Moving from Raleigh to San Diego?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Raleigh to San Diego Movers

Moving from the City of Oaks to America's Finest City is more than just a change of scenery; it’s an adventure filled with new possibilities and lifestyles. You're leaving behind the lush landscapes and comforting familiarity of Raleigh for the vibrant, sunny shores and diverse neighborhoods of San Diego. To ensure this significant transition is smooth and stress-free, it's crucial to entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we've used an unbiased ranking algorithm to bring only the best movers to your service.

North Carolina iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Raleigh 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 >>

top 10 san diego 2024 coast 2 coast moving inc image
#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 >>

top 3 raleigh 2024 raleigh moving company image
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 >>

top 10 raleigh 2024 athens moving experts image
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 >>

top 10 raleigh 2024 rdu delivered 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 >>

top wagner 2024 motivated military movers image
top 3 ranked movers in wagner 2023 motivated military movers image

Relocating from Raleigh to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

If you're planning a move from Raleigh, NC, to San Diego, CA, you might wonder how neighborhoods in these cities compare. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline. We'll highlight the top neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC, and match them with the closest similar neighborhood in San Diego, CA , making your transition as smooth as possible.

RaleighSan Diego
Five PointsNorth Park

Vibrant arts scene

Downtown RaleighGaslamp Quarter

Dynamic nightlife

North HillsLa Jolla

Upscale shopping and beaches

Boylan HeightsSouth Park

Historic homes, strong community feel

Cameron VillageHillcrest

Shopping and dining variety

Oberlin VillageLittle Italy

Rich history and culture

Hayes BartonCoronado

Quiet, upscale residential

WadePoint Loma

Stunning views, close-knit

Morson / Historic OakwoodOld Town

Cultural heritage, historical sites

GlenwoodPacific Beach

Young, lively atmosphere

Exploring San Diego's neighborhoods like North Park and Gaslamp Quarter offers a window into the vibrant arts and dynamic nightlife scenes, respectively, reminiscent of Five Points and Downtown Raleigh. In North Park, spots like San Diego Brew Project mirror the distinct local flair found with Raleigh's brewery scenes. Similar to North Hills' collection of upscale shopping options, La Jolla provides an unparalleled coastal shopping experience, complete with ocean views. For a taste of community and history, South Park's lovingly preserved historical homes and local events invoke a similar charm to that of Boylan Heights, emphasizing a strong sense of community. Both cities boast neighborhoods rich in culture and history, making them wonderful places to explore and live.

Things To Do background image

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 Raleigh to San Diego

Moving from one city to another is a monumental decision that involves weighing various factors. This comparison gives you a balanced view, laying out the advantages and disadvantages. Let's take an honest look at what relocating from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA entails to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • Less beach access
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Fewer cultural events
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Beaches everywhere
  • Larger tech scene
  • Vibrant cultural scene
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Urban landscape
  • Busier city life
  • More transient population
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Greener surroundings
  • Quiet suburbs
  • Strong local community

Moving from Raleigh to San Diego brings you closer to the Pacific and into a city teeming with vibrant cultural experiences and a thriving tech scene, perfect for professional growth and networking. San Diego’s beaches, such as La Jolla Cove and Coronado Beach, become your backyard playground, offering stunning seaside views and activities all year round. The city is renowned for its iconic Balboa Park, a sprawling urban cultural park home to museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. While the costs of living might be higher in San Diego, the amenities, from gourmet restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter to the historic sights in Old Town, provide diverse experiences unlike anywhere else. As you transition, consider exploring neighborhoods like North Park and Hillcrest, known for their local shops, craft breweries, and vibrant community events, making them ideal for connecting with the city on a more personal level.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Raleigh to San Diego

This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & San Diego offers insight into the food scenes of both cities. Understanding food is vital to embracing local culture and can make the transition to a new home more delicious.

RaleighSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

Pulled pork BBQ
Fish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Eastern Carolina BBQ
Carne Asada

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
California Burritos

Most popular vegan food

Barbecue Jackfruit
Avocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The Pit Authentic Barbecue
  • Poole's Diner
  • Bida Manda
  • Oscar's Mexican Seafood
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Hodad's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

6
9

In Raleigh, NC, the food scene features a strong tradition of barbecue, with Eastern Carolina BBQ and Barbecue Jackfruit standing out as popular meat and vegan options, respectively. Places like The Pit Authentic Barbecue epitomize this tradition. In contrast, San Diego, CA, leans heavily towards its coastal offerings with Fish Tacos and California Burritos as staples. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and Ocean Beach host iconic eateries such as Oscar's Mexican Seafood, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant and health-conscious foodie scene that San Diego proudly offers.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Raleigh to San Diego

Finding your new culinary havens can transform any place into a home, offering comfort and excitement with every bite. This comparison aims to bridge your food journey from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA, pinpointing eateries in San Diego that resonate with your favorites from Raleigh. It's a flavorful map designed to navigate your transition seamlessly.

Bida MandaSupannee House of Thai

Authentic Thai cuisine with a similar emphasis on tradition and family recipes.

Death & TaxesCampfire

Offers a unique take on wood-fired cooking, mirroring Death & Taxes' focus on flames and flavor.

Brewery BhavanaBallast Point Brewing Miramar

Combines craft beer with quality food, akin to Brewery Bhavana's concept.

Poole's DinerGeorge’s at the Cove

Both are iconic in their cities, known for turning simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

GarlandKous Kous Moroccan Bistro

Provides an intimate dining environment with an emphasis on vibrant, spice-driven dishes.

Beasley’s Chicken + HoneyThe Crack Shack

Though decidedly more casual, it's celebrated for innovative chicken dishes, echoing Beasley's comfort food appeal.

Angus BarnBorn & Raised

A modern steakhouse that matches Angus Barn's commitment to quality meats and a classic dining experience.

MandolinJuniper & Ivy

Both focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, crafting innovative American cuisine.

The PitGrand Ole BBQ y Asado

Captures the essence of traditional Southern barbecue with its commitment to smoking and grilling.

SittiAladdin Mediterranean Restaurant

Offers authentic Mediterranean dishes, celebrating flavors similar to those at Sitti.

Embarking on a culinary journey from Raleigh to San Diego promises to be an exciting adventure. Though San Diego's Supannee House of Thai and Raleigh's Bida Manda hail from different parts of the world, both establishments cherish the heartwarming tradition of family recipes. Furthermore, the transition from Brewery Bhavana to Ballast Point Brewing Miramar showcases how craft beer culture thrives coast to coast, marrying the art of brewing with stellar culinary offerings. San Diego's The Crack Shack mirrors the casual yet innovative spirit of Raleigh's Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, ensuring your comfort food cravings are well taken care of. This guide offers more than just a comparison; it’s a promise of new beginnings without leaving behind the flavors you love.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison dives into the housing characteristics of Raleigh, NC, and San Diego, CA, highlighting key factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to ensure you make the best choice for your new home.

In comparing housing between Raleigh, NC, and San Diego, CA, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rents reflect the broader cost of living differences between the two cities. Raleigh offers a more affordable entry into homeownership, with a focus on traditional architecture and family-friendly suburban environments. San Diego, known for its stunning ocean views and modern, Spanish-influenced architecture, provides a vibrant urban lifestyle but at a significantly higher cost. This variation underscores the importance of matching your housing preferences and budget with the locality's offerings, ensuring a smooth transition to your new city.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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 Raleigh to San Diego

When planning a move from one location to another, comparing the weather conditions is essential for a smoother transition. Understand how the weather in Raleigh, NC differs from San Diego, CA , through detailed charts and information, to better prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

77/65

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/32

Raleigh, NC

66/50

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

12

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Raleigh, NC

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Relocating from Raleigh, NC, to San Diego, CA, introduces you to milder summers and warmer winters. San Diego's consistent climate offers more days of sunshine and lower humidity levels, creating an enticing environment for outdoor activities year-round. However, be prepared for the potential of earthquakes and wildfires, a shift from the hurricanes and tornadoes familiar to Raleigh residents. Understanding these nuances in weather and natural disaster risks can greatly impact your daily life, comfort, and even the type of insurance you might need in your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA, it’s crucial to grasp how financial aspects such as living costs, taxes, and average incomes will differ. This comparison aims to prepare you for the economic adjustments you'll face, ensuring there are no surprises when relocating. Comparing Raleigh and San Diego's cost of living, taxes, and average incomes elucidates the financial landscape you're about to navigate.

Moving from Raleigh to San Diego, you'll notice a significant jump in the cost of living index, indicating that your everyday expenses in San Diego could be substantially higher. This increase is somewhat offset by higher average incomes but be aware that state income taxes are also more substantial in California. Industries thriving in each city hint at potential employment opportunities, with San Diego boasting a strong defense and tourism sector, contrasting Raleigh's tech and education focus. Even though San Diego presents as more affluent on average, it suffers from higher rates of homelessness, a critical social issue to consider if you're moving there.

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

Moving from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA offers a fresh landscape not just in terms of geography but also in the comparison of the politics between Raleigh & San Diego and the religious landscape of their residents. This quick snapshot aims to provide you with an understanding of what to expect from your new neighbors in these aspects.

RaleighSan Diego

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate with a mix of conservative and liberal perspectivesLiberal with progressive policies

Religion

Christianity dominant, with a significant presence of other faithsLess religiously affiliated, diverse faiths

In Raleigh, you might have noticed a balanced political climate, merging both conservative and liberal views. This atmosphere tends to support a variety of local policies and initiatives. However, as you transition to San Diego, expect a shift towards more liberal and progressive policies. This may reflect in the local governance and community initiatives you'll encounter. On the religious front, Raleigh's predominantly Christian base is more devout compared to San Diego's population, which shows a wider range of religious affiliations and a higher percentage of individuals not affiliated with any religion. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate into your new community and participate in local activities that align with your values.

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

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from one city to another. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & San Diego is designed to give you a better grasp of what to expect on an everyday basis.

RaleighSan Diego
2524

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

57

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

46

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible but inconvenient

Can you get by without car?

In Raleigh, while the average commute time is slightly longer than in San Diego, the traffic congestion is notably less severe. This makes Raleigh somewhat more car-dependent, though. The city's public transit options are improving, but still score lower compared to San Diego, where the public transit system is more extensive, featuring a better-connected network of buses and trolleys. While living in San Diego without a car is more feasible, particularly in densely populated areas, it might still prove inconvenient for some, reflecting the need for some form of personal transportation in both cities.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Raleigh to San Diego Movers Featured Image