($1,509) Cost of Moving From California to Arizona
Quick answer: When planning a move from California to Arizona, you can expect to pay anywhere from $704 to $7,160. Most relocations will take about two–seven days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Arizona to California guide.
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The best California to Arizona full-service movers
Planning a move from California to Arizona? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.
Start your move from California to Arizona with these top-rated long-distance movers in California.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in California
Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in California based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Lack of communication
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Inaccurate estimates
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 0189688
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1095485
Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best California to Arizona moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in California and drop it off at your new home in Arizona.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best California to Arizona moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from California to Arizona, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best California to Arizona labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from California to Arizona, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to AZ move
How much does it cost to move from California to Arizona?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Arizona with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,509 - $5,152 | $942 - $2,238 | $680 - $1,216 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,801 - $7,160 | $1,646 - $3,134 | $704 - $1,533 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,108 - $9,401 | $2,297 - $4,252 | $946 - $1,714 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 756 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from California to Arizona
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Arizona will cost between $1,509 and $5,152. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to AZ will range from $2,801 to $7,160, and a large move from California to Arizona will cost from $5,108 to $9,401.
Cost of moving containers from California to Arizona
If you're moving from California to Arizona, expect to pay between $942 and $2,238 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,646 up to $3,134. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,297 and $4,252. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Arizona
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $680 and $1,216. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $704 and $1,533. Planning a move from California to Arizona or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $946 up to $1,714 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to AZ
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California to Arizona. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
- Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.
What to know before moving from CA to AZ
If you’re moving from California to Arizona, take a moment to see how your new state compares to your current one.
Cost of living: California vs. Arizona
Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in California and Arizona. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:
| California | Arizona | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $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% |
- Rent is about 30% less expensive in Arizona than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 44% lower in Arizona than in California.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 21% lower in Arizona than in California.
- The cost of living in Arizona is about 20% lower than in California. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
- Arizona has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 33%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Sales taxes are 3% lower in Arizona than in California. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Arizona can reduce your overall living expenses.
- Income taxes are 81% lower in Arizona than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Arizona vs. California
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel. From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience. Here’s how life in Arizona and California compares across key lifestyle indicators:
| 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 |
- With a population roughly 81% smaller than California, Arizona gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses. Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
- In the most recent presidential election, Arizona leaned Democrat, while California went with Democratic.
- Summer in Arizona can reach highs of 99ºF, compared to California, which usually peaks at 87ºF. With more sunshine and outdoor activities, be prepared for increased cooling costs and a warmer climate than you might be used to.
- In the coldest months, temperatures in Arizona can dip to around 34ºF, while California typically only sees lows near 59ºF. Relocating to Arizona means getting used to colder winters, which might mean higher heating bills, new routines, and harsher weather. On the upside, you’ll also get to experience the seasonal charm and activities that come with the snow.
- In Arizona, you’ll see about 12 inches of rain each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- In Arizona, you can expect about 6 inches of snow each year. By comparison, California typically gets around 7 inches annually. Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with any unexpected weather challenges.
- Arizona is a safer choice than California, boasting a lower crime index of 24.89 compared to 28.43. You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind. While crime rates aren't everything, it's reassuring to know you're moving somewhere relatively safe.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Arizona
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Arizona compared to California.
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Arizona |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Pleasant weather | Pleasant weather |
| Abundant recreational options | Abundant recreational opportunities |
| High quality of life | Cultural diversity |
| Fresh and healthy foods | No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Arizona
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to Arizona.
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Arizona |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens | Barren desert land |
| Natural disasters | Health hazards |
| Terrible traffic | Limited public transportation |
| Strange laws | No winter |
Other things to consider for your California to Arizona move
- Weather: Arizona may be on of the top states where your move is least likely to be affected by climate due to the unlikelihood of extremely cold days and natural disasters.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- 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 parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Arizona. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Arizona
Get excited to explore Arizona. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
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 Universit
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
