Best Seattle to Tempe Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Seattle to Tempe and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,426 mile move from Washington to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 47 Seattle 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 $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle 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.

Best Seattle to Tempe Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
Cost to Move from Seattle to Tempe
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,426 miles from Seattle, WA to Tempe, AZ will cost on average $2,994 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Tempe move is roughly $7,208. 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 | $2,011 | 300 ft³ | 6.70 |
1 Bedroom | $2,994 | 450 ft³ | 6.65 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,952 | 750 ft³ | 6.60 |
3 Bedrooms | $7,208 | 1100 ft³ | 6.55 |
4 Bedrooms | $10,405 | 1600 ft³ | 6.50 |
5+ Bedrooms | $11,616 | 1800 ft³ | 6.45 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tempe to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Tempe 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) |
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |

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) |

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) |

People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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.
Seattle vs. Tempe Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an overwhelming experience, but understanding your new surroundings through what you already know can make the transition smoother. This guide provides a comparison of local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Tempe, AZ , aiming to match you with a Tempe neighborhood that shares the spirit and vibe of your favorite Seattle area.
Seattle | Tempe | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Ballard | Maple-Ash | Historic, artsy vibe |
Capitol Hill | Tempe Downtown | Vibrant nightlife, diverse |
Fremont | Mitchell Park | Eclectic, bohemian atmosphere |
Greenwood | Daley Park | Family-friendly, community-centered |
Queen Anne | Alameda | Historic homes, quiet ambiance |
West Seattle | Warner Estates | Secluded, exclusive feel |
South Lake Union | Tempe Town Lake | Tech hub, modern living |
Wallingford | Broadmor | Family-oriented, well-established community |
Phinney Ridge | Holdeman | Quaint, walkable neighborhoods |
Beacon Hill | Meyer Park | Diverse, community-focused area |
For those who relish the lively and diverse atmosphere of Capitol Hill, Downtown Tempe offers a similarly vibrant blend of nightlife, dining, and entertainment options. Picture yourself strolling along Mill Avenue, enjoying eclectic shopping, and dining just like Broadway in Seattle, but with a distinct Arizonan flair. If the historic and artistic vibe of Ballard draws you in, the Maple-Ash neighborhood's charming streets, dotted with historic bungalows and an active arts community, will feel like home. Residents who've cherished quiet evenings and stunning architecture in Queen Anne might find Alameda's historic homes and peaceful environment an ideal match. Each Tempe neighborhood mirrors its Seattle counterpart, not just in ambiance but also in community spirit and unique local offerings, from family-friendly parks like Warner Estates' proximity to Kiwanis Park to the tech-forward, innovative atmosphere near Tempe Town Lake, akin to South Lake Union.

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 Seattle to Tempe
Moving from one city to another involves weighing different aspects of each location to make the best decision. This comparison will lay out the cons of living in Seattle, WA and the pros of moving to Tempe, AZ to help you see a balanced view of your potential relocation. Likewise, understanding the pros of Seattle, WA and the cons of moving to Tempe, AZ will enable a thorough evaluation of this significant life change.
- High cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Traffic congestion
- Limited winter sunlight
- Lower cost of living
- Sunny days
- Less traffic
- Bright winters
- Hotter summers
- Less vegetation
- Fewer coffee options
- Different food culture
- Vibrant tech scene
- Lush greenery
- Rich coffee culture
- Diverse culinary scene
Moving to Tempe, AZ, presents an opportunity to enjoy the sunny weather almost year-round, a stark contrast to Seattle's frequent rain and cloud-covered skies. Tempe's cost of living is significantly lower, allowing for potentially a better quality of life with more disposable income. You might miss the rich coffee culture of Seattle, but Tempe offers its own culinary delights, such as the authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Reynoso or the innovative dishes at Culinary Dropout. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park for recreational activities, although they're a different experience from Seattle's lush, green landscapes. Despite the hotter summers, the vast number of sunny days in Tempe allows for a more consistent outdoor lifestyle, potentially a welcome change for those seeking more Vitamin D.
Seattle vs. Tempe Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle, WA & Tempe, AZ. Understanding food is crucial when moving to a new city, as it reflects the local culture and lifestyle. This guide will help you get acquainted with the culinary scenes of both cities to make your transition smoother.
Seattle | Tempe | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Chimichangas |
Most popular meat dish | Pho | Carne Asada |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Jackfruit Tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, seafood reigns supreme, with salmon being an iconic dish reflective of the city's rich maritime heritage. You'll find a diverse range of culinary options, from upscale dining at Canlis to the cozy soup bowls of Pike Place Chowder. In contrast, Tempe boasts a vibrant food scene characterized by Mexican-inspired dishes like chimichangas and carne asada, found in local favorites such as Four Peaks Brewing Company. Both cities cater well to the health-conscious and vegan diners, though Seattle's abundant food trucks and broader vegan selections give it an edge in diversity.
Seattle vs. Tempe Restaurant Comparison
Finding your culinary havens is crucial to feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Seattle and Tempe aims to guide you to your next favorite dining spots, using familiar favorites from Seattle as a springboard. From casual eateries to high-end destinations, discover where to recreate your cherished dining experiences in Tempe.
Seattle | Tempe | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Canlis | House of Tricks | Fine dining in a romantic setting reminiscent of Seattle's premier experience |
Pike Place Chowder | King's Fish House | Fresh seafood selections echoing Pike Place's legendary soups |
The Pink Door | Topo | Quirky ambiance with unique, quality eats similar to The Pink Door's charm |
Ray's Boathouse | The Watershed | Lakeside dining with stunning views and seafood fare akin to Ray's |
Mamnoon | Phoenicia Cafe | Authentic Middle Eastern flavors that match Mamnoon's celebrated dishes |
Terra Plata | Cotton & Copper | Farm-to-table ethos with creative American cuisine akin to Terra Plata |
Metropolitan Grill | Maple & Ash | Upscale steakhouse experience that rivals Metropolitan Grill's classic charm |
Maneki | Harumi Sushi | Quality and tradition in Japanese cuisine that parallels Maneki |
Dahlia Lounge | Culinary Dropout | A diverse menu with an inventive twist, akin to Dahlia Lounge's approach |
Salumi | DeFalco's Italian Deli & Grocery | Authentic Italian bites that evoke Salumi's crafted flavors |
When craving the iconic seafood of Seattle, King's Fish House in Tempe serves as a satisfying counterpart, bringing fresh catches and robust flavors to the table, reminiscent of Pike Place Chowder. For those enchanted by the romantic al fresco dining of Canlis, House of Tricks offers an enchanting garden setting paired with an exquisite fine dining experience in the heart of Tempe. Meanwhile, lovers of unique, atmospheric dining experiences will find Topo's quirky yet delightful offerings a tempting alternative to The Pink Door's eclectic Italian fare. In essence, whether you're seeking a vibrant, casual meal or a lavish dining affair, Tempe's diverse culinary scene delivers flavors and atmospheres that resonate closely with some of Seattle's beloved eateries.

Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Tempe Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate markets of Seattle, WA, and Tempe, AZ is crucial for making an informed decision. Real estate heavily influences the quality of life, making it essential to understand how the two cities' offerings differ.
Comparison | Seattle | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Southwestern and Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Green Spaces, Access to Tech Jobs | Solar Panels, Proximity to ASU, Outdoor Living Spaces |
Seattle stands out for its urban lifestyle and scenic views, a reflection of its higher walkability score and a dense array of tech jobs attracting a vibrant, career-oriented population. Homes in Seattle typically feature a mix of modern and Craftsman styles, catering to a variety of tastes but also commanding higher prices and rents. On the flip side, Tempe, with its Southwestern and Ranch style homes, highlights the allure of the Arizona landscape, significantly lower housing costs, and the presence of Arizona State University. This brings an eclectic mix of academics, students, and outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Outdoor living spaces and solar panels are common listing items in Tempe, emphasizing the community's engagement with its sunny, desert surroundings.

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.
Seattle vs. Tempe Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires adaptation in many areas, especially when it comes to the weather. It's important to understand how the weather in Seattle, WA and Tempe, AZ will compare, so you can prepare for your new environment efficiently.
Seattle, WA
Tempe, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Tempe, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Tempe, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Tempe, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Seattle | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Heatwaves, Dust Storms |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Seattle to Tempe, the most noticeable difference will be the increase in temperature and sunshine. Temperatures in Tempe during summer can easily surpass 100°F, making air conditioning a necessity. The drop in humidity from Seattle's 77% to Tempe's 23% might be a relief for some but can lead to different challenges, such as dry skin. The dramatic reduction in annual rainfall in Tempe means that outdoor activities are rarely disrupted by rain. However, the increase in UV index to 6 means more rigorous sun protection routines are necessary in Tempe than in Seattle, underscoring the importance of adapting to your new weather environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Tempe
When planning a move, comparing financial factors between your current and future home is crucial. This helps you adjust your budget and expectations appropriately. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income levels between Seattle, WA, and Tempe, AZ is essential for a smooth transition.
Comparison | Seattle | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $68,662 |
Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 101.2 |
State Income Tax | 0 | 2.59 to 4.50 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.62 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 8.1 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Education, Technology, Tourism |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from Seattle to Tempe, you'll find significant cost of living and tax differences. Seattle's higher average household income aligns with its considerably higher cost of living index, whereas Tempe offers a more affordable living scenario with a moderate affluence level. While Seattle boasts no state income tax, Tempe's range from 2.59 to 4.50 percent is something to consider. However, the lower property and sales taxes in Tempe can offset this. Notably, the shift from Seattle's technology and aerospace-led economy to Tempe's focus on education and technology presents a varied job market landscape, potentially impacting your career prospects and lifestyle.
Seattle vs. Tempe Political & Religious Comparison
This brief introductory comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of Seattle, WA, and Tempe, AZ. By examining these aspects, we aim to give you a clearer understanding of the communities you're moving from and to. This is a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Seattle & Tempe, highlighting the diverse cultural landscapes you will interact with.
Seattle | Tempe | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderately Liberal/Democratic |
Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Mix of Conservative and Progressive Policies |
Religion | Less Religiously Affiliated | Higher Religious Affiliation |
In Seattle, you'll find a community heavily weighted towards liberal and Democratic ideologies, evidenced by consistently progressive policies and initiatives at the local level. The city is known for its lower proportion of religious affiliation, catering to a diverse range of beliefs and practices. On the other hand, Tempe presents a slightly more mixed political landscape, with a balance between conservative and progressive policies. This city in Arizona shows a higher level of religious affiliation among its residents, hosting a variety of faith communities, including Temple Solel and The Bridge Church, which play significant roles in community activities and services. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate into your new home and connect with your new neighbors.
Seattle vs. Tempe Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA to Tempe, AZ presents an opportunity to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between these two cities. This comparison will highlight the key differences in driving and transiting in Seattle and Tempe, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your new city’s transportation dynamics.
Comparison | Seattle | Tempe |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 21 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
When you move from Seattle to Tempe, you'll notice a significant difference in your daily commute. Seattle's average commute time is longer, and the city experiences higher levels of traffic congestion compared to Tempe. Though Seattle has a more developed public transit system, making it somewhat feasible to get around without a car, doing so in Tempe could prove to be more difficult. Tempe offers its own set of transit options, like the Valley Metro light rail, but the city is more spread out, and the summer heat can make walking or biking less appealing for daily commutes. Understanding these differences can help you plan your daily movements better after your relocation.



Additional Resources
Seattle Moving Services
Popular Seattle to Arizona Routes
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