Best Arizona to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Arizona to California is more than a change of address; it's an exciting adventure into new beginnings. As you leave behind the Grand Canyon State's desert vistas for the Golden State's bustling cities, stunning coastlines, and diverse culture, it's a journey from one iconic landscape to another. Recognizing the importance of this, we emphasize choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, as we've meticulously ranked the best with an unbiased algorithm, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Best Arizona to California Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Pure Moving | 9.64 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.31 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Camelback Moving | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Arizona guide.
6 Best AZ to CA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCAbout Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
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...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
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 h...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
This listing has been claimed by Creative Moving and Packing, LLCAbout Creative Moving and Packing, LLC
Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long-Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
About Camelback Moving
Camelback Moving has been operating in the Phoenix area for over 15 years as one of the area's largest independently-owned moving companies....Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Commercial & Office Moving
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 Arizona to California
Moving from Arizona to California is a significant change that offers both challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the pros and cons associated with this relocation, helping you navigate the transition effectively.
Arizona- Hotter summers
- Less coastal access
- Lower biodiversity
California- Milder climate
- Extensive coastline
- Richer biodiversity
California- Higher living cost
- More crowded
- Heavier traffic
Arizona- Lower living cost
- Wide open spaces
- Simpler traffic
Choosing between Arizona's sprawling landscapes and California's vibrant cities is more than a matter of preference. The transition introduces you to California's diverse ecosystems, from the serene beaches of Malibu to the lush forests of Yosemite National Park. However, it comes at the cost of California's notorious living expenses and congested traffic, particularly in bustling hubs like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Despite this, the Golden State's wealth of cultural landmarks, innovative dining experiences, and unparalleled natural beauty offers a compelling argument for calling it home. The adjustment might be demanding, but the rewards—from beach days at Santa Monica to wine tours in Sonoma—are equally substantial.
Arizona vs. California Food Guide
As you plan your move, understanding the local food culture is vital since food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area . That's why we'll compare the local cuisine between Arizona & California , helping you get acquainted with the culinary scene of your new home.
| Arizona | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Chimichanga | Avocado Toast |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Arizona to California, you'll transition from a cuisine rich in flavors from Mexican influence, like Carne Asada and Chimichangas, to a health-conscious and vegan-friendly environment. California's food scene, prominently featuring items like Avocado Toast and Quinoa Salad, reflects its coastal ingredients and the diverse cultures that inhabit the state. For a taste of the local culinary scene, visit Spago in Beverly Hills or The French Laundry in the Napa Valley to experience what defines California cuisine. Street food enthusiasts will find delight in California's Fish Tacos, a testament to the state’s love for fresh and diverse food offerings.
Ready to start your move?
Arizona vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate is a cornerstone of the decision-making process. Understanding how the housing markets, costs, and lifestyles of Arizona and California compare is essential. This guide aims to shed light on these critical differences to inform your transition effectively.
| Comparison | Arizona | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Ranch | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, Mountain views | Proximity to tech jobs, Ocean views |
In comparing Arizona and California, the distinct differences in housing costs stand out, with California's median home prices significantly higher than those in Arizona. This is partly due to California's proximity to major tech hubs and its coastal cities, which drive up real estate values. Architectural styles also reflect the states' cultural influences with Arizona favoring Spanish Colonial and Ranch styles indicative of its desert landscape, whereas California offers a blend of Modern and Craftsman styles, catering to its diverse urban and coastal settings. Additionally, California presents a more urban lifestyle with higher walkability, bikeability, and access to tech jobs, emphasizing its appeal to those looking for a vibrant city life. In contrast, Arizona's real estate listings often highlight open floor plans and mountain views, appealing to those desiring spaciousness and scenic beauty.
Arizona vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Arizona to California, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight the weather discrepancies to prepare you for your new environment in Arizona and California .
Arizona
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Arizona
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Arizona
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Arizona
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Arizona | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Varies widely | Generally moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Dust Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Arizona and California enjoy abundant sunshine, the cooler summers and milder winters of California might be appealing to those accustomed to Arizona's intense heat. California's higher average humidity and rainfall contribute to its diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to fertile farmlands, offering a stark contrast to Arizona's arid landscapes. Remember, adapting to the differing air quality, natural disaster risks, and allergen profiles will also be part of your transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Arizona to California
If you're planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape will change, particularly when transitioning from Arizona to California. This comparison highlights the key economic differences to help you prepare for what lies ahead.
| Comparison | Arizona | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,568 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.2 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 2.59 - 4.50 | 1.00 - 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.62 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.4 | 8.56 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Tourism, Aerospace | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Higher | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Severe |
Moving from Arizona to California, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living and average household income. While California offers higher average incomes, it also has a higher cost of living compared to Arizona. The state income tax in California can go as high as 13.3%, which is among the highest in the nation, reflecting its affluence but also implying a bigger tax burden for residents. The tech and entertainment industries lead California's economy, providing abundant job opportunities but also contributing to its higher living costs and housing prices. As you prepare to move, consider these financial factors carefully to manage your expectations and budget accordingly.
Arizona vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Arizona to California? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents comparing Arizona & California. This comparison will give you insight into the general climate you're moving into, from the voting booth to the pew.
| Arizona | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean conservative, but becoming more purple | Strongly liberal |
| Local Politics | Varies significantly by area | Largely progressive, especially in urban areas |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian population | Diverse, with a variety of faiths and many identifying as non-religious |
As you plan your move from Arizona to California, you'll find significant differences not just in the landscape, but in the community ethos as well. Arizona's political scene is increasingly mixed, mirroring its diverse population. The state has traditionally leaned conservative, though recent elections show a shift towards a more balanced political landscape. In contrast, California is known for its strong liberal leanings, especially within its bustling urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Regarding religion, Arizona has a sizable Christian community among other faiths, whereas California's religious tapestry is broader, with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious or spiritual but unaffiliated. This diversity offers a vibrant array of cultural and religious experiences for newcomers.
Education Guide When Moving from Arizona to California
Moving states comes with the critical task of understanding and deciding on the best educational options for your family. To aid in this process, we're providing a comparative overview to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Arizona and California. This guide will assist you in making informed decisions for your children's education.
| Arizona | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Arizona Arizona State University Northern Arizona UniversityUniversity of California California State University Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Knox Gifted Academy - Chandler BASIS Chandler - Chandler Archway Classical Academy - PhoenixPacific Elementary School - Manhattan Beach Old Adobe School - Petaluma Elkhorn Elementary - Lodi | |
Top 3 Middle Schools BASIS Scottsdale - Scottsdale BASIS Tucson North - Tucson BASIS Phoenix - PhoenixThe Nueva School - Hillsborough Preuss School UCSD - La Jolla Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School - Moraga | |
Top 3 High Schools BASIS Scottsdale - Scottsdale BASIS Tucson North - Tucson BASIS Chandler - ChandlerCalifornia Academy of Mathematics and Science - Carson Henry M. Gunn High School - Palo Alto Torrey Pines High School - San Diego | |
Top 3 private high schools Brophy College Preparatory - Phoenix Phoenix Country Day School - Paradise Valley The Gregory School - TucsonHarvard-Westlake School - Studio City The Bishop's School - La Jolla Webb Schools - Claremont | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Tesseract School - Phoenix Verde Valley School - Sedona The Gregory School - TucsonThe Nueva School - Hillsborough Crossroads School - Santa Monica The Thacher School - Ojai | |
Top 3 School Districts Catalina Foothills Unified District - Tucson Scottsdale Unified School District - Scottsdale Chandler Unified District - ChandlerSan Marino Unified School District - San Marino Palo Alto Unified School District - Palo Alto La Canada Unified School District - La Canada Flintridge | |
When comparing the educational options between Arizona and California, it's evident both states boast high-quality institutions, but they cater to different needs and preferences. For instance, Arizona's BASIS network of schools are renowned for their rigorous academic programs, ideal for students who thrive in challenging environments. Meanwhile, California's diversity in top-tier public and private schools, like the California Academy of Mathematics and Science in Carson and the prestigious Harvard-Westlake School in Studio City, offer a breadth of specialized programs across the arts and sciences. Truly, depending on what educational experience you seek for your family, both states offer unique and compelling options.
Popular Arizona to California Moving Routes
- Phoenix to Los Angeles
- Phoenix to San Diego
- Phoenix to San Jose
- Phoenix to San Francisco
- Phoenix to Fresno
- Phoenix to Sacramento
- Phoenix to Long Beach
- Phoenix to Oakland
- Phoenix to Bakersfield
- Phoenix to Anaheim
- Phoenix to Santa Ana
- Phoenix to Riverside
- Phoenix to Stockton
- Phoenix to Irvine
- Phoenix to Chula Vista
- Phoenix to Fremont
- Phoenix to San Bernardino
- Phoenix to Modesto
- Phoenix to Fontana
- Phoenix to Moreno Valley
- Tucson to Los Angeles
- Tucson to San Diego
- Tucson to San Jose
- Tucson to San Francisco
- Tucson to Fresno
- Tucson to Sacramento
- Tucson to Long Beach
- Tucson to Oakland
- Tucson to Bakersfield
- Tucson to Anaheim
- Tucson to Santa Ana
- Tucson to Riverside
- Tucson to Stockton
- Tucson to Irvine
- Tucson to Chula Vista
- Tucson to Fremont
- Tucson to San Bernardino
- Tucson to Modesto
- Tucson to Fontana
- Tucson to Moreno Valley
- Mesa to Los Angeles
- Mesa to San Diego
- Mesa to San Jose
- Mesa to San Francisco
- Mesa to Fresno
- Mesa to Sacramento
- Mesa to Long Beach
- Mesa to Oakland
- Mesa to Bakersfield
- Mesa to Anaheim
- Mesa to Santa Ana
- Mesa to Riverside
- Mesa to Stockton
- Mesa to Irvine
- Mesa to Chula Vista
- Mesa to Fremont
- Mesa to San Bernardino
- Mesa to Modesto
- Mesa to Fontana
- Mesa to Moreno Valley
- Chandler to Los Angeles
- Chandler to San Diego
- Chandler to San Jose
- Chandler to San Francisco
- Chandler to Fresno
- Chandler to Sacramento
- Chandler to Long Beach
- Chandler to Oakland
- Chandler to Bakersfield
- Chandler to Anaheim
- Chandler to Santa Ana
- Chandler to Riverside
- Chandler to Stockton
- Chandler to Irvine
- Chandler to Chula Vista
- Chandler to Fremont
- Scottsdale to Los Angeles
- Scottsdale to San Diego
- Scottsdale to San Jose
- Scottsdale to San Francisco
- Scottsdale to Fresno
- Scottsdale to Sacramento
- Scottsdale to Long Beach
- Scottsdale to Oakland
- Scottsdale to Bakersfield
- Scottsdale to Anaheim
- Scottsdale to Santa Ana
- Scottsdale to Riverside
- Scottsdale to Stockton
- Scottsdale to Irvine
- Scottsdale to Chula Vista
- Scottsdale to Fremont
- Gilbert to Los Angeles
- Gilbert to San Diego
- Gilbert to San Jose
- Gilbert to San Francisco
- Gilbert to Fresno
- Gilbert to Sacramento
- Gilbert to Long Beach
- Gilbert to Oakland
- Gilbert to Bakersfield
- Gilbert to Anaheim
- Gilbert to Santa Ana
- Gilbert to Riverside
- Gilbert to Stockton
- Gilbert to Irvine
- Gilbert to Chula Vista
- Gilbert to Fremont
- Glendale to Los Angeles
- Glendale to San Diego
- Glendale to San Jose
- Glendale to San Francisco
- Glendale to Fresno
- Glendale to Sacramento
- Glendale to Long Beach
- Glendale to Oakland
- Glendale to Bakersfield
- Glendale to Anaheim
- Glendale to Santa Ana
- Glendale to Riverside
- Glendale to Stockton
- Glendale to Irvine
- Glendale to Chula Vista
- Glendale to Fremont
- Tempe to Los Angeles
- Tempe to San Diego
- Tempe to San Jose
- Tempe to San Francisco
- Tempe to Fresno
- Tempe to Sacramento
- Tempe to Long Beach
- Tempe to Oakland
- Tempe to Bakersfield
- Tempe to Anaheim
- Tempe to Santa Ana
- Tempe to Riverside
- Tempe to Stockton
- Tempe to Irvine
- Tempe to Chula Vista
- Peoria to Los Angeles
- Peoria to San Diego
- Peoria to San Jose
- Peoria to San Francisco
- Peoria to Fresno
- Peoria to Sacramento
- Peoria to Long Beach
- Peoria to Oakland
- Peoria to Bakersfield
- Peoria to Anaheim
- Peoria to Santa Ana
- Peoria to Riverside
- Peoria to Stockton
- Peoria to Irvine
- Peoria to Chula Vista
