Best San Diego to Tempe Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Tempe and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 364 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 San Diego to Tempe 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 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Tempe. 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.

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Best San Diego to Tempe Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.759.64Authorized For HHGContact
2The Rock Movers9.499.53Authorized For HHGContact
3Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.469.62Authorized For HHGContact
4New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.319.4Authorized For PropertyContact
5Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.8.948.13Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from San Diego to Tempe

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 364 miles from San Diego, CA to Tempe, AZ will cost on average $2,091 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Tempe move is roughly $5,001. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,409300 ft³4.70
1 Bedroom$2,091450 ft³4.65
2 Bedrooms$3,447750 ft³4.60
3 Bedrooms$5,0011100 ft³4.55
4 Bedrooms$7,1941600 ft³4.50
5+ Bedrooms$8,0031800 ft³4.45
*Please note: These California to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Arizona. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tempe to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Tempe Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.75/10
based on 2,279+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,305+ data points

7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306

San Diego, CA, 92111

About The Rock Movers

The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 477+ data points

2020 Camino De La Reina

San Diego, CA, 92108

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 991+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo

Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Superb8.94/10
based on 2,147+ data points

13026 Stowe Dr A

Poway, CA, 92064

About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Moving
  • Storage Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

877737 / 383831

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved8,778 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

San Diego vs. Tempe Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world, but comparing neighborhoods can provide a bridge to the unfamiliar. In this guide, we compare local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Tempe, AZ , helping you find your new favorite spot that feels like home. Using San Diego’s top neighborhoods as a baseline, we identify the most similar areas in Tempe to ease your transition.

San DiegoTempeHow They're Similar
La JollaDaley ParkCoastal vibe, university proximity
North ParkMaple-AshArtsy, historic, close to nightlife
Pacific BeachTempe Town LakeWater activities, vibrant nightlife
Gaslamp QuarterMill Avenue DistrictBustling nightlife, dining
HillcrestMitchell ParkDiverse, vibrant community spirit
Little ItalyPepperwoodCulinary scene, family-friendly
Ocean BeachHughes AcresRelaxed, community-focused, beach-like parks
Del MarSouth TempeUpscale, leisure amenities
Carmel ValleyWarner RanchFamily-oriented, quiet, parks
East VillageEscalanteUrban feel, emerging arts scene

Exploring the comparable neighborhoods can lead to delightful discoveries. For example, the artsy and historical flair of North Park in San Diego has its reflection in Tempe's Maple-Ash neighborhood, known for its engaging community and close proximity to thriving nightlife, similar to that of North Park. Similarly, the coastal vibe of La Jolla finds a match in Daley Park in Tempe, with its relaxed atmosphere and closeness to Arizona State University, echoing La Jolla's proximity to higher education and a laid-back coastal community. Pacific Beach’s vibrant nightlife and beach activities can be similarly experienced at Tempe Town Lake, offering water activities and a bustling social scene comparable to that in Pacific Beach. For those who appreciate the culinary and culture-rich environment of Little Italy in San Diego, Pepperwood in Tempe provides an inviting culinary scene within a family-friendly atmosphere. These pairings highlight how each neighborhood's unique characteristics can offer familiar comforts and exciting new opportunities in your new city.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Tempe

  • Explore Tempe History Museum exhibits.
  • Walk around Tempe Town Lake.
  • Enjoy live music at Marquee Theatre.
  • Hike Papago Park trails.
  • Visit Desert Botanical Garden.
  • Shop at Tempe Marketplace.
  • Experience SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Tempe

Moving from one city to another can be life-changing. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Tempe, AZ . We will explore both the advantages and disadvantages of this move, helping you to weigh your options effectively.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Milder weather
  • Beach access
Tempe, AZ iconTempe, AZ
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Hotter climate
  • No beach access
Tempe, AZ iconTempe, AZ
  • Hotter climate
  • No beach access
  • More traffic
  • Lower job market
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder weather
  • Beach access
  • Lower traffic
  • Higher cost of living

While the milder weather and beach access in San Diego, CA, are unparalleled, Tempe, AZ, offers its own set of attractions that make it a compelling place to live. The significantly lower cost of living in Tempe means you'll have more financial flexibility to explore and enjoy the city. Tempe is known for its vibrant downtown area, home to various restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options. While you might miss the beaches of San Diego, Tempe Town Lake offers outdoor recreation that includes boating, fishing, and picnicking. Furthermore, you'll find a wide array of parks such as Kiwanis Park, which is renowned for its recreational facilities and community events. Whether it's the urban appeal of Mill Avenue or the serene landscapes of the Desert Botanical Garden, Tempe presents a blend of urban and natural attractions that cater to diverse preferences.

San Diego vs. Tempe Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is essential when moving to a new city, as food is a significant part of local culture and daily life. This guide provides a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Tempe , helping you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city.

San DiegoTempe
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosNavajo Taco
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaPulled Pork
Most popular street food itemCalifornia BurritoSonoran Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlVegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Hodad's
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Cucina Urbana
  • Casey Moore's Oyster House
  • Four Peaks Brewery
  • House of Tricks
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In relocating from San Diego to Tempe, you'll notice changes in the local food scene. While San Diego boasts its famous fish tacos found in spots like Ocean Beach, Tempe introduces the unique flavors of the Navajo Taco, which you can explore in locales such as Tempe Marketplace. San Diego's vibrant foodie scene includes a high concentration of food trucks and vegan options, with signature dishes like the California Burrito. In contrast, Tempe offers a cozy, growing food scene with standout vegan choices and attractions like Sonoran Hot Dogs, a testament to the city's culinary diversity. Iconic restaurants such as Casey Moore's Oyster House offer a glimpse into Tempe's rich food culture, providing a blend of traditional and innovative dining experiences.

San Diego vs. Tempe Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition for those moving from San Diego to Tempe by matching favorite eateries in the former with comparable spots in the latter. Discover your new go-to dining destinations!

San DiegoTempeWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyHouse of TricksCreative American cuisine in a charming setting
Phil's BBQLittle Miss BBQAward-winning smoked meats and classic sides
Hodad'sThe ChuckboxHandcrafted burgers with a local following
Las Cuatro MilpasLa Fonda Mexican RestaurantAuthentic Mexican dishes served in a homey atmosphere
George's at the CoveTop of the Rock RestaurantBreathtaking views with innovative cuisine
Ironside Fish & OysterNelson's Meat + FishFresh seafood selection, albeit in a market setting
The Crack ShackLo-Lo's Chicken & WafflesComfort food specializing in chicken dishes
PuestoBarrio QueenMexican favorites with a stylish, vibrant atmosphere
Born & RaisedMaple & AshAn upscale dining experience, focusing on steakhouse classics
Extraordinary DessertsSweetest Season Artisan EateryDessert paradise with a vast, tempting selection

When you're yearning for a taste reminiscent of San Diego’s diverse culinary scene, Tempe has comparable options that promise to delight. House of Tricks stands out for its creative American cuisine much like Juniper & Ivy, presenting dishes that are as imaginative as they are delectable. Fans of the seaside flavors from Ironside Fish & Oyster might find a new favorite in Nelson's Meat + Fish, though the experience comes in a more casual market setting. Meanwhile, if you’re missing the iconic Mexican eats from Puesto, Barrio Queen in Tempe offers an equally vibrant atmosphere and a menu that pays homage to traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. These Tempe restaurants not only mirror the quality and flavor profiles familiar to San Diego diners but also offer a sense of comfort and community in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Tempe Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current and future home is crucial. This guide contrasts real estate aspects between San Diego, CA, and Tempe, AZ , focusing on housing to offer insights into cost, architecture, walkability , and more, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonSan DiegoTempe
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish Colonial, ModernModern, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean Views, Outdoor LivingProximity to ASU, Sustainable Features

In both San Diego and Tempe, the architecture reflects their unique regional influences and lifestyles. San Diego's homes often feature Spanish Colonial styles with modern touches highlighting the city's historical roots and coastal environment. In contrast, Tempe's architecture leans towards modern and ranch styles, catering to its desert setting and collegiate atmosphere given its proximity to Arizona State University. The walkability and bikeability scores also reflect the cities' commitments to sustainable living, with Tempe edging out slightly - likely due to its comprehensive bike lanes and smaller geographical area. This translates to a vibrant urban lifestyle in both locations, though San Diego's is slightly more pronounced due to its diverse neighborhoods and oceanfront setting.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tempe, AZ

1. Mitchell Park East: With its expansive green spaces and proximity to the Tempe Dog Park, this neighborhood ensures your pets have plenty of room to play and socialize.

2. Meyer Park: Known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and the namesake Meyer Park, this area offers a relaxing environment for both you and your pets to enjoy leisurely walks.

3. Tempe Gardens: Boasting a tight-knit community vibe and several pet-friendly cafes nearby, Tempe Gardens encourages you to bond with your pets while enjoying the local culture and cuisine.

San Diego vs. Tempe Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to understand how the weather in your new home compares to what you're accustomed to. This guide focuses specifically on the weather differences between San Diego, CA and Tempe, AZ , providing a detailed comparison to help you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
76°F / 68°F

San Diego, CA

105°F / 83°F

Tempe, AZ

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

68°F / 43°F

Tempe, AZ

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
10.34"

San Diego, CA

9.2"

Tempe, AZ

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

San Diego, CA

0"

Tempe, AZ

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan DiegoTempe
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHeatwaves, Dust Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The weather in Tempe, AZ, is considerably hotter during the summer than in San Diego, CA, with average high temperatures reaching into the triple digits. This marked increase in heat is coupled with significantly lower humidity, which can affect your daily comfort and hydration needs. Tempe enjoys more days of sunshine on average but also experiences harsher natural phenomena like heatwaves and dust storms. Air quality and seasonal allergies differ between the two cities, influenced by the local environment and climate. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more easily to your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Tempe

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial landscape waiting for you. The following comparison between San Diego and Tempe sheds light on the critical money and finance matters that will impact your budget and lifestyle. Let this serve as a guide to help you prepare for what lies ahead.

ComparisonSan DiegoTempe
Avg. Household Income$93,042$68,662
Cost of Living Index132.3101.2
State Income Tax13.3 (max)4.50 (max)
Avg. Property Tax0.760.62
Avg. Sales Tax7.758.60
Top 3 IndustriesBiotech, Military, TourismTechnology, Education, Retail
AffluenceModerately AffluentAffordable
PovertyAbove AverageBelow Average
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from San Diego to Tempe will present noticeable financial changes, most significantly in the cost of living which is nearly 30% higher in San Diego compared to Tempe. This reduction can make your daily life and savings strategy more manageable in Tempe, owing largely to the lower state income and property taxes. Additionally, while San Diego boasts a higher average household income, Tempe's economy is buoyed by a thriving technology sector and a significant educational influence, courtesy of Arizona State University. These differences underline the importance of understanding regional economic landscapes, particularly how they impact your finances and quality of life.

San Diego vs. Tempe Political & Religious Comparison

If you're planning a move from San Diego, CA to Tempe, AZ, understanding the comparison of the politics between San Diego & Tempe alongside their religious outlooks can offer a quick, insightful snapshot of the communities you’re transitioning between. This guide aims to give you a glance at what to expect in your new city.

San DiegoTempe
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on social issuesModerately progressive
ReligionDiverse religious landscapeMixed religious presence

Both San Diego and Tempe share a leaning towards Democratic ideals politically, which might ease your transition on the political front. San Diego is known for its progressive stance on social issues, an attribute that Tempe shares to a lesser degree. You'll find a diverse religious landscape in San Diego, stretching from Christianity to non-Western religions, reflecting its multicultural population. While Tempe also hosts a mixed religious presence, the vibrancy and diversity might be slightly less pronounced compared to San Diego. This comparison suggests that while there are differences, the shift from one city to the other will bring you into somewhat familiar territory concerning local politics and religion.

San Diego vs. Tempe Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Are you contemplating a move and want to better understand the daily commute and traffic? This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Tempe, offering insights to help you navigate your new city seamlessly.

ComparisonSan DiegoTempe
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)24.721.9
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingDifficult

When comparing San Diego and Tempe, it's clear that each city offers distinct experiences in terms of commuting and daily travel. San Diego, with its slightly higher traffic congestion score, indicates busier roads but also boasts a better public transit system, making it somewhat easier to navigate without a car. On the other hand, Tempe, while having less traffic congestion, presents more challenges for those attempting to live a car-free lifestyle due to its lower public transit availability. Despite these differences, both cities encourage exploring alternative transit options and adapting to local commuting patterns to optimize your daily travel experience.

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