Best Phoenix to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Phoenix to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 710 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Phoenix to San Jose moving companies and more than 20,000 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 San Jose. 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.

Best Phoenix to San Jose Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
3 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.30 | 9.18 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Phoenix to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 710 miles from Phoenix, AZ to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,385 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to San Jose move is roughly $5,720. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,605 | 300 ft³ | 5.35 |
1 Bedroom | $2,385 | 450 ft³ | 5.30 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,938 | 750 ft³ | 5.25 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,720 | 1100 ft³ | 5.20 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,240 | 1600 ft³ | 5.15 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,180 | 1800 ft³ | 5.10 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Phoenix guide.
Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |

D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |

New Beginnings Moving Solutions
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |

Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1877603 / 1173916 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2023) |

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.

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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an adventure, but it helps to find a connection to your current home. To ease your transition from Phoenix, AZ to San Jose, CA, we've prepared a guide comparing popular neighborhoods in Phoenix with their local neighborhoods between Phoenix, AZ & San Jose, CA. This will help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
Phoenix | San Jose | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Arcadia | Willow Glen | Family-friendly atmosphere |
Desert Ridge | Almaden Valley | Spacious homes & nature |
Roosevelt Row | SoFA District | Vibrant arts scene |
Ahwatukee Foothills | Evergreen | Quiet, suburban feel |
Encanto Village | Rose Garden | Historical homes & gardens |
North Central Phoenix | Berryessa | Established neighborhoods |
Downtown Phoenix | Downtown San Jose | Urban living & amenities |
Paradise Valley | Silver Creek Valley | Upscale and tranquil |
Coronado | Japantown | Unique cultural heritage |
Biltmore Area | Santana Row | Upscale shopping & dining |
In transitioning from Phoenix to San Jose, finding a neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences is crucial. For example, if you've enjoyed the family-friendly and tight-knit community of Arcadia, you'll find a similar welcoming ambiance in Willow Glen, known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets. The vibrant arts and culture scene of Roosevelt Row can be matched by San Jose's SoFA District, bustling with galleries, theaters, and live music. For those who admire the upscale and leisurely pace of the Biltmore Area, Santana Row offers a comparable luxury experience, boasting high-end shopping, fine dining, and chic living spaces. No matter what your priorities are, be it nature, culture, or convenience, there's a San Jose neighborhood that mirrors the charm and character of your Phoenix home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to San Jose
Moving from city to city presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Phoenix, AZ to San Jose, CA. Understanding the cons and pros of such a move will help you make a more informed decision about this significant life change.
- Extreme heat
- Less diverse economy
- Lower average income
- Fewer cultural attractions
- Milder climate
- Thriving tech industry
- Higher average income
- Rich cultural scene
- High cost of living
- More urbanized
- Faster-paced lifestyle
- Higher tax rates
- More affordable housing
- Spacious landscapes
- More relaxed lifestyle
- Lower tax rates
Moving from Phoenix to San Jose offers a blend of both worlds, from the vast, sun-drenched landscapes of Arizona to the bustling, innovative atmosphere of Silicon Valley. In San Jose, you're likely to experience a milder climate that's easier to manage year-round, making outdoor activities and explorations a pleasant experience. The city is bustling with cultural attractions and a thriving tech industry, offering abundant career opportunities, especially in tech and innovation sectors. Places like the SAP Center host exciting events and concerts, while the Downtown San Jose area offers a rich variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural sights. Despite the higher cost of living and faster-paced lifestyle, the diverse economy, rich cultural scene, and beautiful neighborhood parks in areas like Willow Glen or Almaden Valley make the move enticing for those seeking growth and diverse experiences.
Phoenix vs. San Jose Food Guide
Food is a vital part of experiencing a city's culture and lifestyle. In our guide, we will compare the local cuisine between Phoenix & San Jose to help you understand the culinary scene you're moving into. Whether you crave savory dishes or have a sweet tooth, knowing what each city offers can make your transition smoother.
Phoenix | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | Pho |
Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Bánh mì |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Crepe) |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burrito | Vegetable Pho |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When comparing Phoenix and San Jose, it's clear each city has its unique flavor. Phoenix, with its Mexican influences, boasts a variety of spicy and savory dishes like the Sonoran Hot Dog and Carne Asada. You'll find these flavors widespread in areas such as downtown Phoenix and Roosevelt Row. San Jose, deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, offers an exquisite taste of Asia with its famous Pho and Bánh mì found in neighborhoods like Little Saigon. Additionally, both cities are making strides in providing options for the health-conscious and vegan communities, though San Jose has a slight edge. So, no matter your dining preference, both Phoenix and San Jose have thriving culinary scenes that cater to a wide range of tastes.
Phoenix vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Finding the perfect dining spots can turn a new city into your home. This comparison charts the top restaurants in Phoenix to their counterparts in San Jose, helping you discover new favorites based on places you already love. Now, transitioning from Phoenix to San Jose doesn't have to mean leaving behind your cherished food experiences.
Phoenix | San Jose | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Binkley's Restaurant | Plumed Horse | Upscale dining with innovative plates |
Pizzeria Bianco | Pizza Bocca Lupo | Authentic Neapolitan pizzas |
Barrio Café | Mezcal | Modern takes on traditional Mexican cuisine |
FnB | Adega | Seasonal, farm-to-table Portuguese cuisine |
Durant's | Original Joe's | Classic, old-school American Italian |
Nobuo at Teeter House | Minato Japanese Restaurant | Traditional Japanese with a cozy feel |
Matt's Big Breakfast | Scrambl'z | Local favorite for hearty breakfasts and brunches |
Rusconi's American Kitchen | Orchard City Kitchen | American cuisine with a twist, in a casual setting |
The Breadfruit & Rum Bar | Back A Yard | Caribbean influenced dishes with a focus on flavor |
Richardson's Cuisine of New Mexico | Luna Mexican Kitchen | Authentic and fresh Mexican dishes |
Discovering a new favorite dining spot can make all the difference when moving to a new city. San Jose's Mezcal mirrors the creative Mexican flair found at Phoenix's Barrio Café, becoming a go-to for modern Mexican dishes. For those who cherish the authentic Neapolitan pizzas of Pizzeria Bianco, San Jose's Pizza Bocca Lupo offers a slice of Naples with its wood-fired pies, demonstrating the vibrant and global culinary scene San Jose has to offer. Whether it's the comfort found in a hearty breakfast at Scrambl'z or the fine dining experience at Plumed Horse, each restaurant provides a taste of Phoenix with a unique San Jose twist.

Ready to start your move?
Phoenix vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When deciding to move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in housing costs and lifestyles between Phoenix, AZ, and San Jose, CA. Knowing these details will help you make an informed decision about your future home.
Comparison | Phoenix | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Spanish | Modern, Mediterranean |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Mountain Views | Technology, Eco-friendly |
Phoenix and San Jose offer distinct living experiences, as highlighted in the above table. In Phoenix, the emphasis on outdoor living is evident with pools and mountain views often featured in real estate listings. The city's architecture leans towards Ranch and Spanish styles, reflecting its southwestern heritage. However, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, prides itself on modern and Mediterranean homes, with listings frequently boasting technological advancements and eco-friendly features. The cost of living is significantly higher in San Jose, both in terms of housing and rent, yet it compensates with its vibrant urban lifestyle, higher walkability, and bikeability scores, potentially offering a more dynamic day-to-day living experience.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Phoenix vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Phoenix, AZ to San Jose, CA, understand how the weather will shift. The comparison between Phoenix and San Jose reveals significant differences in climate, preparing you for what to expect in your new home. By examining weather patterns, you'll be more equipped to adapt to your new environment.
Phoenix, AZ
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Phoenix, AZ
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Phoenix | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Dust Storms | Earthquakes, Minor Flooding |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transferring from Phoenix's desert climate to San Jose's Mediterranean climate means embracing a cooler, more humid environment. You'll leave behind the extreme heat and dryness of Arizona for more balanced temperatures, albeit with a higher humidity level in California. This climate shift impacts everything from your daily comfort to your energy bills and wardrobe choices. San Jose's climate offers an appealing middle ground for those who enjoy mild winters without the harsh temperatures found in many parts of the country, but it’s prudent to prepare for more rainy days and a noticeable decrease in annual sunshine. Understanding these changes will help you easily adjust to your fabulous new surroundings in San Jose.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to San Jose
When considering a move from one city to another, it’s essential to grasp how your finances might be impacted. This comparison aims to shed light on the crucial financial differences between Phoenix, AZ and San Jose, CA, understanding these variances will help you prepare for your relocation effectively.
Comparison | Phoenix | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $68,435 | $126,377 |
Cost of Living Index | 100.7 | 156.1 |
State Income Tax | 2.59 to 4.50 | 1.00 to 13.30 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.62 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.6 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Real Estate | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | High | Lower |
Homelessness | Visible | Significant |
When considering a move from Phoenix to San Jose, you'll encounter a stark contrast in the cost of living—San Jose’s is notably higher due largely to housing and transportation costs. Although the average household income in San Jose is substantially greater, this is offset by the high living expenses. Taxes in California also vary widely compared to Arizona, with potential impact on your paycheck due to California's progressive income tax system. Despite its affluence, San Jose faces significant homelessness, a complex issue reflecting in part the region's high cost of living. These factors are critical to consider for budgeting and lifestyle adjustments in your move.
Phoenix vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Phoenix, AZ to San Jose, CA, understanding the communities you’ll be entering can enhance your transition. This quick comparison will provide an overview of the political and religious makeup between Phoenix & San Jose , offering insights into the local culture and societal landscape of your new home.
Phoenix | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
Local Politics | City of Phoenix | City of San Jose |
Religion | Diverse with a Christian majority | Diverse with a mix of religious beliefs |
Moving from Phoenix to San Jose, you'll transition from a community where conservative politics are more prevalent to one that leans more liberal. This shift might reflect in policies, local government initiatives, and community support systems. Phoenix’s Christian majority contributes to its cultural events and local policies, whereas San Jose’s diverse mix of religious beliefs fosters a broad spectrum of cultural festivals and a variety of places of worship. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your new community more effectively and connect with your new neighbors.
Phoenix vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can dramatically change your daily commute. To help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & San Jose might look like, we've laid out a comparison. This should make it easier for you to navigate your new city's roads and public transit systems.
Comparison | Phoenix | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Marginally |
While both Phoenix and San Jose face their fair share of traffic congestion, you'll find the commute in San Jose can be slightly longer on average, owing to its denser urban layout. Interestingly, San Jose offers a better public transit system compared to Phoenix, thanks to services like the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) which includes buses and light rail options. Although getting by without a car in Phoenix is challenging due to its spread-out nature, San Jose somewhat alleviates this with its slightly more robust public transportation system, though having a car is still preferred for convenience.



Additional Resources
Phoenix Moving Services
Popular Phoenix to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources