Best Salinas to Mesa Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Salinas to Mesa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 689 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Salinas to Mesa 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salinas compared to Mesa. 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 Salinas to Mesa 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 | Mod Movers | 8.79 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.34 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Cardinale Moving & Storage | 7.60 | 7.06 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Salinas to Mesa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 689 miles from Salinas, CA to Mesa, AZ will cost on average $2,367 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salinas to Mesa move is roughly $5,676. 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 | $1,593 | 300 ft³ | 5.31 |
1 Bedroom | $2,367 | 450 ft³ | 5.26 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,908 | 750 ft³ | 5.21 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,676 | 1100 ft³ | 5.16 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,177 | 1600 ft³ | 5.11 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,109 | 1800 ft³ | 5.06 |


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

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) |

Cardinale Moving & Storage
11360 Commercial Pkwy
Castroville, CA, 95012
About Cardinale Moving & Storage
Cardinale Moving & Storage is owned and operated by the Cardinale family who has lived on the Monterey peninsula for well...
Services
- Local moves
- Moves within California
- Interstate moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 45193 / 138022 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
Registered Drivers | 20 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (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.
Salinas vs. Mesa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like starting a novel in the middle, but understanding the local neighborhoods can help bridge that gap. This guide provides a comparison between Salinas, CA, and Mesa, AZ neighborhoods , making it easier to find a new place that feels like home. Whether you're looking for quiet streets or bustling markets, we've got you covered.
Salinas | Mesa | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
South Salinas | Dobson Ranch | Family-friendly, community-oriented |
Maple Park | Las Sendas | Upscale, outdoor recreation |
CreekBridge | Red Mountain Ranch | Planned community, scenic views |
North Salinas | Alta Mesa | Residential, with public amenities |
Mission Park | Augusta Ranch | Golf community, well-maintained parks |
Monterey Park | Sunland Village | Mature, active-adult community |
Harrod Homes | Leisure World | Secure, retirement community |
East Salinas | Superstition Springs | Family-oriented, shopping & dining |
West Salinas | Mesa Grande | Cultural attractions, diverse |
Laurelwood | Mulberry | Newer homes, community spaces |
In the heart of South Salinas, the bustling farmers' markets and community events mirror the vibrant lifestyle found within Mesa's Dobson Ranch, where locals enjoy lakes, pools, and golf courses. Fans of Maple Park's historic charm and graceful streets might find themselves drawn to Las Sendas in Mesa, not only for its luxurious homes but also for its bordering Tonto National Forest, providing endless outdoor adventures. For those moving from CreekBridge, Red Mountain Ranch offers a similarly well-planned community with added scenic beauty and golfing options, making the transition to Mesa feel like a seamless next chapter in your life's journey.

Things to Do in Mesa
- Explore Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
- Visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History
- Enjoy Golfland Sunsplash waterpark
- Stroll through Red Mountain Park
- Take a hike in Tonto National Forest
- Shop at Mesa Market Place Swap Meet
- See a show at Mesa Arts Center
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Salinas to Mesa
Moving from one city to another is a journey filled with both challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the advantages and disadvantages of relocating from Salinas, CA to Mesa, AZ. Through comparative charts, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in your new home versus what you're leaving behind.
- Higher living costs
- Foggy weather
- Less entertainment options
- Smaller job market
- Lower living costs
- Sunnier days
- More cultural attractions
- Larger job market
- No beach nearby
- Less local produce
- More traffic
- Busier areas
- Coastal access
- Fresher produce
- Less traffic
- Quieter neighborhoods
When moving from Salinas to Mesa, you're trading the foggy, cooler climate and access to the coastline for sunnier skies and a dry, desert environment. While Salinas offers fresher, local produce thanks to its proximity to California's agricultural heartland, Mesa, despite having fewer local produce options, boasts a vibrant city life with numerous cultural attractions like the Mesa Arts Center and the natural beauty of nearby Usery Mountain Regional Park. Mesa's larger job market is a significant advantage for career opportunities. However, this comes with the trade-off of facing more traffic compared to the quieter streets of Salinas. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sights like the Mesa Grande Cultural Park or enjoying the plethora of dining options along Main Street, Mesa offers a dynamic setting against the backdrop of the beautiful Arizona landscape.
Salinas vs. Mesa Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Salinas & Mesa highlights the unique flavors and dining experiences that contribute to the cultural fabric of each location. Food is a pivotal aspect of what it's like to live in an area, and understanding the culinary landscape can help you feel more prepared for your move.
Salinas | Mesa | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Artichokes | Sonoran Hot Dog |
Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip | Carne Asada |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Burrito |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Salinas to Mesa, you'll find that while both cities cherish their tacos, the Sonoran Hot Dog in Mesa is a must-try, encapsulating the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines. Mesa's dining scene thrives in the heart of the city and neighboring areas like Gilbert and Tempe, home to beloved spots like Republica Empanada, which showcases Latin American flavors. Additionally, Mesa’s food truck scene is vibrant, offering a variety of cuisines, and for those conscious about their diet, there are plenty of vegan and health-oriented dining options widely available, reflecting the city's conscientious lifestyle.
Salinas vs. Mesa Restaurant Comparison
When making a big move, finding your new go-to spots for amazing meals can truly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Salinas, CA and Mesa, AZ will help you discover your next favorite dining establishments, drawing parallels to the eateries you already love.
Salinas | Mesa | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria | Red White & Brew | American fare with a cozy vibe similar to Giorgio's. |
Salinas City BBQ | Waldo's BBQ | Authentic smokehouse flavor that rivals the best of Salinas City BBQ. |
Eagle Restaurant | Pho Number One | Homely Vietnamese cuisine with a commitment to flavor akin to Eagle's offerings. |
Patria | Il Vinaio | An eclectic mix of European dishes that match Patria’s unique and romantic atmosphere. |
The Steinbeck House | The Cutting Board Bakery and Cafe | Historical charm with a touch of culinary excellence. |
First Awakenings | Inside The Bungalow | Breakfast and lunch spot with a comfort food flair that parallels First Awakenings. |
Monterey Coast Brewing | Oro Brewing Company | Craft beer enthusiast's haven, much like Monterey Coast's own brews. |
Ellie's Great American Restaurant | Liberty Market | A variety of American classics with a cozy, home-like ambiance similar to Ellie's. |
Gino's Fine Italian Food | Veneto Trattoria | Authentic Italian cuisine that captures the essence of Gino's traditional dishes. |
La Casa del Sazon | Backyard Taco | A casual eatery specializing in authentic Mexican flavors reminiscent of La Casa del Sazon. |
For those who relished the hearty smokehouse flavors at Salinas City BBQ, Waldo's BBQ in Mesa will become your next haven, offering a taste of home with its authentic barbeque dishes. Il Vinaio in Mesa captures the European charm and culinary diversity found at Patria, presenting a spectrum of flavors and dishes that elevate the dining experience. Meanwhile, lovers of traditional Italian cuisine who favored Gino's Fine Italian Food will find Veneto Trattoria's authentic dishes a comforting embrace, mirroring the warmth and authenticity of their favorite Salinas eatery.

Ready to start your move?
Salinas vs. Mesa Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering the monumental step of moving, comparing real estate between your current and future cities is crucial. Knowing how Salinas and Mesa stack up against each other in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can guide your decision and ensure you find the best fit for your needs.
Comparison | Salinas | Mesa |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Mission Revival | Ranch-style |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, proximity to agriculture | Community pools, desert landscapes |
While Salinas offers a higher median home price and rent, indicative of its proximity to the Bay Area's thriving job market and unique Mission Revival architecture, Mesa provides a more affordable living option with its ranch-style homes that reflect the Southwestern aesthetic. The lower housing costs in Mesa can be particularly appealing for those looking for a less expensive lifestyle without sacrificing the suburban feel. Both cities offer different takes on urban lifestyle, with Mesa edging slightly ahead in terms of bikeability and urban amenities, possibly due to the more established infrastructures like community pools and parks designed for hotter climates. These nuances in lifestyle and cost are what make comparing these two cities fascinating and crucial for a well-informed move.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Mesa, AZ
1. Las Sendas: This neighborhood boasts vast green spaces and trails perfect for your dogs, including access to the pet-friendly Alta Mesa Park.
2. Dobson Ranch: With its community focus, you'll find dog-friendly parks and activities, as well as Dobson Ranch Park, a great place for pets to play and socialize.
3. Red Mountain Ranch: Known for its outdoor lifestyle, it provides easy access to the Red Mountain District Park and the leash-free Red Mountain Dog Park for your pets' enjoyment.
Salinas vs. Mesa Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares between Salinas, CA, and Mesa, AZ, is crucial. This comparison will provide insight into what weather changes you can expect and how to best prepare for your new environment.
Salinas, CA
Mesa, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Salinas, CA
Mesa, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Salinas, CA
Mesa, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Salinas, CA
Mesa, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Salinas | Mesa |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Heatwaves, Dust Storms |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Salinas, CA, to Mesa, AZ, means adjusting from a mild climate with moderate temperatures year-round to experiencing much hotter summers and slightly cooler winters. The drastic difference in humidity levels, with Mesa's considerably drier air, could impact your daily comfort and hydration needs. Understanding these weather variances ensures a smoother transition, particularly if you enjoy outdoor activities, as Mesa offers significantly more sunny days. However, it's also crucial to prepare for Mesa's higher UV index and unique natural disaster risks, like heatwaves and dust storms, which could affect health and lifestyle adjustments.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salinas to Mesa
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. It can significantly affect your budgeting and lifestyle. This comparison aims to shed light on what you might expect when moving from Salinas, CA to Mesa, AZ. The purpose of this chart is to compare the cost of living, average incomes, taxes, and other economic factors between Salinas and Mesa, providing a clear financial picture to assist your decision-making process.
Comparison | Salinas | Mesa |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $80,154 | $69,266 |
Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 101.2 |
State Income Tax | 9.3% | 4.5% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 0.64% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 8.05% |
Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Education Services | Healthcare, Retail, Aerospace |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
Poverty | High | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Less Significant |
Moving from Salinas, CA to Mesa, AZ presents a significant shift in economic conditions. Notably, the average household income in Salinas is decidedly higher, which reflects, in part, the stark difference in cost of living indices between the two cities. Salinas sports a considerably higher cost of living, driven by California's elevated housing and transportation expenses. However, it's worth noting that the lower income in Mesa is counterbalanced by Arizona's overall lower cost of living, making your earnings potentially go further. Moreover, the difference in state income tax rates, with California at a steep 9.3% compared to Arizona's more moderate 4.5%, can have a substantial impact on your take-home pay. Such differences underscore the importance of considering all financial angles when planning a move, as they directly influence your quality of life.
Salinas vs. Mesa Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Salinas, CA to Mesa, AZ, it's crucial to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison of the politics between Salinas & Mesa alongside their religious landscapes offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot, providing insight into what you can expect from your new neighbors.
Salinas | Mesa | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean liberal | Lean conservative |
Local Politics | Democratic majority in city council | Republican majority in city council |
Religion | High Catholic presence with several churches | Significant LDS community with temples |
While Salinas leans more liberal with a Democratic majority in its city council, reflecting California's broader political tendencies, Mesa stands on the conservative side, with local governance primarily in Republican hands. This political divergence is paralleled in the religious makeup of each city. Salinas boasts a strong Catholic community, supported by numerous churches catering to its majority. Conversely, Mesa is known for its significant LDS (Latter-day Saints) presence, with several temples highlighting the city's religious landscape. Understanding these nuances will help you better integrate into your new community.
Salinas vs. Mesa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Salinas, CA to Mesa, AZ requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic conditions. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Salinas & Mesa will give you a better grasp of what to expect in your new city.
Comparison | Salinas | Mesa |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 25 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Partially | Difficult |
When considering the move from Salinas to Mesa, you'll find subtle differences in the daily commute. Salinas offers a slightly shorter average commute time and less traffic congestion compared to Mesa. However, the notable difference lies in the availability and reliance on public transit. Salinas has a reasonably functional public transit system, making it somewhat possible to navigate without a car, whereas in Mesa, the public transit options are more limited, making a car almost essential for daily travel. Adjusting to these differences will be key to ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.



Additional Resources
Salinas Moving Services
Popular Salinas to Arizona Routes
Popular Moving Resources