Moving from Cary to San Diego?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Cary to San Diego Movers

Moving from Cary, NC, to San Diego, CA, marks an exciting chapter in your life, teeming with new adventures and opportunities. While you're swapping Cary's esteemed Research Triangle Park for San Diego's sun-soaked beaches and vibrant "America's Finest City" lifestyle, the transition comes with its unique set of considerations. To ensure your journey is smooth, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we come in, offering you peace of mind with our carefully vetted best moving options.

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

5 Best Cary to San Diego Movers

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

#1
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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#2
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearFree estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearLocal Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
top ranked movers in raleigh 2022 athens moving experts image
#4
RDU Delivered Logo
Exceptional

based on 512+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearLong Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2815544 Verify

About RDU Delivered

RDU Delivered is a professional moving and relocation company that has been in business since 2013. They specialize in long distance moves a...Read More >>

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#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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Relocating from Cary to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

Embarking on a move can feel like navigating uncharted territories, especially when transitioning from one city to another. Our goal is to bridge that gap by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Cary, NC & San Diego, CA . By identifying similar neighborhoods in your new city, we hope to make your move feel less daunting and more like finding a new home with familiar comforts.

CarySan Diego
AmberlyCarmel Valley

Family-friendly, excellent schools

PrestonLa Jolla

Upscale, coastal living

Carpenter VillagePoint Loma

Historic, with a strong community vibe

LochmereDel Mar

Beachside living, picturesque views

Wellington ParkNorth Park

Diverse, vibrant nightlife

HighcroftScripps Ranch

Quiet, suburban feel

Green Hope CrossingBlack Mountain Ranch

Close to nature, family-centric

Maynard OaksHillcrest

Lively, with a strong sense of community

Twin LakesCoronado

Exclusive, island living

RegencyRancho Bernardo

Golf courses, relaxed living

Imagine swapping the tree-lined streets of Preston in Cary, with its manicured golf courses and rolling landscapes, for the breathtaking coastal views and luxurious atmosphere of La Jolla. Here, the convergence of sophisticated living and natural beauty parallels Preston's charm but adds the irresistible allure of oceanfront vistas. Fans of Cary's Carpenter Village, known for its close-knit community and historical appeal, will find a similar sentiment in Point Loma. In Point Loma, the Cabrillo National Monument offers rich historical insights, and the community gatherings are reminiscent of Carpenter Village’s serene, familial atmosphere. For those who enjoy Cary's Wellington Park's diverse culinary options and lively evenings, North Park in San Diego will captivate you with an even broader spectrum of dining experiences at places like Urban Hawk, and an eclectic nightlife that ensures every outing is memorable.

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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

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Cary to San Diego

Moving from one city to another brings both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA . By comparing the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your move.

CONs
PROs
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Smaller city
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Humid summers
  • Lesser job opportunities in certain sectors
  • Less vibrant nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Larger city vibes
  • Varied food scene
  • Mild climate
  • More job opportunities
  • Livelier nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Busier urban lifestyle
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less personal interactions
  • Smaller public spaces
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • More affordable housing
  • Quiet suburban feel
  • Lower traffic density
  • Close-knit community
  • Greener, spacious parks

Relocating from Cary, NC, to San Diego, CA, means transitioning from a smaller, more laid-back community to a bustling city with an expansive job market, particularly in sectors like technology and biotech. San Diego's well-known Balboa Park offers not only green spaces but also hosts museums, such as the San Diego Museum of Art, and the San Diego Zoo, providing both leisure and educational opportunities. The food scene is significantly more diverse, where venues like Lolita's Mexican Food and Phil's BBQ illustrate the cultural and culinary richness of the area. While the cost of living and traffic might present challenges, San Diego's vibrant nightlife and mild climate offer a compensating balance. The transition from Cary's quieter settings to San Diego's dynamic environment encapsulates a journey of exploration and opportunity.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Cary to San Diego

Food forms an integral aspect of local culture and the lifestyle within a region. To assist in your move, we will embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Cary, NC, and San Diego, CA , giving you a flavorful preview of your new home's culinary scene.

CarySan Diego

Most iconic local food item

North Carolina BBQ
Fish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork
Carne Asada

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
California Burritos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ Jackfruit
Acai Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Ashworth's Drug Store
  • Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Juniper & Ivy
  • Mister A's
  • Phil's BBQ

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

6
9

Vegan Friendly

5
8

In Cary, the devotion to BBQ speaks to its Southern roots, with pulled pork being a staple, while hot dogs reign supreme in street food. Vegan options like BBQ Jackfruit adapt traditional tastes to modern diets. San Diego, meanwhile, celebrates its proximity to the ocean with signature fish tacos and introduces a Mexican flair with its beloved carne asada. The city's health-conscious vibe is reflected in its popular acai bowls and the thriving vegan scene. For a taste of local favorites in San Diego, neighborhoods like Little Italy and Ocean Beach offer vibrant food scenes, encapsulating the city's diverse culinary offerings.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Cary to San Diego

Understanding that food plays a pivotal role in making a new area feel like home, this comparison aims to bridge the culinary gap for those moving from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA by highlighting comparable top restaurants. Discover your next favorite eatery by exploring familiar flavors and dining experiences in a new city.

Lucky 32 Southern KitchenJuniper & Ivy

High-end Southern cuisine with a modern twist

La Farm BakeryCon Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe

Artisan bakery known for exceptional breads and pastries

Bosphorus RestaurantThe Kebab Shop

Authentic Mediterranean and Turkish dishes with a contemporary feel

CinebistroThe LOT La Jolla

Cinema with upscale dining experiences, offering a similar concept

SassoolSaffron Thai

Specializing in traditional flavors, offering a taste of Middle Eastern spices through Thai cuisine

Doherty's Irish Pub & RestaurantThe Field Irish Pub

Authentic Irish pub atmosphere with traditional dishes and live music

Pizzeria FaulisiBuona Forchetta

Neapolitan pizzas crafted in wood-fired ovens, reminiscent of Italy's authentic taste

HeronsGeorge’s at the Cove

Offers exquisite dining with an emphasis on local and sustainable cuisine

Tribeca TavernBurgers & Brew

Casual spot with a focus on gourmet burgers and a wide beer selection

Once in a Blue Moon BakeryExtraordinary Desserts

Famous for elaborate and decadent desserts, echoing the sweetness found at Blue Moon

For those who cherish the blend of traditional and innovative Southern flavors, your dining experience at Juniper & Ivy in San Diego will evoke the same warmth and culinary excellence you've enjoyed at Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen in Cary. Similarly, if the charm of La Farm Bakery's artisan breads captivated you, Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe awaits in San Diego with its oven-fresh, handcrafted loaves. Enthusiasts of Mediterranean cuisine who frequented Bosphorus Restaurant will find a new haven in The Kebab Shop, where the essence of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes is celebrated with zeal. And for those special evenings, swapping the unique dine-in cinema experience at Cinebistro for The LOT La Jolla will continue to blend the best of film and fine dining under the stars of San Diego.

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Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, diving into the real estate dynamics between your current city and your future home is crucial. This comparison between Cary, NC and San Diego, CA aims to highlight the key differences and similarities in housing costs, style, and overall lifestyle, ensuring you make an informed decision.

In comparing Cary, NC, and San Diego, CA, it's evident that San Diego commands a higher cost of living, particularly reflected in its housing costs. However, the premium comes with perks such as closer beach access and a more vibrant urban lifestyle, rated highly for its walkability and bikeability. Cary, on the other hand, offers a quieter, family-focused environment, with an emphasis on green spaces and modern suburban homes. While Cary may be more affordable, San Diego's allure includes its iconic Spanish and modern architectural mix and an active outdoor and social scene, enriching the living experience.

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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 Cary to San Diego

When moving from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to understand how the climate shifts. This guide compares the weather patterns between these cities, showing you what to expect. Through examining seasonal temperatures, humidity, and more, you'll discover how your life might change in San Diego compared to Cary.

Summer icon
89/68

Cary, NC

77/68

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/31

Cary, NC

66/50

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Cary, NC

12

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Cary, NC

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In transitioning from Cary to San Diego, you'll find the weather to be significantly milder and drier. San Diego's nearly perennial sunshine and absent snowfall symbolize the quintessential Californian dream, but it comes with its own set of challenges, like higher UV indices and potential for wildfires. Meanwhile, Cary's higher rainfall and occasional snow introduce a more varied seasonal experience. Adjusting to the drier climate in San Diego means staying hydrated and prepared for more sun exposure, along with a careful consideration of air quality and natural disaster preparedness in your new Pacific Coast home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to San Diego

When planning a move from one city to another, comprehending the financial implications is crucial. This comparison offers an insightful glance into the cost of living, taxes, and economic environments between Cary and San Diego , providing a clearer picture of what to expect budget-wise in your new locale.

When moving from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA, you'll encounter not just a change in scenery but a significant shift in economic factors. San Diego's higher cost of living index at 160 compared to Cary's 111 notably reflects the increased expenses you'll face, especially when considering housing and day-to-day costs. On the taxation front, although the base sales tax rates are somewhat comparable, San Diego's state income tax can climb substantially higher than Cary's flat rate. The shift in predominant industries—from Cary's technology-focused economy to San Diego's military and tourism-based economy—underscores the diversity in job opportunities between the two locations. Being aware of these differences can help you prepare financially for your move to ensure a smoother transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between Cary, NC and San Diego, CA

The move from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA offers a fascinating glimpse into differing lifestyles and beliefs. This quick comparison aims to provide you with an overview of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Cary & San Diego , helping you understand the diverse cultural landscape you're transitioning into.

CarySan Diego

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeLean Liberal

Local Politics

Suburban governance, lower Democrat registration than state averageUrban governance, high Democrat registration

Religion

Higher Evangelical Protestant influenceHigher Catholic influence, San Diego Catholic Diocese

In Cary, the political and religious landscape reflects its suburban nature, with a tendency towards conservatism, both politically and religiously, dominated by Evangelical Protestant beliefs. In contrast, San Diego's vibrant urban setting fosters a more liberal political climate, where the Democratic Party holds significant sway. The city's religious makeup is notably diverse, with a prominent Catholic presence, guided by institutions like the San Diego Catholic Diocese. Understanding these nuances can help you better adapt and connect with your new community.

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

Moving between cities can bring significant changes to your daily life, especially in terms of commuting. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Cary & San Diego will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, assisting in easing the transition.

CarySan Diego
2226

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

36

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes, but it's challenging

Can you get by without car?

When comparing Cary and San Diego, it's evident that San Diego has a slightly higher average commute time and significantly more traffic congestion. While Cary provides a quieter, potentially faster commute, its public transportation options are notably limited, making car ownership nearly essential for daily travel. San Diego, on the other hand, offers more robust public transit options, though relying solely on these can still present challenges due to the city's layout and transit coverage gaps. Understanding these differences can be crucial for planning your daily commute in a new city.

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