Tacoma, WA to Tempe, AZ Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Tacoma to Tempe typically costs $3,600–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,449 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Tacoma to Tempe
Moving from Tacoma, WA to Tempe, AZ typically costs $3,600–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,449-mile move from Tacoma to Tempe, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 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
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $4,554 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,134 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $8,982 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 01, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 22, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 16, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 14, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 08, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 03, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 31, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 02, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Tacoma to Tempe
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Tacoma to Tempe might be as low as $2,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Tacoma.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,000 to $2,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tempe, AZ to Tacoma, WA guide.
Best Tacoma to Tempe movers by type
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Best professional movers from Tacoma to Tempe
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Tacoma to Tempe, 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 WA→AZ movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 94 Washington 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 Tacoma to Tempe
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Tempe runs about 31% higher for singles and -6% higher for families than Tacoma.
Singles spend around $5,433 in Tempe versus $4,133 in Tacoma; families pay $6,810 compared with $7,260.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Tacoma | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,935 | $1,900 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,389 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $477,289 | $471,494 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,341 | $64,080 |
| Cost of living (single) | $4,133 | $5,433 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,260 | $6,810 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 5.4% |
| Sales tax | 10.3% | 8.1% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 2.5% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 11% higher in Tempe than in Tacoma, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Tempe and Tacoma differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 13% lower in Tempe than in Tacoma.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Tempe, as the cost of living for a single person in Tempe is 31% greater than in Tacoma. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- Relocating to Tempe could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 6% lower than in Tacoma.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 26% lower than Tacoma, Tempe boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 21% lower in Tempe than Tacoma, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Arizona has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Tacoma and Tempe, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Tacoma | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.80 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $71.50 | $70.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.84 | $4.75 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.21 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.50 | $19.17 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $72.50 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $51.67 | $30.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Tacoma than in Tempe, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tacoma than in Tempe.
- Eggs cost more in Tacoma than in Tempe.
- Bread is more expensive in Tacoma than in Tempe.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Tacoma than in Tempe.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Tacoma than in Tempe.
- Gym memberships cost more in Tacoma than in Tempe.
How life is different in Tacoma vs. Tempe
| Tacoma | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 223,968 | 180,587 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 54 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 75 |
| Crime index | 55.55 | 42.36 |
| Safety index | 44.45 | 57.64 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tempe's population is about 19% less than Tacoma.
- Tempe's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Tacoma's score of 6.
- Tempe and Tacoma are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 75 out of 100, Tempe is more bike-friendly than Tacoma, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Tempe's crime rate is lower than Tacoma with a score of 42.36 compared to Tacoma's 55.55. This means that Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55%.
- Tempe is considered to be safer than Tacoma with a safety index of 57.64 vs Tacoma's 44.45.
- Air quality in Tempe is Good, and in Tacoma it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Tacoma to Tempe 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: 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 a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Arizona moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Arizona, 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 Tempe 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. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Tempe
Ready to relocate to Tempe? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Tempe.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cyprus Southwest
- Daley Park
- Kyrene-Superstition
- Mitchell Park West
- University Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Alta Mira
- Dava-Lakeshore
- Meyer Park
- Sandahl
- Tempe Gardens
Things to do in Tempe
Now that you've made the move to Arizona, it's the perfect time to explore Tempe. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Tempe include museums and art centers like the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park, Tempe History Museum, Arizona State University Art Museum, and ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Tempe Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, and Papago 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 Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tacoma to Tempe?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tacoma to Tempe. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Tacoma.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tacoma to Tempe?
With many people choosing to move from Tacoma to Tempe 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 Tacoma to Tempe take?
Covering 1,449 miles, the move from Tacoma, WA to Tempe, AZ typically takes three to eight days. Some Tacoma movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Tempe can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Tacoma offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 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 Tacoma can handle specialty items for my move to Tempe?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Tacoma, 47 movers can handle pianos. 37 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of WA, there are 72 piano movers and 45 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
