$1,157 Movers From Phoenix, AZ to California

Quick answer: The cost to move from Phoenix, AZ, to California averages from $505 to $5,120, and can take anywhere from one-six days, depending on the size, date, and distance of your move and whether you hire professional movers or handle it yourself.

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Moving 590 miles is no joke. Hiring a professional Phoenix moving company will be on the more expensive side, while renting a truck or a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Moving from California to Phoenix, AZ guide.

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The best Phoenix to California moving companies

Hiring the right interstate moving company from Phoenix to California is no small task. Luckily, we’re here to make your decision a little easier. We have analyzed 4,400 moving companies across the U.S. — including 40 local movers in Phoenix and 267 throughout the Golden State — and narrowed them down to the best of the best based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Here are the best long-distance moving companies serving Phoenix to California.

Use our >moving cost calculator to get a more accurate estimate for your moving needs.

If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.

How much does it cost to move from Phoenix, AZ, to California?

Here are the average price ranges for hiring a professional moving company, renting a moving container, or using a moving truck to move from Phoenix to California:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,157 - $3,505 $654 - $1,677 $455 - $798
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,052 - $5,120 $1,255 - $2,365 $505 - $1,026
4+ bedrooms $3,591 - $8,030 $1,691 - $3,209 $576 - $1,143

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 590 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

The cost to move from Phoenix, AZ, to California will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have — as well as your home size and layout — will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Phoenix, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

How much does it cost to hire movers from Phoenix, AZ, to California?

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Phoenix to California will cost between $1,157 to $3,505. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Phoenix to CA will range from $2,052 to $5,120. A large move from Phoenix to California will cost anywhere from $3,591 to $8,030.

How much are moving containers like PODS from Phoenix, AZ, to California?

Moving pods from Phoenix to California will cost you $654 to $1,677. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,255 to $2,365. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,691 to $3,209. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving containers for your move from Phoenix to California.

How much is a moving truck from Phoenix, AZ, to California?

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $455 to $798. A larger move will cost $505 to $1,026, and a four-bedroom or bigger move from Phoenix to California costs from $576 to $1,143.

Is moving from Phoenix, AZ, to California a good idea?

If you’re moving to California from Phoenix, AZ, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: Phoenix, AZ, vs California

Phoenix, AZ California
Average rent cost $1,795 $1,856
Average home cost $417,105 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $63,135 $91,905
Unemployment rate 6.6% 5.4%
State income tax 2.5% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 5% more expensive in California than in Phoenix.
  • Home prices are about 82.6% higher in California than in Phoenix.
  • The average income is about 39.6% higher in California than in Phoenix.
  • California has a lower unemployment rate than Phoenix by about 33.3%.
  • Income taxes are 432.00% higher in California than in Phoenix.

How is life different in Phoenix, AZ, from California?

Phoenix, AZ California
Population 1,608,139 39,029,342
Political leaning Democrat 50-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 105ºF 87ºF
Winter low 43ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 9" 22"
Annual snow 0" 7"
Crime index 42.86 28.43
  • The population of California is approximately 2,327% greater than the population of Phoenix.
  • In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Phoenix voted Democrat.
  • The average high in the summertime in California is 87º F and in Phoenix, it’s 105º F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59º F and Phoenix gets down to 43º F.
  • You can expect about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California vs. 9 inches of rainfall in Phoenix.
  • In California, it snows about 7 inches annually vs. 0 inches of snow in Phoenix.

Comparing the pros of Phoenix, AZ, vs. California:

There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Phoenix vs California side-by-side.

Pros of living in Phoenix, AZ Pros of living in California
Beautiful nature Ample economic opportunity
Bountiful arts and recreational activities Pleasant weather
Ample economic activity Abundant recreational options
Low cost of living High quality of life
Delectable food Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Phoenix, AZ, vs. California:

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Phoenix for California.

Cons of living in Phoenix, AZ Cons of living in California
Extreme weather High cost of living
Tourists Heavy tax burdens
Limited public transportation Natural disasters
Hot summers Terrible traffic
Poor education Strange laws

Considerations for moving to California

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days..
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Looking for local Phoenix movers?

Company Quote Rating Contact
Mentors Moving & Storage Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.8 overall rating
3416 S 48th St Suite 3, Phoenix, AZ, 85040
(480) 605-1782
Camelback Moving Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.76 overall rating
2330 North 31st Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85009
(602) 564-6683

Visit our best movers in Phoenix page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.

What to do in California

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in California.

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa
  • Griffith Observatory
  • Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Norton Simon Museum
  • Mission San Luis Rey
  • Tallac Historic Site
  • Petersen Automotive Museum
  • Original McDonald's Site and Museum
  • Oakland Museum of California
  • March Field Air Museum
  • Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park
  • MacKerricher State Park
  • Tilden Regional Park
  • Dinosaur Caves Park
  • Greystone Mansion and Park
  • Rancho San Antonio County Park
  • Serra Cross Park
  • Coyote Hills Regional Park
  • Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
  • Palisades Park
  • Irvine Regional Park

Sports Teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
  • Oakland Athletics (MLB)
  • San Diego Padres (MLB)
  • San Francisco Giants (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Chargers (NFL)
  • Los Angeles Rams (NFL)
  • San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
  • Golden State Warriors (NBA)
  • Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)
  • Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)
  • Sacramento Kings (NBA)
  • LA Galaxy (MLS)
  • Los Angeles FC (MLS)
  • San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego
  • University of California, Davis
  • University of California, Irvine
  • California Institute of Technology
  • University of California, Santa Barbara
  • University of California, Riverside
  • University of California, Santa Cruz
  • University of California, San Francisco
  • San Diego State University
  • California State University, Northridge

FAQs: Moving from Phoenix to California

What is the best way to get a car from Phoenix to California?

Need to get your car from Phoenix to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Phoenix to California car shippers.

Why are people moving from Phoenix to California?

Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather. On the other hand, people are moving away from Phoenix because of the extreme weather and tourists.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Phoenix?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Phoenix.

Related articles to your move

Learn more about California