How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to AZ move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 115 North Carolina moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
-
Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
-
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 North Carolina to Arizona?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from North Carolina 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 |
$1,125 – $4,574 |
$1,164 – $2,742 |
$1,176 – $2,290 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,216 – $6,405 |
$1,970 – $4,060 |
$1,235 – $2,593 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,971 – $10,472 |
$2,867 – $5,371 |
$1,511 – $3,273 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 2,090-mile move from NC 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 North Carolina to Arizona
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from North Carolina to Arizona,
you can expect prices to land between $1,125
and $4,574.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,216 to
$6,405 for the trip from NC
to AZ. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,971 and
$10,472.
Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to Arizona
Moving containers from North Carolina to Arizona
will cost you $1,164 to
$2,742 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,970
to $4,060. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,867 to
$5,371.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of North Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina 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
$1,176
and $2,290
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,235
to $2,593.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,511
to $3,273.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NC to AZ
Several factors influence the cost of moving from North Carolina to Arizona. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
-
Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in North Carolina generally comes with a higher price tag.
-
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 NC to AZ
Making the move from North Carolina to Arizona means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: North Carolina vs. Arizona
A clear look at the cost differences between North Carolina 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:
|
North Carolina |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$1,093 |
$1,308 |
| Average home cost |
$328,715 |
$428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$66,186 |
$72,581 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
107 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.7% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.98% |
8.4% |
| State income tax |
4.5% |
2.5% |
-
Rent in Arizona is about 20% higher than in North Carolina. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
-
Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Arizona are usually around 30% higher than what you’ll find in North Carolina.
-
Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Arizona than in North Carolina, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
-
Living in Arizona costs 11% more than in North Carolina. If you’re relocating to Arizona, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
-
Unemployment rates in Arizona and North Carolina are about the same, so you’re unlikely to see a big shift in job opportunities or competition after your move.
-
Sales taxes are 20% higher in Arizona than in North Carolina, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
-
Income taxes in Arizona are 44% lower than in North Carolina. 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. North Carolina
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 North Carolina compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Arizona |
North Carolina |
| Population |
7,431,344 |
10,835,491 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 56-44 |
Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high |
99ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
34ºF |
29ºF |
| Annual rain |
12″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
24.89 |
24.69 |
-
The population of Arizona is about 31% smaller than that of North Carolina.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
-
In the latest presidential election, Arizona voted Democrat, while North Carolina chose Republican.
-
Summers in Arizona top out at 99°F, higher than 88°F in North Carolina.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
Winter lows in Arizona hover around 34°F, while North Carolina averages 29°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
-
You can expect only about 12 inches of annual rainfall in Arizona versus 48 inches of rainfall in North Carolina.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
In Arizona, you can expect about 6 inches of snow each year, while North Carolina sees around 4 inches annually.
Since snowfall is pretty comparable in both places, your winter should feel pretty similar.
-
Both Arizona and North Carolina have similar crime rates (24.69).
Keep in mind, though, that crime rates can differ significantly from one city or neighborhood to another, so be sure to check local statistics for more accurate information.
Comparing the pros of North Carolina 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 North Carolina:
| Pros of living in North Carolina |
Pros of living in Arizona |
| Great communities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living |
Pleasant weather |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| High quality of life |
Cultural diversity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in North Carolina 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 North Carolina to Arizona:
| Cons of living in North Carolina |
Cons of living in Arizona |
| Hurricanes |
Extreme weather |
| Bland weather |
Barren desert land |
| High crime rate |
Health hazards |
| High tax burden |
Limited public transportation |
| Poor education |
No winter |
Other things to consider for your North Carolina 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.
-
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.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Arizona moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Arizona, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 North Carolina to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from North Carolina to Arizona?
What are the benefits of moving from North Carolina to Arizona?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave North Carolina 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 North Carolina or Arizona?
Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is much more affordable in North Carolina,
with average rent about 16% less and home prices 23% lower than in Arizona.
However, taxes are
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Many movers in North Carolina publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
5 offer military-specific savings;
2 extend deals for seniors;
1 have educator discounts;
2 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
North Carolina moving services
Popular North Carolina routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
For a move from North Carolina to Arizona, budget between $3,216–$6,405 for full-service movers, around
$3,015 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,914
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
