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California to Arizona Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

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  • For California to Arizona, the typical two-bedroom professional moving cost is about $2,200–$4,600.*Based on a 2–3 bedroom home and a one–six day delivery estimate. Final cost and timing depend on home size, distance, and season.
  • To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
  • Our top-recommended mover for relocating from California to Arizona is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
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  • Best overall value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
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Who are the best movers to move from California to Arizona?

After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to Arizona is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.

Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from California to Arizona below and which may work best for you:

  • Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
  • Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
  • Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from California to Arizona

We generally recommend going with a professional interstate mover for your California to Arizona move, since they can handle the end-to-end logistics of a 736 mile route. After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from California to Arizona.

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

How much does it cost to move from California to Arizona?

It costs between $2,200–$7,300 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to Arizona. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 736-mile move from CA to AZ using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha maintains a nationwide database of thousands of verified moving prices, updated monthly to mirror seasonal patterns and market changes. Your final bill can vary with move size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel costs, and timing. To get a reliable figure, collect quotes from more than one mover.
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Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,509 – $4,151
  • Moving Container $1,035 – $1,755
  • Rental Truck $511 – $903
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,240 – $5,631
  • Moving Container $1,253 – $2,382
  • Rental Truck $557 – $1,150
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4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,834 – $7,303
  • Moving Container $1,713 – $3,424
  • Rental Truck $656 – $1,381
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lemon Cove, CA Doney Park, AZ
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 11, 2026
Colonial Van Lines
Temple City, CA Apache Junction, AZ
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 10, 2026
North American Van Lines
Florence-Graham, CA Somerton, AZ
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 17, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Vista, CA Fortuna Foothills, AZ
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 15, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Tiburon, CA Walnut Creek, AZ
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 10, 2025
PODS
Riverbank, CA Jerome, AZ
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Nov 26, 2025
Safeway Moving
Rowland Heights, CA Benson, AZ
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Nov 17, 2025
American Van Lines
La Quinta, CA Carefree, AZ
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 11, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
Blythe, CA Kingman, AZ
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 01, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Lemon Hill, CA Round Valley, AZ
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 23, 2025

FAQ

How much does it cost to move from California to Arizona?

Moving from California to Arizona can cost anywhere from $1,081–$6,583, but most people pay around $2,240–$4,590 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,081 – $3,768 $695 – $1,720 $516 – $988
2-3 bedrooms $2,240 – $5,631 $1,253 – $2,382 $557 – $1,150
4+ bedrooms $3,834 – $7,303 $1,713 – $3,424 $656 – $1,381

These are approximate estimates for a 736-mile move from CA to AZ using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.

Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.

How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?

It typically costs around $2,240 – $5,631 to hire a moving company to move you from California to Arizona. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:

  • Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,081 – $3,768
  • 2–3 bedrooms: $2,240 – $5,631
  • 4+ bedrooms: $3,834 – $7,303

How much do moving containers cost from California to Arizona?

Using a moving container from California to Arizona costs, on average, $1,253 – $2,382. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:

  • Small move: $695 – $1,720
  • 2–3 bedrooms: $1,253 – $2,382
  • 4+ bedrooms: $1,713 – $3,424

Learn more about PODS cost here.

How much does a rental truck cost for this move?

Using a rental moving truck to move from California to Arizona will costs you between $557 – $1,150, but your price might differ as follows below:

  • Studio / 1 bedroom: $516 – $988
  • 2–3 bedrooms: $557 – $1,150
  • 4+ bedrooms: $656 – $1,381

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Which option is usually the cheapest?

A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from California to Arizona, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.

How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?

To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.

Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).

Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.

What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to AZ?

Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Arizona — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $1,308 in Arizona, and average home values go from $771,057 to $428,711.

You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 107), unemployment (5.4% vs. 3.6%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 8.4%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 2.5%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.

California Arizona
Average rent $1,856 $1,308
Average home cost $771,057 $428,711
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $72,581
Cost of living index 134 107
Unemployment rate 5.4% 3.6%
Average sales tax 8.68% 8.4%
State income tax 13.3% 2.5%

Will rent be more expensive in Arizona?

Rent is about 30% lower in Arizona than in California.

Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $1,308

How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?

Home prices are about 44% lower in Arizona than in California.

Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $428,711

Will my earning power likely change after moving?

Average income is about 21% lower in Arizona than in California.

Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $72,581

Is the overall cost of living higher in Arizona?

The cost of living is 20% lower in Arizona than in California.

Cost of living index: 134 vs. 107

Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?

Sales tax rates are similar in California and Arizona.

Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 8.4%

Will state income tax change my take-home pay?

Income taxes are 81% lower in Arizona than in California.

State income tax: 13.3% vs. 2.5%

How is daily life different in Arizona compared to California?

A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.

Arizona California
Population 7,431,344 39,029,342
Political leaning Democrat 56-44 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 99ºF 87ºF
Winter low 34ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 12″ 22″
Annual snow 6″ 7″
Crime index 24.89 28.43

Will Arizona feel more crowded than California?

Arizona is about 81% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.

Will the political culture feel different?

In the last presidential election, Arizona voted Democrat while California voted Democratic.

How different is the weather (summer and winter)?

Summer: Arizona is hotter on average (99°F vs. 87°F).

Winter: Arizona is colder on average (34°F vs. 59°F).

Will it be wetter or snowier in Arizona?

Rain: Arizona gets less rain (12″ vs. 22″).

Snow: Snowfall is similar (6 inches vs. 7 inches).

Is Arizona safer than California?

Arizona has a lower crime index than California (24.89 vs. 28.43), which can mean more peace of mind overall.

What are some things to do in Arizona?

Museums in Arizona

  • Musical Instrument Museum
  • Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
  • Commemorative Air Force Museum
  • Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
  • Jerome State Historic Park

Parks in Arizona

  • Canyon de Chelly National Monument
  • Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
  • Petrified Forest National Park
  • Walnut Canyon National Monument
  • Saguaro National Park

Sports teams in Arizona

  • Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
  • Phoenix Suns Basketball (NBA)
  • Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
  • Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
  • Arizona Rattlers (IFL)

Universities in Arizona

  • Arizona State University
  • Northern Arizona University
  • University of Arizona
  • American Indian College
  • Carrington College

What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?

Other things to consider for your California to Arizona move

  • HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
  • State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
  • State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Arizona moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Arizona, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist.

Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?

Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.

Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?

One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.

Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Arizona?

Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.

How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Arizona?

Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically.

You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Arizona moving license here.

Do I need a moving permit in Arizona?

No moving permit is required in Arizona.

What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?

Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.

By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.

Some movers in California offer discounts: 7 AAA discounts; 7 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 4 law enforcement discounts.

Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.

Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.

Handy Moving Resources

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