Tacoma, WA to Ontario, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Tacoma to Ontario typically costs $3,400–$8,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,139 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Tacoma to Ontario
Moving from Tacoma, WA to Ontario, CA typically costs $3,400–$8,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,139-mile move from Tacoma to Ontario, 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
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $6,437 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $3,420 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $2,674 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Mar 03, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 21, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 20, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 05, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 13, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 27, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 25, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 19, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Tacoma to Ontario
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 Ontario might be as low as $2,700, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,400.
- 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 $900 to $2,300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Ontario, CA to Tacoma, WA guide.
Best Tacoma to Ontario movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Tacoma to Ontario
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Tacoma to Ontario, 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→CA 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 Ontario
Many movers find Ontario easier on the wallet than Tacoma - roughly 40% less for singles and 20% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,473 for one person in Ontario versus $4,133 in Tacoma. For a family of four, it's $5,793 compared with $7,260.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Tacoma | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,935 | $1,900 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,389 | $3,000 |
| Average home value | $477,289 | $668,089 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,341 | $71,908 |
| Cost of living (single) | $4,133 | $2,473 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,260 | $5,793 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 6.9% |
| Sales tax | 10.3% | 8.75% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 59% higher in Ontario than in Tacoma, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 40% higher in Ontario than in Tacoma.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Ontario and Tacoma, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Ontario. The cost of living for a single person is 40% less compared to Tacoma.
- Relocating to Ontario could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 20% lower than in Tacoma.
- There's little difference in the unemployment rates of Ontario and Tacoma, within a margin of 5%, so job opportunities should be similar.
- Sales taxes are 15% lower in Ontario than Tacoma, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- California 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 Ontario, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Tacoma | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.80 | $226.85 |
| Cell phone plan | $71.50 | $43.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.84 | $5.45 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.21 | $4.59 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.50 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $72.50 | $65.00 |
| Gym membership | $51.67 | $100.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tacoma than in Ontario.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tacoma than in Ontario.
- Eggs are less expensive in Tacoma than in Ontario.
- Bread costs less in Tacoma than in Ontario.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Tacoma than in Ontario.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Tacoma than in Ontario.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tacoma than in Ontario.
How life is different in Tacoma vs. Ontario
| Tacoma | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 223,968 | 175,265 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 54 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 46 |
| Crime index | 55.55 | 50.25 |
| Safety index | 44.45 | 49.75 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Ontario's population is about 22% less than Tacoma.
- Ontario's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Tacoma's score of 6.
- Ontario is less walkable than Tacoma with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Tacoma's 54 out of 100.
- Both Ontario and Tacoma have similar bike-friendliness scores (48 vs 46), meaning Ontario is about as safe for cyclists as Tacoma. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Ontario's crime rate is lower than Tacoma with a score of 50.25 compared to Tacoma's 55.55. This means that Ontario neighborhoods are safer than 50.25% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55%.
- Ontario is considered to be safer than Tacoma with a safety index of 49.75 vs Tacoma's 44.45.
- Air quality in Ontario is Good, and in Tacoma it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Tacoma to Ontario 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, 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 Ontario 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. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Ontario
Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Ontario.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Ontario
- Piemonte
- Ontario Ranch
- Rancho Cucamonga
- Upland
Best neighborhoods for families
- Creekside
- Parkview
- Ontario Ranch
- College Park
- Downtown Ontario
Things to do in Ontario
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Ontario. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Ontario include museums and art centers like the Museum of History and Art, Ontario.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Cucamonga-Guasti Regional 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 Ontario Reign (Hockey)Ontario Professional Baseball (Dodgers Affiliate - 2026) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tacoma to Ontario?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tacoma to Ontario. 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 Ontario?
With many people choosing to move from Tacoma to Ontario 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 Ontario take?
Covering 1,139 miles, the move from Tacoma, WA to Ontario, CA typically takes two to eight days. Some Tacoma movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Ontario 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 Ontario?
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 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
