Moving from Gilbert to Tempe, AZ
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Quick answer: Moving from Gilbert to Tempe costs $40–$3,997, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 13-mile route within Arizona take – days from packing to delivery, based on moveBuddha's analysis of 99+ Arizona moving companies.
- Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service pick at 4.9 out of 5 stars, our best overall value mover for this route.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Gilbert to Tempe?
Moving from Gilbert to Tempe doesn't have to mean hiring a full-service crew and paying top dollar. Whether you want movers to handle the whole job or you're up for tackling parts of it yourself, there's an option that fits.
For full-service moves, we recommend Safeway Moving (4.9/5).
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 13-mile move:
Moving from Gilbert to Tempe costs between $40 and $3,997, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 13-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $794–$2,628 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options | |
| Moving container | $380–$1,166 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading | |
| Rental truck | $48–$123 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $85/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 99+ Arizona movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Gilbert to Tempe?
A move from Gilbert to Tempe runs $40 to $3,997, per moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Costs on this 13-mile route shift based on service type and home size, with the breakdown below:
- Full-service movers: $471–$3,997
- Moving containers: $123–$1,502
- Rental trucks: $40–$158
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves combine packing, loading, transport, and unloading in one quote. Professional packing alone runs $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers lower the cost by putting the loading and unloading on you while the company handles transport.
- Rental trucks land roughly 30% under full-service pricing, but you drive 13 miles and source your own labor.
- Movers using moveBuddha's cost calculator typically save 30% compared to their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $471–$1,446 | $123–$797 | $40–$103 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $794–$2,628 | $380–$1,166 | $48–$123 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,290–$3,997 | $816–$1,502 | $66–$158 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 99+ Arizona moving companies, and are updated as of May 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
What extra fees should you expect on a Gilbert to Tempe move?
Common extra fees on a Gilbert to Tempe move include professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. None of these typically appear on initial quotes, but together they can add 10%–25% on top of the base price.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $85/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Gilbert to Tempe
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Gilbert to Tempe, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 13 miles, both local and national movers can handle this route well. Your best fit depends on home size, timeline, and budget.
Best movers for larger homes & complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our best overall value pick for full-service moves from Gilbert to Tempe. With 14 years in the moving industry, statewide service throughout Arizona, and a 4.9 out of 5 stars moveBuddha rating, Safeway Moving handles intrastate moves of 13 miles with the logistics infrastructure most local operators can't match.
moveBuddha's top 5 full-service movers, ranked:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
More Arizona moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Tempe to Gilbert guide.
How does Tempe compare to Gilbert?
Cost of living: Gilbert vs. Tempe
The cost of living in Gilbert vs. Tempe goes beyond housing prices. This section breaks down the financial factors that shape your day-to-day budget, including rent, home values, income, daily expenses, and employment rates, so you can see how life in Tempe stacks up against Gilbert.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Gilbert | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,250 | $1,834 |
| Average home cost | $518,558 | $421,086 |
| Average income (per capita) | $121,351 | $77,643 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,775 | $5,433 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,929 | $6,810 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | 7.8% | 8.1% |
Cost-of-living data for Gilbert and Tempe comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated May 2026 across 99+ Arizona cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent in Tempe is about 18% cheaper than Gilbert. Renters often use the difference to upgrade location, size, or building amenities.
- Home prices in Tempe are 19% lower than Gilbert. Equity from a Gilbert sale typically buys more square footage in Tempe.
- Average income in Tempe is 36% lower than Gilbert. Confirm the move pencils out by checking whether housing and daily expenses drop by a similar margin.
- Living expenses for one person in Tempe run 96% higher than Gilbert. The gap typically lands on rent, groceries, and transportation.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 here runs 15% higher than Gilbert. The premium is significant enough to factor into salary negotiations or school selection.
- Unemployment in Tempe runs 20% higher than Gilbert. Time the move around a job offer rather than relocating speculatively.
- Sales taxes are equal in Tempe and Gilbert. Retail spending remains level through the move.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $5,880 in Tempe to maintain the same standard of life that you could have with $3,000 in Gilbert.
How life is different in Gilbert vs. Tempe
Life in Tempe vs. Gilbert differs across weather, population, cost of living, politics, and safety. All of these factors shape your day-to-day experience. The side-by-side comparison below helps you decide which city suits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Gilbert | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 267,918 | 180,587 |
| Political leaning | Republican 52-48 | Democratic 49.8-48.3 |
| Summer high | 105ºF | 104ºF |
| Winter low | 39ºF | 42ºF |
| Annual rain | 9" | 9" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 14.77 | 42.36 |
- Tempe is 33% smaller in size than Gilbert. Plan for lower density and a more concentrated local job market.
- In the last presidential election, Tempe leaned Democratic, while Gilbert went Republican.
- Summer highs in Tempe (104°F) match Gilbert (105°F). Plan for the same AC load and seasonal pace.
- Winter lows in Gilbert (39°F) and Tempe (42°F) are similar. Heating costs and seasonal wardrobe carry over without adjustment.
- Annual rainfall in Gilbert (9 inches) and Tempe (9 inches) is similar. No adjustment to outdoor or commuting routines.
- Annual snowfall in Gilbert and Tempe is effectively zero. No winter weather budget or gear adjustments required.
- Crime index in Tempe (42.36) is higher than Gilbert (14.77). Vet specific neighborhoods carefully and check property crime rates at the ZIP-code level.
Things to do in Tempe
Tempe balances outdoor access, cultural depth, sports culture, and academic presence. The categories below cover the best of each.
Museums in Tempe
- AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park
- Tempe History Museum
- Arizona State University Art Museum
- ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery
- Petersen House Museum
Parks in Tempe
- Tempe Town Lake
- Kiwanis Park
- Papago Park
Sports teams in Tempe
- Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA)
Universities in Tempe
- Arizona State University
Final verdict: best movers from Gilbert to Tempe
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Gilbert to Tempe, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide Arizona service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $40–$3,997 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 99+ Arizona movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Gilbert to Tempe
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Gilbert to Tempe?
A professional moving company from Gilbert to Tempe charges $371–$1,179 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, prices run $794–$2,628. For a home with 4 or more bedrooms, expect to pay $1,290–$3,997.
How much are moving container companies from Gilbert to Tempe?
Moving containers from Gilbert to Tempe typically cost as follows. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices start around $114 and go up to $814. For a 2–3 bedroom home, costs typically fall between $380 and $1,166. For 4–5 bedroom homes, expect to spend $816–$1,502.
How much is a moving truck from Gilbert to Tempe?
A rental moving truck from Gilbert to Tempe costs $39–$99 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move runs $48–$123, and a 4-bedroom or larger move costs $66–$158.
Rental trucks are usually the cheapest option, but require you to handle the driving and labor. The estimates above include estimated fuel cost.
How far in advance should I book Gilbert-to-Tempe movers?
Book your move from Gilbert to Tempe at least 2 months before your moving date for the smoothest experience. For a summer move, aim for at least 3 months in advance, since that's the busiest season. Locking in your Gilbert-to-Tempe movers early helps you snag your preferred date and the best prices. Some moving companies sweeten the deal with early-bird discounts on advance bookings.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Tempe?
The cheapest time to move to Tempe is between early October and late April. A move outside the busy May-to-September season means less competition and better rates, helping you avoid peak prices and busy schedules.
