Best Phoenix to Salem Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Phoenix to Salem and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,238 mile move from Arizona to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Phoenix to Salem 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 $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Phoenix compared to Salem. 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 Salem Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
3 | Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.30 | 9.18 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Phoenix to Salem
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,238 miles from Phoenix, AZ to Salem, OR will cost on average $2,834 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to Salem move is roughly $6,818. 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 | $1,904 | 300 ft³ | 6.35 |
1 Bedroom | $2,834 | 450 ft³ | 6.30 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,686 | 750 ft³ | 6.25 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,818 | 1100 ft³ | 6.20 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,836 | 1600 ft³ | 6.15 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,976 | 1800 ft³ | 6.10 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salem to Phoenix guide.
Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to Salem 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) |

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) |

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) |

Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |

All Service Moving

66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
Registered Drivers | 113 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (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.
Phoenix vs. Salem Neighborhood Comparison
Discovering your new neighborhood in an unfamiliar city can be daunting. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Phoenix, AZ & Salem, OR, acting as a blueprint to find a slice of home in your new city by identifying neighborhoods with similar vibes, amenities, and community feel.
Phoenix | Salem | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Arcadia | Fairmount | tree-lined streets, family-friendly |
Roosevelt Row | Central Area | vibrant arts scene, local cafes |
Desert Ridge | Sunnyslope | suburban feel, shopping centers |
North Central Phoenix | Englewood Park | historic homes, community focus |
Ahwatukee Foothills | South Gateway | outdoor recreation, peaceful |
Coronado | Grant | historic charm, eclectic atmosphere |
Paradise Valley | West Salem | upscale living, scenic views |
Biltmore Area | Laurel Springs | elegant, well-established |
Encanto | Candalaria | charming, well-preserved architecture |
Uptown Phoenix | Bush's Pasture Park Area | cultural hotspots, trendy |
For fans of Arcadia's mix of rural and urban lifestyles, Salem's Fairmount neighborhood is an excellent match with its leafy neighborhoods and strong sense of community, where local events at Bush's Pasture Park create a tight-knit atmosphere. Imagine trading your visits to Biltmore Fashion Park for strolls through Salem's upscale Laurel Springs, reminiscent of Phoenix's Biltmore Area with a similar offering of elegant estates and manicured landscapes. And if the creative buzz of Roosevelt Row's art spaces and indie shops has been your go-to, the Central Area in Salem—with its own flourishing arts scene and unique local businesses like Archive Coffee & Bar—may just be your perfect new spot.

Things to Do in Salem
- Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
- Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
- Visit the Willamette National Forest
- Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
- Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
- Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
- Join a Salem Saturday Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Salem
Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Salem, OR is not merely changing addresses, it's about weighing lifestyle priorities. This comparison is designed to honestly reflect the pros and cons of relocating from Phoenix to Salem to ensure you make an informed decision that resonates with your personal and professional life.
- Intense heat
- Scant rainfall
- Limited waterways
- Urban sprawl
- Dusty landscapes
- Milder climate
- Abundant greenery
- Access to rivers
- Compact cityscape
- Rich landscapes
- More rainfall
- Higher taxes
- Quieter nightlife
- Fewer highways
- Less sun
- Sunny days
- Low cost of living
- Vibrant nightlife
- Extensive highways
- Desert beauty
When considering a move from Phoenix, you'll be saying farewell to the seemingly endless sunny skies and vibrant energy of places like Roosevelt Row's arts district. In exchange, Salem offers a milder climate, allowing for lush, green parks like Riverfront Park to flourish, and frequent access to the calming Willamette River. Explore historical sights like the Willamette Heritage Center or enjoy local flavors at Salem's bustling Saturday Market. Though the change in scenery includes more cloudy days and higher taxes, the trade-off might be just what you're looking for in terms of quality of life and proximity to Oregon’s rich natural landscapes.
Phoenix vs. Salem Food Guide
Food is a significant aspect of any locale, shaping the everyday life and culture of its inhabitants. As you consider your move, we will embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & Salem to provide a taste of what culinary experiences await you in your new home.
Phoenix | Salem | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Southwestern cuisine | Marionberry pie |
Most popular meat dish | Carne asada | Dungeness crab |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food truck tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit tacos | Tempeh reuben |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring the food scene in your new city of Salem, you'll find that Marionberry pie, often sourced directly from local Oregon berries, is an iconic treat. Seafood, particularly dishes with Dungeness crab, reflects Salem's proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The city has a burgeoning street food culture with food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, found in places like the State Street food truck pod. Vegan food is gaining popularity, with establishments like Word of Mouth offering inventive dishes like the tempeh reuben. Portland may be more widely recognized for its foodie scene, but Salem has its own unique and emerging food culture worth exploring.
Phoenix vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new place feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to help you transition your culinary favorites from Phoenix to Salem, finding similar dining experiences to ease your move.
Phoenix | Salem | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Durant's | Rudy's Steakhouse | Classic steakhouse ambiance and quality cuts resembling Durant's charm. |
Pizzeria Bianco | Christo's Pizzeria | Artisan pizzas that rival the acclaimed pies at Pizzeria Bianco. |
La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop | La Margarita Co. | Offers a variety of gourmet tacos with a flavor profile akin to La Santisima. |
Matt's Big Breakfast | Word of Mouth Bistro | The go-to for a hearty breakfast spread reminiscent of Matt's Big Breakfast. |
Nobuo at Teeter House | Ibendoo Ramen | Provides an innovative take on Japanese cuisine echoing Nobuo's creativity. |
Barrio Café | La Capitale | Modern Mexican fare with a spirited vibe that mirrors Barrio Café's experience. |
Rusconi's American Kitchen | Wild Pear | Offers contemporary American cuisine with a warmth that harks back to Rusconi's. |
Little Miss BBQ | Adam's Rib Smokehouse | Smoked meats and Southern sides that cater to the Little Miss BBQ enthusiast. |
Richardson's Cuisine of New Mexico | La Hacienda Real | Authentic New Mexican flavors that provide a reminiscent taste to Richardson's. |
Postino WineCafe | Archive Coffee & Bar | Unique wines and bites in an inviting setting, akin to the vibe at Postino. |
As you explore the culinary landscape of Salem, iconic experiences from Phoenix are not far from reach. Walk into Rudy's Steakhouse, and be transported back to the upscale comfort you knew at Durant's with a similar selection of finely-aged steaks and classic cocktails. Looking for a familiar brunch spot? The flavors and hearty portions at Word of Mouth Bistro will surely evoke memories of relaxed mornings spent at Matt's Big Breakfast. And for a taste of innovation in Japanese cuisine that Nobuo at Teeter House provided, Ibendoo Ramen's creative ramen bowls and appetizers offer a comparable fresh and contemporary angle to dining. Salem's dining havens are ready to become your new favorites.

Ready to start your move?
Phoenix vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between the vibrant Phoenix, AZ and the lush, green Salem, OR will help you grasp the housing distinctions that could influence your decision.
Comparison | Phoenix | Salem |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Pueblo Revival | Craftsman, Colonial |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Open Floor Plan | Large Yard, Proximity to Nature |
In Phoenix, the emphasis in real estate is often on amenities like pools and spacious, open floor plans, reflecting the city's warm climate and preference for indoor-outdoor living spaces. Salem's housing market frequently highlights features like large yards and closeness to Oregon's abundant nature, complementing its more temperate, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. The trend in walkability and bikeability scores indicates that you might find Salem to be more accommodating if you prefer to travel by foot or bicycle. Furthermore, the slight difference in median home prices and rents could be a significant factor in your budget planning.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR
1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.
2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.
3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.
Phoenix vs. Salem Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Phoenix, AZ to Salem, OR, it’s vital to grasp the climatic differences you'll experience. Understanding how temperatures, sunshine, and precipitation vary can ease your transition between these cities.
Phoenix, AZ
Salem, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Salem, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Salem, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Phoenix, AZ
Salem, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Phoenix | Salem |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Heat Waves, Dust Storms | Floods, Earthquakes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you prepare for your move to Salem, anticipate a dramatic shift in weather patterns. You’ll swap the scorching heat and dryness of Phoenix’s desert climate for Salem’s milder summers and wetter, cooler winters. You'll see fewer sunny days but can enjoy the lush, green landscape fostered by Salem's higher rainfall. The significant increase in humidity may also impact your daily comfort and the type of clothing you’ll need. Additionally, be prepared for winter driving in Salem, which can involve navigating through occasional snow, something rarely experienced in Phoenix.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Salem
When considering a move from Phoenix, AZ to Salem, OR, it's vital to weigh the financial implications. This comparison will shed light on the money and finance aspects that can impact your budget and lifestyle in these two cities.
Comparison | Phoenix | Salem |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $68,435 | $63,927 |
Cost of Living Index | 100.7 | 110.55 |
State Income Tax | 2.59 - 4.50 | 5.00 - 9.90 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.62 | 0.97 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.6 | 0.0 |
Top 3 Industries | Real Estate, Finance, Healthcare | Government, Education, Healthcare |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
Poverty | Notable | Notable |
Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
While the average household income in Phoenix and Salem is relatively similar, you'll notice a stark contrast in the cost of living, and state taxes affecting your finances after moving. Although Salem's living costs are slightly higher, it does not levy any sales tax, which might somewhat offset your expenses compared to Phoenix's pressing 8.6 percent sales tax. However, keep in mind Oregon's higher state income tax, especially if you fall into the higher brackets. Additionally, Oregon's property taxes are generally steeper than Arizona's, which could impact your housing decision. The top industries vary between the two, with Phoenix favoring a finance sector, potentially offering varied employment opportunities. Nonetheless, both cities have moderate wealth levels with noted poverty challenges and homelessness, which might influence your community involvement and social efforts post-relocation.
Phoenix vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Phoenix, AZ, to Salem, OR, understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences between the politics and social atmosphere of Phoenix & Salem .
Phoenix | Salem | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
Local Politics | Mix of urban liberal & suburban conservatism | More uniformly progressive |
Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian community | Religious diversity with a notable Christian presence |
While both Phoenix and Salem lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, the local politics landscape shows interesting contrasts. Phoenix exhibits a blend of urban liberalism and suburban conservatism, reflecting its wide-ranging demographic. Salem, on the other hand, tends to be more uniformly progressive, possibly because of its smaller size and different economic structures. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though they both boast diverse religious communities; the presence of Christianity is notably strong. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the social and political climate of your new home.
Phoenix vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When relocating from the sunny expanses of Phoenix, AZ to the lush greenery of Salem, OR, it's essential to grasp how the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & Salem will affect your daily life. Understanding the differences in commute times and transit availability will ease your transition into your new home.
Comparison | Phoenix | Salem |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time | 25.2 minutes | 23.8 minutes |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Moderately possible |
In Phoenix, the reliance on a car is considerable, given its vast metropolitan area and a public transit system that may not cover all neighborhoods adequately. Conversely, Salem offers a more compact urban center, making it easier to navigate on foot or bicycle. Public transit, while still developing, is more accessible in terms of area coverage. Adjusting to the lower levels of traffic congestion in Salem may also mean a less stressful commute, providing more time to enjoy the scenic Pacific Northwest surroundings.



Additional Resources
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Popular Phoenix to Oregon Routes
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