Best Oakland to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Oakland to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 781 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Oakland 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland 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 Oakland to Phoenix Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
3New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
4Fairprice Movers8.909.12Authorized For HHG
5Upline Moving8.618.62Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 781 miles from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $2,445 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Phoenix move is roughly $5,868. 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$1,645300 ft³$5.48
1 Bedroom$2,445450 ft³$5.43
2 Bedrooms$4,038750 ft³$5.38
3 Bedrooms$5,8681100 ft³$5.33
4 Bedrooms$8,4551600 ft³$5.28
5+ Bedrooms$9,4221800 ft³$5.23
*Please note: These California to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & 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 CA to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Oakland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Oakland 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
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

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

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

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 has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Fairprice Movers Logo

Fairprice Movers

Superb8.90/10
based on 298+ data points

Berkeley, CA, 94720

About Fairprice Movers

Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2192738 / 768242

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved89,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Upline Moving Logo

Upline Moving

Fabulous8.61/10
based on 2,924+ data points

30956 San Clemente St

Hayward, CA, 94544

About Upline Moving

For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Long distance movers
  • Local movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1881933 / 678648

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2012)
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.

Oakland vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you are not familiar with your new surroundings. To ease your transition, we've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Phoenix, AZ . By matching up similar neighborhoods, we're helping you find a new community in Phoenix that feels like home.

OaklandPhoenixHow They're Similar
RockridgeArcadiaLush landscapes, trendy spots
MontclairNorth Central PhoenixFamily-friendly, peaceful
Piedmont AvenueCoronadoHistoric homes, local art scene
TemescalMelrose DistrictVibrant, eclectic shopping
Lake MerrittEncantoScenic views, community feel
Jack London SquareRoosevelt RowWaterfront dining, cultural events
West OaklandWarehouse DistrictIndustrial chic, emerging
Grand LakeUptownEntertainment, lake nearby
Dimond DistrictNorth Mountain VillageOutdoor activities, community centered
GlenviewAhwatukeeQuiet suburbia, strong community vibe

In Arcadia, akin to Rockridge, you'll discover an array of lush landscapes and trendy spots that make it a beloved locale for both families and young professionals. The vibrant, eclectic shopping district of the Melrose District closely mirrors Temescal's unique vibe, offering an array of vintage shops, art, and dining that cater to a diverse crowd. For those who appreciate the historic and artistic spirit of Piedmont Avenue, Coronado presents a similar allure with its array of historic homes and a burgeoning local art scene. Meanwhile, the scenic views and community feel of Encanto parallel the experience of Lake Merritt, providing an idyllic setting for outdoor activities and gathering with friends. Lastly, Jack London Square's combination of waterfront dining and cultural events finds its match in Roosevelt Row, where art, food, and community come together to create a vibrant urban experience.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Phoenix

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision. In comparing Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ, this guide seeks to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding the dynamics of both cities will help ensure you're making the best choice for your lifestyle.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Higher crime rate
  • Cooler weather
  • Dense traffic
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Lower living costs
  • Lower crime rate
  • Warmer weather
  • Less traffic
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Less diversity
  • No ocean access
  • Fewer arts venues
  • Car-dependent
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Cultural diversity
  • Coastal access
  • Rich arts scene
  • Extensive public transit

Moving from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ, brings several changes, especially in lifestyle and climate. Oakland, with its proximity to the ocean, offers easy access to beaches and a mild climate, making it a significant shift for those moving to the warmer, drier climate of Phoenix. However, Phoenix is not without its charm. The city boasts vast suburban landscapes with sprawling neighborhood parks, a growing number of restaurants, and an enthusiasm for outdoor living. Although Phoenix might have fewer arts venues compared to Oakland's rich arts scene, including renowned institutions like the Oakland Museum of California, it still offers a variety of cultural experiences such as the Phoenix Art Museum and the vibrant downtown area. Both cities offer unique advantages; it's just a matter of what fits best with your lifestyle.

Oakland vs. Phoenix Food Guide

When relocating, experiencing the local cuisine is a key aspect of immersing yourself in your new home's culture. Through this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Oakland & Phoenix, equipping you with insights about the culinary scene in both cities to enhance your moving experience.

Oakland
Phoenix
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Sonoran Hot Dog
Most popular meat dish
BBQ Brisket
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Burrito
Vegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • ShakeWell
  • Millennium
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Durant's
  • The Mission
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Oakland, the rich diversity is reflected in its cuisine, with vegan options like the Vegan Burrito being widely available, especially in neighborhoods like Temescal and Jack London Square. Commis, an upscale dining experience, exemplifies Oakland's sophisticated food scene. Over in Phoenix, the Sonoran Hot Dog at places like Nogales Hot Dogs provides a unique taste of local flavor. The city's Southwestern cuisine, with its focus on Mexican influences like Carne Asada, is well-represented in eateries throughout areas such as Downtown Phoenix and Roosevelt Row. Both cities prize their vibrant food scenes, catering to a range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Oakland vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison

Food is central to making a location feel like home. For those moving from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ, this restaurant comparison will bridge your culinary journey from Oakland's diverse dining scene to Phoenix's vibrant eateries. Discover your next favorite spot with this guide.

OaklandPhoenixWhat You'll Love
CommisBinkley's RestaurantBoth offer a refined dining experience with a focus on innovative, seasonal cuisine.
HopscotchCrudoBoth renowned for their fusion menus that blend American comfort food with unique twists.
Burma SuperstarGlai BaanBoth specializing in exotic flavors and offering an authentic taste of Southeast Asian cuisine.
PizzaioloPizzeria BiancoBoth are local favorites for artisanal, wood-fired pizzas with premium, quality ingredients.
ShakewellThe MissionSimilar in their Spanish and Mediterranean influenced menus, providing both tapas and larger plates.
Donut SavantBosa DonutsFrequent destinations for those with a sweet tooth, known for a vast selection of unique donut flavors.
Brown Sugar KitchenLo-Lo's Chicken & WafflesBoth boast heartwarming, comfort foods rooted in Southern cuisine.
MuaThe Vig FillmoreBoth offer a trendy, eclectic atmosphere perfect for a casual night out with a diverse menu.
NidoBarrio CaféBoth celebrate the explosion of flavors in Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
SeawolfBuck & RiderAlike in their seafood offerings, both feature fresh catches and innovative, coastal dishes.

As you begin to explore Phoenix's culinary landscape, eateries like Pizzeria Bianco stand out for their dedication to crafting pizzas that rival the quality and authenticity of Pizzaiolo in Oakland. Similarly, the transition from Oakland's celebrated Burma Superstar to Phoenix's Glai Baan will delight your palate with an unparalleled exploration of Southeast Asian flavors in a setting that’s both familiar and invigorating. Meanwhile, the comfort food and inviting atmosphere at Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles will remind you of the warmth and authenticity that Brown Sugar Kitchen delivers in Oakland. These establishments not only promise a delicious meal but also an opportunity to create new memories in your new city.

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Oakland vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Oakland, CA and Phoenix, AZ differ in aspects like housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Oakland
Phoenix
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian, Craftsman
Ranch, Spanish Colonial
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Close to BART, Views of SF Bay
Solar panels, Swimming pools

When comparing Oakland and Phoenix, you'll notice significant differences in living costs. The median home price in Oakland is more than double that of Phoenix, which also reflects in the rental market. Furthermore, Oakland's Victorian and Craftsman-style homes present a stark contrast to Phoenix's Ranch and Spanish Colonial architectural influences. Walkability and urban lifestyle scores are higher in Oakland, indicative of a more compact, urban environment compared to Phoenix's spread-out, suburban feel. This aligns with Oakland's emphasis on proximity to public transit, like BART, and views of the San Francisco Bay, whereas Phoenix listings highlight features suited to its hotter climate, like solar panels and swimming pools.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ

1. Arcadia: You’ll find expansive parks and walking trails perfect for your pets to explore in Arcadia.

2. Paradise Valley: Paradise Valley offers a serene and spacious environment with numerous pet-friendly amenities and green spaces.

3. Roosevelt Row: This vibrant arts district not only welcomes pets but also hosts various pet-friendly events and has easy access to outdoor areas.

Oakland vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather comparison between Oakland and Phoenix will affect your daily life. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and preparations for your new home.

Oakland
Phoenix
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Heatwaves, Dust storms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 56°F
106°F / 83°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 44°F
67°F / 46°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23"
9"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Considering the stark weather differences between Oakland and Phoenix, be prepared for significantly hotter summers and brighter days if moving to Phoenix. With an average of 299 days of sunshine, Phoenix experiences a more arid climate, leading to lower humidity levels compared to Oakland. This drastic change necessitates a shift in your wardrobe, home cooling strategies, and possibly even your daily schedule to accommodate peak heat hours. Additionally, the lower annual rainfall in Phoenix emphasizes the necessity for water conservation practices. Adapting to these differences will be crucial for a smooth transition to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

Understanding the financial implications of moving from one city to another is crucial. Moving from Oakland to Phoenix involves comparing cost of living, taxes, and income to gauge how your finances might adjust. This guide provides a snapshot to help you navigate these changes effectively.

Oakland
Phoenix
Avg. Household Income
$82,236
$68,435
Cost of Living Index
139.1
100.7
State Income Tax
9.3%
4.5%
Avg. Property Tax
0.78%
0.62%
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25%
8.6%
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Real Estate, Healthcare, Technology
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

When considering a move from Oakland to Phoenix, it's important to note the significant differences in the cost of living and average household income. Although the average income in Phoenix may be lower, the cost of living in Oakland is considerably higher, reflected in the cost of living index. Moreover, the state income tax is almost half in Phoenix compared to Oakland, which could result in more disposable income for you. While both cities boast strong healthcare and technology industries, the lower tax rates and more affordable living in Phoenix could offer a more comfortable lifestyle for those moving from Oakland. However, it's essential to consider the social challenges each city faces, including levels of poverty and homelessness, which differ between the two.

Oakland vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Oakland & Phoenix provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot designed to offer insights into the community and political atmosphere you'll be moving into, helping you adjust more seamlessly.

Oakland
Phoenix
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Mixed, leaning Democratic
Local Politics
Focused on social equity
Balance of urban development and conservation
Religion
Diverse, with a strong non-religious community
Christian majority, with growing diversity

Understanding the local politics and religious makeup can help you feel more at home in your new city. Oakland's political climate is known for its strong emphasis on social equity and community activism, likely a reflection of its diverse population that champions progressive values. Phoenix, while also leaning Democratic recently, showcases a balance in local politics that spans from urban development initiatives to environmental conservation, mirroring a somewhat more mixed political landscape. Religiously, both cities offer diversity, with Oakland having a notable non-religious or secular community, and Phoenix maintaining a Christian majority alongside its growing religious diversity. This blend of political engagement and religious makeup shapes the unique cultural fabric of each city, giving you a rich community environment to explore and engage with.

Oakland vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Oakland, CA to Phoenix, AZ involves adapting to many changes, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Phoenix aims to give you a better understanding of what each city's commute and traffic landscape looks like.

Oakland
Phoenix
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
32
25
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Yes
No

In Oakland, the availability of public transit options is excellent, with systems like BART and AC Transit providing extensive coverage, making it feasible to live without a car. In contrast, Phoenix’s public transit system, including Valley Metro Rail and bus services, offers less coverage and frequency, emphasizing the necessity of having a car for efficient transportation. While traffic congestion is a bit lower in Phoenix compared to Oakland, the significantly higher dependence on personal vehicles in Phoenix can impact your daily commute times and transportation costs.

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