Top-rated movers to make your San Diego to Phoenix move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in San Diego that offers long-distance services to Phoenix can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 29 top local movers in San Diego who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from San Diego to Phoenix.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Grizzly Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- We Like To Move It Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191958
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3299407
Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery , The Remarkable Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191376
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2642040
Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 191165
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 2718191
Alternate Names: Velorom LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0191446
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2843171
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from San Diego to Phoenix?
In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $936 – $3,124 | $592 – $1,460 | $343 – $639 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,698 – $4,948 | $1,106 – $2,090 | $351 – $765 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,587 – $6,506 | $1,419 – $2,633 | $448 – $872 |
Cost to hire movers from San Diego to Phoenix
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Phoenix from San Diego, you can expect prices to land between $936 and $3,124. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,698 to $4,948 for the trip from San Diego to Phoenix. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,587 and $6,506.
Cost of moving containers from San Diego to Phoenix
Moving containers from San Diego to Phoenix will cost you $592 to $1,460 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,106 to $2,090. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,419 to $2,633. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from San Diego to Phoenix
Renting a moving truck from San Diego to Phoenix typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $343 and $639 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $351 to $765. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $448 to $872.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your San Diego to Phoenix move
The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,352 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,698 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in San Diego.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $343 to $763, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from San Diego to Phoenix
Many movers find Phoenix easier on the wallet than San Diego – roughly 29% less for singles and 32% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,369 for one person in Phoenix versus $3,346 in San Diego. For a family of four, it’s $5,226 compared with $7,719.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| San Diego | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,704 | $1,664 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,914 | $2,634 |
| Average home value | $1,003,444 | $411,139 |
| Average income (per capita) | $72,963 | $64,552 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,346 | $2,369 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,719 | $5,226 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 6.6% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 8.6% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |
- When relocating from San Diego to Phoenix, expect to find rent about 41% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 59% more affordable in Phoenix compared to San Diego.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 12% lower in Phoenix compared to San Diego.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Phoenix, as the cost of living for a single person is 29% lower compared to San Diego.
- A move to Phoenix can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 32% less than what it costs in San Diego.
- With Phoenix and San Diego having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes in Phoenix are 11% more than in San Diego, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Arizona are 81% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between San Diego and Phoenix:
| Living Expense | San Diego | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $277.55 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $66.79 | $75.22 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.26 | $4.75 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.50 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $21.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $65.68 | $34.08 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Diego than in Phoenix.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in San Diego than in Phoenix.
- Eggs cost more in San Diego than in Phoenix.
- Bread is more expensive in San Diego than in Phoenix.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in San Diego than in Phoenix.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Diego than in Phoenix.
- Gym memberships cost more in San Diego than in Phoenix.
How life is different in San Diego vs. Phoenix
| San Diego | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 1,608,139 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 53 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 43 | 56 |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 53.06 |
| Safety index | 60.17 | 46.94 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Moderate |
- Phoenix’s population is about 16% greater than San Diego.
- Phoenix’s public transportation score is within about 5% of San Diego, making them very similar.
- Phoenix is less walkable than San Diego with a score of 41 out of 100 vs San Diego’s 53 out of 100.
- With a score of 56 out of 100, Phoenix is more bike-friendly than San Diego, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Phoenix’s crime rate is higher than San Diego with a score of 53.06 compared to San Diego’s 39.83. This means that Phoenix neighborhoods are safer than 53.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
- Phoenix is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 46.94 vs San Diego’s 60.17.
- Air quality in Phoenix is Moderate, and in San Diego it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your San Diego to Phoenix move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Arizona’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Phoenix. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Phoenix
Planning your move to Arizona’s Urban Heart? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Phoenix.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Camelback East
- Encanto
- Estrella Village
- North Gateway
- South Mountain
Best neighborhoods for families
- Arcadia/Biltmore
- Ahwatukee
- Coronado
- Gilbert
- Paradise Valley
- Scottsdale
Things to do in Phoenix
After settling into your new Arizona home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Phoenix has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Phoenix features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Musical Instrument Museum, Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, and Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Encanto Park, Freestone Park, Tempe Beach Park, and Desert Breeze Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Arizona Cardinals (NFL)Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)Phoenix Suns (NBA)Arizona Coyotes (NHL)Phoenix Mercury (WNBA)Arizona Rattlers (IFL)Phoenix Rising FC (USLC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Diego to Phoenix?
Planning your move from San Diego to Phoenix? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in San Diego.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Phoenix?
Because most people are moving from San Diego to Phoenix in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from San Diego to Phoenix take?
The 353-mile journey from San Diego, CA to Phoenix, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in San Diego offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Phoenix.
Are there special savings available from movers in San Diego?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 1 have discounts for military personnel.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in San Diego?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In San Diego, 21 movers can manage piano relocations. 16 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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