Best Tucson to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tucson to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 114 mile long distance Arizona move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 169 Tucson to Phoenix 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 $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tucson compared to Phoenix. 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.

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Best Tucson to Phoenix Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64
2AAA Soto's Moving9.489.26
3AZ Efficient Moving LLC9.479.29
4StrongBrothers Moving9.319.29
5Alvarado Delivery Service LLC9.099.31
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Tucson to Phoenix?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 114 miles from Tucson, AZ to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $1,878 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tucson to Phoenix move is roughly $4,481. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,267300 ft³$4.22
1 Bedroom$1,878450 ft³$4.17
2 Bedrooms$3,093750 ft³$4.12
3 Bedrooms$4,4811100 ft³$4.07
4 Bedrooms$6,4381600 ft³$4.02
5+ Bedrooms$7,1531800 ft³$3.97
*Please note: These Arizona to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & Arizona. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AZ to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Tucson guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tucson to Phoenix Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
AAA Soto's Moving Logo

AAA Soto's Moving

Exceptional9.48/10
based on 1,396+ data points

5645 S Country Club Rd

Tucson, AZ, 85706

About AAA Soto's Moving

This full-service moving company has been locally owned in Tucson since 2015. AAA Soto's Moving performs residential and commercial moves throughout...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves
  • Statewide moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2591333 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
AZ Efficient Moving LLC Logo

AZ Efficient Moving LLC

Exceptional9.47/10
based on 710+ data points

Avondale, AZ, 85395

About AZ Efficient Moving LLC

AZ Efficient Moving LLC is a Phoenix, Arizona-based moving company with over 19 years of experience in the industry. This locally-owned...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial moving services
  • Packing & Unpacking services
  • Pick-Ups & Deliveries

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3560901 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
StrongBrothers Moving Logo

StrongBrothers Moving

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 372+ data points

Marana, AZ, 85653

About StrongBrothers Moving

StrongBrothers Moving has been serving as a go-to for families and businesses in Tucson since 2006. This locally owned and operated...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving
View Full Review
4
Alvarado Delivery Service LLC Logo

Alvarado Delivery Service LLC

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 425+ data points

8883 E Maxwell Dr

Tucson, AZ, 85747

About Alvarado Delivery Service LLC

Founded in 2001, Alvarado Delivery Service LLC has been helping Tucson, AZ, residents move for nearly 20 years. As a combination...

Services

  • Delivery Service
  • Moving
  • Office Moves (Residential & Commercial)

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1728419 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,345 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Tucson vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison to help you find a slice of home in a new place. This guide focuses on comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tucson, AZ & Phoenix, AZ , highlighting similarities that'll make you feel right at home. Let's explore where your Tucson favorites align with Phoenix's offerings.

TucsonPhoenixHow They're Similar
Samm HughesCoronadoHistoric homes, locally-owned shops
Armory ParkRoosevelt RowArtsy, walkable, vibrant nightlife
El PresidioEncanto-PalmcroftHistoric charm, upscale estates
Catalina FoothillsParadise ValleyLuxurious, scenic mountain views
Rita RanchAhwatukee FoothillsFamily-friendly, outdoor recreation
Dove MountainDesert RidgeModern, master-planned community
VailTramontoQuiet, suburban feel, natural beauty
Broadmoor-BroadwayArcadiaWell-kept, leafy streets, trendy spots
Oro ValleyNorterraFamily-oriented, shopping & dining
Downtown TucsonDowntown PhoenixUrban, cultural hub, entertainment

If you're drawn to the historic and vibrant streets of Samm Hughes, you'll find Coronado's charming homes and local shops a comforting resemblance. For those who love the artsy vibe and nightlife of Armory Park, Roosevelt Row offers a similar urban artistic flair, complete with galleries, murals, and lively bars. The luxurious, hillside living of Catalina Foothills finds its match in Paradise Valley, where breathtaking mountain vistas meet upscale amenities. Meanwhile, the family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor life in Rita Ranch are mirrored in Ahwatukee Foothills, known for its community spirit and access to nature. If Downtown Tucson's bustling streets and cultural offerings captivate you, Downtown Phoenix will not disappoint with its array of theaters, museums, and sports venues, like the Phoenix Rising FC stadium and the Phoenix Convention Center, ensuring you're never far from the urban action.

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Things to Do in Phoenix

  • Explore Desert Botanical Garden
  • Visit Heard Museum for Native American art
  • Hike Camelback Mountain
  • Enjoy Phoenix Zoo with family
  • Shop at Old Town Scottsdale
  • Watch a game at Chase Field
  • Relax at Tempe Town Lake

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Tucson to Phoenix

Moving from one city to another is a significant leap, often accompanied by a mix of emotions. This comparison aims to reflect a balanced view of what it means to relocate from Tucson, AZ to Phoenix, AZ , offering a clear picture of both the challenges and advantages. By juxtaposing the cons of leaving Tucson against the pros of moving to Phoenix, and vice versa, this guide strives to provide a holistic understanding of what this relocation entails.

CONs
PROs
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less nightlife
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Higher summer humidity
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Larger job market
  • More entertainment options
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Dryer climate
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • More congested
  • Fewer niche art spots
  • Higher expenses
  • Hotter nights
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Cozier community feel
  • Rich artistic scene
  • Lower cost of living
  • Cooler summer nights

When considering a move from Tucson to Phoenix, you're transitioning from a city with a strong sense of community and a thriving artistic scene to a bustling metropolis with vast opportunities. Phoenix boasts an enlarged job market, evident in burgeoning areas like the Phoenix Economic Development zone, and a wide array of entertainment options, from upscale restaurants in the Downtown Phoenix area to the diverse cultural experiences available throughout the city. While Tucson offers a quieter, possibly more affordable lifestyle with cooler summer evenings, Phoenix emerges as a city of greater cultural diversity and a dryer climate, appealing to those seeking a more dynamic urban living.

Tucson vs. Phoenix Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Tucson & Phoenix aims to enrich your understanding of the food scene in these cities. Knowing about food is crucial because it's a significant part of local culture, and it greatly influences what living in an area feels like. This overview will help you adjust your taste buds to your new home.

Tucson
Phoenix
Most iconic local food item
Sonoran Hot Dog
Chimichanga
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Barbecue Brisket
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Elote
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Vegan Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • El Charro Café
  • Café Poca Cosa
  • The Tasteful Kitchen
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Durant's
  • La Casa De Juana
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Tucson's food scene is heavily influenced by its Sonoran Desert environment, with the Sonoran Hot Dog—a bacon-wrapped hot dog served in a bolillo-style bun and topped with beans, onions, tomato, and a variety of sauces—standing out as a must-try. The city is also known for its vibrant street food scene, featuring tacos from various establishments and food trucks scattered throughout neighborhoods like Downtown and the Historic Fourth Avenue. In contrast, Phoenix offers a broader barbecue scene, with barbecue brisket being a prominent dish. Additionally, the city's vegan scene is growing, with options like vegan pizza gaining popularity. Both cities provide rich culinary experiences, but Phoenix edges out slightly in terms of health conscientiousness and vegan offerings. Notable Phoenix restaurants include Pizzeria Bianco, known for its artisanal pizzas, and Durant's, a classic steakhouse that has been a staple in the city for decades.

Tucson vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison

Whether you're moving for work, family, or just a change of scenery, finding those go-to eateries in your new city is essential for making it feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Tucson and Phoenix will guide you in discovering your next favorite spots, replicating the culinary joy you cherished. Let the flavors of your old favorites lead you to new discoveries in Phoenix.

TucsonPhoenixWhat You'll Love
El Charro CaféBarrio CaféAuthentic Mexican cuisine with a creative twist
Café Poca CosaFnBLocally sourced seasonal menu with a creative flair
The Cup CaféMatt's Big BreakfastIconic breakfast spot with a focus on quality ingredients
PencaGallo BlancoFresh, modern Mexican dishes in a casual atmosphere
Seis KitchenLa SantisimaGourmet tacos and a wide variety of salsa
Boca Tacos y TequilaBlanco Tacos + TequilaUpscale taco spot with a lively environment
Miss SaigonPho ThanhAuthentic Vietnamese Pho that rivals the best
Piazza GaviCiboCozy, Italian pizzeria in a restored 1913 bungalow
Reilly Craft Pizza & DrinkPizzeria BiancoNationally acclaimed pizza with an artisanal approach
Hub Restaurant & Ice CreameryChurnNostalgic ice cream parlor with unique, hand-crafted flavors

Finding a restaurant that captures both the essence and flavors of your old favorites can transform your dining experience in a new city. For instance, the transition from Tucson's Café Poca Cosa to Phoenix's FnB will delight you with an innovative menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring every visit offers something new. Similarly, venturing from Penca in Tucson to Gallo Blanco in Phoenix, you'll discover modern Mexican cuisine that maintains the soulful essence of familiar dishes in a vibrant, welcoming setting. These Phoenix establishments not only mirror the culinary delights of your Tucson favorites but also offer an environment where new memories and traditions can be made.

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Ready to start your move?

Tucson vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. That's why it's essential to compare the housing characteristics of Tucson, AZ, and Phoenix, AZ. This comparison will highlight the differences in the cost of living, architecture, and lifestyle between these two cities, providing you with valuable insights to make an informed decision.

Tucson
Phoenix
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial
Modern Desert
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Mountain views, outdoor spaces
Pools, energy efficiency

In transitioning from Tucson to Phoenix, you'll notice some significant real estate differences. Phoenix often features a more modern desert architecture compared to Tucson's prevalent Spanish Colonial style, offering a unique aesthetic environment. The urban lifestyle score is higher in Phoenix, indicating a more bustling city life, potentially due to its larger population and denser urban areas. However, Tucson boasts higher bikeability, which could be appealing for those who prefer a more bicycle-friendly city. Additionally, real estate listings in Tucson frequently highlight mountain views and outdoor spaces, reflecting the city's close connection to natural landscapes. On the other hand, Phoenix listings tend to focus on pools and energy-efficient homes, mirroring the city's hot climate and the residents' desire for sustainability and comfort.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ

1. Arcadia : You'll love the abundance of pet-friendly parks and trails, making it an ideal spot for pet lovers.

2. Paradise Valley : This neighborhood offers vast outdoor spaces and numerous pet-friendly restaurants and cafes for you and your furry friend.

3. North Mountain : With its variety of hiking trails and pet-friendly activities, you'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your pet.

Tucson vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations

If you're moving from Tucson to Phoenix, it's vital to grasp the differences in weather patterns to adjust seamlessly. This comparison will illuminate how Tucson's and Phoenix's climates contrast, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.

Tucson
Phoenix
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Flooding
Wildfires, Flooding, Heatwaves
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

100°F / 74°F
104°F / 83°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

65°F / 39°F
67°F / 46°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

11.3
8.03
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0.3
0


Moving from Tucson to Phoenix, you'll notice a few significant weather changes. Phoenix tends to be slightly hotter, especially during the summer nights, which remain warmer compared to Tucson. The additional sunshine days in Phoenix also contribute to its reputation for hotter weather. Despite these temperature differences, both cities share similar challenges, like moderate air quality and the presence of top seasonal allergies like ragweed and grass. Understanding these nuances will help you better adapt to your new environment in Phoenix.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tucson to Phoenix

If you're contemplating a move, it's essential to weigh the financial aspects of your new and old locales. This comparison delves into the money and finance dynamics of Tucson vs. Phoenix , arming you with key insights to navigate your transition seamlessly.

Tucson
Phoenix
Avg. Household Income
$50,306
$68,435
Cost of Living Index
96.5
100.7
State Income Tax
2.59% - 4.54%
2.59% - 4.54%
Avg. Property Tax
0.72%
0.62%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.7%
8.6%
Top 3 Industries
Aerospace, Education, Healthcare
Technology, Manufacturing, Finance
Affluence
Moderate
Moderately High
Poverty
Noticeable
Comparable
Homelessness
Concerning
Concerning

When moving from Tucson to Phoenix, it's key to note that the average household income is higher in Phoenix, which can be enticing; however, this comes with a slightly higher cost of living. Both cities share the state income tax brackets, ensuring no surprises there. A notable difference is the slightly lower average property tax in Phoenix, which, along with the marginally lower average sales tax, may slightly cushion the financial impact of the higher cost of living. The top industries in Phoenix lean more towards technology and finance, which might offer more opportunities depending on your career path.

Tucson vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Tucson, AZ to Phoenix, AZ, it helps to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison between Tucson & Phoenix provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights into the communities’ values and priorities.

Tucson
Phoenix
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Moderately Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive Policies
Mixed Policies
Religion
Christian, Other Faiths
Christian, with a higher diversity of faiths

Tucson and Phoenix share a leaning toward Democratic values but embody different degrees of political engagement and policy priorities. Tucson often embraces more progressive policies, reflecting a community eager to push forward social reforms. Meanwhile, Phoenix presents a more mixed political landscape, indicating a blend of conservative and liberal views that shape the city's governance. In religious terms, both cities predominantly identify as Christian, yet Phoenix offers a broader diversity, with a significant representation of other faiths. This mirrors Phoenix's larger population and more diverse demographic, providing a wide array of cultural and religious communities for newcomers to explore.

Tucson vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tucson, AZ to Phoenix, AZ, entails understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison focuses on what you can expect in terms of traffic and transportation options between Tucson & Phoenix, essential for planning your move and daily life in your new city.

Tucson
Phoenix
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
26
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possibly, with planning
Difficult

When it comes to getting around, both Tucson and Phoenix offer unique challenges and benefits. With Tucson’s average commute time being slightly less than Phoenix’s, you might find a bit of relief in daily travel times. However, Phoenix's higher traffic congestion rating indicates that you may encounter more frequent and severe traffic jams. Despite this, Phoenix offers a slightly better public transit score, making it somewhat more feasible to navigate the city without a car, although it still presents challenges. Engaging with the local transit options, like Valley Metro in Phoenix and Sun Tran in Tucson, will be crucial for those wishing to rely less on personal vehicles.

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