Local moving companies in California
Moving from California to Scottsdale, AZ calls for the support of experienced and reliable movers who can handle relocations with ease.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Scottsdale, AZ.
- Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191663
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 3075110
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Scottsdale, AZ
Check out the table below for average cost ranges to move from California to Scottsdale, AZ, across different service types and home sizes.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,131 – $3,404 | $680 – $1,641 | $461 – $877 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,983 – $5,242 | $1,263 – $2,505 | $488 – $952 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,670 – $7,915 | $1,719 – $3,115 | $627 – $1,173 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 600-mile move from California to Scottsdale, AZ using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of confirmed prices from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to account for seasonal patterns and market movement. Actual charges can change depending on load size, optional services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and your dates. Always compare several quotes to get a realistic price range.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Scottsdale, AZ
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from California to Scottsdale, AZ, you’ll likely pay between $1,131 and $3,404. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,983 and $5,242 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,670 to $7,915.
Cost of moving containers from California to Scottsdale, AZ
When you’re heading from California to Scottsdale, AZ, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $680 and $1,641. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,263 and $2,505. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,719 to $3,115. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Scottsdale, AZ
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck from California to Scottsdale, AZ will cost around $461 to $877. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $488 to $952, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $627 to $1,173.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Compare local moving companies from California to Scottsdale, AZ
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| All Star Movers & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rigo’s Moving Company Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Among the 3,180 movers we’ve evaluated, here’s where California movers stand in terms of national service and discount offerings:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Scottsdale, AZ
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Scottsdale, AZ has in store compared to California. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: California vs. Scottsdale, AZ
| California | Scottsdale | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $3,300 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $827,308 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $64,533 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 113 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.7% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |
Scottsdale sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Scottsdale is about 78% higher than in California. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
- Expect home prices in Scottsdale to be about 7% higher than in California. Plan ahead for a bigger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall costs of owning a home.
- On average, incomes in Scottsdale are about 30% lower than in California. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you move.
- With unemployment 13% lower in Scottsdale than California, you may find opportunities easier to come by.
- Arizona has income tax rates about 81% lower than California, so your paycheck will stretch further.
How life is different in Scottsdale from California
| Scottsdale | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 241,361 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 52-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 104ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 42ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 11″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 25.8 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Scottsdale voted Republican, while California leaned Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Scottsdale is 104ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF. A hotter summer brings more sunshine and chances to enjoy the outdoors, but you might need to adjust your routine, brace for higher cooling bills, and get used to a warmer way of life.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Scottsdale drop to 42ºF, compared to 59ºF in California. Moving to Scottsdale means you’ll need to adapt to chillier winters, which might mean higher heating costs and some adjustments to your daily routine. On the bright side, you’ll also get to experience unique winter scenery and plenty of seasonal fun.
- In Scottsdale, you can expect just 11 inches of rain each year—far less than the 22 inches back in California. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy your new surroundings. This brighter weather is sure to boost your mood and help you feel right at home.
- Scottsdale doesn’t get snow, while California sees around 7 inches annually. Relocating to Scottsdale means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Scottsdale boasts a lower crime rate compared to California, with a crime index of 25.8 versus 28.43. Lower crime rates typically mean safer neighborhoods, closer communities, and less to worry about. It’s not the only factor to consider when moving, but it definitely adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
Things to do in Scottsdale
From beautiful parks and fascinating museums to exciting sports and stellar universities, Scottsdale really has something for everyone.
Museums in Scottsdale
- Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
- Penske Racing Museum
- Cosanti
- Wonderspaces Arizona
- Main Street Arts District
Parks in Scottsdale
- Chaparral Park
- Xeriscape Garden
- McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
- Scottsdale Artists’ School Rose Garden
- George “Doc” Cavalliere Park
Sports teams in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Scorpions (MiLB)
Universities in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Community College
- Mayo Clinic School of Medicine
- University of Phoenix
- Gateway Seminary
- Scottsdale Culinary Institute
Other considerations when moving to Scottsdale, AZ
- HOA rules: Before moving day, check your neighborhood or community rules so you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve your building’s elevator in advance and double-check any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify your Arizona moving license status right on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Arizona, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This way, you can select your moving date and ensure your mail is forwarded to Arizona right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: 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.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Scottsdale take?
How long it takes to move from California to Scottsdale, AZ depends on your starting point and the type of move you choose. No matter the method, loading your belongings usually takes a day or less, even if you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re starting from northern California, it’ll take longer to get to Scottsdale. When renting a truck, plan for a one- to two-day drive, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Getting your stuff from California to Scottsdale can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Scottsdale?
Planning a 600-mile move from California to Scottsdale? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Scottsdale, AZ?
With the summer highs of 104°F and the winter lows of 42°F, most people move to Scottsdale from California during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Scottsdale during summer or winter.
Helpful moving resources
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