Best San Diego to Vancouver Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Vancouver and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,085 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 San Diego to Vancouver moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Vancouver. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best San Diego to Vancouver Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1The Rock Movers9.499.53Authorized For HHGContact
2Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.469.62Authorized For HHGContact
3Northwest Grace Moving9.299.28Authorized For HHGContact
4All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.8.948.13Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from San Diego to Vancouver

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,085 miles from San Diego, CA to Vancouver, WA will cost on average $2,704 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Vancouver move is roughly $6,500. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,818300 ft³6.06
1 Bedroom$2,704450 ft³6.01
2 Bedrooms$4,469750 ft³5.96
3 Bedrooms$6,5001100 ft³5.91
4 Bedrooms$9,3741600 ft³5.86
5+ Bedrooms$10,4561800 ft³5.81
*Please note: These California to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Washington. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Vancouver to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Vancouver Movers

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

The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,305+ data points

7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306

San Diego, CA, 92111

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 relocations....

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

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
1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 477+ data points

2020 Camino De La Reina

San Diego, CA, 92108

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,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

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
2
Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

19764 Cypresswood St

Oregon City, OR, 97045

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...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

66 SE Morrison St

Portland, OR, 97214

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...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo

Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Superb8.94/10
based on 2,147+ data points

13026 Stowe Dr A

Poway, CA, 92064

About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Moving
  • Storage Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

877737 / 383831

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved8,778 (2022)
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.

San Diego vs. Vancouver Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we have compared popular neighborhoods in San Diego, CA & Vancouver, WA to help you find a new home that feels familiar. By identifying the top neighborhoods in San Diego and matching them with the closest equivalents in Vancouver, you can quickly feel at home in your new city.

San DiegoVancouverHow They're Similar
La JollaFisher's Landing EastClose-knit community, upscale shopping
North ParkUptown VillageVibrant arts scene, hip eateries
Gaslamp QuarterDowntown VancouverBustling nightlife, historic charm
Little ItalyEsther ShortCommunity events, gourmet dining
Ocean BeachRiverviewLaid-back vibe, river access
HillcrestShumwayDiverse community, local cafes
Pacific BeachCarter ParkActive lifestyle, community parks
Carmel ValleyFelidaFamily-friendly, great schools
Del MarDubois ParkUpscale, scenic views
Point LomaCascade ParkNautical charm, green spaces

By delving into the essence of these neighborhoods, you'll find that Uptown Village, akin to North Park, bustles with an artsy and eclectic vibe, offering a treasure trove of hip eateries, such as the renowned Brewpub Corner, and indie shops. Meanwhile, Vancouver's Esther Short neighborhood mirrors Little Italy's lively atmosphere, especially during community events held at Esther Short Park, the heart of the neighborhood. For those who relish in outdoor activities and a laid-back lifestyle akin to Ocean Beach, Riverview presents an attractive riverside setting complete with parks and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal place for both relaxation and adventure.

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Things to Do in Vancouver

  • Explore Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
  • Stroll along Vancouver Waterfront Park.
  • Attend summer concerts at Esther Short Park.
  • Visit Pearson Air Museum.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at Maryhill Winery Tasting Room.
  • Take kids to Marshall Community Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Vancouver

Moving from one city to another offers both challenges and rewards, like swapping the comfort of familiar streets for the excitement of new experiences. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes when considering the relocation from San Diego, CA to Vancouver, WA . Armed with these insights, you can weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision about your upcoming move.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Warm winters
  • Limited water sports
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Mild seasons
  • Rich outdoor activities
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Less beach access
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer dining options
  • More rainfall
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisines
  • Sunny weather

Moving from San Diego to Vancouver presents a unique mix of changes. San Diego's endless summer and access to iconic beaches like La Jolla Shores provide ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Its vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, teeming with restaurants and nightlife, is unmatched by Vancouver's quieter scene. However, Vancouver counters with its own charm, offering a gateway to the Pacific Northwest's stunning landscapes. Places like Esther Short Park and the Columbia River Gorge entice with natural beauty and outdoor activities. Moreover, Vancouver's growing food scene, with gems like Relevant Coffee for coffee lovers and the Heathen Brewing Feral Public House for craft beer aficionados, ensures you'll still find quality dining options amidst its laid-back atmosphere.

San Diego vs. Vancouver Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Vancouver to help you understand the food scene in your new city. Food is a vital aspect of local culture and living experience, and this guide aims to make your transition smoother by highlighting the culinary differences and similarities.

San DiegoVancouver
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosSmoked Salmon
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food itemCalifornia BurritoPoutine
Most popular vegan foodVegan TacosVegan Buddha Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • Beaches Restaurant & Bar
    • Levanté Pizzeria
    • Hudson's Bar & Grill
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In San Diego, the food scene is vibrant and heavily influenced by its coastal location and Mexican heritage, with fish tacos being a city staple that can be found in numerous beachfront eateries. The iconic George's at the Cove offers breathtaking views and a modern take on California cuisine, perfectly capturing the San Diego dining experience. Vandicouver, WA, on the other hand, prides itself on its lush Pacific Northwest offerings, with smoked salmon being a local favorite. Here, places like Beaches Restaurant & Bar offer a taste of the local fare with a picturesque view of the Columbia River. Whether craving the sun-soaked flavors of San Diego or the earthy, rich tastes of Vancouver, each city offers a unique culinary journey reflective of their distinct cultures and environments.

San Diego vs. Vancouver Restaurant Comparison

Making a new city feel like home can often come down to finding those go-to spots for a fantastic meal. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Vancouver, WA , is designed to ease your transition by matching your culinary favorites with new ones. Whether you crave high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide aims to connect you with your next favorite eatery.

San DiegoVancouverWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyElementsOffering a creative, seasonal menu that's comparable in innovation.
Phil's BBQGoldie's BBQProvides that authentic, smoky barbecue flavor you love.
George's at the CoveBeaches Restaurant & BarA scenic view with a diverse menu, mirroring George's beachside dining.
Hodad'sBurger BungalowFamous for their massive, juicy burgers reminiscent of Hodad's iconic offerings.
Cucina UrbanaNonavo PizzaOffers a farm-to-table approach that echoes Cucina Urbana's fresh, Italian dishes.
Las Cuatro MilpasJorge's Tequila FactoryAuthentic Mexican cuisine that captures the essence of Las Cuatro Milpas.
Oscar's Mexican SeafoodWho Song and Larry'sKnown for its seafood enchiladas and tacos, a close match to Oscar's.
PuestoVictor 23 Craft BreweryWhile primarily a brewery, its innovative pub fare is akin to Puesto's modern Mexican cuisine.
Sushi OtaSushi MoOffers an extensive selection of sushi and sashimi that Sushi Ota patrons would appreciate.
Pizza PortDouble Barrel TaphouseA spot for pizza enthusiasts and beer aficionados alike, capturing Pizza Port's casual vibe.

When moving from San Diego to Vancouver, WA, it's comforting to know that your culinary cravings can still be satisfied. Elements restaurant, mirroring Juniper & Ivy, offers a seasonal and innovative menu that prioritizes fresh and inventive dishes, ensuring that foodies will feel right at home. For those missing the smoky flavors of Phil's BBQ, Goldie's BBQ steps up to the plate with its authentic barbecue offerings, making it a must-visit for any BBQ aficionado. On the more casual side, Burger Bungalow's towering, flavorful burgers will remind you of Hodad's iconic dishes, ensuring that your comfort food cravings are covered. And for those who appreciate the craft and freshness of Italian cuisine, Nonavo Pizza provides a delightful farm-to-table experience akin to what Cucina Urbana offered back in San Diego. These comparisons only scratch the surface of Vancouver's vibrant dining scene, promising a smooth culinary transition from the tastes of San Diego.

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Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Vancouver Real Estate & Living Facts

When moving from one city to another, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp how San Diego and Vancouver stack up against each other in terms of housing costs, styles, and livability.

ComparisonSan DiegoVancouver
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish Colonial, ModernNorthwest, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingBeaches, views, outdoor spacesParks, family-friendly, greenspaces

In analyzing the differences between San Diego and Vancouver, it's evident that housing affordability greatly favors Vancouver, with significantly lower median home prices and rent. While San Diego boasts more walkable neighborhoods and a slightly more vibrant urban lifestyle, attributed to its beaches and outdoor spaces, Vancouver offers a quieter setting characterized by its parks and family-friendly amenities. The architectural styles also reflect the local culture and geography, with San Diego's homes featuring Spanish Colonial and modern designs that capitalize on the sunny climate, whereas Vancouver homes lean towards the Northwest and Craftsman styles, complementing the lush, green landscape. For those keen on biking and enjoying outdoor activities, both cities offer something unique, underlining the importance of considering your lifestyle preferences when making a move.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Vancouver, WA

1. Fisher's Landing East: Known for its extensive walking trails and dog-friendly parks, such as the popular Dogwood Dog Park, Fisher's Landing East is perfect for pets who love to explore outdoors.

2. Lincoln: With its welcoming vibe, Lincoln boasts pet-friendly dining options and the beautiful Esther Short Park, where you can enjoy open spaces and community events with your four-legged friends.

3. Shumway: Close to the heart of Vancouver, Shumway offers easy access to pet services and supplies, including numerous Petco locations, and is a stone's throw away from several pet-friendly cafes and shops.

San Diego vs. Vancouver Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the differences you'll encounter, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the weather in San Diego compares to weather in Vancouver will help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.

Summer icon
75°F / 66°F

San Diego, CA

80°F / 58°F

Vancouver, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

47°F / 35°F

Vancouver, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
10.34

San Diego, CA

41.5

Vancouver, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

3.5

Vancouver, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan DiegoVancouver
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersWildfires, EarthquakesVolcanic Eruptions, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both San Diego and Vancouver offer unique weather patterns, transitioning from San Diego's warm, arid climate to Vancouver's cooler, more humid environment might take some adjustment. In San Diego, you're used to abundant sunshine and mild temperatures year-round, with minimal humidity. However, moving to Vancouver will introduce you to more varied seasons, including a substantial increase in rainfall and days with overcast skies. Preparedness for these changes, including wardrobe adjustments and perhaps a more robust home heating solution, will ease your transition and help you embrace the beauty of the Pacific Northwest's distinct seasons.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider financial adjustments you might face. This comparison will help you grasp the differences in money and finance between San Diego, CA and Vancouver, WA . Understanding these variations will aid in budgeting and financial planning for your new city.

ComparisonSan DiegoVancouver
Avg. Household Income$93,042$69,993
Cost of Living Index132.394.8
State Income Tax9.30
Avg. Property Tax0.760.98
Avg. Sales Tax7.758.4
Top 3 IndustriesDefense/Military, Tourism, International TradeTechnology, Health Care, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerately affluentComfortably middle-class
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighModerate

While reviewing the financial aspects, you'll notice that San Diego boasts a higher average household income compared to Vancouver. However, this comes with a significantly higher cost of living and a state income tax that Vancouver residents do not face, thanks to Washington's 0% state income tax policy. The differences in property and sales taxes between these two cities hint at varied costs of homeownership and day-to-day spending. Sectors driving the economy also vary, indicating potential career impacts based on your industry. Understanding these nuances ensures you're better prepared financially for the move and can plan accordingly.

San Diego vs. Vancouver Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you understand how the political and religious makeup of San Diego and Vancouver might impact your experience in each city. By doing a comparison of the politics between San Diego & Vancouver , we aim to offer insights into the community you're leaving and the one you're about to join.

San DiegoVancouver
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on environmental and social issuesMixed, with a significant focus on local governance and community development
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Catholic presenceVaried, with a strong Protestant community

While both San Diego and Vancouver lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, the local political landscape offers different focuses. San Diego is known for its progressive stance on environmental and social issues, reflecting its diverse population and cultural inclusivity. In contrast, Vancouver displays a mixed political environment with a significant emphasis on local governance and community development. Religion in both cities showcases diversity, with San Diego having a notable Catholic presence and Vancouver hosting a strong Protestant community. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate and find your place in your new community.

San Diego vs. Vancouver Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Vancouver is vital for a smoother transition. This comparison aims to provide insights into what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like when moving from sunny San Diego, CA, to the lush landscapes of Vancouver, WA.

ComparisonSan DiegoVancouver
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?PartiallyChallenging

When transitioning from San Diego to Vancouver, you'll notice a slight difference in average commute times, with Vancouver offering a marginally quicker daily commute. One significant advantage is the reduced traffic congestion in Vancouver, which scores lower than San Diego, making for a less stressful driving experience. However, it's important to consider that while San Diego boasts a more developed public transit system, making it somewhat possible to get by without a car, Vancouver presents more of a challenge in this aspect. Navigating daily life without a personal vehicle in Vancouver might require more planning due to less availability of public transit options.

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