Tempe, AZ to Lancaster, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Tempe to Lancaster typically costs $2,100–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 402 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Tempe to Lancaster
Moving from Tempe, AZ to Lancaster, CA typically costs $2,100–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 402-mile move from Tempe to Lancaster, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 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
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $1,950 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $4,112 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $4,526 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Jan 27, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 22, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 04, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 12, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 01, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 27, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Tempe to Lancaster
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 Lancaster might be as low as $1,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,100.
- 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 $400 to $1,000 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lancaster, CA to Tempe, AZ guide.
Best Tempe to Lancaster movers by type
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Best professional movers from Tempe to Lancaster
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Tempe to Lancaster, 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→CA 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 Lancaster
Many movers find Lancaster easier on the wallet than Tempe - roughly 53% less for singles and 18% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,540 for one person in Lancaster versus $5,433 in Tempe. For a family of four, it's $5,562 compared with $6,810.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Tempe | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $2,305 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $2,500 |
| Average home value | $471,494 | $473,053 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,080 | $74,723 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,433 | $2,540 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,810 | $5,562 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 15.6% |
| Sales tax | 8.1% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 42% higher in Lancaster than in Tempe, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Lancaster 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 17% higher in Lancaster 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 Lancaster. The cost of living for a single person is 53% less compared to Tempe.
- Relocating to Lancaster could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 18% lower than in Tempe.
- The unemployment rate in Lancaster exceeds that of Tempe by about 189%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Lancaster exceed those in Tempe by 27%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 432% higher in California than in Arizona. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Tempe and Lancaster, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Tempe | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $256.54 | $225.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $70.53 | $43.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.75 | $2.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $5.51 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.17 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tempe than in Lancaster.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tempe than in Lancaster.
- Eggs cost more in Tempe than in Lancaster.
- Bread costs less in Tempe than in Lancaster.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Tempe than in Lancaster.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tempe than in Lancaster.
How life is different in Tempe vs. Lancaster
| Tempe | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 180,587 | 173,516 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 0 |
| Walkability score | 54 | 29 |
| Bike friendliness score | 75 | 40 |
| Crime index | 42.36 | 45.5 |
| Safety index | 57.64 | 54.5 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Lancaster's population is within about 5% of Tempe, so they’re very similar in size.
- Lancaster has no measurable public transportation (score of 0), while Tempe scores 8 out of 10, showing a clear advantage for Tempe.
- Lancaster is less walkable than Tempe with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Tempe's 54 out of 100.
- Lancaster has a bike-friendliness score of 40 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Tempe, which has a score of 75.
- Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Tempe with a score of 45.5 compared to Tempe's 42.36. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36%.
- Lancaster and Tempe have a similar safety level, with scores of 54.5 and 57.64.
- Air quality in Lancaster is Good, and in Tempe it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Tempe to Lancaster 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: 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, 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 Lancaster 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. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lancaster
Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lancaster.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Lancaster
- Central Lancaster
- East Lancaster
- College Terrace
- Skytower Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Quartz Hill
- West Lancaster
- Rancho Vista
- Brentwood
- El Dorado
Things to do in Lancaster
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Lancaster. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lancaster include museums and art centers like the Lancaster Museum of Art & History, Western Hotel Museum, and Boyle Heights History Studios & Tours.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State 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 game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tempe to Lancaster?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tempe to Lancaster. 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 Lancaster?
With many people choosing to move from Tempe to Lancaster 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 Lancaster take?
Covering 402 miles, the move from Tempe, AZ to Lancaster, CA typically takes one to four days. Some Tempe movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
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 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
