Tempe, AZ to San Jose, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Tempe to San Jose typically costs $2,600–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 717 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Tempe to San Jose
Moving from Tempe, AZ to San Jose, CA typically costs $2,600–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 717-mile move from Tempe to San Jose, 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
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $2,855 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $4,009 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $6,890 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 15, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 29, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 14, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 07, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 18, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 17, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 07, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Tempe to San Jose
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 San Jose might be as low as $1,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,300.
- 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 $600 to $1,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Jose, CA to Tempe, AZ guide.
Best Tempe to San Jose movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Tempe to San Jose
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Tempe to San Jose, 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 San Jose
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - San Jose runs about -32% higher for singles and 23% higher for families than Tempe.
Singles spend around $3,674 in San Jose versus $5,433 in Tempe; families pay $8,354 compared with $6,810.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Tempe | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $3,027 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $5,240 |
| Average home value | $471,494 | $1,453,657 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,080 | $83,421 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,433 | $3,674 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,810 | $8,354 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 6.6% |
| Sales tax | 8.1% | 9.38% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 69% higher in San Jose than in Tempe, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 208% higher in San Jose than in Tempe.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 30% higher in San Jose 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 San Jose. The cost of living for a single person is 32% less compared to Tempe.
- As you plan your move to San Jose, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 23% more than it is in Tempe.
- The unemployment rate in San Jose exceeds that of Tempe by about 22%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in San Jose exceed those in Tempe by 16%, 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 San Jose, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Tempe | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $256.54 | $293.08 |
| Cell phone plan | $70.53 | $48.44 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.75 | $4.80 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $4.93 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.17 | $20.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $123.75 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Tempe than in San Jose, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tempe than in San Jose.
- Eggs are less expensive in Tempe than in San Jose.
- Bread costs less in Tempe than in San Jose.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Tempe than in San Jose.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Tempe than in San Jose.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tempe than in San Jose.
How life is different in Tempe vs. San Jose
| Tempe | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 180,587 | 971,233 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 54 | 51 |
| Bike friendliness score | 75 | 62 |
| Crime index | 42.36 | 47.73 |
| Safety index | 57.64 | 52.27 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- San Jose's population is about 438% greater than Tempe.
- San Jose's public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Tempe's score of 8.
- San Jose is less walkable than Tempe with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Tempe's 54 out of 100.
- San Jose has a bike-friendliness score of 62 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Tempe, which has a score of 75.
- San Jose's crime rate is higher than Tempe with a score of 47.73 compared to Tempe's 42.36. This means that San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36%.
- San Jose is considered to be less safe than Tempe with a score of 52.27 vs Tempe's 57.64.
- Air quality in San Jose is Moderate, and in Tempe it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Tempe to San Jose 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 San Jose 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 San Jose
Ready to relocate to Man Jose? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in San Jose.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Burbank
- Downtown
- Evergreen
- West San Jose
- Willow Glen
Best neighborhoods for families
- Berryessa
- Cambrian Park
- Evergreen
- West San Jose
- Willow Glen
Things to do in San Jose
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore San Jose. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in San Jose include museums and art centers like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children's Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, and San Jose Museum of Art.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez 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 San Jose Barracuda (AHL)San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)San Jose Giants (California League)San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tempe to San Jose?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tempe to San Jose. 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 San Jose?
With many people choosing to move from Tempe to San Jose 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 San Jose take?
Covering 717 miles, the move from Tempe, AZ to San Jose, CA typically takes one to six days. Some Tempe movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Jose 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 San Jose?
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.
