Olympia, WA to Tempe, AZ Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Olympia to Tempe typically costs $3,600–$8,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,384 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Olympia to Tempe
Moving from Olympia, WA to Tempe, AZ typically costs $3,600–$8,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,384-mile move from Olympia to Tempe, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $4,956 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,940 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
- AB Moving recently quoted $4,014 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Olympia to Tempe move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,700 for a one-bedroom, or up to $12,200 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Olympia.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,000 to $2,700, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tempe, AZ to Olympia, WA guide.
Best Olympia to Tempe movers by type
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Best professional movers from Olympia to Tempe
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Olympia to Tempe much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
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
How we chose the best WA→AZ movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 94 Washington movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Olympia to Tempe
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Tempe runs about 120% higher for singles and 26% higher for families than Olympia.
Singles spend around $5,433 in Tempe versus $2,473 in Olympia; families pay $6,810 compared with $5,391.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Olympia | Tempe | |
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| Average 1 BR rent | $1,675 | $1,900 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,817 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $508,798 | $471,494 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,492 | $64,080 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,473 | $5,433 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,391 | $6,810 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.6% | 5.4% |
| Sales tax | 9.4% | 8.1% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 2.5% |
- Moving to Tempe from Olympia won't change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 7% more affordable in Tempe compared to Olympia.
- In terms of average income, Tempe and Olympia are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Tempe, as living costs for a single person are 120% higher than in Olympia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Tempe, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Tempe is 26% higher than in Olympia.
- With Tempe and Olympia having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes are 14% less in Tempe relative to Olympia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Arizona has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Olympia and Tempe:
| Living Expense | Olympia | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $152.80 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $58.64 | $70.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.30 | $4.75 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.94 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $19.17 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $70.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $58.33 | $30.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Olympia than in Tempe, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Olympia than in Tempe.
- Eggs are less expensive in Olympia than in Tempe.
- Bread costs less in Olympia than in Tempe.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Olympia than in Tempe.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Olympia than in Tempe.
- Gym memberships cost more in Olympia than in Tempe.
How life is different in Olympia vs. Tempe
| Olympia | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 55,605 | 180,587 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 39 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 59 | 75 |
| Crime index | 27.95 | 42.36 |
| Safety index | 62.25 | 57.64 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tempe's population is about 225% greater than Olympia.
- Tempe's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Olympia's score of 5.
- Tempe is more walkable than Olympia with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Olympia's 39 out of 100.
- With a score of 75 out of 100, Tempe is more bike-friendly than Olympia, which has a score of 59 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Tempe's crime rate is higher than Olympia with a score of 42.36 compared to Olympia's 27.95. This means that Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Olympia neighborhoods are safer than 27.95%.
- Tempe is considered to be less safe than Olympia with a score of 57.64 vs Olympia's 62.25.
- Air quality in Tempe is Good, and in Olympia it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Olympia to Tempe move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Arizona’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Tempe. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Tempe
Planning your move to Tempe? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Tempe.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cyprus Southwest
- Daley Park
- Kyrene-Superstition
- Mitchell Park West
- University Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Alta Mira
- Dava-Lakeshore
- Meyer Park
- Sandahl
- Tempe Gardens
Things to do in Tempe
After settling into your new Arizona home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Tempe has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Tempe features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park, Tempe History Museum, Arizona State University Art Museum, and ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Tempe Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, and Papago Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Olympia to Tempe?
Planning your move from Olympia to Tempe? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Olympia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Olympia to Tempe?
Because most people are moving from Olympia to Tempe in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Olympia to Tempe take?
The 1,384-mile journey from Olympia, WA to Tempe, AZ, typically takes three to eight days. Some movers in Olympia offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Tempe.
Are there special savings available from movers in Olympia?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Olympia?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Olympia, 26 movers can manage piano relocations. 19 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Washington has 72 piano movers and 45 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.