Best Irvine to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Irvine to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,150 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Irvine to Tacoma 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 Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine compared to Tacoma. 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 Irvine to Tacoma Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | NorthStar Moving Company | 9.21 | 8.97 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Irvine to Tacoma
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,150 miles from Irvine, CA to Tacoma, WA will cost on average $2,759 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Tacoma move is roughly $6,635. 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 | $1,854 | 300 ft³ | 6.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,759 | 450 ft³ | 6.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,561 | 750 ft³ | 6.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,635 | 1100 ft³ | 6.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,570 | 1600 ft³ | 5.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,677 | 1800 ft³ | 5.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Irvine guide.
Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Tacoma Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
NorthStar Moving Company
This listing has been claimed by NorthStar Moving Company633 W 5th St 26th floor
Los Angeles, CA, 90071
About NorthStar Moving Company
Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- International Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1836576 / 665757 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2023) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
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.
Irvine vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA, and Tacoma, WA. This will help you find a slice of home in your new city, comparing top neighborhoods in Irvine with their closest counterparts in Tacoma.
| Irvine | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Woodbridge | Proctor | Family-friendly vibe, local shopping |
| Turtle Rock | North Tacoma | Scenic views, quiet residential |
| University Park | Old Town | Historic charm, community feel |
| Quail Hill | Browns Point | Natural beauty, outdoor activities |
| Shady Canyon | Stadium District | Exclusive, with historic homes |
| Northwood | Central Tacoma | Diverse, with a mix of housing |
| Westpark | South Tacoma | Vibrant, family-oriented |
| Portola Springs | Hilltop | Culturally rich, revitalized area |
| Great Park Neighborhoods | Point Ruston | Waterfront living, new development |
| Woodbury | West End | Quiet, suburban with parks |
If you're considering a move from Irvine's Turtle Rock with its picturesque hillsides and community-centric atmosphere, you'll find North Tacoma offers a similarly serene setting with stunning views and a laid-back residential feel. Both neighborhoods boast access to lush parks and outdoor recreation, making them perfect for nature lovers. For those drawn to the historic and charming ambiance of University Park, Old Town Tacoma provides a comparable experience with its rich historical background and tightly-knit community vibe. Here, you can explore unique shops and local eateries such as Old Town Burger & Breakfast for a casual dining experience reminiscent of Irvine's local dining spots. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of suburban living or the energetic pulse of urban life, these neighborhood pairs ensure you won't be left longing for the familiar comforts of home.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Tacoma
Deciding to move from Irvine, CA to Tacoma, WA is a significant life decision that entails weighing the good against the bad. This guide is designed to offer an honest reflection of the transition, helping you consider all aspects of this relocation. The purpose of these charts is to compare the cons of Irvine, CA with the pros of moving to Tacoma, WA, and vice versa, ensuring a well-rounded perspective.
Irvine, CA- High Cost of Living
- Heavy Traffic
- Less Rainfall
- Fewer Cultural Events
Tacoma, WA- More Affordable
- Less Traffic
- Greener Scenery
- Vibrant Cultural Scene
Tacoma, WA- More Rain
- Varying Safety
- Smaller Food Scene
- Fewer Tech Jobs
Irvine, CA- Sunny Weather
- Safe Neighborhoods
- Diverse Dining Options
- Tech Job Opportunities
Moving from Irvine's sun-kissed avenues to Tacoma's rain-soaked streets brings about drastic changes in lifestyle, encompassing everything from weather to work opportunities. While Irvine boasts an array of sunlit outdoor cafes like Zinc Café & Market, Tacoma offers the lush, expansive Point Defiance Park, a haven for those who love green spaces and outdoor activities. Dining in Tacoma might offer fewer options than Irvine's sprawling culinary scene, yet neighborhoods such as Proctor and 6th Avenue are burgeoning with unique eateries like Metropolitan Market and The Asian Bistro, providing a close-knit community vibe. This change in pace also reflects in employment opportunities, where Tacoma’s economy offers a different mix, moving slightly away from the tech-centric landscape of Irvine.
Irvine vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine, CA & Tacoma, WA, showcasing how food is a vital element of local culture and living experience. As you plan your move, getting familiar with the culinary scene will help you adapt and immerse in your new home.
| Irvine | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Ahi Poke | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Kalbi (Korean BBQ Ribs) | Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While both Irvine and Tacoma offer vibrant culinary scenes, each has its unique flavors and specialties. In Irvine, the influence of Asian cuisine is unmistakable, with top-rated spots like Haidilao Hot Pot and Din Tai Fung drawing crowds for their authentic dishes. The city’s health-conscious lifestyle is reflected in its numerous vegan options and the prominence of fitness-oriented eateries. Meanwhile, Tacoma offers a distinctly Pacific Northwest experience, with fresh seafood, including Dungeness Crab and Salmon, dominating the menu. The city's food scene is epitomized by restaurants such as Harbor Lights and Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, which cater to a diverse palette. Vegan dishes, like the acclaimed Vegan Pho, showcase Tacoma’s inclusive culinary scene. Whether it's the thriving food truck culture or the abundance of health-centric restaurants, both cities cater to foodies and health enthusiasts alike.
Irvine vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. If you're moving from Irvine, CA to Tacoma, WA, this guide will help you find comfort in familiar tastes. By comparing top restaurants in Irvine to their Tacoma equivalents , you're bound to discover your next favorite dining spots.
| Irvine | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| HiroNori Craft Ramen | Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya | Authentic Tokyo-style ramen experience |
| Fukada | IZAKAYA KOURO | Serving traditional Japanese dishes with a twist |
| Din Tai Fung | Infinite Soups | A variety of gourmet soups and dumplings |
| North Italia | Over the Moon Cafe | Cozy European ambiance with homemade pasta |
| Burger Lounge | Shake Shake Shake | Retro diner serving craft burgers and shakes |
| Portola Coffee Roasters | Valhalla Coffee Co. | Specialty coffees with a focus on roasting quality |
| Square One Pizza | The Rock Wood Fired Pizza | Unique pizza creations in a rock and roll atmosphere |
| Mendocino Farms | MSM Deli | Locally loved deli known for its sandwiches |
| Tacos & Co | Taqueria El Antojo | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a wide taco selection |
| Class 302 Taiwanese Cuisine | Indo Asian Street Eatery | Offers a diverse menu inspired by the streets of Asia |
Exploring Tacoma's food scene reveals delightful parallels to Irvine's diverse culinary offerings. For example, Din Tai Fung is celebrated for its meticulous dumplings in Irvine, while Infinite Soups in Tacoma offers a hearty variety of soups and dumplings, capturing the essence of comfort food with a local twist. Meanwhile, fans of specialized coffee roasters in Irvine, specifically Portola Coffee Roasters, will appreciate Valhalla Coffee Co. in Tacoma for its commitment to quality in every cup. These establishments not only represent the cities' respective culinary scenes but also showcase a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that you'll find more than just a meal, but an experience that resonates with what you cherished back in Irvine.
Ready to start your move?
Irvine vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate deeply influences the quality of life in a new city, making it crucial to compare how Irvine, CA and Tacoma, WA stack up in this regard. Understanding housing costs, architectural styles, and living amenities in these cities can significantly impact your moving decision.
| Comparison | Irvine | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Community amenities, Green spaces | Historical neighborhoods, Proximity to water |
When considering a move from Irvine to Tacoma, you'll notice a stark difference in housing costs. Irvine's modern and Spanish architectural styles contrast with Tacoma's Victorian and Craftsman homes, reflecting the cities' distinct historical backgrounds and cultural vibes. Moreover, Tacoma offers a more walkable and bikeable environment, which can be appealing if you prefer an active and urban lifestyle. The city's proximity to the water and historical neighborhoods often feature prominently in real estate listings, hinting at Tacoma's rich history and natural beauty. Adjusting to these differences will be key to making your new house feel like home.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
Irvine vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another brings many changes, and understanding the difference in weather is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how weather conditions in Irvine, CA and Tacoma, WA differ, helping you adjust and plan ahead for your new environment.
Irvine, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Irvine, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Irvine | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Volcanic Activity |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 280 days | 142 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Irvine to Tacoma, you will experience a significant change in weather. Irvine boasts over 280 days of sunshine annually, contrasting sharply with Tacoma's more modest 142 days. This reduction in sunny days is accompanied by an increase in precipitation, with Tacoma receiving an average of 40 inches of rain each year, compared to Irvine's 14 inches. The cooler, more humid climate of Tacoma also brings different seasonal allergies to be aware of, such as tree pollen and mold, contrasting with Irvine's grass and ragweed allergens. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the new environmental conditions you will face in Tacoma.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another means adjusting your budget according to different economic conditions. While relocating from Irvine to Tacoma , it's crucial to compare money and finance aspects such as income, tax rates, and the cost of living to avoid financial surprises. This comparison helps you understand what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Irvine | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $105,774 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3(max) | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.72 | 1.08 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 10.3 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Manufacturing, Health Services, Retail |
| Affluence | Wealthy | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Notable |
When moving from Irvine, CA, to Tacoma, WA, you'll likely notice a significant change in your financial landscape. While Irvine boasts a higher average household income and is considered a wealthier area, it also comes with a higher cost of living and state income tax. On the other hand, Tacoma offers a more moderate living cost with a notably lower average income but benefits from having no state income tax. This shift can hugely affect your budgeting, allowing for different financial priorities. Additionally, understanding the primary industries of each area can help with job hunting or networking. Tax differences, particularly in sales and property tax rates, will also influence your spending habits and housing decisions. Considering these factors will help you make a smooth transition and financial adjustment to your new home in Tacoma.
Irvine vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Irvine & Tacoma, offering a snapshot of the political and religious landscape to understand the makeup of the communities you're moving from and to. This comparison aims to provide insights into the demographic nuances that influence the local culture and community engagement in Irvine, CA, and Tacoma, WA.
| Irvine | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive on environmental and social issues | Active community engagement in local governance |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities including Christian, Jewish, and Islamic centers | Diverse, with a significant presence of Pacific Lutheran University impacting local Christian communities |
Both Irvine and Tacoma lean liberal politically, offering a somewhat comparable political atmosphere, though the nuances of local issues and engagement can vary. Irvine is noted for its progressive stance on environmental and social matters, reflecting California's broader political climate. Tacoma, while also leaning liberal, has a pronounced involvement in local governance, with the community actively participating in city-wide discussions and initiatives. The religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse, with multiple faiths represented and places of worship for different religions. The presence of Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma adds a particular color to the local religious community, emphasizing the educational influence on religious engagement. Whether you're moving from Irvine to Tacoma, you'll find a welcoming and diverse atmosphere, though the way local issues are addressed and the intensity of community involvement might differ.
Irvine vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Irvine, CA to Tacoma, WA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Tacoma is designed to help you understand what to expect in your daily commute and navigate the traffic with ease.
| Comparison | Irvine | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Moderately Possible |
In Irvine, while the average commute time might be slightly shorter, you'll find that traffic congestion is slightly higher and relying solely on public transit can be quite challenging. In contrast, Tacoma offers a bit more flexibility with a slightly better public transit system, making it more feasible to navigate the city without a car. The difference in traffic congestion levels also suggests a slightly less stressful commuting experience in Tacoma. This could be a significant factor if you're looking to decrease your reliance on a car and are interested in exploring local transit options.
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