Best Local Movers for San Diego to Seattle Moves
Moving from San Diego to Seattle means crossing 1,254 miles — far enough that you need movers who know how to handle long-distance work, not just local jobs. I've reviewed moving companies operating in the San Diego area that actually service Seattle routes, scoring them on what matters: customer satisfaction, pricing consistency, and how they handle the details that go wrong on multi-state moves.
Here's what I found.
Top Local Movers from San Diego to Seattle
- Dominant Moving Company — 4.56 / 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage — 4.64 / 5 stars
- McCarthy Transfer & Storage — 4.58 / 5 stars
- 24/7 Moving and Storage — 4.48 / 5 stars
- We Like To Move It Moving — 4.44 / 5 stars
Dominant Moving Company
Rating: 4.56 / 5 (351 Yelp reviews, 145 Google reviews)
Address: 7875 Convoy Ct #23, San Diego, CA 92111
License: 191165 | DOT #: 2718191 | BBB Grade: A+
What customers say: Dominant stands out for speed and care. Of 360 reviews analyzed, 82% came from satisfied customers who praise efficient crews, polite staff, and solid value. People consistently mention careful handling of belongings, good communication, and on-time arrival. The main complaints center on occasional furniture damage, late arrivals, and slow claim resolution after problems.
Why it works: Dominant pairs affordability with professional handling. Their reputation rides on speed and attention to detail, though you should nail down damage procedures before signing on.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Contact: (855) 699-2299
Republic Moving & Storage
Rating: 4.64 / 5 (276 Yelp reviews, 325 Google reviews)
Address: 8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154
License: 0190491 | DOT #: 3369820 | BBB Grade: A+
What customers say: Republic gets points for punctuality and professionalism. Crews consistently show up on time, work efficiently, and communicate clearly throughout the day. Customers highlight careful handling of delicate items and transparent pricing. Out of 501 reviews, 75% were positive. The downside: Some customers reported damage in transit, late arrivals on complex moves, and frustration handling damage claims.
Why it works: Republic's 31 years in business shows. They're known for courteous, knowledgeable staff and accurate estimates—rare in this industry. Damage complaints persist, so clarify what's covered before you move.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane vans, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, DOD certified.
Contact: (619) 639-8352
McCarthy Transfer & Storage
Rating: 4.58 / 5 (109 Yelp reviews, 45 Google reviews)
Address: 1386 Fayette St, El Cajon, CA 92020
License: 0154190 | DOT #: 2059504 | BBB Grade: A+
What customers say: McCarthy earns trust through professionalism and speed. Out of 221 reviews, 91% praised polite crews, careful handling, and quick work. Customers—especially those with military relocations—note that McCarthy consistently exceeds expectations. A handful reported damaged items or unexpected charges, but these are outliers.
Why it works: With 105 years under their belt, McCarthy has the experience to back up their service. They're especially strong on military moves, which means discipline and reliability. The 91% positive rate is solid.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage, DOD certified.
Contact: (619) 596-2594
24/7 Moving and Storage
Rating: 4.48 / 5 (824 Yelp reviews)
Address: 2622 Piantino Cir, San Diego, CA 92108
License: 0190561 | DOT #: 2707732 | BBB Grade: A+
What customers say: 24/7 wins on sheer volume of positive feedback. Out of 787 reviews, 97% highlighted fast work, polite staff, and careful handling. Customers praise transparent pricing and helpful teams. The rare complaints involve damaged furniture or costs creeping above estimates—but these don't represent the norm.
Why it works: You're looking at consistently efficient, professional crews who move fast without cutting corners. The 97% positive rate speaks for itself, even though damage happens occasionally.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Contact: (888) 296-0078
We Like To Move It Moving
Rating: 4.44 / 5 (234 Yelp reviews, 192 Google reviews)
Address: 4901 Morena Blvd Ste 1102, San Diego, CA 92117
License: 0191446 | DOT #: 2843171 | BBB Grade: A+
What customers say: We Like To Move It earns consistently strong feedback for organized, quick moves. Of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences with efficient service and genuine attention to detail. Crews arrive on time, handle items with care, and communicate clearly. A few customers saw costs exceed estimates, and isolated reports mention damage or delays.
Why it works: This crew delivers personable service without the usual friction. High satisfaction rates and strong word-of-mouth set them apart locally.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, art, antiques, crating, storage, safes.
Contact: (619) 483-1505
How Much Does It Cost to Move from San Diego to Seattle?
San Diego movers charge an average of $129 per hour for full-service work. Here's what you'll actually pay depending on move size and method:
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,178–$4,399 | $872–$2,073 | $756–$1,457 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,716–$5,904 | $1,562–$3,076 | $793–$1,631 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,292–$8,626 | $2,116–$4,082 | $997–$2,073 |
Figures represent approximate costs for a 1,254-mile move from San Diego to Seattle. Final pricing varies based on shipment size, optional services, access challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always collect quotes from multiple movers.
Full-Service Moving Costs
A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,178 to $4,399. Two or three bedrooms typically range from $2,716 to $5,904. Larger households—four or five bedrooms—expect $4,292 to $8,626.
Moving Container Costs
For a small load with a moving container, budget $872 to $2,073. A two- or three-bedroom home runs $1,562 to $3,076. Four-plus bedroom houses fall in the $2,116 to $4,082 range.
Rental Truck Costs
Renting a moving truck is your cheapest route if you're willing to do the work yourself. Studio or one-bedroom moves cost $756 to $1,457. Two or three bedrooms run $793 to $1,631. A four-bedroom-plus home costs $997 to $2,073, including fuel.
What Drives Your Moving Cost
- Move size: Bigger loads mean higher costs. A small one-bedroom start at around $2,204; larger homes can hit $7,539.
- Season: Summer demand spikes prices. Spring and fall are cheaper.
- DIY vs. professional: A rental truck saves money upfront but costs time and physical effort. Full-service costs more but removes the hassle.
Use the moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your exact situation.
What to Expect: San Diego vs. Seattle Cost of Living
Seattle runs about 12% higher for singles and 27% higher for families than San Diego. Here's the breakdown:
| Category | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,704 | $2,306 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,914 | $4,655 |
| Average home value | $1,003,444 | $842,068 |
| Average income (per capita) | $72,963 | $77,845 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,346 | $3,740 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,719 | $9,801 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 4.8% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 10.35% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
The Real Numbers
Rent favors Seattle. You'll pay about 31% less for a one-bedroom in Seattle, freeing up cash each month.
Homes cost less in Seattle. Home prices run about 16% lower, easing the mortgage pressure.
Incomes are higher. Seattle's average per-capita income is 7% higher, giving you more breathing room.
Cost of living jumps for singles. Expect a 12% increase in everyday expenses—utilities, groceries, transit.
Families pay more. A family of four will see a 27% jump in total cost of living.
Jobs are more plentiful. Seattle's unemployment sits at 4.8% versus San Diego's 6.6%. That's a 27% lower jobless rate.
Sales tax is steeper. At 10.35%, you'll pay 34% more in sales tax than San Diego's 7.75%.
Washington has no income tax. This is huge. Zero state income tax means you keep more of your paycheck—a major advantage for salaried and freelance workers.
Living Expense Comparison
| Expense | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $277.55 | $250.22 |
| Cell phone plan | $66.79 | $60.15 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.26 | $6.07 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.50 | $4.84 |
| Fast-food meal | $21.00 | $25.00 |
| Mid-range dinner for two | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $65.68 | $78.35 |
Utilities and cell plans run slightly cheaper in Seattle. Groceries and dining out cost a bit more. Gym memberships are pricier up north. The mid-range restaurant meal is a wash.
How San Diego and Seattle Compare
| Factor | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 737,015 |
| Public transit score | 6 / 10 | 8 / 10 |
| Walkability score | 53 / 100 | 74 / 100 |
| Bike friendliness | 43 / 100 | 71 / 100 |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 58.88 |
| Safety index | 60.17 | 49.23 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
Seattle is smaller. The population is 47% less—you're moving to a more compact city.
Public transit works better in Seattle. Score 8 out of 10 versus San Diego's 6. You'll rely less on a car.
Seattle is walkable. A score of 74 means getting around on foot is realistic. San Diego scores 53.
Cyclists thrive in Seattle. Score 71 versus San Diego's 43. Bike infrastructure is significantly better.
Seattle is less safe. The crime index is higher at 58.88 versus 39.83, and the safety score is lower at 49.23. San Diego edges out Seattle on safety metrics.
Air quality improves in Seattle. You're moving from Moderate to Good air quality.
Logistics: Before You Move from San Diego to Seattle
HOA and community rules. Check local regulations before moving day if your building has an HOA.
Elevator reservation. Reserve early if your building requires it, to avoid moving-day delays.
Truck parking permits. Some cities require permits for large vehicles. Find out if you need one beforehand.
Washington state licensing. The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission regulates household goods movers. Verify your company's license on the UTC website.
Moving permits in Washington. Washington doesn't mandate moving permits, but check local parking rules before move-in day.
USPS change of address. File your change of address about a week before moving. Start here.
Moving company insurance. Every state requires different insurance levels. In Washington, most movers offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost (60 cents per pound). Upgrade to Full Value Protection for comprehensive coverage, or buy a third-party policy. Understand limits and read reviews before deciding.
Use a moving checklist. Our moving checklist keeps you on top of every task and cuts last-minute stress.
Where to Live in Seattle
Once you've landed, here are neighborhoods worth exploring.
Best for Singles
- Ballard
- Capitol Hill
- Fremont
- Lower Queen Anne
- South Lake Union
Best for Families
- Greenwood
- Laurelhurst
- Magnolia
- Upper Queen Anne
- West Seattle
Things to Do in Seattle
Arts and culture. Museums like the Museum of Popular Culture, Olympic Sculpture Park, and Chihuly Garden and Glass give you plenty of visual inspiration.
Outdoor recreation. Discovery Park, Green Lake Park, and Carkeek Park are perfect for hiking, biking, and just breathing in the fresh air.
Sports. Catch a Seahawks (NFL), Mariners (MLB), Kraken (NHL), Sounders FC (MLS), or Storm (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Diego to Seattle?
Spring and fall offer mild weather and lower rates. Winter can be cheaper if you don't mind the cold.
How long does the move take?
A 1,254-mile move typically takes three to eight days. Some movers offer expedited service; storage in Seattle is a good backup if you need flexibility.
What discounts are available?
Several San Diego movers offer AAA and military discounts. Confirm details with each company before booking.
Which movers handle specialty items?
21 San Diego movers transport pianos. 16 specialize in antiques. Ask about experience and insurance coverage for specialty moves.
Next Steps
You've got the movers, the costs, and the neighborhood insights. Compare quotes from San Diego-based moving companies to lock in the best rate for your Seattle move. The difference between a rushed choice and a thoughtful one often comes down to a few hundred dollars—and a lot less stress on moving day.