Moving from Phoenix to Tucson, AZ
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Quick answer: Moving from Phoenix to Tucson costs $139–$4,766, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 111-mile route within Arizona take 1–2 days from packing to delivery, based on moveBuddha's analysis of 99+ Arizona moving companies.
- Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service pick at 4.9 out of 5 stars, our best overall value mover for this route.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Phoenix to Tucson?
Moving from Phoenix to Tucson doesn't have to mean hiring a full-service crew and paying top dollar. Whether you want movers to handle the whole job or you're up for tackling parts of it yourself, there's an option that fits.
For full-service moves, we recommend Safeway Moving (4.9/5).
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 111-mile move:
Moving from Phoenix to Tucson costs between $139 and $4,766, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 111-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $1,284–$3,957 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options | |
| Moving container | $1,020–$1,872 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading | |
| Rental truck | $157–$256 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $85/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 99+ Arizona movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Phoenix to Tucson?
Expect to spend between $139 and $4,766 on a Phoenix to Tucson move, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The 111-mile route prices below show what each moving service charges across home sizes:
- Full-service movers: $717–$4,766
- Moving containers: $821–$2,278
- Rental trucks: $139–$287
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves include packing, loading, transport, and unloading. Professional packing alone adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers cut costs by handling transport while you load and unload yourself.
- Rental trucks save roughly 30% versus full-service, but require you to drive 111 miles and supply your own labor.
- Using moveBuddha's cost calculator helps movers save 30% compared to their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $717–$3,405 | $821–$1,461 | $139–$221 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,284–$3,957 | $1,020–$1,872 | $157–$256 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,945–$4,766 | $1,445–$2,278 | $184–$287 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 99+ Arizona moving companies, and are updated as of May 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
What extra fees should you expect on a Phoenix to Tucson move?
Extra fees to watch for on a Phoenix to Tucson move include professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. These rarely show up on initial quotes, but they can add 10%–25% to the base price by the time the move is done.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $85/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Phoenix to Tucson
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Phoenix to Tucson, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 111 miles, both local and national movers can handle this route well. Your best fit depends on home size, timeline, and budget.
Best movers for larger homes & complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our best overall value pick for full-service moves from Phoenix to Tucson. With 14 years in the moving industry, statewide service throughout Arizona, and a 4.9 out of 5 stars moveBuddha rating, Safeway Moving handles intrastate moves of 111 miles with the logistics infrastructure most local operators can't match.
moveBuddha's top 5 full-service movers, ranked:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
More Arizona moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Tucson to Phoenix guide.
How does Tucson compare to Phoenix?
Cost of living: Phoenix vs. Tucson
A cost-of-living comparison between Phoenix and Tucson covers more than housing. Rent, home prices, average income, daily expenses, and job market trends all factor in. The breakdown below shows how life in Tucson compares to Phoenix.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Phoenix | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,695 | $1,295 |
| Average home cost | $380,294 | $240,428 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,041 | $54,546 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,369 | $2,390 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,226 | $6,043 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 7.4% |
| Average sales tax | 8.6% | 8.7% |
Cost-of-living data for Phoenix and Tucson comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated May 2026 across 99+ Arizona cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent in Tucson is 24% lower than Phoenix. Apply the savings to a larger unit, a better neighborhood, or higher monthly savings.
- Home prices in Tucson are 37% lower than Phoenix. The discount accelerates timelines for first-time buyers and improves cash flow for trade-up moves.
- Average income in Tucson is 29% lower than Phoenix. A same-role transfer typically requires offsetting the salary gap with cost-of-living savings.
- Cost of living for one person is equal in Tucson and Phoenix. Day-to-day spending stays steady through the move.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 in Tucson is 16% higher than Phoenix. Childcare, healthcare, and housing typically drive the gap.
- Unemployment in Tucson is 12% higher than Phoenix. Job security is less certain, especially in cyclical or layoff-prone industries.
- Sales taxes in Tucson and Phoenix match. Day-to-day taxable purchases cost the same in both cities.
To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in Phoenix, you'd need about $3,030 in Tucson.
How life is different in Phoenix vs. Tucson
A comparison of life in Phoenix and Tucson covers weather, population, cost of living, politics, and safety. These factors all impact your daily life. The side-by-side breakdown below shows which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Phoenix | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,608,139 | 542,629 |
| Political leaning | Republican 52-48 | Republican 52-48 |
| Summer high | 105ºF | 101ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 38ºF |
| Annual rain | 9" | 12" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 53.06 | 54.43 |
- Tucson is 66% smaller in size than Phoenix. Smaller cities typically offer lower housing costs and shorter commutes, with fewer industry options for niche careers.
- In the most recent presidential race, both Phoenix and Tucson leaned Republican.
- Summer highs in Tucson (101°F) and Phoenix (105°F) are similar. Existing summer routines transfer.
- Winter lows match across Phoenix (43°F) and Tucson (38°F). Existing heating bills are a reliable benchmark.
- Annual rainfall levels match in Phoenix (9 inches) and Tucson (12 inches). Outdoor planning carries over.
- Annual snowfall in Phoenix and Tucson is effectively zero. No winter weather budget or gear adjustments required.
- Crime indexes in Tucson (54.43) and Phoenix (53.06) are similar. Safety considerations apply at the neighborhood level, not the city level.
Things to do in Tucson
Tucson's lifestyle is defined by outdoor recreation, museums and cultural venues, professional and college sports, and a strong university presence. Top destinations in each category appear below.
Museums in Tucson
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Pima Air and Space Museum
- DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum
- The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
- Franklin Auto Museum
Parks in Tucson
- Agua Caliente Park
- Himmel Park
- Rillito River Park
- Brandi Fenton Memorial Park
- Sabino Canyon
Sports teams in Tucson
- University of Arizona Wildcats (NCAA)
- Tucson Saguaros (Pecos League)
- Tucson Roadrunners (AHL)
- FC Tucson (USL)
- Tucson Monsoon (IWFL)
Universities in Tucson
- University of Arizona
- Pima Community College
- Arizona State University's College of Public Service & Community Solutions
- Tucson College
- Brookline College
Final verdict: best movers from Phoenix to Tucson
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Phoenix to Tucson, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide Arizona service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $139–$4,766 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 99+ Arizona movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Phoenix to Tucson
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Phoenix to Tucson?
A move from Phoenix to Tucson with a professional moving company costs $674–$2,644 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom move, prices range from $1,284 up to $3,957. For a 4-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay $1,945–$4,766 for the whole move.
How much are moving container companies from Phoenix to Tucson?
Moving containers from Phoenix to Tucson cost $604–$1,385 for a studio or 1-bedroom home. For a 2–3 bedroom move, moving containers run $1,020–$1,872. A larger home costs $1,445–$2,278.
How much is a moving truck from Phoenix to Tucson?
A rental moving truck from Phoenix to Tucson costs $147–$217 for a studio or 1-bedroom. A 2–3 bedroom move costs $157–$256, and a 4-bedroom or larger move falls between $184 and $287.
Rental trucks are typically the most budget-friendly choice for movers willing to handle the driving and heavy lifting. The estimates above factor in estimated fuel costs.
How far in advance should I book Phoenix-to-Tucson movers?
Lock in your movers for a Phoenix to Tucson move at least 2 months ahead of time. For a summer move, aim for 3 months in advance. Early booking gives you a better shot at your ideal moving date and can land better rates. Some companies offer early-bird discounts for reservations placed ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Tucson?
The best deals on a move to Tucson fall between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush saves you money and helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.
