Tempe, AZ to Tacoma, WA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Tempe to Tacoma typically costs $3,200–$7,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,461 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Tempe to Tacoma
Moving from Tempe, AZ to Tacoma, WA typically costs $3,200–$7,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,461-mile move from Tempe to Tacoma, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- United Van Lines recently quoted $4,004 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $1,411 for a 4 bedroom using a rental truck.
- PODS recently quoted $2,054 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
Studio apartment
Feb 25, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 23, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 08, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 12, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 29, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 10, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Tempe to Tacoma
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Tempe to Tacoma might be as low as $2,500, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Tempe.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,000 to $2,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tacoma, WA to Tempe, AZ guide.
Best Tempe to Tacoma movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Tempe to Tacoma
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Tempe to Tacoma, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best AZ→WA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 99 Arizona movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Tempe to Tacoma
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Tacoma runs about -24% higher for singles and 7% higher for families than Tempe.
Singles spend around $4,133 in Tacoma versus $5,433 in Tempe; families pay $7,260 compared with $6,810.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Tempe | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $1,935 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $3,389 |
| Average home value | $471,494 | $477,289 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,080 | $73,341 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,433 | $4,133 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,810 | $7,260 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 8.1% | 10.3% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 0.0% |
- Good news! When moving to Tacoma from Tempe, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 10% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- The home prices in Tacoma and Tempe differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 14% higher in Tacoma than in Tempe, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Tacoma. The cost of living for a single person is 24% less compared to Tempe.
- As you plan your move to Tacoma, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 7% more than it is in Tempe.
- The unemployment rate in Tacoma exceeds that of Tempe by about 35%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Tacoma exceed those in Tempe by 27%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Washington has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Tempe and Tacoma, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Tempe | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $256.54 | $229.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $70.53 | $71.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.75 | $4.84 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $4.21 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.17 | $16.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $72.50 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $51.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- Eggs are less expensive in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- Bread costs less in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tempe than in Tacoma.
How life is different in Tempe vs. Tacoma
| Tempe | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 180,587 | 223,968 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 54 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 75 | 48 |
| Crime index | 42.36 | 55.55 |
| Safety index | 57.64 | 44.45 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tacoma's population is about 24% greater than Tempe.
- Tacoma's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Tempe's score of 8.
- Tacoma and Tempe are similarly walkable.
- Tacoma has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Tempe, which has a score of 75.
- Tacoma's crime rate is higher than Tempe with a score of 55.55 compared to Tempe's 42.36. This means that Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36%.
- Tacoma is considered to be less safe than Tempe with a score of 44.45 vs Tempe's 57.64.
- Air quality in Tacoma is Good, and in Tempe it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Tempe to Tacoma move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Washington moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Washington, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Tacoma without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers' insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Tacoma
Ready to relocate to America’s #1 Wired City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Tacoma.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central
- Eastside-Enact
- North End
- Northeast Tacoma
- West End
Best neighborhoods for families
- North End
- West End
Things to do in Tacoma
Now that you've made the move to Washington, it's the perfect time to explore Tacoma. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Tacoma include museums and art centers like the LeMay - America's Car Museum, Museum of Glass, LeMay Collections at Marymount, and Washington State History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Point Defiance Park, Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 5 Mile Drive & Trails, and Wright Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Tacoma Defiance (Soccer)Tacoma Rainiers (Baseball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tempe to Tacoma?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tempe to Tacoma. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Tempe.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tempe to Tacoma?
With many people choosing to move from Tempe to Tacoma in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Tempe to Tacoma take?
Covering 1,461 miles, the move from Tempe, AZ to Tacoma, WA typically takes three to eight days. Some Tempe movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Tacoma can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Tempe offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in Tempe offer AAA member savings. 2 movers provide military discounts. 5 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Tempe can handle specialty items for my move to Tacoma?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Tempe, 54 movers can handle pianos. 37 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of AZ, there are 73 piano movers and 49 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
