Best Tucson to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tucson to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 485 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Tucson to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tucson compared to Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Best California Movers9.539.73Authorized For HHG
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.479.01Authorized For Property, HHG
3Moving Buddies Tucson AZ9.069.23Authorized For HHG
4Get Your Move On, LLC9.048.37Authorized For HHG
5Abba & Sons Moving LLC8.919.2Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Tucson to Los Angeles?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 485 miles from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $2,194 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tucson to Los Angeles move is roughly $5,252. 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$1,477300 ft³$4.92
1 Bedroom$2,194450 ft³$4.87
2 Bedrooms$3,619750 ft³$4.82
3 Bedrooms$5,2521100 ft³$4.77
4 Bedrooms$7,5601600 ft³$4.72
5+ Bedrooms$8,4151800 ft³$4.67
*Please note: These Arizona to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & California. 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 CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Tucson guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tucson to Los Angeles Movers

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

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 2,643+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.47/10
based on 1,253+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Moving Buddies Tucson AZ Logo

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,589+ data points

5502 E 25th St

Tucson, AZ, 85711

About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3531262 / 1542042

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Get Your Move On, LLC Logo

Get Your Move On, LLC

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 1,422+ data points

1430 E Hadley St # 110

Phoenix, AZ, 85034

About Get Your Move On, LLC

This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1885055 / 990813

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved350,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Abba & Sons Moving LLC Logo

Abba & Sons Moving LLC

Superb8.91/10
based on 1,339+ data points

237 W Fort Lowell Rd

Tucson, AZ, 85705

About Abba & Sons Moving LLC

Based in Tucson, Abba and Sons Moving is a family-owned company that serves all of Southern Arizona with residential and commercial...

Services

  • Home/Apartment Moving Services
  • Moving and Packing Services
  • Specializing in homes, offices, apartments

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1921793 / 32280

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison

Preparing to move can feel like navigating uncharted territory. To ease this transition, we'll draw parallels to help you familiarize yourself with Los Angeles, using what you know and love about Tucson as your guide. Specifically, we're focusing on a comparison of local neighborhoods between Tucson, AZ & Los Angeles, CA to find where you might feel most at home. Moving from the desert charm of Tucson to the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles can be an exciting journey when you know where to look.

TucsonLos AngelesHow They're Similar
Sam HughesLos Felizhistorical charm, vibrant community
Armory ParkAngelino Heightsrich architectural heritage, close-knit atmosphere
Catalina FoothillsBeverly Hillsupscale, scenic views
El PresidioPasadenacultural landmarks, historic homes
Rita RanchStudio Citysuburban feel, family-friendly
SahuaritaEncinogreen spaces, community vibe
Oro ValleyCalabasasoutdoor activities, upscale amenities
VailTopangasecluded, natural beauty
Dove MountainTarzanaprivate, resort-like setting
Sabino CanyonMalibubreathtaking landscapes, recreational opportunities

For those who adore the historical charm and community spirit of Sam Hughes in Tucson, Los Feliz in Los Angeles offers a similar vibe, with its mix of vintage shops, trendy eateries like Le Droit Poulet, and Griffith Park's myriad outdoor activities. If the upscale lifestyle of Catalina Foothills appeals to you, Beverly Hills' luxurious ambiance, from the shopping on Rodeo Drive to the lush gardens of Beverly Gardens Park, won't disappoint. Those moving from the private, serene environment of Dove Mountain might find their solace in Tarzana, where the Santa Monica Mountains provide a backdrop to a peaceful, luxurious lifestyle, much like the El Conquistador Golf & Tennis in Tucson anchors the neighborhood's upscale leisure activities.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tucson to Los Angeles

Moving between cities is a significant life event filled with both trepidation and excitement. In this comparison, we aim to provide a balanced view of relocating from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, CA , emphasizing both the challenges and benefits. Using these charts, we hope to shed light on the pros and cons of moving from Tucson to Los Angeles and help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower diversity
  • Less cultural experiences
  • Higher heat levels
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Larger job opportunities
  • Higher diversity
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Milder climate
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Denser population
  • Faster pace
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Open spaces
  • Quiet lifestyle

Relocating from Tucson, AZ, to Los Angeles, CA, brings you to the heart of a bustling metropolis known for its vast entertainment industry, historical landmarks, and beautiful beaches. For example, trading Tucson's deserts for LA's Venice Beach offers not just a change in scenery but a lifestyle shift towards more outdoor activities and an immersive cultural experience. Los Angeles is home to iconic attractions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Universal Studios Hollywood, providing endless entertainment options contrasting to Tucson's quieter, more laid-back appeal. While LA's notorious traffic and higher cost of living present challenges, the city's diverse job market, vibrant restaurant scene, including establishments like Bestia in the Arts District, and neighborhood parks like Griffith Park, among the largest urban parks in North America, offer compelling reasons to make the move.

Tucson vs. Los Angeles Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tucson & Los Angeles, demonstrating how food is a critical element of local culture and life. Understanding the culinary scene of both places can better inform your decision as you plan your move.

Tucson
Los Angeles
Most iconic local food item
Sonoran Hot Dog
Street Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Tamales
Food Trucks: Various
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Mexican Cuisine
Vegan Ramen
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • El Charro Café
  • The Tasteful Kitchen
  • Cup Café
  • In-N-Out Burger
  • Guelaguetza
  • Bestia
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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When exploring the streets of Los Angeles, you'll quickly notice the city's vast culinary diversity, with neighborhoods like Koreatown offering up some of the best Korean BBQ and Downtown LA known for its trendy vegan spots. Street tacos are ubiquitous, reflecting the city's strong Mexican influence; you can find them at almost any corner, especially in areas like East LA. The food truck scene in Los Angeles is unrivaled, boasting a multitude of cuisines from around the globe, making it a paradise for foodies. Amongst the top iconic eateries, In-N-Out Burger offers a quintessential California experience, while Guelaguetza showcases the rich Oaxacan culture present in the city.

Tucson vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to dining spots. This comparison between top restaurants in Tucson and their Los Angeles counterparts is designed to make the City of Angels feel like home. By referencing familiar Tucson flavors, we'll guide you to your new favorite eats in Los Angeles.

TucsonLos AngelesWhat You'll Love
El Charro CaféGuelaguetzaTraditional Oaxacan cuisine, emphasizing homestyle cooking.
Prep & PastrySqirlInnovative breakfast dishes and a hip ambiance.
Frost GelatoGelato BarAuthentic Italian gelato with a variety of flavors.
PencaGracias MadreShares a dedication to fresh ingredients and vibrant Mexican flavors.
Pizzeria BiancoPizzanaNeapolitan pizzas with a contemporary twist and high-quality ingredients.
Bobo's RestaurantDu-Par'sIconic diner experience with exceptional pancakes and comfort food.
Reilly Craft Pizza & DrinkOlioWood-fired pizza with a modern approach to traditional techniques.
Seis KitchenGuisadosFocuses on Mexican homestyle cooking with complex flavors.
The B LineRepubliqueNotable for its bakery, eclectic menu, and casual yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Cafe Poca CosaBroken SpanishEmphasizes refinement of traditional Mexican dishes with a creative twist.

Delving into the essence of Tucson's El Charro Café, the oldest Mexican restaurant in the U.S. continuously operated by the same family, offers an insight into its authenticity and heritage -- a sentiment echoed at Los Angeles' Guelaguetza, which is legendary for its Oaxacan dishes and live cultural performances. Similarly, if you're missing Pizzeria Bianco's nationally acclaimed pizzas, Pizzana in Los Angeles serves up Neapolitan pizzas that have earned praise from food critics and celebrities alike, blending traditional techniques with innovative flavors. For a brunch reminiscent of Prep & Pastry, Sqirl's inventive menu presents a modern twist on breakfast classics, ensuring your culinary transition is both delicious and comforting.

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Tucson vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences your relocation journey, making an understanding of the differences between your current and future home essential. This comparison focuses on housing aspects between Tucson, AZ, and Los Angeles, CA , including cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these distinctions will help you better prepare for your move.

Tucson
Los Angeles
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Revival
Modern, Spanish, Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Mountain views, outdoor spaces
Proximity to entertainment, luxury amenities

When considering a move from Tucson to Los Angeles, it's crucial to note that while housing costs significantly increase, so do the opportunities for an enriched urban lifestyle and access to various entertainment options. Los Angeles boasts a high walkability score, highlighting its dense, accessible urban areas. The diversity in architectural styles in Los Angeles—from modern to Spanish and Craftsman—offers a broader choice for potential homeowners, mirroring the city's cultural diversity. Furthermore, listings in Los Angeles frequently highlight luxury amenities and proximity to the entertainment industry, distinguishing it from Tucson’s emphasis on outdoor spaces and mountain views.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

1. Santa Monica : You’ll enjoy the abundance of parks, beachfront walkways, and dog-friendly restaurants that make Santa Monica perfect for your pet.

2. West Hollywood : Known for its pet-friendly apartment buildings and off-leash dog parks, you’ll find West Hollywood a welcoming spot for your furry friends.

3. Silver Lake : With its ample green spaces, dog-friendly cafes, and popular dog park, Silver Lake offers a vibrant community for you and your pet.

Tucson vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to consider how the weather comparison will impact your daily life. Understanding the differences in climate can help you prepare for your new environment. Here's a focused look at the weather patterns of Tucson and Los Angeles to ease your transition.

Tucson
Los Angeles
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves, Dust Storms
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Varies (Moderate to Poor)
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

100°F / 74°F
84°F / 66°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

65°F / 39°F
68°F / 48°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

11.3"
15.1"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0.3"
0"


Moving from Tucson to Los Angeles, you'll notice a milder summer climate but with slightly more humidity in Los Angeles. Both cities enjoy ample sunshine, making outdoor activities a year-round possibility. However, the type of natural disasters and air quality concerns differ significantly, necessitating new preparations and awareness. Tucson's arid environment results in lower humidity and distinct seasonal allergies compared to Los Angeles' coastal climate, which can affect air quality and allergen types. Adapting your lifestyle to these variations will ensure a smoother transition.

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

Relocating from one city to another often entails a significant shift in your financial landscape. Understanding how the cost of living, income, and taxes in Tucson compare to Los Angeles is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide aims to provide a clear financial comparison to help you gauge what to expect.

Tucson
Los Angeles
Avg. Household Income
$50,306
$70,372
Cost of Living Index
96.5
136.4
State Income Tax
2.59 to 4.50
2.59 to 4.50
Avg. Property Tax
0.72
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
8.7
9.5
Top 3 Industries
Defense, Education, Aerospace
Entertainment, Manufacturing, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Significant
Severe

Moving from Tucson to Los Angeles, you'll notice a stark contrast in the cost of living, with Los Angeles marking a significantly higher index. Although household incomes tend to be higher in Los Angeles, the disparity in living costs can offset this advantage. Sales tax and property tax are slightly higher in Los Angeles, reflecting its larger economy and housing market pressures. Notably, while both cities share the same state income tax rates, the overall tax burden may feel heavier in Los Angeles due to additional municipal taxes and higher costs across services and goods. This is something to consider closely, especially when planning your budget for a move.

Tucson vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another often involves adapting to a different community vibe. This quick overview will provide you with a comparison of the politics between Tucson & Los Angeles , offering insights into the political and religious makeup of these cities, helping you to gauge how well you might fit into your new home.

Tucson
Los Angeles
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive on social issues
Very Progressive, active local government
Religion
Diverse, with a notable Catholic presence
Highly diverse, includes Catholic, Jewish, Buddhist, and other faiths

When comparing Tucson and Los Angeles, you'll find that both cities lean Democratic, with Los Angeles showing a stronger preference for this political alignment. This reflects in the local politics too, where Los Angeles is known for its very progressive stance and active local government initiatives, particularly on environmental and social justice issues. On the religious front, both cities offer a wealth of diversity. However, Los Angeles provides an even broader spectrum of religious communities and establishments, catering to a wide array of beliefs and practices, from Catholic to Jewish, Buddhist, and beyond. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate more seamlessly to your new surroundings.

Tucson vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, CA requires an understanding of the differences in their traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to shed light on what your daily commute and navigating the city streets might look like, helping you better prepare for life in your new city.

Tucson
Los Angeles
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
9 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Possible but Difficult

In Los Angeles, the heavy traffic congestion is a notorious aspect of daily life, with the city scoring a 9 out of 10 in this regard. This makes the average commute time slightly longer than in Tucson. However, L.A. compensates with better public transit options, rated 8 out of 10, including a comprehensive network of buses, subways, and light rail systems. While getting around without a car is more feasible in Los Angeles compared to Tucson, it still presents challenges due to the sprawling nature of the city and sometimes lengthy transit times between points of interest.

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