Best Tucson to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tucson to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 786 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Tucson to Salinas 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 Moving Buddies Tucson AZ), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tucson 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 Tucson to Salinas Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Moving Buddies Tucson AZ9.059.23Authorized For HHGContact
2Get Your Move On, LLC9.038.37Authorized For HHGContact
3Abba & Sons Moving LLC8.909.2Authorized For HHGContact
4Mod Movers8.798.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Tucson to Salinas

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 786 miles from Tucson, AZ to Salinas, CA will cost on average $2,450 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tucson to Salinas move is roughly $5,878. 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$1,648300 ft³5.49
1 Bedroom$2,450450 ft³5.44
2 Bedrooms$4,045750 ft³5.39
3 Bedrooms$5,8781100 ft³5.34
4 Bedrooms$8,4701600 ft³5.29
5+ Bedrooms$9,4391800 ft³5.24
*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 Tucson guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tucson to Salinas Movers

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

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ Logo

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Exceptional9.05/10
based on 1,762+ data points

5502 E 25th St

Tucson, AZ, 85711

About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3531262 / 1542042

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Get Your Move On, LLC Logo

Get Your Move On, LLC

Exceptional9.03/10
based on 1,564+ data points

1430 E Hadley St # 110

Phoenix, AZ, 85034

About Get Your Move On, LLC

This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1885055 / 990813

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved350,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Abba & Sons Moving LLC Logo

Abba & Sons Moving LLC

Superb8.90/10
based on 1,474+ data points

237 W Fort Lowell Rd

Tucson, AZ, 85705

About Abba & Sons Moving LLC

Based in Tucson, Abba and Sons Moving is a family-owned company that serves all of Southern Arizona with residential and commercial...

Services

  • Home/Apartment Moving Services
  • Moving and Packing Services
  • Specializing in homes, offices, apartments

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1921793 / 32280

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.79/10
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.

Tucson vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding the lay of the land through familiar references helps a lot. This is a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tucson, AZ & Salinas, CA ensures you find a new home that feels just like your old one. Let’s dive into the neighborhood comparisons to make your transition as smooth as possible.

TucsonSalinasHow They're Similar
Catalina FoothillsSouth SalinasHistoric homes, thriving local eateries
Sam HughesMaple ParkCharming homes, family-friendly vibe
Rita RanchCreekBridgeModern amenities, community-focused
Dove MountainToro ParkScenic views, outdoor activities
Armory ParkOld Town SalinasRich history, eclectic shops
Oro ValleyCorral de TierraLush landscapes, upscale living
El EncantoMonterey ParkQuiet suburbs, well-kept gardens
Iron HorseUniversity ParkVibrant community, proximity to education
Barrio HistoricoEast SalinasCultural richness, community events
SunnysideNorthridgeFamily-oriented, great shopping options

For those moving from Catalina Foothills, you'll find South Salinas's historic homes and diverse dining spots like those at Aqua Blue Skin & Body Spa or Patria reminiscent of your Tucson stomping grounds. If the urban vibe and historic charm of Armory Park are what you're leaving behind, Old Town Salinas with its rich history and eclectic mix of shops, such as the iconic Ted's, offers a comparable experience. Lastly, those accustomed to the family-friendly atmosphere and community focus of Rita Ranch will find CreekBridge a perfect blend of modern amenities and a welcoming community, evidenced by parks like Laurel Wood Park and nearby shopping centers.

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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 Tucson to Salinas

Moving from one city to another offers a fresh perspective and new opportunities, but it’s also accompanied by its own set of challenges. This comparison is designed to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tucson, AZ to Salinas, CA , highlighting the key factors you should consider in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Higher heat
  • Less greenery
  • Lower cost of living
  • Fewer cultural spots
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Cooler climate
  • More agriculture
  • Proximity to ocean
  • Rich art scene
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Smaller homes
  • Less space
  • Faster pace
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Vibrant downtown
  • Lower housing prices
  • Wide open spaces
  • Laid-back lifestyle

When considering a move from Tucson, AZ to Salinas, CA, the contrasts are noteworthy. Salinas offers a milder climate and proximity to the ocean, providing a refreshing change from Tucson's intense heat. This coastal town is also renowned for its agricultural richness and a vibrant art scene, featuring attractions like the National Steinbeck Center and the Salinas Valley Food & Wine Festival. While Tucson boasts more affordable housing and a laid-back lifestyle, Salinas compensates with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural offerings, though it comes with a higher cost of living. Exploring neighborhoods like South Salinas for its restaurants and parks, or the nearby breathtaking sights such as Monterey State Historic Park, can quickly make Salinas feel like home.

Tucson vs. Salinas Food Guide

Food is an essential aspect of local culture and lifestyle. To help you understand what culinary experiences await you in your new city, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Tucson & Salinas . This will give you a taste of what to expect and how it contrasts with what you're used to.

TucsonSalinas
Most iconic local food itemSonoran Hot DogArtichoke
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaTri-tip
Most popular street food itemTacosFresh strawberries
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosArtichoke Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • El Güero Canelo
  • BOCA Tacos y Tequila
  • Miss Saigon
  • The Steinbeck House
  • Gino's Fine Italian Food
  • The Fishwife
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Tucson, the Sonoran Hot Dog stands as a testament to the city's vibrant Mexican influence, which can be especially savored along the bustling Fourth Avenue and Downtown areas. On the other hand, Salinas, often dubbed as the "Salad Bowl of the World," takes pride in its fresh, local produce with artichokes and strawberries reigning supreme in local cuisine. Iconic restaurants such as El Güero Canelo in Tucson showcase the city's best flavors whereas The Steinbeck House in Salinas offers a glimpse into the city's rich history combined with exquisite meals. Both cities offer impressive culinary scenes, but the focus shifts from Mexican-inspired dishes in Tucson to fresh, farm-to-table experiences in Salinas.

Tucson vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Tucson, AZ, to Salinas, CA, finding new favorite dining spots can make your new city feel more like home. This restaurant comparison guide is specifically designed to ease the transition from Tucson to Salinas by matching top eateries in Tucson with their Salinas counterparts. You'll discover places that promise to deliver flavors and experiences reminiscent of those you cherished back in Arizona.

TucsonSalinasWhat You'll Love
The Grill at Hacienda Del SolSalinas City BBQSouthern-style barbecue, upscale ambiance
El Charro CaféLa Casa del SazónAuthentic Mexican dishes, family atmosphere
Café Poca CosaGabby's CaféHomemade Mexican cuisine, creative dishes
Reilly Craft Pizza & DrinkGiorgio's Italian Food & PizzeriaHandcrafted pizzas, Italian staples
Senae Thai BistroBaan Thai RestaurantAuthentic Thai food, fresh ingredients
Penca RestauranteRancho Cielo Drummond Culinary AcademyInnovative Mexican cuisine, training future chefs
Frost A Gelato ShoppeRita's Italian Ice & Frozen CustardArtisan gelatos and custards, diverse flavors
Wild Garlic GrillPatriaEuropean-inspired dishes, emphasis on flavor
TumericoEllie's Great American RestaurantHealth-conscious choices, locally sourced
Barrio BreadRed's DonutsArtisan breads and pastries, local favorite

In your quest to find dining destinations in Salinas that resonate with your favorite eateries in Tucson, consider La Casa del Sazón for a taste reminiscent of El Charro Café’s authentic Mexican cuisine, but with its own unique flair and family atmosphere. Meanwhile, Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria stands as a beacon for lovers of Italian cuisine and handcrafted pizzas, echoing the quality and ambiance you appreciated at Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink. For those yearning for the innovative culinary experiences offered by Penca Restaurante, Rancho Cielo Drummond Culinary Academy not only provides a comparable dining experience but also supports the training of future chefs, adding a fulfilling twist to your meal. Embrace these Salinas spots to discover the comfort and tastes of home, even when you're miles away.

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Ready to start your move?

Tucson vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate markets of Tucson, AZ, and Salinas, CA is crucial. Understanding how housing options, costs, and lifestyles differ between these two cities helps in making an informed decision.

ComparisonTucsonSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish RevivalModern & Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOutdoor Spaces, Mountain ViewsProximity to Agriculture, Community Parks

In comparing Tucson and Salinas, key differences emerge beyond just the numbers. Tucson's allure often comes from its Spanish Revival architecture and abundant outdoor spaces, ideal for those seeking a connection with the natural desert landscape. Meanwhile, Salinas offers a more expensive but potentially more walkable and bikeable living environment, attributed to its modern infrastructure and proximity to community parks. The distinct architectural styles and lifestyle offerings between Tucson's mountain views and Salinas's agriculture-rich environments provide diverse living experiences unique to each city.

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.

Tucson vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is essential. Comparing Tucson, AZ to Salinas, CA will give you insight into how the climate changes may affect your daily life and outdoor plans. This information helps in setting the right expectations for your new home.

Summer icon
100°F / 74°F

Tucson, AZ

70°F / 55°F

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
65°F / 40°F

Tucson, AZ

60°F / 40°F

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

Tucson, AZ

15

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.3

Tucson, AZ

0

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTucsonSalinas
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHeatwaves, DroughtEarthquakes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The contrast in average summer temperatures between Tucson and Salinas is significant, with Tucson experiencing intense heat, while Salinas enjoys moderate warmth. This disparity extends into the winter months though less dramatically. Salinas also has higher humidity levels, which can affect how the temperature feels. Considering Tucson's high UV index, moving from Tucson to Salinas may require adjustments in your daily sun protection routine. The nature of natural disasters varies markedly, reflecting the environmental challenges unique to each location. Understanding these differences will help you prepare better for your new home in Salinas.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new home is crucial. Comparing Tucson, AZ and Salinas, CA will help you gauge what changes to expect in your expenses and income, ensuring a smoother transition.

ComparisonTucsonSalinas
Avg. Household Income$50,306$80,154
Cost of Living Index96.5136.4
State Income Tax4.54 (max)13.3 (max)
Avg. Property Tax0.720.79
Avg. Sales Tax8.79.25
Top 3 IndustriesAerospace, Education, HealthcareAgriculture, Manufacturing, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyHighModerate
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Tucson to Salinas will introduce you to a diverse financial landscape. Despite Salinas' higher cost of living index at 149 compared to Tucson's 88, the average household income in Salinas is also higher. However, this increase in income may not completely offset the higher living expenses, especially considering the steep maximum state income tax rate in California. The primary industries vary greatly between the two cities, reflecting different career opportunities. Furthermore, although Salinas demonstrates a higher affluence level and lower poverty rate compared to Tucson, it's essential to consider that the overall cost of living might challenge these benefits. Preparation and understanding of these financial differences are key to a successful transition.

Tucson vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Tucson, AZ, to Salinas, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you're moving between. This comparison focuses on the politics between Tucson & Salinas , including the local political climates and the religious landscapes, to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect from each city's residents.

TucsonSalinas
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately liberal policies, focus on immigration and environmental issuesLiberal policies, strong emphasis on agriculture policies and workers' rights
ReligionChristianity predominant, with a mix of other faithsPrimarily Christian, significant Catholic presence

In comparing Tucson and Salinas, you'll find both cities have a Democratic-leaning population which might make the political transition smoother for you. However, the local political focus varies, with Tucson prioritizing immigration and environmental issues due to its proximity to the border and desert landscape. In contrast, Salinas, nestled in one of the most productive agricultural regions in California, places a strong emphasis on agriculture policies and workers' rights. Religion plays a significant role in community life in both cities. However, Salinas has a notably large Catholic community, reflecting its diverse demographics and the influence of agriculture on its culture. Understanding these nuances will help you integrate more easily into your new home.

Tucson vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tucson, AZ to Salinas, CA requires adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tucson & Salinas. This guide is here to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these cities.

ComparisonTucsonSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2524
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but limited

In Tucson, the average commute time is slightly longer, and public transit is more readily available compared to Salinas, although both cities require a car for optimal mobility. Tucson scores lower in traffic congestion, meaning you might face less stressful driving conditions daily. However, living in Salinas without a car is somewhat feasible thanks to its compact city layout and availability of services within walking or biking distance, though public transit options are less robust. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your daily life, especially if you rely on public transportation or commute to work.

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