Best Oakland to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 781 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Oakland to Phoenix 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to Phoenix. 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 Oakland to Phoenix Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Oakland to Phoenix
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 781 miles from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $2,445 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Phoenix move is roughly $5,868. 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 | $1,645 | 300 ft³ | 5.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,445 | 450 ft³ | 5.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,038 | 750 ft³ | 5.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,868 | 1100 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,455 | 1600 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,422 | 1800 ft³ | 5.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Phoenix Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sterling Interstate LLC
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCPhoenix, 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) |
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (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) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
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.
Oakland vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you are not familiar with your new surroundings. To ease your transition, we've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Phoenix, AZ . By matching up similar neighborhoods, we're helping you find a new community in Phoenix that feels like home.
| Oakland | Phoenix | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Arcadia | Lush landscapes, trendy spots |
| Montclair | North Central Phoenix | Family-friendly, peaceful |
| Piedmont Avenue | Coronado | Historic homes, local art scene |
| Temescal | Melrose District | Vibrant, eclectic shopping |
| Lake Merritt | Encanto | Scenic views, community feel |
| Jack London Square | Roosevelt Row | Waterfront dining, cultural events |
| West Oakland | Warehouse District | Industrial chic, emerging |
| Grand Lake | Uptown | Entertainment, lake nearby |
| Dimond District | North Mountain Village | Outdoor activities, community centered |
| Glenview | Ahwatukee | Quiet suburbia, strong community vibe |
In Arcadia, akin to Rockridge, you'll discover an array of lush landscapes and trendy spots that make it a beloved locale for both families and young professionals. The vibrant, eclectic shopping district of the Melrose District closely mirrors Temescal's unique vibe, offering an array of vintage shops, art, and dining that cater to a diverse crowd. For those who appreciate the historic and artistic spirit of Piedmont Avenue, Coronado presents a similar allure with its array of historic homes and a burgeoning local art scene. Meanwhile, the scenic views and community feel of Encanto parallel the experience of Lake Merritt, providing an idyllic setting for outdoor activities and gathering with friends. Lastly, Jack London Square's combination of waterfront dining and cultural events finds its match in Roosevelt Row, where art, food, and community come together to create a vibrant urban experience.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Phoenix
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision. In comparing Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ, this guide seeks to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding the dynamics of both cities will help ensure you're making the best choice for your lifestyle.
Oakland, CA- Higher living costs
- Higher crime rate
- Cooler weather
- Dense traffic
Phoenix, AZ- Lower living costs
- Lower crime rate
- Warmer weather
- Less traffic
Phoenix, AZ- Less diversity
- No ocean access
- Fewer arts venues
- Car-dependent
Oakland, CA- Cultural diversity
- Coastal access
- Rich arts scene
- Extensive public transit
Moving from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ, brings several changes, especially in lifestyle and climate. Oakland, with its proximity to the ocean, offers easy access to beaches and a mild climate, making it a significant shift for those moving to the warmer, drier climate of Phoenix. However, Phoenix is not without its charm. The city boasts vast suburban landscapes with sprawling neighborhood parks, a growing number of restaurants, and an enthusiasm for outdoor living. Although Phoenix might have fewer arts venues compared to Oakland's rich arts scene, including renowned institutions like the Oakland Museum of California, it still offers a variety of cultural experiences such as the Phoenix Art Museum and the vibrant downtown area. Both cities offer unique advantages; it's just a matter of what fits best with your lifestyle.
Oakland vs. Phoenix Food Guide
When relocating, experiencing the local cuisine is a key aspect of immersing yourself in your new home's culture. Through this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Oakland & Phoenix, equipping you with insights about the culinary scene in both cities to enhance your moving experience.
| Oakland | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Brisket | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burrito | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the rich diversity is reflected in its cuisine, with vegan options like the Vegan Burrito being widely available, especially in neighborhoods like Temescal and Jack London Square. Commis, an upscale dining experience, exemplifies Oakland's sophisticated food scene. Over in Phoenix, the Sonoran Hot Dog at places like Nogales Hot Dogs provides a unique taste of local flavor. The city's Southwestern cuisine, with its focus on Mexican influences like Carne Asada, is well-represented in eateries throughout areas such as Downtown Phoenix and Roosevelt Row. Both cities prize their vibrant food scenes, catering to a range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Oakland vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison
Food is central to making a location feel like home. For those moving from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ, this restaurant comparison will bridge your culinary journey from Oakland's diverse dining scene to Phoenix's vibrant eateries. Discover your next favorite spot with this guide.
| Oakland | Phoenix | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Binkley's Restaurant | Both offer a refined dining experience with a focus on innovative, seasonal cuisine. |
| Hopscotch | Crudo | Both renowned for their fusion menus that blend American comfort food with unique twists. |
| Burma Superstar | Glai Baan | Both specializing in exotic flavors and offering an authentic taste of Southeast Asian cuisine. |
| Pizzaiolo | Pizzeria Bianco | Both are local favorites for artisanal, wood-fired pizzas with premium, quality ingredients. |
| Shakewell | The Mission | Similar in their Spanish and Mediterranean influenced menus, providing both tapas and larger plates. |
| Donut Savant | Bosa Donuts | Frequent destinations for those with a sweet tooth, known for a vast selection of unique donut flavors. |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles | Both boast heartwarming, comfort foods rooted in Southern cuisine. |
| Mua | The Vig Fillmore | Both offer a trendy, eclectic atmosphere perfect for a casual night out with a diverse menu. |
| Nido | Barrio Café | Both celebrate the explosion of flavors in Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. |
| Seawolf | Buck & Rider | Alike in their seafood offerings, both feature fresh catches and innovative, coastal dishes. |
As you begin to explore Phoenix's culinary landscape, eateries like Pizzeria Bianco stand out for their dedication to crafting pizzas that rival the quality and authenticity of Pizzaiolo in Oakland. Similarly, the transition from Oakland's celebrated Burma Superstar to Phoenix's Glai Baan will delight your palate with an unparalleled exploration of Southeast Asian flavors in a setting that’s both familiar and invigorating. Meanwhile, the comfort food and inviting atmosphere at Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles will remind you of the warmth and authenticity that Brown Sugar Kitchen delivers in Oakland. These establishments not only promise a delicious meal but also an opportunity to create new memories in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Oakland, CA and Phoenix, AZ differ in aspects like housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Oakland | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Ranch, Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to BART, Views of SF Bay | Solar panels, Swimming pools |
When comparing Oakland and Phoenix, you'll notice significant differences in living costs. The median home price in Oakland is more than double that of Phoenix, which also reflects in the rental market. Furthermore, Oakland's Victorian and Craftsman-style homes present a stark contrast to Phoenix's Ranch and Spanish Colonial architectural influences. Walkability and urban lifestyle scores are higher in Oakland, indicative of a more compact, urban environment compared to Phoenix's spread-out, suburban feel. This aligns with Oakland's emphasis on proximity to public transit, like BART, and views of the San Francisco Bay, whereas Phoenix listings highlight features suited to its hotter climate, like solar panels and swimming pools.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ
1. Midtown Phoenix: Known for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly patios, your furry friends will love the welcoming atmosphere and Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub for a bite where pets are happily seen on the patio.
2. Arcadia: This neighborhood is a paradise for pets with spacious backyards and close proximity to Camelback Mountain for adventurous walks and hikes, making it perfect for active dogs.
3. Roosevelt Row: This artsy district not only welcomes pets in many galleries and cafes but also hosts pet-centric events like the annual Phoestivus market, making it an incredibly fun and engaging community for pet lovers.
Oakland vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather comparison between Oakland and Phoenix will affect your daily life. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and preparations for your new home.
Oakland, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Heatwaves, Dust storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Considering the stark weather differences between Oakland and Phoenix, be prepared for significantly hotter summers and brighter days if moving to Phoenix. With an average of 299 days of sunshine, Phoenix experiences a more arid climate, leading to lower humidity levels compared to Oakland. This drastic change necessitates a shift in your wardrobe, home cooling strategies, and possibly even your daily schedule to accommodate peak heat hours. Additionally, the lower annual rainfall in Phoenix emphasizes the necessity for water conservation practices. Adapting to these differences will be crucial for a smooth transition to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Phoenix
Understanding the financial implications of moving from one city to another is crucial. Moving from Oakland to Phoenix involves comparing cost of living, taxes, and income to gauge how your finances might adjust. This guide provides a snapshot to help you navigate these changes effectively.
| Comparison | Oakland | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $68,435 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 100.7 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3% | 4.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.78% | 0.62% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 8.6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Real Estate, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When considering a move from Oakland to Phoenix, it's important to note the significant differences in the cost of living and average household income. Although the average income in Phoenix may be lower, the cost of living in Oakland is considerably higher, reflected in the cost of living index. Moreover, the state income tax is almost half in Phoenix compared to Oakland, which could result in more disposable income for you. While both cities boast strong healthcare and technology industries, the lower tax rates and more affordable living in Phoenix could offer a more comfortable lifestyle for those moving from Oakland. However, it's essential to consider the social challenges each city faces, including levels of poverty and homelessness, which differ between the two.
Oakland vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Oakland & Phoenix provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot designed to offer insights into the community and political atmosphere you'll be moving into, helping you adjust more seamlessly.
| Oakland | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Mixed, leaning Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focused on social equity | Balance of urban development and conservation |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong non-religious community | Christian majority, with growing diversity |
Understanding the local politics and religious makeup can help you feel more at home in your new city. Oakland's political climate is known for its strong emphasis on social equity and community activism, likely a reflection of its diverse population that champions progressive values. Phoenix, while also leaning Democratic recently, showcases a balance in local politics that spans from urban development initiatives to environmental conservation, mirroring a somewhat more mixed political landscape. Religiously, both cities offer diversity, with Oakland having a notable non-religious or secular community, and Phoenix maintaining a Christian majority alongside its growing religious diversity. This blend of political engagement and religious makeup shapes the unique cultural fabric of each city, giving you a rich community environment to explore and engage with.
Oakland vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ involves adapting to many changes, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Phoenix aims to give you a better understanding of what each city's commute and traffic landscape looks like.
| Comparison | Oakland | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
In Oakland, the availability of public transit options is excellent, with systems like BART and AC Transit providing extensive coverage, making it feasible to live without a car. In contrast, Phoenix’s public transit system, including Valley Metro Rail and bus services, offers less coverage and frequency, emphasizing the necessity of having a car for efficient transportation. While traffic congestion is a bit lower in Phoenix compared to Oakland, the significantly higher dependence on personal vehicles in Phoenix can impact your daily commute times and transportation costs.
Additional Resources
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