Best Dallas to San Diego Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Dallas to San Diego Movers

Moving from the bustling Big D to the sunny shores of San Diego isn't just a relocation; it's a thrilling chapter in your life. As you bid farewell to Dallas's cowboy culture and embrace the laid-back, surf-side vibe of "America's Finest City," the change in scenery comes with its own set of delights and challenges. That's why securing trusted and reliable professional movers for this long journey is crucial, and we at Great Guys Moving offer the expertise to ensure your move is as smooth as possible.

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Best Dallas to San Diego Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery9.72A+Authorized For HHGContact
King Moving Company9.53A+Authorized For HHGContact
The Rock Movers9.50NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Evolution Moving Company9.49A+Authorized For HHGContact
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.47NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Dallas guide.

5 Best Dallas to San Diego Moving Companies

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

Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.72/10
based on 2,440+ data points

About Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery

Started as a courier service in 1999, Phoenix Express eventually expanded its service offerings, becoming the full-service moving and delive...Read More >>

Services

  • Full service moving
  • In-Dallas moves
  • In-Texas moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2857394 / 67516

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved110,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
King Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.53/10
based on 3,200+ data points

About King Moving Company

Established way back in 1995 as a moving company that specialized in moving antiques and decorative items for different antique malls and in...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Moving antiques and high-value items
  • Household moving (houses and apartments)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1933649 / 755801

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
The Rock Movers Logo
Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,305+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Evolution Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.49/10
based on 3,805+ data points

About Evolution Moving Company

Founded in 2013 in New Braunfels, Evolution Moving Company has expanded its professional moving and storage business to Dallas, Fort Worth, ...Read More >>

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2467590 / 1239409

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.47/10
based on 477+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dallas vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're leaving a place as vibrant as Dallas, TX. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of Dallas, TX & San Diego, CA local neighborhoods. Whether you cherish the bustling streets of Uptown Dallas or the serene landscapes of Lakewood, this guide helps you find a new neighborhood in San Diego that mirrors the atmosphere and lifestyle you're accustomed to.

DallasSan DiegoHow They're Similar
UptownLittle ItalyDynamic, walkable, with thriving dining scene
Bishop Arts DistrictNorth ParkArtsy, diverse, with vibrant community events
Deep EllumEast VillageEdgy, with live music and breweries
Highland ParkLa JollaUpscale, with lush parks and ocean views
LakewoodDel MarQuiet, with scenic views and outdoor activities
Preston HollowPoint LomaExclusive, with luxury homes and marinas
Lower GreenvilleHillcrestLively, with eclectic eateries and nightlife
Knox/HendersonEncinitasHip, with boutique shops and cafe culture
Design DistrictBarrio LoganCreative, with galleries and cultural festivals
Victory ParkGaslamp QuarterModern, with entertainment and sports venues

Imagine wandering the streets of Little Italy in San Diego, reminiscent of Uptown Dallas with its array of dining options, from quaint cafes like Cafe Calabria to upscale eateries. If the artsy vibe and diverse community events of Bishop Arts District are what you love, North Park will charm you with its similar ethos, featuring spots like North Park Beer Company for local brews and live music. For those drawn to the upscale living of Highland Park in Dallas, La Jolla offers an unmatched elegance with breathtaking ocean views and luxurious homes, not to mention the outdoor adventures awaiting at places like Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Each of these San Diego neighborhoods brings a slice of Dallas closer, allowing for a smoother transition into your new coastal life.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in San Diego

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo
  • Tour the USS Midway Museum
  • 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 Dallas to San Diego

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that merits a deep dive into what you'll gain and lose in the process. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Dallas, TX to San Diego, CA , helping you weigh both sides of the coin carefully before making your decision.

CONs
PROs
Dallas, TX iconDallas, TX
  • Hot summers
  • Less beach access
  • Flat landscape
  • Lower cost of living
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Beaches galore
  • Diverse topography
  • Higher cost of living
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Expensive real estate
  • State income tax applies
  • High living expenses
  • Compact city living
Dallas, TX iconDallas, TX
  • Affordable housing
  • No state income tax
  • Vibrant city life
  • Spacious outdoors

Moving from Dallas to San Diego invites a lifestyle change prompted by varied climates and landscapes. San Diego's milder climate and diverse topography enable year-round outdoor activities, including visits to world-renowned beaches like La Jolla and Coronado. The higher cost of living in San Diego is a trade-off for access to picturesque landscapes and a vibrant culinary scene, with restaurants like George's at the Cove offering breathtaking ocean views. While Dallas boasts no state income tax and more affordable housing, the opportunity for beach days, hikes in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and sunset views at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego presents an appealing allure for those seeking an active outdoor lifestyle in a dynamic city.

Dallas vs. San Diego Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial when moving to a new city, as food is a vibrant expression of local culture. In this guide, we will take you through a comparison of the local cuisine between Dallas & San Diego to help you grasp what each city has to offer gastronomically, ensuring you’re well-informed about your new home's food scene.

DallasSan Diego
Most iconic local food itemTexas BarbecueCalifornia Burrito
Most popular meat dishBrisketCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemTacosFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodBBQ Cauliflower WingsAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pecan Lodge
  • Smoke
  • Fearing's Restaurant
  • Hodad's
  • Phil’s BBQ
  • Juniper & Ivy
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When relocating from Dallas to San Diego, you'll find that both cities boast a rich and distinctive food scene, reflecting their cultural heritage and local tastes. In Dallas, the barbecue, especially brisket, stands out as a culinary hallmark, served in iconic places like Pecan Lodge. On the other hand, San Diego's food scene shines with its coastal influence, offering the best fish tacos particularly in neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach. San Diego is also more vegan-friendly and health-conscious, with many restaurants and cafes around the city, including Hillcrest and North Park, providing numerous plant-based dining options. Whether it's the Texan barbecue or Californian burritos, moving to San Diego will indeed be a delightful culinary adventure.

Dallas vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding your new culinary favorites is key to feeling at home. Use this comparison of Dallas and San Diego restaurants to discover your next go-to dining spots, making the transition smoother and tastier. Let your Dallas favorites guide your San Diego discoveries.

DallasSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Pecan LodgeGrand Ole BBQ y AsadoBoth offer sumptuous smoked meats and a true Texas BBQ experience.
UchiSushi OtaExceptional sushi and Japanese dishes, mirroring Uchi's commitment to quality.
Bishop Arts DistrictLiberty Public MarketBoth are vibrant spaces offering a variety of local eats and handcrafted goods.
Cattleack BarbequePhil's BBQFor those seeking finger-licking barbecue flavors reminiscent of Cattleack's offerings.
Meso MayaLas Cuatro MilpasAuthentic Mexican cuisine that brings a taste of Meso Maya's innovative dishes.
KnifeCowboy StarBoth serve high-end, quality steaks making them a paradise for meat lovers.
Lockhart SmokehouseCoop's West Texas BBQOffering a close-knit BBQ experience with a focus on smoked meats.
Velvet TacoPuestoCreative and modern tacos with a unique twist on traditional flavors.
The PorchGreat MapleSimilar laid-back vibes with hearty American cuisine, perfect for brunch or dinner.
Deep Ellum Brewing CompanyBallast Point Brewing CompanyCraft beer enthusiasts will find a kindred spirit in their diverse beer selections.

Discovering a new city through its culinary offerings is an adventure in itself. At Sushi Ota, you'll find a dedication to the art of sushi that rivals the passion seen at Dallas's Uchi, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of refined Japanese cuisine. Meanwhile, transitioning BBQ lovers will feel right at home at Phil's BBQ in San Diego, where the smoked meats pay homage to the quality and tradition you've cherished at Cattleack Barbeque. And for an innovative take on tacos that reminds you of the creative flair at Velvet Taco, Puesto offers an eclectic menu that is sure to become a new favorite. Each San Diego establishment not only mirrors the culinary excellence found in Dallas but also introduces its distinctive West Coast flavor, making your move an exciting journey of gastronomic discovery.

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Ready to start your move?

Dallas vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the nuances of real estate is crucial for a seamless transition from Dallas to San Diego. This comparison sheds light on various housing aspects, capturing the essence of your potential new community. Let’s dive into the intricate details of both cities.

ComparisonDallasSan Diego
Typical Architecture StyleTudor, Colonial, ModernSpanish, Mediterranean, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious layouts, backyard poolsOcean views, sustainable living

When comparing Dallas and San Diego, it's evident that San Diego commands a higher cost of living, particularly in the real estate market. The spike in median home prices reflects San Diego's coastal premium, offering residents ocean views and a commitment to sustainable living. However, these costs come with a boost in walkability and bikeability, attributing to a more engaged and active urban lifestyle. Dallas, on the other hand, offers its own charm with spacious, diverse architectural homes and a slower pace of life at a more affordable price, making it a compelling choice for those prioritize space and affordability.

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.

Dallas vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another is a significant change, especially when it comes to adjusting to new weather patterns. If you're planning a move from Dallas to San Diego, it's crucial to understand how the weather differs between these two cities. This comparison will highlight key weather aspects to help you prepare for your new climate. Understanding weather changes between Dallas and San Diego is essential for a smooth transition.

Summer icon
96°F/76°F

Dallas, TX

78°F/64°F

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F/37°F

Dallas, TX

66°F/50°F

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Dallas, TX

12

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
1

Dallas, TX

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDallasSan Diego
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, StormsWildfires, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When you move from Dallas to San Diego, you'll notice a stark difference in climate. Dallas experiences hotter summers and colder winters compared to San Diego's mild year-round temperatures. You'll enjoy more sunshine days in San Diego, which along with its coastal location, contributes to its reputation for having one of the most pleasant climates in the country. While both cities have a similar UV index, the type of natural disasters they are prone to differs greatly, with Dallas experiencing severe storms and San Diego facing wildfires and earthquakes. Additionally, San Diego's lower annual rainfall and absence of snowfall further differentiate its weather patterns from Dallas, making it an appealing destination for those seeking milder winters and less extreme seasonal changes.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating from Dallas, TX to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial indicators compare between these two cities. Understanding these differences can significantly affect your budgeting and financial planning, ensuring a smoother transition. Let's delve into Dallas versus San Diego in terms of money and finance.

ComparisonDallasSan Diego
Avg. Household Income$57,995$93,042
Cost of Living Index91.9132.3
State Income Tax0%Up to 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax1.93%0.76%
Avg. Sales Tax8.25%7.75%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Financial Services, DefenseBioTech, Military, International Trade
AffluenceHighVery High
PovertyLowerLow
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

Moving to San Diego from Dallas, you'll likely notice a substantial increase in the cost of living, primarily driven by higher housing costs. San Diego's cost of living index stands at a staggering 160.1 compared to Dallas's 101.6, underscoring the steep price difference in daily expenses and real estate. Additionally, unlike Texas, California imposes up to 13.3% in state income tax, which can significantly reduce take-home pay. However, San Diego's average household income is higher, which may help mitigate some financial pressures. The city's thriving Biotech industry, combined with its pivotal role in Military and International Trade, presents unique career opportunities not as prevalent in Dallas's tech and financial services sectors.

Dallas vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

As you prepare for your move from Dallas to San Diego, it's helpful to understand the communities you'll be joining. This quick comparison gives you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of Dallas, TX & San Diego, CA , offering insights into what you might expect in your new home.

DallasSan Diego
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsDiverse representationProgressive policies
ReligionHighly diverse, with strong Christian presenceReligiously diverse, with notable Christian and Non-religious communities

While both Dallas and San Diego lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, San Diego is often seen as more progressive in its local politics, implementing policies that cater to a wide range of social issues. In terms of religion, you'll find both cities to be quite diverse. However, Dallas has a stronger visibly Christian presence which permeates into many facets of community life, influencing everything from social events to business practices. In contrast, San Diego's religious landscape is broad, with a significant number of residents identifying as non-religious, reflecting its laid-back and inclusive culture.

Dallas vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Dallas, TX to San Diego, CA? Understanding the difference in the daily commute and traffic can be crucial. This guide is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, comparing the traffic and transportation options between Dallas & San Diego, so you can plan accordingly for your new life.

ComparisonDallasSan Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2725
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, but limited

The average commute time in Dallas is marginally higher than in San Diego, reflecting slightly denser traffic congestion. However, both cities experience their fair share of rush hour traffic. In Dallas, the availability and reliance on public transit are less than ideal, making owning a car almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. On the other hand, San Diego offers slightly better public transit options, with services like the San Diego Trolley and buses, making it somewhat feasible to get by without a car, especially if you live and work in more central locations. However, for those living further out, a car might still be necessary to access certain areas and for convenience.

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