Moving from Alexandria to San Diego?

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Alexandria to San Diego Movers

Moving from Alexandria, VA to San Diego, CA is not just a relocation; it's an extraordinary leap towards a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind Alexandria's historical charm and vibrant seasons for San Diego's endless summer and laid-back beach vibes is a journey of contrasting cultures and perspectives. For such a significant long-distance move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we rank at Great Guys Moving, to ensure a seamless transition to your next adventure.

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

5 Best Alexandria to San Diego Movers

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

#1
ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA
Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3260258 Verify

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in leesburg 2023 ars movers image
#2
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 6,631+ data points

Hyattsville, MD
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT: 2005212 Verify

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in washington dc 2023 bookstore movers image
top ranked movers in washington dc 2022 bookstore movers image
#3
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,108+ data points

Washington DC, DC
Local Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2474176 Verify

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in gaithersburg 2023 mics moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington dc 2022 mics moving image
#4
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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#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 Alexandria to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

Embarking on a relocation journey can feel overwhelming, especially when leaving behind the familiar streets and corners of your hometown. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing the local neighborhoods between Alexandria, VA & San Diego, CA , helping you discover which San Diego neighborhood mirrors the spirit of your Alexandria favorite. With this comparison, we intend to make the unfamiliar, familiar.

AlexandriaSan Diego
Old TownGaslamp Quarter

Historic heart, vibrant nightlife

Del RayNorth Park

Hip, artsy vibe with indie boutiques

RosemontHillcrest

Quaint, walkable with a strong sense of community

Potomac WestPoint Loma

Waterfront views, charming community

North RidgeLa Jolla

Upscale, with stunning ocean vistas

Potomac YardLittle Italy

Dynamic mix of modern and traditional

West EndUniversity City

Diverse, with a plethora of dining options

LandmarkMiramar

Commercial heart, with a military presence

Eisenhower EastEast Village

Rising skyline, contemporary living

Taylor RunCarmel Valley

Family-friendly, with great schools

For example, if you've relished the historic charm and the bustling waterfront of Old Town, Alexandria, you'd find a similar vibe in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. Known for its Victorian architecture and lively nightlife, the Gaslamp Quarter captures a blend of the old and new, much like Old Town. Del Ray's community-centric atmosphere, filled with local cafes and boutiques, shares its ethos with North Park, where the streets buzz with creatives and indie shops such as Verbatim Books and Pigment. For those enjoying the upscale and serene setting of North Ridge, La Jolla offers not only an affluent lifestyle but natural treasures like the La Jolla Cove, providing breathtaking ocean views and outdoor adventures.

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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 Alexandria to San Diego

Moving from Alexandria, VA to San Diego, CA can seem daunting, but understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to shine a light on the unique benefits and drawbacks of relocating from Alexandria to San Diego, providing an honest reflection of what to expect. Whether you're drawn by the climate or concerns about cost of living, this guide is designed to provide clarity.

CONs
PROs
Alexandria, VA iconAlexandria, VA
  • Colder winters
  • Higher taxes
  • Less beach access
  • Smaller tech hub
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Lower taxes
  • Beaches everywhere
  • Larger tech scene
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Less historical sites
  • Far from D.C.
  • Less seasonal change
  • Higher living cost
Alexandria, VA iconAlexandria, VA
  • Historic charm
  • Close to D.C.
  • Four seasons
  • Diverse culture

Moving from Alexandria to San Diego introduces a dramatic change in landscape and lifestyle. Alexandria's historical charm, with sites like Mount Vernon and the vibrant Old Town, offers a unique living experience deeply rooted in American history. Transitioning to San Diego, you'll find an equally rich, but different cultural tapestry, showcased in destinations like the bustling Balboa Park and the iconic San Diego Zoo. While Alexandria presents a closer proximity to the political heart of the U.S, San Diego counters with its laid-back coastal lifestyle, robust tech scene, and year-round mild climate, which for many, might just outweigh the higher cost of living and distance from Washington D.C.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Alexandria to San Diego

Comparing the local cuisine between Alexandria, VA and San Diego, CA offers a glimpse into the diverse food scenes awaiting you. Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial as food is an integral part of local culture and living experience. This comparison aims to equip you with insights into what each location has to offer, tailoring your taste buds for the move.

AlexandriaSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

Seafood (particularly oysters)Fish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Beef BrisketCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

Halal Food TrucksCalifornia Burritos

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Restaurant Eve
  • Hank's Oyster Bar
  • Virtue Feed & Grain
  • George's at the Cove
  • Scai Bco
  • Phil's BBQ

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

89

Abundance of Food Trucks

79

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

89

When moving from Alexandria, VA to San Diego, CA, you're transitioning from a scene where seafood and historic dining venues like Restaurant Eve dominate, to a vibrant, health-conscious locale known for its fish tacos and innovative vegan options such as jackfruit tacos. San Diego's gastronomic landscape is deeply influenced by its coastal location and Mexican heritage, offering an abundant selection of food trucks and outdoor dining experiences that reflect its laid-back, yet health-conscious lifestyle. Neighborhoods like La Jolla and North Park are bustling with eateries like George's at the Cove, which provide beautiful ocean views alongside their culinary delights, making the city's food scene an integral part of its allure.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Alexandria to San Diego

When moving from one city to another, finding your new go-to places for dining out can truly make your new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison Alexandria to San Diego is designed to ease your transition by guiding you towards familiar culinary experiences in your new surroundings.

VermilionJuniper & Ivy

High-end, innovative American cuisine

Hank's Oyster BarIronside Fish & Oyster

Fresh, sustainable seafood in a casual setting

BRABOBO-beau kitchen + bar

French comfort food with a casual, bohemian vibe

The MajesticHerb & Wood

Elevated American cuisine in a stylish space

Taqueria el PoblanoLas Cuatro Milpas

Authentic, family-owned Mexican eatery

Momo SushiSushi Ota

Acclaimed sushi spot known for fresh, high-quality ingredients

Rosemarino D'ItaliaBencotto Italian Kitchen

Offers handmade pasta in a chic setting

Dairy GodmotherAn’s Dry Cleaning

Unique gelato flavors in an artsy setting, despite the name

Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & TapIsola Pizza Bar

Wood-fired pizzas in a cozy, Italian atmosphere

Fontaine Caffe & CreperieCafé Madeleine

French café specializing in crepes and pastries

For seafood lovers, switching from Hank's Oyster Bar in Alexandria to Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego will be a seamless transition, where both establishments pride themselves on offering fresh, sustainable seafood in a vibrant setting. Fans of Japanese cuisine will be pleased to find Sushi Ota's dedication to high-quality sushi mirroring that of Momo Sushi, with both prized for their use of fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. For those enchanted by the rustic charm and simple elegance of Italian dining, transferring loyalty from Rosemarino D'Italia to Bencotto Italian Kitchen will not disappoint, as both venues are celebrated for their authentic dishes and warm atmosphere.

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Ready to start your move?

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

Real estate is a pivotal consideration when moving, demanding a thorough understanding of how Alexandria and San Diego measure up. This comparison sheds light on crucial housing aspects to help you make an informed decision.

While Alexandria's housing market is slightly more affordable in terms of median home prices and rent, San Diego offers a unique blend of urban lifestyle with a higher rating in urban lifestyle and bikeability, reflecting its laid-back yet active living. The architectural distinction between Alexandria's Colonial styles and San Diego's Spanish Revival speaks to the cultural diversity present in both locations. Prospective homeowners in Alexandria are often attracted to the city's historic charm and its proximity to D.C. Meanwhile, San Diego's listings frequently boast of beach access and ocean views, appealing to those who prioritize a connection with nature and outdoor activities.

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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 Alexandria to San Diego

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather can affect your daily life. This comparison between Alexandria and San Diego's weather patterns will prepare you for the changes you might face in terms of climate, allowing you to adapt more easily to your new environment.

Summer icon
89/71

Alexandria, VA

77/64

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/30

Alexandria, VA

66/50

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8

Alexandria, VA

10.34

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
13.8

Alexandria, VA

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

San Diego enjoys a milder climate compared to Alexandria, with more days of sunshine and less humidity, making outdoor activities a year-round possibility. Interestingly, while Alexandria deals with a significant amount of snowfall, San Diego experiences none, offering a pleasant change for those not fond of cold winters. Additionally, San Diego's better air quality and lower average annual humidity reflect its overall more comfortable living conditions. However, transitioning from dealing with hurricanes and snowstorms to preparing for wildfires and earthquakes will require a shift in emergency preparedness mindsets.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Alexandria, VA to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to know how the cost of living and financial environment will affect your wallet. Understanding the differences in income, taxes, and industry between Alexandria and San Diego can help you plan your relocation with confidence.

Comparing financial environments between Alexandria, VA, and San Diego, CA provides insights that could greatly impact your decision to move. For instance, although the average household income in Alexandria is higher, San Diego presents a slightly higher cost of living index. Additionally, California's state income tax is significantly higher than in Virginia, which could impact your take-home pay. Yet, it's worth considering the industries dominant in each area; Alexandria's government and IT sectors might offer different opportunities than San Diego's defense and tourism sectors. And while both cities tout an affluent population, San Diego faces a more considerable homelessness issue, reflecting its broader socioeconomic landscape.

Political & Religious Comparison between Alexandria, VA and San Diego, CA

Planning a move from Alexandria, VA to San Diego, CA offers you a chance to experience different communities. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Alexandria & San Diego , alongside a snapshot into the religious landscapes of both cities, helping you understand the typical makeup of the population in each location.

AlexandriaSan Diego

Political Make-up

ProgressiveModerately progressive

Local Politics

Strong Democratic leanDiverse political representation

Religion

Pluralistic with a strong presence of Christian churches like Christ ChurchPluralistic, significant Catholic community with institutions like The Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego

When moving from Alexandria to San Diego, you'll transition from a city with a strong Democratic lean to a more politically diverse environment. Both cities boast a pluralistic religious makeup, but you'll find that San Diego has a significant Catholic presence reflected in its many churches and the activities of The Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego. This comparison highlights the subtle but meaningful differences in the social fabric of both areas, which can help you prepare for your new community in San Diego.

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

Moving from one city to another can dramatically alter your daily commute. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Alexandria, VA & San Diego, CA , to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these distinctly unique cities.

AlexandriaSan Diego
3025

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

86

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with relative easeYes, but more challenging

Can you get by without a car?

Alexandria's public transit system is robust, owing to its proximity to D.C., making it simpler for residents to navigate without a vehicle. Regular buses, as well as Metro services, connect various parts of the city. San Diego, while offering a selection of public transportation options like the trolley and buses, generally requires a car for convenience and to fully access the broader city. Traffic congestion in Alexandria scores slightly higher, likely due to its denser urban environment and the influence of commuter traffic from nearby Washington, D.C. Comparatively, San Diego's traffic is slightly less congested, providing a somewhat more relaxing driving experience despite the necessity of having a car for greater mobility and access.

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