Best Tucson to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Tucson to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 824 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Tucson 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 D&L Movers), 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 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 Tucson to San Jose Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Moving Buddies Tucson AZ | 9.05 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Get Your Move On, LLC | 9.03 | 8.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Abba & Sons Moving LLC | 8.90 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Tucson to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 824 miles from Tucson, AZ to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,482 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tucson to San Jose move is roughly $5,957. 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 | $1,670 | 300 ft³ | 5.57 |
1 Bedroom | $2,482 | 450 ft³ | 5.52 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,099 | 750 ft³ | 5.47 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,957 | 1100 ft³ | 5.42 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,585 | 1600 ft³ | 5.37 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,568 | 1800 ft³ | 5.32 |


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

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) |

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) |

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) |

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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to compare local neighborhoods between Tucson, AZ & San Jose, CA , helping you familiarize yourself with prospective areas. By identifying neighborhoods with similar characteristics, we aim to make your transition smoother.
Tucson | San Jose | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Samm Hughes | Willow Glen | Charming, historic homes |
Catalina Foothills | Almaden Valley | Upscale, sprawling residential areas |
Rita Ranch | Berryessa | Family-friendly, strong community vibe |
Oro Valley | Evergreen | Picturesque outdoor activities |
Armory Park | The Rose Garden | Historic, vibrant community life |
El Presidio | Japantown | Rich history, cultural depth |
Dunbar Spring | Shasta Hanchett Park | Eclectic, community-focused |
Eastside | Camden | Suburban comfort, family-oriented |
Vail | Silver Creek | Scenic views, upscale living |
Bear Canyon | Los Gatos Creek | Nature-filled, leisure activities |
When moving from Tucson to San Jose, you'll find neighborhoods that echo the spirit of your past home. If you cherished the historic homes and friendly community of Samm Hughes, you'll find Willow Glen's tree-lined streets and historic charm equally inviting, with landmarks like the Willow Glen neighborhood association playing a big part in community cohesion. For those drawn to Catalina Foothills for its upscale properties and breathtaking scenery, Almaden Valley in San Jose offers a parallel in luxury living amidst nature, with Almaden Quicksilver County Park providing a backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, if the cultural and vibrant life of El Presidio captured your heart, Japantown’s rich history and deeply rooted community events, such as the annual San Jose Obon Festival, will make you feel right at home. These comparisons are designed to ease your relocation process, bridging the familiarity of old comforts with new beginnings.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tucson to San Jose
Making the move from Tucson, AZ to San Jose, CA is not without its ups and downs. This comparison aims to shine a light on the contrasting aspects of relocating from Tucson to San Jose , providing a balanced view of what to expect. The purpose of these charts is to help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, offering an honest reflection of this significant life change.
- Higher summer heat
- Less job opportunities
- Lower diversity
- Smaller city feel
- Milder climate
- More tech jobs
- Higher diversity
- Bigger city benefits
- Higher cost of living
- More crowded
- Faster pace
- Fewer stars at night
- Lower living cost
- Wide open spaces
- Relaxed pace
- Outdoor lifestyles
The transition from Tucson to San Jose introduces you to a dynamic environment imbued with diverse cultures, job opportunities in the booming tech industry, and a climate that is much more forgiving during the summer months. San Jose's tech hubs, such as the renowned Silicon Valley, offer a plethora of opportunities for career advancement. Neighborhoods like Santana Row and landmarks like the San Jose Museum of Art provide a vibrant social scene and cultural experiences far richer than what is typically found in Tucson. On the flip side, Tucson's more relaxed pace and affordable cost of living are traded for San Jose's bustling atmosphere and higher living expenses. Yet, with careful planning and an open mind, this move can mark the beginning of a thrilling new chapter in your life.
Tucson vs. San Jose Food Guide
Food deeply influences the cultural ambiance and lifestyle of an area. By engaging in a comparison of the local cuisine between Tucson & San Jose , you can gain insights that might sweeten your relocation decision. Let’s dive into what each city has to offer for your taste buds to help you better understand the culinary landscape of your future home.
Tucson | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | Pho |
Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | BBQ Pork |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Banh Mi |
Most popular vegan food | Nopalitos | Tofu dishes |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to San Jose, you'll find yourself in the heart of Silicon Valley, where the food scene is as diverse as its population. The city's love for Pho, reflective of its significant Vietnamese community, can be savored in neighborhoods like Little Saigon. San Jose's street food, including the iconic Banh Mi, highlights the area's rich culinary tapestry, with food trucks and stalls offering an array of delicious options. Not to be missed are the iconic restaurants like Falafel Drive-In, providing a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, and Manresa, a fine dining experience that underscores the city's foodie culture. San Jose’s vegan scene is also thriving, with plenty of eateries catering to those preferring plant-based meals, ensuring everyone finds something to relish in this dynamic food landscape.
Tucson vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a culinary adventure, finding those special spots that make a place feel like home. This chart helps bridge the gap from Tucson, Arizona to San Jose, California , by comparing beloved local restaurants. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic eateries, these comparisons will assist you in discovering your new favorite places to dine out.
Tucson | San Jose | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
El Charro Café | Mezcal Restaurant | Authentic Mexican dishes with a rich history. |
Cafe Poca Cosa | Luna Mexican Kitchen | Offers a fresh, organic twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. |
The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol | Plumed Horse | Upscale dining with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. |
Prep & Pastry | Bill's Café | Renowned for their hearty breakfasts and lunch specialties. |
Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink | Pizza Antica | A modern take on classic, Italian pizza offerings. |
Boca Tacos y Tequila | Olla Cocina | Creative tacos and a vibrant atmosphere. |
Senae Thai Bistro | Orchard City Kitchen | Innovative dishes with a Thai influence. |
Taqueria Pico de Gallo | La Victoria Taqueria | Known for their authentic tacos and iconic orange sauce. |
Saguaro Corners | Smoking Pig BBQ | For hearty American classics and live music events. |
Frost Gelato | Romolo's Cannoli | Offering artisanal gelato and famed for their cannoli. |
While nothing beats the comfort of familiar food haunts, exploring the gastronomic scene in San Jose promises exciting new flavors and experiences reminiscent of Tucson's best-loved spots. Mezcal Restaurant mirrors the rich heritage of El Charro Café, immersing you in authentic Mexican culinary traditions. Meanwhile, the transition from the iconic Saguaro Corners to Smoking Pig BBQ won’t disappoint, with both establishments priding themselves on their vibrant atmospheres and mouthwatering American classics. And for those craving the familiar taste of artisanal desserts, Romolo’s Cannoli stands as a worthy counterpart to Frost Gelato, offering not just exquisite gelato but also some of the best cannoli outside of Italy, ensuring your sweet tooth is well catered for in your new city.

Ready to start your move?
Tucson vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial part of relocating. Understanding how Tucson and San Jose compare in terms of housing—cost, architecture, and lifestyle—can significantly impact your moving decisions.
Comparison | Tucson | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Revival | Modern and Spanish |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pools and Patios | Smart Home Features, Eco-friendly Designs |
When comparing Tucson and San Jose, it's evident that the costs of living and housing are significantly different, reflecting each city's unique real estate market. Tucson, with its historic Spanish Revival architecture, offers a more affordable lifestyle, including home prices and rents. This city is celebrated for its outdoor living, evidenced by the popularity of pools and patios in real estate listings. San Jose, in the heart of Silicon Valley, boasts a higher urban lifestyle score due to its dense, tech-driven environment. Housing here leans towards modern and eco-friendly designs, aligning with the city's innovative spirit. Both cities offer distinct lifestyles and communities, making the choice heavily dependent on your personal and professional needs.

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.
Tucson vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Tucson to San Jose, understanding how the weather compares can greatly impact your adjustment. This comparison will focus on weather differences between Tucson, AZ and San Jose, CA , providing valuable insights as you transition. From seasonal temperatures to air quality, knowing what to expect will help you prepare for your new environment.
Tucson, AZ
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tucson, AZ
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tucson, AZ
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tucson, AZ
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Tucson | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Monsoons | Earthquakes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Tucson to San Jose, you will notice significant changes in weather, particularly in summer temperatures and humidity levels. Tucson's summer can be extremely hot with an average high reaching 100°F, while San Jose offers a milder climate with average summer highs around 82°F. Additionally, humidity in San Jose is much higher, offering a stark contrast to Tucson's arid conditions. Another difference to consider is the risk of natural disasters, with Tucson experiencing heatwaves and monsoons, while San Jose is more prone to earthquakes. These factors combined depict a substantial change in the environment, likely impacting your daily life and perhaps even your health, especially if you have specific weather-related sensitivities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tucson to San Jose
When considering a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how the cost of living and overall economic landscape in Tucson, AZ, stacks up against San Jose, CA, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect before making the transition.
Comparison | Tucson | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $50,306 | $126,377 |
Cost of Living Index | 96.5 | 156.1 |
State Income Tax | 2.59% - 4.50% | 1% - 13.3% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.72% | 0.79% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.7% | 9.25% |
Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Education, Health Care | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Noticeable | Lesser |
Homelessness | Visible | Concerning |
The table outlines significant financial disparities between Tucson and San Jose, pertinent for anyone contemplating this move. While Tucson presents a more affordable option in terms of housing and living expenses, San Jose offers considerably higher average household incomes, reflective of its thriving technology-driven economy. However, this income comes at a cost, with a living index more than double that of Tucson. Such economic differences underline the importance of evaluating personal and professional circumstances closely, ensuring the move aligns not just with your career aspirations but also with your financial well-being and lifestyle preferences.
Tucson vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Tucson, Arizona, to San Jose, California? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Tucson & San Jose . This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of the two cities before making your big move.
Tucson | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Progressive, with strong focus on tech and innovation policies |
Religion | Christianity is predominant, but diverse religious presence | Religiously diverse, with a strong presence of non-religious individuals |
In Tucson, you'll find a community that leans Democratic, with a political focus harnessing progressive values, particularly on social issues. Local politics also reflect this leaning, focusing on policies that address social equity and inclusion. Religion in Tucson, while predominantly Christian, showcases a myriad of faiths, reflecting the city's diverse population. Switch your gaze to San Jose, and you'll discover a stronghold of Democratic values, especially evident in its local politics that champion innovation and technology. This is a city where progressiveness doesn't just apply to technology but extends to social issues too. Religion sees a broad spectrum, with a significant number of residents identifying as non-religious, highlighting San Jose's inclusive and varied cultural tapestry. This diversity fosters a unique environment where various beliefs and political views coexist harmoniously.
Tucson vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tucson, AZ to San Jose, CA, it’s essential to understand how daily commutes might change. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tucson & San Jose provides a glimpse into what you can expect while driving or transiting in these cities.
Comparison | Tucson | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.6 | 30.3 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
In Tucson, the average commute time is shorter, and traffic congestion is significantly less than in San Jose, making it a bit easier to navigate during rush hours. However, Tucson falls short in public transit options compared to San Jose, where the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) provides a more extensive network of buses and light rail services, enhancing mobility. Living without a car in San Jose is more feasible than in Tucson, thanks to this better public transit infrastructure and the city's bike-friendly nature. This shift in reliance on public transit versus personal vehicles can be a substantial change for those accustomed to the driving-focused lifestyle of Tucson.



Additional Resources
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