Moving from Salem to San Diego?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Salem to San Diego Movers

Moving from the cozy, charming streets of Salem, the Cherry City, to the sun-soaked beaches of San Diego, America's Finest City, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're not just transitioning between zip codes; you're trading in the mystical allure of Willamette Valley for the boundless optimism of Southern California's coast. Recognizing the distance and the significance of this move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of pairing you with the best, ensuring a seamless journey to your new horizon.

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

5 Best Salem 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

San Diego, CA
Local Moves, Long-Distance Moves, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

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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#2
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#3
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Portland, OR
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1863079 Verify

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
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#4
Comfortable Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 691+ data points

Vancouver, WA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT: 3236736 Verify

About Comfortable Moving

Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in vancouver 2023 comfortable moving image
top 3 ranked movers in vancouver 2022 comfortable moving image
#5
M
Exceptional

based on 1,080+ data points

San Diego, CA
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 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 Salem to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

Moving between cities can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've compiled a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Salem, OR & San Diego, CA , highlighting similarities that might make you feel right at home. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife or serene parklands, this guide helps bridge the geographical gap.

SalemSan Diego
West SalemPoint Loma

Historic with stunning views

South SalemClairemont

Family-friendly with good schools

SunnyslopePacific Beach

Lively, near the beach

EnglewoodNorth Park

Hip, with arts and craftsman homes

HighlandHillcrest

Diverse, with a rich nightlife

GrantKensington

Quiet, with charming homes

Faye WrightUniversity Heights

Bohemian, with a strong community vibe

MorningsideCarmel Valley

Suburban, with modern amenities

Central AreaGaslamp Quarter

Vibrant nightlife and history

Bush ParkBalboa Park

Culturally rich, with parks and museums

For those looking to replicate the historic charm of West Salem, Point Loma in San Diego offers breathtaking views and a strong sense of history, particularly around the Cabrillo National Monument. Moving from the family-centric South Salem? Clairemont is a notable parallel, boasting excellent schools and community spaces ideal for raising a family. If your Salem weekends were spent enjoying the outdoors in Bush Park, you'll find San Diego's Balboa Park an expansive counterpart, featuring lush gardens, walking trails, and cultural institutions like the San Diego Museum of Art. For those drawn to the vibrant, artsy vibe of Englewood, North Park in San Diego will likely strike a similar chord, with its plethora of craft breweries, art galleries, and the famous North Park Thursday Market.

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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 Salem to San Diego

Moving from one city to another presents both challenges and opportunities. In this guide, we aim to offer an honest reflection of Salem, OR to San Diego, CA relocation, addressing the pros and cons to give you a comprehensive view of what to expect. This detailed comparison will help you weigh your options carefully and make an informed decision about your big move.

CONs
PROs
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Colder Winters
  • Less Nightlife
  • Smaller Tech Hub
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Sunny Weather
  • Vibrant Nightlife
  • Larger Tech Community
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • More Crowded
  • Less Greenery
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Affordable Living
  • Tight-Knit Community
  • Rich Nature Scenery

Relocating from Salem, OR to San Diego, CA, you're moving from a city with crisp, cold winters and a tight-knit community feel to a city known for its sunny weather, vibrant nightlife, and burgeoning tech scene. San Diego's neighborhoods like Gaslamp Quarter and La Jolla are famed for their buzzing nightlife and beautiful coastal views, offering a sharp contrast to Salem's more laid-back, nature-focused lifestyle. While San Diego's cost of living might be higher, the opportunities for professional growth in tech and entertainment, along with the plethora of outdoor activities and dining options such as those found in Liberty Station, provide a compelling reason for the move. Making San Diego your new home means embracing a lifestyle filled with sunshine, innovation, and endless exploration.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Salem to San Diego

Understanding the local culinary landscape is crucial when moving to a new area. Here, we're diving into a comparison of the local cuisine between Salem, Oregon, & San Diego, California , to help you acclimate more quickly to your new home's food scene.

SalemSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

Marionberry PieFish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Pinot Noir BBQ RibsCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

Food Truck TacosCalifornia Burrito

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladAvocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro
  • The Kitchen on Court Street
  • Busick Court Restaurant
  • George's at the Cove
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Slater's 50/50

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

69

Vegan Friendly

79

When considering the transition from Salem to San Diego, the difference in food culture is notable. In San Diego, the Mexican influence is undeniable, especially with iconic dishes like Fish Tacos and Carne Asada. Notably, neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach offer a bustling food scene featuring a variety of cuisines, but with a strong lean towards health-conscious choices, reflective in their higher scores for fitness and vegan-friendliness. Moreover, the abundance of food trucks and iconic restaurants such as George's at the Cove and Phil's BBQ add to a robust foodie scene that caters to numerous tastes and preferences.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Salem to San Diego

Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your go-to spots for the best eats. This comparison is designed to help you transition from Salem to San Diego by finding your new favorite restaurants . Whether you're in the mood for a high-end dining experience or a cozy, casual spot, this guide aims to match you with places that echo the flavors of your Salem favorites.

Word of Mouth BistroGreat Maple

Offers a novel twist on traditional diner favorites

Rudy's SteakhouseCowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop

Both are known for premium steaks and elegant dining experiences

Wild PearJuniper & Ivy

Elevated, creative American cuisine in a stylish setting

Busick Court RestaurantRichard Walker's Pancake House

Known for lavish breakfasts and a cozy atmosphere

Marco Polo Global RestaurantInternational Smoke Del Mar

Globally inspired dishes with a focus on smoked and grilled flavors

Gamberetti's Italian RestaurantBencotto Italian Kitchen

Authentic Italian dishes in a sophisticated environment

Bibim Bap HouseConvoy Tofu House

Both offer a variety of Korean dishes with an emphasis on comfort food

Annette's Westgate CaféBreakfast Republic

Quirky, inventive breakfasts with a West Coast flair

Rafns' RestaurantFarmer & The Seahorse

A farm-to-table concept focusing on fresh, sustainable fare

Venti's CaféLiberty Public Market

An array of cuisine options in a lively market setting

Exploring the familiar flavors of Salem in the bustling city of San Diego becomes an adventure when you know where to look. For example, steak lovers who favored Rudy's Steakhouse for its premium cuts and upscale atmosphere will find a similar culinary experience at Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop, where the integrity of the ingredients shines through in every dish. Meanwhile, those who enjoyed the unique culinary blends at Marco Polo Global Restaurant in Salem will delight in the globally inspired cuisine of International Smoke Del Mar, where the marriage of smoked and grilled flavors creates a narrative of global exploration on your plate. Each San Diego restaurant listed was chosen for its ability to echo the ambience, menu variety, and unforgettable tastes of Salem's dining scene, ensuring a seamless transition to your new coastal life.

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Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move between cities, especially from Salem, OR to San Diego, CA, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities, helping you make an informed decision.

While the median home price and monthly rent in San Diego are significantly higher than in Salem, the extra cost comes with perks. San Diego's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense, urban layout conducive to a lively city life, boasting an array of outdoor living spaces with stunning ocean views—a stark contrast to Salem's spacious backyards and a strong connection to nature. For those drawn to a vibrant urban lifestyle with easy access to beaches and modern Spanish Colonial architecture, San Diego might justify its price tag, despite the higher cost of living.

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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 Salem to San Diego

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new environment, and weather plays a significant role in this transition. Understanding how the climate in Salem, OR compares to San Diego, CA will help you prepare for the differences. From average temperatures to air quality and seasonal allergies , our comparison aims to give you a comprehensive view of what to expect.

Summer icon
82°F / 54°F

Salem, OR

77°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Salem, OR

66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.9"

Salem, OR

12"

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6"

Salem, OR

0"

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Salem to San Diego, you'll find San Diego's climate to be significantly warmer and drier year-round. With over 266 days of sunshine, compared to Salem's 155, it's ideal for those who love the outdoors and mild winters. San Diego’s higher average UV index suggests a greater need for sun protection. Furthermore, the drastic reduction in annual rainfall and absence of snow highlight the stark differences in precipitation between the two cities. Adapting might include investing in more summer attire and planning for different recreational activities that suit the warmer climate.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to shine a light on the key financial differences between Salem, OR, and San Diego, CA, covering aspects from average incomes to the cost of living, to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

From the table, you can see that while the average household income is higher in San Diego, the cost of living there is also substantially more elevated compared to Salem. Notably, San Diego's cost of living index stands at a stark 160.1, which is substantially higher than Salem's 104.5. This is crucial for budget planning as rent, daily expenses, and taxes will take a larger portion of your income in San Diego. Despite higher incomes, living in San Diego requires careful financial planning to ensure that you can enjoy what the city offers without stretching your budget too thin. Additionally, state income tax in California is higher, affecting your net income. However, with its booming industries, especially in defense, tourism, and trade, San Diego offers affluent living and potentially more job opportunities in certain sectors than Salem.

Political & Religious Comparison between Salem, OR and San Diego, CA

This is a comparison of the politics between Salem & San Diego, intended to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Understanding these differences will help you feel more at home in your new city.

SalemSan Diego

Political Make-up

Moderately liberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democratic leaningDemocratic dominance

Religion

Mixed, with a Christian majorityDiverse, with larger non-religious and Catholic communities

In both Salem and San Diego, the Democratic Party plays an influential role in local politics, though San Diego exhibits a stronger tendency towards Democratic dominance, reflecting its more liberal overall stance. Furthermore, while Salem has a relatively mixed religious landscape with a predominantly Christian majority, San Diego stands out for its diversity in religious beliefs, including a sizable non-religious community alongside its Catholic residents. This difference not only highlights the variances in cultural and social norms between the two cities but also suggests a broader spectrum of community services and events that cater to this diversity. Understanding these dynamics can provide a richer context as you make your transition.

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

Making a move from Salem, OR to San Diego, CA? This guide is here to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Salem & San Diego. Knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother, whether you’re hopping on public transit or navigating the roads during your daily commute.

SalemSan Diego
2325

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

37

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possibly, with some planningYes, more feasibly

Can you get by without car?

The differences in driving and transit experiences between Salem and San Diego are notable. In Salem, your average commute is slightly shorter, and you'll encounter less traffic congestion. However, San Diego boasts a more robust public transit system, making it easier for you to get by without a car. While Salem offers a manageable public transportation system, daily routines and errands without a vehicle require more planning. San Diego's comprehensive transit options, including buses, trolleys, and trains, facilitated by organizations like San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), enhance mobility and reduce the necessity of owning a private vehicle for daily commutes.

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