Best Tucson to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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.

Best Tucson to Salinas Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Moving Buddies Tucson AZ | 9.05 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Get Your Move On, LLC | 9.03 | 8.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Abba & Sons Moving LLC | 8.90 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Mod Movers | 8.79 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.34 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,648 | 300 ft³ | 5.49 |
1 Bedroom | $2,450 | 450 ft³ | 5.44 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,045 | 750 ft³ | 5.39 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,878 | 1100 ft³ | 5.34 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,470 | 1600 ft³ | 5.29 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,439 | 1800 ft³ | 5.24 |


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
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3531262 / 1542042 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2022) |

Get Your Move On, LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1885055 / 990813 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
Registered Drivers | 19 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 350,000 (2023) |

Abba & Sons Moving LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1921793 / 32280 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Mod Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Poulos Moving Systems
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (2022) |

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.
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.
Tucson | Salinas | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Catalina Foothills | South Salinas | Historic homes, thriving local eateries |
Sam Hughes | Maple Park | Charming homes, family-friendly vibe |
Rita Ranch | CreekBridge | Modern amenities, community-focused |
Dove Mountain | Toro Park | Scenic views, outdoor activities |
Armory Park | Old Town Salinas | Rich history, eclectic shops |
Oro Valley | Corral de Tierra | Lush landscapes, upscale living |
El Encanto | Monterey Park | Quiet suburbs, well-kept gardens |
Iron Horse | University Park | Vibrant community, proximity to education |
Barrio Historico | East Salinas | Cultural richness, community events |
Sunnyside | Northridge | Family-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.

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.
- Higher heat
- Less greenery
- Lower cost of living
- Fewer cultural spots
- Cooler climate
- More agriculture
- Proximity to ocean
- Rich art scene
- Higher living costs
- Smaller homes
- Less space
- Faster pace
- 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.
Tucson | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | Artichoke |
Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Tri-tip |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fresh strawberries |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Artichoke Soup |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
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.
Tucson | Salinas | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol | Salinas City BBQ | Southern-style barbecue, upscale ambiance |
El Charro Café | La Casa del Sazón | Authentic Mexican dishes, family atmosphere |
Café Poca Cosa | Gabby's Café | Homemade Mexican cuisine, creative dishes |
Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink | Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria | Handcrafted pizzas, Italian staples |
Senae Thai Bistro | Baan Thai Restaurant | Authentic Thai food, fresh ingredients |
Penca Restaurante | Rancho Cielo Drummond Culinary Academy | Innovative Mexican cuisine, training future chefs |
Frost A Gelato Shoppe | Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard | Artisan gelatos and custards, diverse flavors |
Wild Garlic Grill | Patria | European-inspired dishes, emphasis on flavor |
Tumerico | Ellie's Great American Restaurant | Health-conscious choices, locally sourced |
Barrio Bread | Red's Donuts | Artisan 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.

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.
Comparison | Tucson | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Revival | Modern & Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Outdoor Spaces, Mountain Views | Proximity 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 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.
Tucson, AZ
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tucson, AZ
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tucson, AZ
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tucson, AZ
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Tucson | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Drought | Earthquakes, 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.
Comparison | Tucson | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $50,306 | $80,154 |
Cost of Living Index | 96.5 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 4.54 (max) | 13.3 (max) |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.72 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.7 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Education, Healthcare | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Education |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | High | Moderate |
Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
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.
Tucson | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
Local Politics | Moderately liberal policies, focus on immigration and environmental issues | Liberal policies, strong emphasis on agriculture policies and workers' rights |
Religion | Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faiths | Primarily 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.
Comparison | Tucson | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 24 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, 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.



Additional Resources
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