Moving Blog

The Best Time To Move

Sep 05, 2025

Happy family moving in and having fun while doing so

Moving to San Diego can be extremely stressful and expensive, but relocating during the right time of year can significantly reduce stress and lower the costs associated with moving to San Diego.

Choosing the best time to move can save you money, reduce stress, and make the entire process smoother. But the “perfect” moving time depends on several factors—your budget, lifestyle, and even California’s unique weather patterns. At Oakley Relocation, we’ve helped families and businesses move across San Diego, Los Angeles, and beyond, and we know that timing makes all the difference.

Moving in Summer: Busy but Convenient

Pros:

Longer days give you more daylight for packing and unloading.

School’s out, making it easier for families with children to transition.

Fewer chances of rain in most parts of California.

Cons:

Summer is peak moving season, so movers are in high demand. Prices are generally higher.

Hot weather can make lifting and loading uncomfortable, especially inland where temps can soar.

Tip: If you need to move in summer, book early to secure your preferred dates and lock in better rates.

Moving in Fall: A Hidden Sweet Spot

Pros:

Demand drops after summer, so you’ll likely find better pricing.

California’s fall weather is usually mild—perfect for moving boxes and furniture without the summer heat.

Great for families since it happens after school has started but before the holiday season.

Cons:

School schedules may make it harder for families to relocate smoothly.

Tip: Early fall (September–October) is one of the best times to move in California for affordability and comfort.

Moving in Winter: Cheapest but Tricky

Pros:

Winter is the most budget-friendly time to move since demand is at its lowest.

Movers often have more flexibility with scheduling.

California’s winters are relatively mild compared to other states—no snowstorms to worry about in most areas.

Cons:

Shorter daylight hours mean less time to complete your move.

Rain is more common in Northern and Southern California during the winter months, which may cause minor delays.

Tip: If budget is your top priority, winter is a smart choice—just plan around holiday traffic and potential rain.

Moving in Spring: Fresh Start for a New Home

Pros:

Comfortable weather in California makes spring moves easy.

A great time to move before the summer rush begins.

Homes often look their best in spring, which is helpful if you’re selling and moving at the same time.

Cons:

Spring demand starts to increase, especially in late May when families plan moves before summer break.

Tip: March through May strikes a nice balance between affordability and pleasant weather.

Weekdays vs. Weekends: Which Is Better?

Weekdays: Movers are more available, and rental trucks are cheaper. But you may need to take time off work.

Weekends: More convenient if you don’t want to miss work or school—but expect higher demand and pricing.

Best Choice for California: A mid-month, mid-week move in spring or fall often gives you the best rates and smoothest experience.

Oakley Relocation Makes Timing Easier

No matter when you decide to move, Oakley Relocation can help. Our full-service solutions—from packing and storage to international relocation—make moving less stressful. Plus, with our partnership with Updater, you can change your address, forward your mail, and set up utilities in just minutes.

With these guidelines in mind, start calling San Diego moving companies and getting estimates today.

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