faiths, mirroring its multicultural population. This overview hints at the cultural shifts you might experience, from the community values to the pace of local politics as you transition from St. Louis to San Diego.

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

When considering a move from St. Louis, MO to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between St. Louis & San Diego to better grasp what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like.

St. LouisSan Diego
2526

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

67

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingEasier, but still difficult

Can you get by without car?

In St. Louis, while the average commute time is slightly less than in San Diego, the city has a lower transit score, making public transportation options less accessible than in San Diego. Despite this, both cities present challenges for those trying to live without a vehicle. San Diego's slightly higher traffic congestion reflects its busier nature and higher reliance on highways. Nonetheless, San Diego offers a better public transit system, including the trolley and bus services, making it more feasible to navigate without a car compared to St. Louis. The necessity of a car in both cities, however, is somewhat mitigated by the availability and convenience of rideshare services and the growing presence of bike-share programs.

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