($1,495) Cost of Moving From Arizona to California

Quick answer: Moving from Arizona to California typically costs between $733 and $7,230 and usually takes two–seven days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Arizona guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Arizona to California full-service movers

Planning a move from Arizona to California? 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 Arizona to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in Arizona.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
(866) 935-3437
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • 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
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Arizona

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 Arizona based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.

  1. Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Gilbert Moving & Storage: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Dose Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. Moving Team Six LLC: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  5. Camelback Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 667348

Years in Business: 35

501 S Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719

Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc., established in 1990, specializes in local residential moving services in and around Tucson, AZ. With a solid reputation, they boast 53 Yelp reviews averaging a 3.9 rating and 78 Google reviews with a 4.6 average, complemented by an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike some competitors, they offer a comprehensive suite of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and reliable choice for your local moving needs.

Get a Quote (520) 722-0456

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Gilbert Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 3190108

Years in Business: 8

6056 E Baseline Rd, Suite 149, Mesa, AZ 85206

Gilbert Moving & Storage is a reliable local moving company based in Mesa, AZ, offering comprehensive residential moving services since 2018. With stellar consumer reviews—boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, and an A rating with the Better Business Bureau—the company stands out among nearby competitors. Their service portfolio includes packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, and they handle antiques with care. No deposit is required, and full valuation insurance coverage is provided, making them a trusted choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (480) 825-8648

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Gilbert Moving and Storage LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Dose Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 2523039

Pricing: $155/hr

Years in Business: 10

2550 E Mohawk Ln, Suite 190, Phoenix, AZ 85050

Dose Moving & Storage, established in 2015, specializes in local residential moving services in and around Phoenix, AZ. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a reputable and trusted choice. Unlike many other local movers, Dose Moving & Storage stands out with comprehensive services including packing, fragile-only packing, and labor-only services. Additionally, they offer piano and antique moving, providing peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage – all without requiring a deposit and accepting credit cards.

Get a Quote (480) 492-9272

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Dose Moving Delivery Staging LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Moving Team Six LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 2315604

Years in Business: 13

23910 N 19th Ave Building 4 Suite 62, Phoenix, AZ 85085

Moving Team Six LLC has been providing local residential moving services in and around Phoenix, AZ since 2013, establishing itself as a reputable and reliable choice among nearby moving companies. They stand out with impressive consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.7 on Yelp from 150 reviews and 4.8 on Google from 216 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Offering a comprehensive suite of services including packing, unpacking, and the ability to move specialty items like pianos and antiques, they cater to a wide range of moving needs. Additionally, they make the payment process convenient by accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, ensuring a hassle-free experience for their clients.

Get a Quote (602) 923-0040

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Camelback Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 1635834

Years in Business: 19

2330 North 31st Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85009 US

Camelback Moving, a reputable local moving company in Phoenix, AZ, has been providing top-notch residential moving services since 2006. With an impressive average Yelp rating of 4.7 from 995 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Camelback Moving stands out among nearby competitors. Not only do they excel in local moves, but they also offer a wide range of services including packing, unpacking, and office moves, all without requiring a deposit. For residents in and around Phoenix, Camelback Moving proves to be a reliable and highly-rated choice.

Get a Quote (602) 564-6683

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

The best Arizona to California moving container companies

Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Arizona and drops it off at your new home in California.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Arizona to California moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from Arizona to California? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Arizona to California labor-only movers

If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.

For a smooth move from Arizona to California, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 35
  • Yelp: 4 / 5
  • BBB: A
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your AZ to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 76 Arizona movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

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

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Arizona to California. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,495 - $4,756 $952 - $2,351 $633 - $1,203
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,716 - $7,230 $1,612 - $3,431 $733 - $1,548
4+ bedrooms $4,962 - $9,498 $2,342 - $4,467 $892 - $1,750

*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 Arizona to California

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Arizona to California, you can expect to spend between $1,495 and $4,756. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,716 to $7,230 on the same route (AZ to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Arizona to California typically runs between $4,962 and $9,498.

Cost of moving containers from Arizona to California

Moving from Arizona to California? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $952 and $2,351. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,612 to $3,431. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,342 up to $4,467. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Arizona.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Arizona to California

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $633 and $1,203. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $733 and $1,548. Moving from Arizona to California or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $892 and $1,750.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from AZ to CA

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Arizona to California. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in Arizona.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from AZ to CA

If you’re moving from Arizona to California, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.

Cost of living: Arizona vs. California

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Arizona and California. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

Arizona California
Average rent cost $1,308 $1,856
Average home cost $428,711 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $72,581 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 107 134
Unemployment rate 3.6% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 8.4% 8.68%
State Income Tax 2.5% 13.3%
  • Rent in California is approximately 42% higher than in Arizona, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
  • Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in California are usually around 80% higher than what you’ll find in Arizona.
  • You’re likely to earn about 27% more in California than in Arizona. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
  • Moving to California will cost you 25% more than living in Arizona, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is about 50% higher than in Arizona. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
  • Sales taxes are 3% higher in California than in Arizona, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • State income taxes in California are 432% higher than in Arizona, which means you'll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.

How life is different in California vs. Arizona

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a new home, it’s about how your everyday life will actually feel. Factors like climate, safety, local culture, and the community’s size can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a quick comparison of what life is like in California versus Arizona across key lifestyle categories:

California Arizona
Population 39,029,342 7,431,344
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Democrat 56-44
Summer high 87ºF 99ºF
Winter low 59ºF 34ºF
Annual rain 22" 12"
Annual snow 7" 6"
Crime index 28.43 24.89
  • If you’re moving from Arizona to California, you’ll find California has about 425% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
  • In the most recent presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Arizona went with Democrat.
  • Summers in California average 87ºF, compared to Arizona, where highs reach 99ºF. Choosing a cooler summer spot means you’ll deal with less heat, save on energy costs, and get to spend more time outside, ideal if you value comfort and outdoor fun.
  • Winter temperatures in California hover around 59ºF, while Arizona can dip to a chilly 34ºF. By making the move to California, you’ll enjoy gentler winters, making life a bit easier and often more affordable. Plus, with less snow and cold, you’ll have more chances to get outdoors. If you’re ready to swap snow shovels for sunnier days, this is the perfect change for you.
  • for about 22 inches of rain each year in California—a big shift from the 12 inches you’re used to in Arizona. While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
  • In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year. By comparison, Arizona typically gets around 6 inches annually. Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with any unexpected weather challenges.
  • California has a higher crime rate than Arizona, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 24.89. While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it's smart to research neighborhoods, stay update

Comparing the pros of Arizona vs. California

There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Arizona.

Pros of living in Arizona Pros of living in California
Ample economic opportunity Ample economic opportunity
Pleasant weather Pleasant weather
Abundant recreational opportunities Abundant recreational options
Cultural diversity High quality of life
No traffic Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Arizona vs. California

Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Arizona for California.

Cons of living in Arizona Cons of living in California
Extreme weather High cost of living
Barren desert land Heavy tax burdens
Health hazards Natural disasters
Limited public transportation Terrible traffic
No winter Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Arizona to California move

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
  • HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
  • State regulator: Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: No moving permit is required in California, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California without a hitch. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called "released value protection," free of charge. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.

Things to do in California

Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park

Sports Teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Arizona to California? toggle

Going with a full-service Arizona moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Arizona to California? toggle

Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving package. Alternatively, you can book vehicle transport from Arizona to California separately with a leading car shipping provider.

What are the benefits of moving from Arizona to California? toggle

Many people are making the move from Arizona to California to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in California has to offer, like, ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Arizona or California? toggle

Living in Arizona usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Arizona, with average rent about 30% less and home prices 44% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 80% less than those paid by California residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California? toggle

To live comfortably as a single adult in California, you should aim to make around $74,410. On average, expect to spend about $3,208 per month, or $8,077 monthly for a family of four. Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources