Best Phoenix to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Phoenix to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 672 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Phoenix to Salinas moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Phoenix compared to Salinas. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Phoenix to Salinas Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.759.64Authorized For HHGContact
2New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.329.4Authorized For PropertyContact
3Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.309.18Authorized For HHGContact
4Mod Movers8.808.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Phoenix to Salinas

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 672 miles from Phoenix, AZ to Salinas, CA will cost on average $2,353 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to Salinas move is roughly $5,641. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,583300 ft³5.28
1 Bedroom$2,353450 ft³5.23
2 Bedrooms$3,884750 ft³5.18
3 Bedrooms$5,6411100 ft³5.13
4 Bedrooms$8,1251600 ft³5.08
5+ Bedrooms$9,0511800 ft³5.03
*Please note: These Arizona to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AZ to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Phoenix guide.

Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to Salinas Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.75/10
based on 2,279+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 991+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.30/10
based on 4,091+ data points

4012 W Turney Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85019

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.80/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Phoenix vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting task, especially when moving to a city you're not familiar with. This guide aims to ease that transition. By comparing popular neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ & Salinas, CA , we'll help you find a new area that feels like home, using what you already love about your current neighborhood as a baseline.

PhoenixSalinasHow They're Similar
ArcadiaMaple ParkHistoric homes, family-friendly
CoronadoUniversity ParkVibrant community, artsy
Roosevelt RowOld TownCultural hotspots, dynamic
EncantoSouth SalinasClassic charm, suburban feel
Desert RidgeCreekbridgeModern amenities, family-oriented
Ahwatukee FoothillsLaurelwoodScenic views, outdoor activities
North/North Central PhoenixNorthridgeSpacious homes, strong community vibe
DowntownDowntown SalinasUrban living, nightlife
UptownHarrodUp-and-coming, eclectic eateries
Melrose DistrictSouth SalinasCultural diversity, charming shops

If you're drawn to the historic, yet family-friendly atmosphere of Arcadia, you'll find a similar vibe in Maple Park, Salinas, known for its beautiful vintage homes and lush landscapes. Fans of Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row, celebrated for its arts and dynamic culture, will appreciate Salinas' Old Town, where a robust cultural scene thrives, hosting various events and boasting a collection of unique local shops and restaurants such as Patisserie Florentine for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their neighborhood exploration. Similarly, those used to the modern amenities and family-oriented community of Desert Ridge will find Creekbridge in Salinas a seamless transition with its contemporary conveniences and community parks, providing ample opportunities for weekend family outings.

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Things to Do in Salinas

  • Explore Pinnacles National Park.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
  • Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
  • Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
  • Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
  • Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
  • Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Salinas

Moving from one city to another requires a careful look at what you'll gain and lose in the process. This guide aims to boldly lay out the pros and cons of relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Salinas, CA , offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad. By comparing these aspects, you can make an informed decision about your next big move.

CONs
PROs
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Intense summer heat
  • Less greenery
  • Limited water activities
  • Urban sprawl
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Cooler climate
  • Rich agricultural scene
  • Proximity to ocean
  • Quaint, community feel
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Foggy weather
  • Compact cityscape
  • Specialized job market
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Lower cost of living
  • More sunny days
  • Ample parking
  • Broad job market

Relocating from Phoenix, AZ, to Salinas, CA, offers a mix of new experiences and adjustments. Salinas, known for its vibrant agricultural scene, is home to the John Steinbeck Museum, a nod to the city's rich cultural backdrop. The cooler climate and proximity to the ocean invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore nearby spots like Monterey State Historic Park and Monterey Bay Aquarium, unlike Phoenix's desert landscape. However, adjusting to Salinas' higher cost of living and foggy weather will be necessary. Yet, its quaint, community-oriented atmosphere and close-knit neighborhoods like Oak Hill and Maple Park offer a welcoming small-town charm that contrasts with Phoenix's expansive urban sprawl.

Phoenix vs. Salinas Food Guide

Food is a rich tapestry woven into the fabric of local culture, reflecting the essence of living in a specific place. With our taste buds ready, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & Salinas , intended to give you a flavor (pun intended) of what culinary delights await you as you plan your move.

PhoenixSalinas
Most iconic local food itemCarne AsadaArtichokes
Most popular meat dishChimichangaTri-tip
Most popular street food itemTacosFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan PozoleVegan Artichoke Dip
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Durant's
  • Lux Central
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move to Salinas, the vibrant agriculture of the region promises a culinary scene rich in fresh, farm-to-table experiences. You'll find that artichokes feature prominently, celebrated annually at the Artichoke Festival. For meat enthusiasts, the tri-tip is a local favorite, often grilled to perfection and available at venues like Fish House Bar & Grill. Vegan residents are not left out, with many restaurants offering options like Vegan Artichoke Dip. Salinas, while smaller than Phoenix, doesn't lag behind in drawing food lovers to its unique blend of culinary offerings, with an increasing number of food trucks and vegan-friendly eateries catering to all palates. Whether you're dining at Growers Pub in the heart of Salinas or exploring its burgeoning food truck scene, there's much to explore and savor in your new home.

Phoenix vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city means discovering new favorite spots that feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Phoenix, AZ to their closest equivalents in Salinas, CA will guide you in finding your next go-to eateries, making the transition smoother and tastier.

PhoenixSalinasWhat You'll Love
BacanoraLa Casa del SazonBoth celebrated for their authentic and innovative take on Mexican cuisine.
Pizzeria BiancoGiorgio's Italian Food & PizzeriaKnown for their handcrafted pizzas and use of fresh ingredients, much like Pizzeria Bianco.
Barrio CaféEagle RestaurantOffers a mix of traditional and creatively inspired Mexican dishes, similar to Barrio Café's approach.
Steak 44The Growers PubBoth provide a high-end dining experience focusing on steaks and quality American cuisine.
Durant'sMonterey Coast Brewing Co.While initially a brewery, it offers a classic, hearty American dining experience akin to Durant's.
Chino BandidoMichael's Grill & TaqueriaKnown for a fusion of flavors that delight those looking for something uniquely tasty, much like Chino Bandido.
Matt's Big BreakfastFirst AwakeningsBoth are local favorites for hearty and wholesome breakfasts, offering a wide variety of options.
FnBNorma's Family RestaurantBoth places pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative dishes.
Nobuo at Teeter HouseSalinas City BBQThough primarily a BBQ place, it shares Nobuo's dedication to quality and has a creative twist on traditional dishes.
Roosevelt Row Culinary DistrictOldtown SalinasSimilar in offering a diverse and eclectic mix of dining options in a vibrant, community-focused setting.

When craving authentic Mexican cuisine reminiscent of Phoenix's Bacanora, you'll find satisfaction at La Casa del Sazon in Salinas, a local gem celebrated for its heartfelt approach to traditional flavors. Meanwhile, those missing the iconic pizzas from Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix can find a slice of home at Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria, where every pizza is crafted with care, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. And for the early risers, First Awakenings parallels Matt's Big Breakfast with its extensive breakfast menu, promising a delightful start to your day with dishes made from the freshest produce and ingredients.

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Ready to start your move?

Phoenix vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role when relocating. Understanding how Phoenix, AZ, and Salinas, CA compare in terms of housing can help make your move smoother. This comparison aims to provide insights into costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle differences between these two cities.

ComparisonPhoenixSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleRanch, SpanishModern, Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPool, garage, and open floor plansGarage, updated kitchens, backyard

Moving from Phoenix to Salinas, you'll see a substantial difference in housing costs, reflecting both the higher cost of living and the demand for Real Estate in California. Salinas, with its slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores, offers a more urban lifestyle compared to Phoenix. The architecture in Salinas tends towards Modern and Mediterranean styles, reflecting its coastal California culture, contrasting with Phoenix's preference for Ranch and Spanish influenced designs. The emphasis on garages in both markets highlights the importance of car ownership, despite Salinas' better scores in walk and bike friendliness.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA

1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.

2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.

3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.

Phoenix vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

If you're planning to relocate, understanding the climate differences between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how weather changes from Phoenix, AZ to Salinas, CA might impact your daily life and what adjustments you may need to consider.

Summer icon
104°F / 83°F

Phoenix, AZ

70°F / 55°F

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 46°F

Phoenix, AZ

62°F / 43°F

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
8

Phoenix, AZ

15

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Phoenix, AZ

0

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPhoenixSalinas
Air QualityPoorModerate
Natural DisastersHeatwaves, Dust StormsEarthquakes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The contrast in weather between Phoenix and Salinas could significantly affect your lifestyle and possibly your health. For instance, the dramatic difference in summer temperatures suggests a lighter wardrobe in Salinas, where the climate is much more temperate. Additionally, the higher humidity in Salinas compared to Phoenix's dry heat could impact your comfort and may require some time to adjust. Air quality also improves as you move to Salinas, potentially benefiting those with respiratory issues. Understanding these differences ensures you're better prepared for your new environment in Salinas.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Salinas

When planning a move, it's critical to understand how financial aspects will change between your current and future locations. This comparison will highlight financial differences between Phoenix, AZ, and Salinas, CA , focusing on income, cost of living, taxes, and more, providing a foundation for your decision-making.

ComparisonPhoenixSalinas
Avg. Household Income$68,435$80,154
Cost of Living Index100.7136.4
State Income Tax2.59 - 4.501 - 13.3
Avg. Property Tax0.620.79
Avg. Sales Tax8.69.25
Top 3 IndustriesReal Estate, Health Care, FinanceAgriculture, Manufacturing, Health Services
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessHighMedium

While both Phoenix and Salinas boast thriving economies, you'll notice Salinas has a higher average household income, which coincides with its higher cost of living and property tax rates. This disparity is partly due to Salinas’s proximity to affluent areas and its booming agriculture and manufacturing sectors. However, both cities have their economic challenges, including significant levels of homelessness, though Phoenix experiences a comparatively higher rate. Understanding these financial and socioeconomic differences is crucial for managing your expectations and preparing for a smoother transition.

Phoenix vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Phoenix, AZ to Salinas, CA, understanding the local landscape is crucial. Here is a quick, comparison of the politics between Phoenix & Salinas , providing a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents.

PhoenixSalinas
Political Make-upMixed, with a slight lean towards liberalismSignificantly liberal
Local PoliticsFocus on urban development and migration policiesEmphasizes agricultural concerns and community welfare
ReligionChristianity dominant, diverse religious communitiesPrimarily Christian, significant Catholic population Diocese of Monterey

While Phoenix offers a mixed political environment with a slight liberal tilt, it focuses heavily on urban development and migration policies. Salinas, markedly more liberal, places significant emphasis on agriculture and community welfare, reflecting its status as a hub of the agricultural sector in California. Religious life in both cities is primarily Christian; however, Salinas stands out for its significant Catholic population overseen by the Diocese of Monterey. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the cultural and political climate you'll be moving into.

Phoenix vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from Phoenix, AZ to Salinas, CA. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & Salinas aims to shed light on what you can expect in terms of navigating either city, whether by car or public transit.

ComparisonPhoenixSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, but limited

Phoenix and Salinas offer distinct experiences when it comes to getting around town. In Phoenix, with an average commute time of 25 minutes and higher traffic congestion, you'll find the need for a personal vehicle almost indispensable due to the less developed public transit system. On the other hand, Salinas presents a slightly shorter average commute time and marginally better public transit options, making it feasible, though still challenging, to get by without a car. However, for the smoothest transition and adaptation to either city, familiarizing yourself with local transit services and planning your routes in advance can greatly enhance your commuting experience.

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