Factors that influence moving costs from Tucson to Los Angelestoggle

The cost of Tucson movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Tucson to Los Angeles might cost as little as $1,421, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,126.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Tucson, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $474 to $1,128. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Tucson to Los Angeles

Moving from Tucson to Los Angeles comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Los Angeles is generally more expensive than Tucson, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Tucson Los Angeles
Average rent cost $1,295 $2,960
Average home value $327,203 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $61,749 $74,993
Cost of living (single person) $2,390 $3,922
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,043 $9,213
Unemployment rate 7.4% 10.6%
Sales tax 8.7% 9.5%
State income tax 2.5% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Los Angeles are 129% higher than in Tucson, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Tucson.
    Home prices in Los Angeles are 623.7% higher than in Tucson.
  • Income in Los Angeles is 21.4% higher than in Tucson, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Los Angeles include County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School District, and City of Los Angeles (including DWP).
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Los Angeles, since the cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 64.1% higher than in Tucson. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Los Angeles, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 52.5% higher than in Tucson.
  • The unemployment rate in Los Angeles is 43.24% higher than in Tucson.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Los Angeles, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Los Angeles are 9.20% higher than in Tucson.
  • State income taxes in Los Angeles are 432.00% higher than in Tucson.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,923.01 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Tucson.

How life is different in Tucson vs. Los Angeles

Los Angeles Tucson
Population 3,820,914 542,629
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 5
Walkability score 69 43
Bike friendliness score 59 66
Crime Index 53.81 54.43
Safety Index 46.19 45.57
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Los Angeles's population is about 604% greater than Tucson.
  • Los Angeles's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Tucson's lower score of 5.
  • Los Angeles is more walkable than Tucson with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Tucson's 43 out of 100.
  • Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Tucson, which has a score of 66 out of 100.
  • Los Angeles and Tucson have a similar crime rate.
  • Los Angeles and Tucson are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Los Angeles is moderate, and in Tucson it's good.

Other things to consider for your Tucson vs. Los Angeles move

  • Weather: The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
  • 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 โ€œT Numberโ€ 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 through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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 Los Angeles. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.Opt for Released Value Protection โ€“ 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Now that you've decided to make the move to "City of Angels", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Los Angeles.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

Things to do in Los Angeles

After getting comfortable in your new California home, itโ€™s time to see what Los Angeles is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ€” thereโ€™s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Los Angeles include museums and art centers like the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, Battleship USS Iowa Museum, and The Broad.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo Park โ€” and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), Los Angeles FC (MLS), or Los Angeles Kings (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Tucson to Los Angeles?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tucson to Los Angeles. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Tucson.

When is the cheapest time to move from Tucson to Los Angeles?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Tucson to Los Angeles, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Tucson to Los Angeles take?

The 483-mile journey from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, CA typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Tucson offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Los Angeles.

Helpful moving resources