Best California to Arizona Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to Arizona and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 748 mile CA to AZ move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 350 California to Arizona moving companies and more than 15,000 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 California compared to Arizona. 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 California to Arizona 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 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to Arizona
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 748 miles from California to Arizona will cost on average $2,417 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to AZ move is roughly $5,799. 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 in California and dropoff in Arizona 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 California to Arizona movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,627 | 300 ft³ | 5.42 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,417 | 450 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,991 | 750 ft³ | 5.32 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,799 | 1100 ft³ | 5.27 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,355 | 1600 ft³ | 5.22 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,309 | 1800 ft³ | 5.17 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Arizona to California guide.
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from California to Arizona
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Compare the 6 Best CA to AZ 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) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Chico, CA, 95973
About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Arizona
Moving from one state to another comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and bad attributes of relocating from California to Arizona. By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what to expect, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Higher taxes
- More crowded
Arizona- Lower cost of living
- Less congestion
- Lower taxes
- More space
Arizona- Hotter summers
- Less ocean access
- Drier climate
- Fewer tech jobs
California- Vibrant cities
- Diverse culture
- Beach access
- Tech job hub
While the swap from California's bustling cities to Arizona's expansive landscapes might initially seem daunting, many find the transition rewarding. Arizona offers a respite from the high costs and dense population of California, exemplified by cities like Phoenix and Tucson, where the cost of living is significantly lower, and one has room to breathe. However, it's not just a financial breath of fresh air; Arizona's natural wonders, from the Grand Canyon to the red rocks of Sedona, offer endless outdoor activities. While you might miss the tech job opportunities and the diverse culinary scene of places like San Francisco, the growing cities of Arizona are developing their unique cultures, featuring up-and-coming restaurant scenes, like those found in downtown Roosevelt Row, and an increasing number of tech startups. The move invites an opportunity to balance rural tranquility with urban amenities, presenting the best of both worlds in its own distinct way.
California vs. Arizona Food Guide
When moving to a new area, diving into the local food scene can be one of the most exciting adventures. Understanding the local flavors and dining hotspots can significantly enhance your living experience. Our comparison of the local cuisine between California & Arizona will equip you with a better insight into what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| California | Arizona | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In California, you're entering a world where the flavors are as diverse as its cities, with the iconic sourdough bread of San Francisco and tri-tip barbecues defining the state's culinary identity. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are vegan heavens, offering everything from gourmet avocado toast to innovative plant-based cuisines. On the other hand, Arizona presents a culinary landscape deeply influenced by its Mexican heritage, with the Sonoran Hot Dog in Tucson and carne asada dishes that are a testament to its rich culture. Phoenix hosts a burgeoning foodie scene with must-visit spots like Pizzeria Bianco. Whether you're a health enthusiast or a lover of street food, both states cater to a kaleidoscope of tastes and preferences.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Arizona Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when considering a move; it's essential to understand how the housing markets in California and Arizona compare. This comparison highlights key differences in cost, design, and lifestyle to aid in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | California | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Mediterranean | Spanish Colonial, Pueblo Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views, eco-friendly features | Desert landscapes, swimming pools |
When comparing housing in California and Arizona, the striking contrast in median home prices and rent underscores the broader cost of living differences between the two states. California's higher numbers reflect its allure and demand, partly driven by its diverse modern and Mediterranean architectural offerings and higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores. Conversely, Arizona presents a more affordable living option without sacrificing character, with its unique Spanish Colonial and Pueblo Revival styles, adhering to the state's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, amenities such as desert landscapes and swimming pools are more common, offering a unique living experience attuned to the region's natural beauty and climate.
California vs. Arizona Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another involves understanding how the weather will affect you. If you're transitioning from California to Arizona, it's important to compare the weather patterns to gauge how your lifestyle might need to adjust. Explore this chart to see how the climate in California and Arizona varies significantly.
California
Arizona
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
Arizona
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
Arizona
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
Arizona
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Variable, often moderate | Good, with occasional concerns in urban areas |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Heatwaves, Flash Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from California to Arizona, expect a significant shift in climate conditions. Arizona's summer temperatures soar much higher than California's, requiring effective cooling solutions for your home. Moreover, Arizona enjoys more days of sunshine but with considerably lower humidity, which impacts your hydration and skincare routines. Notably, the risk of natural disasters shifts from earthquakes and wildfires in California to heatwaves and flash floods in Arizona, prompting the need for different emergency preparedness plans. Understanding these differences ensures a smoother transition to your new home and lifestyle.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Arizona
When considering a move from California to Arizona, it's essential to understand the financial implications. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between the two states, ensuring you're well-informed about the economic landscape you're moving into.
| Comparison | California | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $74,568 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 101.2 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 2.59 - 4.5 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 0.62 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.56 | 8.4 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Tourism | Manufacturing, Mining, Tourism |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
In moving from California to Arizona, you'll find a more affordable cost of living, with a significant difference in the overall index. While the average household income is lower in Arizona, the reduced cost of living and lower top state income tax rates can offset this discrepancy. The average property and sales taxes are also slightly lower in Arizona, potentially leading to further savings. It's also worth noting the shift in predominant industries between the two states, which can impact job opportunities depending on your field. Understanding these financial aspects can make your transition smoother and help in making a well-informed decision.
California vs. Arizona Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to better understand the comparison of the politics between California & Arizona , alongside religious beliefs. It's intended to give you an idea of what the typical makeup of the population is like in both states.
| California | Arizona | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Conservative/Republican (with growing Democratic influence) |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies in urban areas | Mixed, with conservative leanings in rural areas |
| Religion | More secular, diverse religious communities | Christian majority, but with a growing diversity of faiths |
Moving from California to Arizona, you'll notice some stark differences in political and religious landscapes. California is known for its liberal stance, predominantly in urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Arizona, while traditionally conservative, has seen a surge in Democratic influence, particularly in areas like Phoenix. The religious makeup also reflects this diversity; California's residents exhibit a broad spectrum of beliefs with a significant number identifying as non-religious. Meanwhile, Arizona maintains a Christian majority but has become more religiously varied over the years. This transition could mean a different cultural experience depending on where you choose to live within these states.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Arizona
Moving from one state to another can feel overwhelming, especially when considering education options for your family. In this comparison, our primary goal is to better understand the differences in school options between California and Arizona . This will help you make an informed decision about where your child could receive the best education.
| California | Arizona |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UC Berkeley Stanford University UCLAArizona State University University of Arizona Northern Arizona University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Point Vicente Elementary (Rancho Palos Verdes) Hawthorne Elementary (Beverly Hills) Reed Elementary (Tiburon)Basis Scottsdale Primary (Scottsdale) Knox Gifted Academy (Chandler) Archway Classical Academy (Scottsdale) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Millennium Middle (San Mateo) Preuss School UCSD (La Jolla) Pacific Collegiate (Santa Cruz)Basis Scottsdale (Scottsdale) Basis Tucson North (Tucson) Basis Chandler (Chandler) | |
Top 3 High Schools Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto) Lowell High (San Francisco) Troy High (Fullerton)Basis Scottsdale (Scottsdale) Basis Oro Valley (Oro Valley) University High School (Tucson) | |
Top 3 private high schools Harvard-Westlake (Studio City) The Thacher School (Ojai) Cate School (Carpinteria)Brophy College Preparatory (Phoenix) Phoenix Country Day School (Paradise Valley) The Gregory School (Tucson) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Harvard-Westlake (Studio City) The College Preparatory School (Oakland) Crossroads School (Santa Monica)The Basis Schools (Multiple locations) Verde Valley School (Sedona) Phoenix Country Day (Paradise Valley) | |
Top 3 School Districts Palo Alto Unified San Marino Unified La Cañada UnifiedScottsdale Unified Catalina Foothills Unified Chandler Unified | |
When comparing educational options between California and Arizona, notable differences emerge, particularly in terms of where most seniors choose to attend college. In California, institutions like UC Berkeley and Stanford are prominent choices, reflecting the state's rich history in higher education excellence. Meanwhile, Arizona offers strong programs at Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, each with its unique strengths and community ties. The Basis schools in Arizona consistently rank highly at elementary, middle, and high school levels, suggesting a strong charter school presence. On the other hand, California boasts a mix of public and private institutions that excel nationally, such as the highly esteemed Harvard-Westlake and Henry M. Gunn High. These distinctions highlight the diverse, high-quality educational opportunities available in both states, catering to a wide variety of interests and academic goals.
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