How Much Does International Move Cost in San Diego, CA?
San Diego pricing is 32% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, mediterranean climate conditions, and San Diego's defense-biotech-tourism economy.See our methodology
International Move Pricing in San Diego, CA
San Diego is a high-cost market where international move runs about 32% above the national average. The city's defense-biotech-tourism economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 1.4M, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in international move costs here. Mild year-round climate means consistent pricing without seasonal spikes.
Market-specific factors matter in San Diego: high cost of living drives premium pricing; coastal location means salt air corrosion affects roofing and exterior work.
San Diego has strict permitting requirements. Budget an additional 5-15% for permits, inspections, and code compliance when planning your international move project. Licensed contractors familiar with local codes can navigate this process efficiently.
San Diego vs National Average
What Affects International Move Cost in San Diego?
Destination
Canada/Mexico: $2,000-$5,000. Europe: $4,000-$10,000. Asia/Australia: $5,000-$15,000. South America: $3,500-$8,000
Method
Air freight: $4-$8/lb. Full container (sea): $3,000-$8,000. Shared container (sea): $1,500-$4,000
San Diego Market Conditions
high cost of living drives premium pricing; coastal location means salt air corrosion affects roofing and exterior work
Local Climate Impact
mild year-round climate means consistent pricing without seasonal spikes
📐 International Move in San Diego Cost Calculator
Get a personalized estimate based on your project details
Get Free Moving Quotes
Compare rates from licensed movers. No obligation.
Top-Rated International Move Pros in San Diego, CA
4 providersPatriot Electrical
⭐ PREMIUMServing San Diego and surrounding areas since 2015. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Heritage Home Services
Premier Property Services
Are You a International Move Professional?
Get listed on CostWhale and reach thousands of customers searching for international move in San Diego, CA.
🔍 Compare Moving Quotes
Get quotes from top-rated movers in minutes. Compare prices and read reviews.
* CostWhale may earn a commission. This doesn't affect our pricing data or recommendations.
Tips to Save on International Move in San Diego
- 1.Sea freight is 70-80% cheaper than air freight
- 2.Ship only what's worth more than its weight — many items are cheaper to replace abroad
- 3.Get a shared container (LCL) instead of a full container if you have less than 600 cu ft
- 4.Sell furniture and buy new abroad — it's often cheaper than shipping
- 5.In San Diego, verify your contractor handles local permits — the permitting process here is more involved than average and DIY permit applications can cause delays.
📈 International Move in San Diego Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $8,409 | — |
| 2021 | $8,762 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $9,332 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $9,593 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $9,900 | +3.2% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for International Move in San Diego
Recent Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an international move take?
Air freight: 1-2 weeks door to door. Sea freight: 4-8 weeks for Atlantic crossings, 6-12 weeks for Pacific. Add 1-2 weeks for customs clearance on either end.
Why does international move cost different in San Diego than other cities?
San Diego's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the defense-biotech-tourism economy, mediterranean climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and strict permitting requirements. The competitive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
International Move Cost in Nearby Cities
Related Cost Guides for San Diego
Popular Services in San Diego
💰 Get Weekly Cost-Saving Tips
Join 10,000+ smart homeowners. Unsubscribe anytime.