How we chose the best moving companies for your MD to AZ move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 51 Maryland moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Maryland to Arizona?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Maryland to Arizona.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,183 – $4,644 |
$1,192 – $3,044 |
$1,224 – $2,435 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,181 – $6,389 |
$2,100 – $4,425 |
$1,377 – $2,814 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,912 – $9,807 |
$2,824 – $6,165 |
$1,656 – $3,243 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 2,213-mile move from MD to
AZ using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Maryland to Arizona
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Maryland to Arizona,
you can expect prices to land between $1,183
and $4,644.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,181 to
$6,389 for the trip from MD
to AZ. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,912 and
$9,807.
Cost of moving containers from Maryland to Arizona
Moving containers from Maryland to Arizona
will cost you $1,192 to
$3,044 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,100
to $4,425. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,824 to
$6,165.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Maryland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Maryland to Arizona
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$1,224
and $2,435
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,377
to $2,814.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,656
to $3,243.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MD to AZ
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Maryland to Arizona. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Maryland generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from MD to AZ
Making the move from Maryland to Arizona means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Maryland vs. Arizona
A clear look at the cost differences between Maryland and Arizona helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Maryland |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$1,598 |
$1,308 |
| Average home cost |
$418,438 |
$428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$98,461 |
$72,581 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
107 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.4% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
2.5% |
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You’ll pay about 18% less in rent in Arizona compared to Maryland, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Since home prices in Arizona and Maryland are quite comparable, you likely won’t have to tweak your mortgage budget, unless you’re looking for an upgraded home.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 26% lower Arizona than in Maryland.
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Living in Arizona costs 7% more than in Maryland. If you’re relocating to Arizona, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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Unemployment in Arizona is roughly 20% higher than in Maryland. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
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Sales taxes are 40% higher in Arizona than in Maryland, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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Income taxes in Arizona are 57% lower than in Maryland. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Arizona vs. Maryland
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Arizona and Maryland compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Arizona |
Maryland |
| Population |
7,431,344 |
6,180,253 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 56-44 |
Democratic 63-34.4 |
| Summer high |
99ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
34ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
12″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
19″ |
| Crime index |
24.89 |
20.34 |
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Arizona has a population that’s about 20% larger than Maryland.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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In the latest presidential election, Arizona voted Democrat, while Maryland chose Democratic.
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Summers in Arizona top out at 99°F, higher than 87°F in Maryland.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
Arizona has winter lows around 34°F, compared to 25°F in Maryland.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect only about 12 inches of annual rainfall in Arizona versus 44 inches of rainfall in Maryland.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
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In Arizona, you’ll get about 6 inches of snow each year, far less than Maryland.
That means moving to Arizona will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
-
Arizona has a higher crime rate than Maryland, with crime indexes at 24.89 and 20.34, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Maryland vs. Arizona
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Arizona compared to Maryland:
| Pros of living in Maryland |
Pros of living in Arizona |
| Delicious food |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Pleasant weather |
| Diverse outdoor activities |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful coastline |
Cultural diversity |
| Rich history |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Maryland vs. Arizona
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Maryland to Arizona:
| Cons of living in Maryland |
Cons of living in Arizona |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Barren desert land |
| High crime |
Health hazards |
| High homelessness |
Limited public transportation |
| Peculiar alcohol laws |
No winter |
Other things to consider for your Maryland to Arizona move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Arizona moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Arizona, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Arizona right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. 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:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Arizona
You’ll have plenty to explore in Arizona! Check out these top spots to visit 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 Maryland to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from Maryland to Arizona?
What are the benefits of moving from Maryland to Arizona?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Maryland for Arizona, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Maryland or Arizona?
Living in Maryland usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is more affordable in Maryland,
with average rent about 22% less and home prices 2% lower than in Arizona.
However, taxes are
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Maryland residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arizona?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Arizona, you should aim to make around $63,608.
On average, expect to spend about $2,392 per month, or $5,612 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Phoenix and Tucson generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Maryland?
Many movers in Maryland publish special-rate programs:
4 offer military-specific savings;
9 extend deals for seniors;
1 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Maryland to Arizona, budget between $3,181–$6,389 for full-service movers, around
$3,262 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$2,095
for a rental truck.
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