How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to AZ move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 370 California moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to Arizona?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California to Arizona.
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 |
$1,185 – $3,702 |
$690 – $1,689 |
$507 – $934 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,071 – $5,213 |
$1,230 – $2,412 |
$531 – $1,119 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,882 – $7,242 |
$1,665 – $3,236 |
$691 – $1,357 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 736-mile move from CA to
AZ using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from California to Arizona
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Arizona typically costs between
$1,185 and
$3,702.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,071
and $5,213
when moving from CA to AZ.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Arizona,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,882
up to $7,242.
Cost of moving containers from California to Arizona
If you’re relocating from California to Arizona,
you’ll typically spend between $690
and $1,689 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,230 up to
$2,412.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,665 and
$3,236. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Arizona
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$507 and
$934.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$531 to
$1,119.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $691 and
$1,357.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to AZ
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to Arizona. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in California, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from CA to AZ
Transitioning from California to Arizona gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: California vs. Arizona
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and Arizona are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
California |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$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% |
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Rent is about 30% less expensive in Arizona than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Arizona are about 44% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Arizona are roughly 21% lower than in California.
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Moving to Arizona costs about 20% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 33% lower than California, Arizona offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax rates are similar in Arizona and California, so this won’t affect your cost of living when you relocate.
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Income taxes are 81% lower in Arizona compared to California. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Arizona vs. California
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Arizona and California compare.
|
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 |
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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.
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In the last presidential election, Arizona leaned Democrat, while California supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Arizona is 99°F compared to 87°F in California.
A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
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In the coldest months, Arizona dips to about 34°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Arizona, you’ll get about 12 inches of rain each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in California.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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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 unexpected weather challenges.
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Arizona boasts a lower crime rate than California, with a crime index of 24.89 compared to 28.43.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Arizona
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Arizona 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
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make 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
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
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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.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
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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 your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Arizona moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Arizona, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
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 University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from California to Arizona?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
California to
Arizona
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Arizona?
Many people are making the move from California to Arizona to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Arizona has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Arizona?
Living in Arizona usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is 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 Arizona?
Planning to move to Arizona? A single adult should aim for an income of around $63,608 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,392 for an individual, or $5,612 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Phoenix and Tucson usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in California:
7 movers offer AAA member savings;
7 provide military discounts;
7 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
2 advertise educator discounts;
4 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When relocating from California to Arizona, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,071 to
$5,213, roughly
$1,821 for a container move, and close to
$825
for a rental truck.
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