Ontario, CA to Tacoma, WA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Ontario to Tacoma typically costs $2,800–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,140 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Ontario to Tacoma
Moving from Ontario, CA to Tacoma, WA typically costs $2,800–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,140-mile move from Ontario to Tacoma, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $5,167 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,255 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,621 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 25, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 09, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 04, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 28, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 22, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 10, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 28, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 25, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Ontario to Tacoma
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Ontario to Tacoma might be as low as $2,500, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,000.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Ontario.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $800 to $2,400 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tacoma, WA to Ontario, CA guide.
Best Ontario to Tacoma movers by type
Professional
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Best professional movers from Ontario to Tacoma
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Ontario to Tacoma, 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 CA→WA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California 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 Ontario to Tacoma
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Tacoma runs about 67% higher for singles and 25% higher for families than Ontario.
Singles spend around $4,133 in Tacoma versus $2,473 in Ontario; families pay $7,260 compared with $5,793.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Ontario | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $1,935 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,000 | $3,389 |
| Average home value | $668,089 | $477,289 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,908 | $73,341 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,473 | $4,133 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,793 | $7,260 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.9% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 8.75% | 10.3% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
- Good news! When moving to Tacoma from Ontario, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 37% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 29% cheaper in Tacoma, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Tacoma and Ontario, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Tacoma, as the cost of living for a single person in Tacoma is 67% greater than in Ontario. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Tacoma, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 25% more than it is in Ontario.
- The unemployment rate in Tacoma exceeds that of Ontario by about 6%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Tacoma exceed those in Ontario by 18%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Washington has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Ontario and Tacoma, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Ontario | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $226.85 | $229.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $43.00 | $71.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.45 | $4.84 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.59 | $4.21 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $16.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $65.00 | $72.50 |
| Gym membership | $100.00 | $51.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Ontario than in Tacoma, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ontario than in Tacoma.
- Eggs cost more in Ontario than in Tacoma.
- Bread is more expensive in Ontario than in Tacoma.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Ontario than in Tacoma.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ontario than in Tacoma.
- Gym memberships cost more in Ontario than in Tacoma.
How life is different in Ontario vs. Tacoma
| Ontario | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 175,265 | 223,968 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 46 | 48 |
| Crime index | 50.25 | 55.55 |
| Safety index | 49.75 | 44.45 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tacoma's population is about 28% greater than Ontario.
- Tacoma's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Ontario's score of 5.
- Tacoma is more walkable than Ontario with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Ontario's 48 out of 100.
- Both Tacoma and Ontario have similar bike-friendliness scores (46 vs 48), meaning Tacoma is about as safe for cyclists as Ontario. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Tacoma's crime rate is higher than Ontario with a score of 55.55 compared to Ontario's 50.25. This means that Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ontario neighborhoods are safer than 50.25%.
- Tacoma is considered to be less safe than Ontario with a score of 44.45 vs Ontario's 49.75.
- Air quality in Tacoma is Good, and in Ontario it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Ontario to Tacoma 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: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Washington moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Washington, 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 Tacoma 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. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers' insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Tacoma
Ready to relocate to America’s #1 Wired City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Tacoma.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central
- Eastside-Enact
- North End
- Northeast Tacoma
- West End
Best neighborhoods for families
- North End
- West End
Things to do in Tacoma
Now that you've made the move to Washington, it's the perfect time to explore Tacoma. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Tacoma include museums and art centers like the LeMay - America's Car Museum, Museum of Glass, LeMay Collections at Marymount, and Washington State History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Point Defiance Park, Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 5 Mile Drive & Trails, and Wright 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 Tacoma Defiance (Soccer)Tacoma Rainiers (Baseball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Ontario to Tacoma?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Ontario to Tacoma. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Ontario.
When is the cheapest time to move from Ontario to Tacoma?
With many people choosing to move from Ontario to Tacoma 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 Ontario to Tacoma take?
Covering 1,140 miles, the move from Ontario, CA to Tacoma, WA typically takes two to eight days. Some Ontario movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Tacoma can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Ontario offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 3 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 Ontario can handle specialty items for my move to Tacoma?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Ontario, 68 movers can handle pianos. 54 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
