How to Move to San Diego on a Budget

• Real Estate Tips
• September 12, 2023

Is it Possible to Move to San Diego on a Budget?

If you’re looking for near-perfect weather, jaw-dropping beaches, or eclectic city life,  San Diego is the place to go.  However, before making the move, it’s important to consider the potential financial implications, since “America’s Finest City” is also notorious for its high cost of living.

With the right planning, it may be possible to make the move to San Diego without breaking the bank. Here’s how to relocate to San Diego on a budget, from locking down affordable housing to cutting moving expenses in half.

Timing Your Move is Everything

According to housing data, housing costs in San Diego are a significant component of the overall cost of living index. The cost of living in San Diego is significantly higher than the national average, but in comparison, the wages are also higher on average. While it may be possible to live in San Diego on a budget, it requires careful planning,  budgeting, and timing.

Summer is considered the peak moving season in San Diego when the demand for rentals is at their highest, but to lock down on the best deals and moving services, maybe move during the off-season instead (October – April). Some property owners lower their prices significantly due to decreased demand during this time, plus some moving companies offer great discounts.

What Do I Need to Start My Moving Checklist to San Diego?

Before you begin your move to San Diego, you need to consider this checklist:

1. Housing: Are you selling a house before you begin your move? Or do you already have a place in mind? If not, you may want to consider looking for a Realtor who works in San Diego or the SoCal area. A Realtor can help you navigate the competitive housing market and find affordable options that meet your needs and budget.
2. Budgeting: Determine your budget and stick to it. Make sure to plan for the cost of moving trucks, gas, food on the road, and other necessities. Also, plan for the unexpected. You don’t want to get a flat tire and have no means to pay for it! 
3. Research: Do your research on the different neighborhoods in San Diego to find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget. Consider factors such as safety, proximity to amenities, and access to transportation.
4. Career: Before you commit to moving to San Diego, make sure that you have a solid job lined up and that you have already gone over your budget ahead of time. Although your job may pay a decent wage or have a high salary, the cost of living is higher in San Diego, so you will need to plan accordingly.

Where are the Best Neighborhoods in San Diego?

When considering a move to San Diego, it’s important to do your research and identify the best neighborhoods that align with your preferences and budget. While a Realtor can help you with this, it’s also helpful to do your own research. Consider the following factors when searching for the best neighborhoods in San Diego:

• Affordability: Research the median home prices and rental rates in different neighborhoods to find options that fit within your budget. Some of the most affordable neighborhoods include: Linda Vista, San Ysidro, Barrio Logan, El Cajon, and Chollas View.
• Safety: It’s important to prioritize safety when choosing a neighborhood. Some of the most affordable areas in San Diego may not be safe. Consider all of your options and consult with a local Realtor to find the best area for your budget. 
• Proximity to Amenities: Consider how close the neighborhood is to essential amenities such as grocery stores, schools, parks, and public transportation.

How to Slash Your Moving Expenses to San Diego

It really doesn’t have to cost a fortune to move to San Diego, if you know where to look. When packing up your belongings, why not use free boxes from grocery stores, or even check out Craigslist or local Facebook groups? Also, explore sites like U-Haul or Moving.com and compare quotes for movers that best fit your budget.

If you lack a lot of furniture, why pay to move them yourself? Shipping your items through Amtrak Freight of Greyhound Package Express can be much cheaper than a moving truck. Before packing at all, go through what’s really essential and sell/donate what you don’t absolutely require or need. Less stuff = cheaper moving costs!

No Wheels? No Problem: Saving on Transportation in San Diego

San Diego is definitely a car-centric city, but if you don’t own a car, you’re not totally out of options. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) offers a network of trolleys and buses with adult monthly passes starting at $72, which can be cheaper when considering gas prices, insurance, and parking costs. Neighborhoods like Hillcrest and North Park also welcome biking and walking with quaint shops on every corner.

Not into public transportation or walking/biking? You can also carpool or rideshare using apps like Lyft Line or Waze Carpool if you’d rather not drive a car to save big bucks on your daily commute. If you only occasionally need a vehicle, Turo is a car-sharing app you might find useful.

Move to San Diego with Help From a Top Realtor!

Moving to San Diego on a budget is not an impossibility with the right planning, it just takes a little time to do the research, and making the move won’t cause you to go broke. Of course, you can’t anticipate everything, particularly when it comes to San Diego’s super-hot real estate market.

This is when having an experienced and knowledgeable Realtor can help you the most if you’re ready to move to San Diego now. Call Linda Moore today for a free market evaluation!