Best Detroit to Tucson Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Detroit to Tucson and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,097 mile move from Michigan to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Detroit to Tucson 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 Moving Buddies Tucson AZ), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Tucson. 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.

Best Detroit to Tucson Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Detroit to Tucson Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Moving Buddies Tucson AZ9.069.23Authorized For HHG
2Get Your Move On, LLC9.048.37Authorized For HHG
3Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHG
4Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHG
5High Quality Moving Company8.248.5Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,097 miles from Detroit, MI to Tucson, AZ will cost on average $3,564 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Tucson move is roughly $8,603. 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$2,391300 ft³$7.97
1 Bedroom$3,564450 ft³$7.92
2 Bedrooms$5,903750 ft³$7.87
3 Bedrooms$8,6031100 ft³$7.82
4 Bedrooms$12,4341600 ft³$7.77
5+ Bedrooms$13,8981800 ft³$7.72
*Please note: These Michigan to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & 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 MI to AZ mover.
Michigan iconArrow iconArizona icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tucson to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Tucson Movers

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

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
1
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
2
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.24/10
based on 757+ data points

32401 W 8 Mile Rd

Livonia, MI, 48152

About High Quality Moving Company

High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Detroit vs. Tucson Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Tucson, AZ . This guide will help you match the vibe and community of your current Detroit neighborhood to a similar one in Tucson, ensuring a smoother acclimatization to your new surroundings.

DetroitTucsonHow They're Similar
MidtownWest UniversityVibrant, cultural arts scene
CorktownIron HorseHistoric, community-focused
DowntownDowntown TucsonBustling urban center, nightlife
Eastern MarketMenlo ParkRich history, local markets
Brush ParkArmory ParkHistoric homes, close to downtown
WoodbridgeSam HughesHistoric, close-knit community
Indian VillageEl EncantoUpscale, historic estates
RiverfrontRita RanchFamily-friendly, outdoor activities
Palmer WoodsCatalina FoothillsAffluent, scenic views
Belle IsleSaguaro MirafloresNatural beauty, recreational park

If you're drawn to the distinctive historic charm and community feel of Corktown, you'll find a similar spirit in Tucson's Iron Horse neighborhood, known for its engaging community events and rich history evident in well-preserved homes. For those who appreciate the bustling urban energy and nightlife of Downtown Detroit, Downtown Tucson will not disappoint, with its plethora of dining options, entertainment venues, and diverse cultural events. Likewise, nature lovers who enjoy the recreational opportunities and scenic beauty of Belle Isle might find a new favorite spot in Saguaro Miraflores, offering a serene escape with breathtaking views and outdoor activities for the entire family. This comparison reveals that no matter your lifestyle or preferences, there's a neighborhood in Tucson that can make you feel right at home.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Tucson

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Tucson, AZ , helping you navigate through the ups and downs of such a transition. By showcasing how the cons compare to the pros and vice versa, this guide aspires to assist in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher crime rates
  • Colder winters
  • Less outdoor activities
  • Economic struggles
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Lower crime rates
  • Warmer winters
  • More outdoor activities
  • Better job market
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Smaller music scene
  • Higher living costs
  • Less historical depth
  • Landlocked
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Affordable living
  • Rich history
  • Water access

Moving from Detroit to Tucson introduces you to a different landscape and lifestyle. Tucson's warmer winters are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with destinations like Saguaro National Park and Sabino Canyon offering picturesque trails and natural beauty year-round. Despite the smaller music scene, venues such as the Fox Tucson Theatre still host a variety of performances, ensuring entertainment options are not scarce. Additionally, the city's rising job market in sectors like technology and healthcare provides new employment opportunities not as readily available in Detroit. Though Tucson might come with slightly higher living costs, neighborhoods like the Historic Fourth Avenue offer a unique blend of local shops, restaurants, and activities, paralleling Detroit's own Downtown and Midtown districts in spirit if not in size.

Detroit vs. Tucson Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Tucson to shed light on food, an essential element of local culture and daily life. By comparing the two, you can better gauge the culinary landscape of your new home.

Detroit
Tucson
Most iconic local food item
Detroit-style Pizza
Sonoran Hot Dog
Most popular meat dish
Coney Dog
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Shawarma
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Coney
Vegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Selden Standard
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • El Tucsonense
  • El Charro Café
  • Cup Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Detroit is renowned for its Detroit-style pizza, a rectangular deep-dish delight, and the iconic Coney Dog, a staple found in many of the city's diners. Among these, Lafayette Coney Island stands out as a must-visit. Tucson takes pride in its Sonoran Hot Dog, a bacon-wrapped hot dog with beans, onions, and other toppings, signifying the blend of Mexican and American influences. El Charro Café is a cornerstone in Tucson, offering a taste of the city's culinary tradition. Both cities have a vibrant food truck scene, though Tucson's is notably more abundant, reflecting its eclectic and varied culinary culture. For those moving to Tucson, exploring neighborhoods like Downtown and the Fourth Avenue District will introduce you to a wealth of dining options, from street food to high-end eateries.

Detroit vs. Tucson Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for dining out. This restaurant comparison chart aims to make Detroit, MI, and Tucson, AZ feel like home by guiding you to new favorite eateries based on your current favorites. Whether you're into fine dining or prefer a casual meal, this guide has got you covered.

DetroitTucsonWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardTito & PepModern takes on classic dishes, vibrant atmosphere
Supino PizzeriaAnelloAuthentic Neapolitan pizza, high-quality ingredients
Rose's Fine Food5 Points Market & RestaurantFarm-to-table ethos, hearty breakfasts
Slows Bar BQBrushFire BBQ Co.Slow-cooked meats, range of sauces
Dime StorePrep & PastryCreative brunch menu, artisanal approach
IridescenceHacienda Del SolFine dining with a view, Southwest flavors
AntietamAugust Rhodes MarketNostalgic yet modern dining experience, European influences
KatoiSenae Thai BistroAuthentic Thai cuisine, contemporary setting
La Dolce VitaVivace RestaurantHigh-end Italian dining, exceptional wine list
Mudgie's DeliTime MarketDeli favorites with a local twist, eclectic market space

In transitioning from Detroit to Tucson, you'll find that the culinary landscape in Tucson offers an exciting array of tastes that can easily rival your old favorites. For instance, Anello in Tucson captures the essence of Detroit's beloved Supino Pizzeria with its commitment to authentic Neapolitan pizzas and meticulously sourced ingredients, ensuring each bite transports you to Italy. Meanwhile, Tito & Pep's innovative approach to classic dishes mirrors the creative spirit of Detroit's Selden Standard, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're in the mood for the slow-cooked richness of barbecue at BrushFire BBQ Co., akin to the experience at Slows Bar BQ, or the refined Southwest flavors served up at Hacienda Del Sol, reminiscent of Iridescence’s fine dining, Tucson's culinary scene promises to be a thrilling new chapter in your gastronomic journey.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Tucson Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, diving into the real estate landscape of your prospective city is crucial. Comparing Detroit, MI and Tucson, AZ offers insights into how these two distinct locations match up in terms of housing affordability, style, and lifestyle offerings.

Detroit
Tucson
Typical Architecture Style
Historic Brick Homes
Spanish Colonial
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large Lots, Historic Districts
Mountain Views, Outdoor Spaces

In exploring the real estate landscapes of Detroit and Tucson, the contrast in median home prices stands out, reflecting the broader economic and geographical differences between the two cities. Detroit's historic brick homes offer a glimpse into the city's rich automotive history, positioning it as a unique market for those interested in revitalizing historic properties. Meanwhile, Tucson's affinity for Spanish Colonial architecture echoes its cultural heritage and proximity to the Sonoran Desert, offering residents scenic mountain views and ample outdoor spaces—a testament to its higher valuation in median home prices and rent. Both cities present varied lifestyles, with Detroit edging slightly ahead in urban lifestyle, likely due to its larger urban center and historic cultural venues.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tucson, AZ

1. Sam Hughes : You'll find plenty of parks and walking paths for you and your furry friends, along with a strong sense of community that loves its pets.

2. Oro Valley : This area offers spacious yards, numerous trails, and pet-friendly amenities that ensure your pet feels right at home.

3. Catalina Foothills : With its beautiful scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, your pets will enjoy the hiking trails and pet-friendly parks.

Detroit vs. Tucson Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another brings many changes, but understanding how the weather compares can greatly impact your transition. Let's dive into the weather differences between Detroit and Tucson to better prepare for your move.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 63°F
100°F / 74°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 22°F
65°F / 39°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

34.5
11.3
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

34.1
0.3


When moving from Detroit to Tucson, you'll notice a drastic shift from humid summers and cold, snowy winters to a drier climate with mild winters and very hot summers. Tucson's significantly higher number of sunny days per year and lower average humidity levels represent a major adjustment, potentially impacting your daily activities and health. While both cities experience their unique set of natural disasters, preparing for heatwaves and wildfires in Tucson versus snowstorms in Detroit will require different approaches to safety and home maintenance.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a decision. This comparison serves to highlight the differences in average household income, cost of living, taxation, and more between Detroit, MI, and Tucson, AZ, ensuring you're well-informed about how your finances might adjust.

Detroit
Tucson
Avg. Household Income
$36,140
$50,306
Cost of Living Index
99.4
96.5
State Income Tax
4.25
2.59 to 4.50
Avg. Property Tax
3.4
0.84
Avg. Sales Tax
6
8.7
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Technology, Healthcare
Aerospace, Optics, Tourism
Affluence
Lower
Moderate
Poverty
High
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

In comparing Detroit and Tucson, while Tucson boasts a higher average household income and a moderately higher cost of living, it offers a significantly lower property tax. This could translate to more affordable home ownership for you in Tucson, despite higher sales taxes. Additionally, the diverse economic base in Tucson, underscored by industries like aerospace and tourism, may present broader employment opportunities. Conversely, Detroit's tax landscape and its strong automotive and technology sectors provide different financial advantages and opportunities to consider.

Detroit vs. Tucson Political & Religious Comparison

If you're planning a move from Detroit, MI to Tucson, AZ, understanding the local dynamics is crucial for a smooth transition. This snapshot provides a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Detroit & Tucson , along with the religious makeup of the residents, helping you grasp the cultural nuances of your new city.

Detroit
Tucson
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Leans Democratic
Local Politics
Strong union influence
Focus on environmental and immigration issues
Religion
Mix of Catholic and Protestant; significant Muslim community
Diverse, with a strong presence of Catholic and non-denominational Christian communities

While moving from Detroit to Tucson, you'll find that both cities lean Democratic, but local priorities shift. Detroit's political landscape is deeply influenced by its rich history of automotive manufacturing and strong union presence. In contrast, Tucson's local politics often spotlight environmental preservation and immigration policy, reflecting its desert environment and proximity to the border. Religion in both cities showcases American diversity, with Detroit housing a notable Muslim community among its Christian majority. Tucson's religious scene is similarly varied, with a significant Catholic presence underscoring the broader spiritual tapestry. Understanding these nuances will help you engage more deeply with your new community.

Detroit vs. Tucson Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Detroit, MI to Tucson, AZ demands understanding the key differences in driving and transiting between these two cities. This comparison will offer insights into what you can expect regarding your daily commute and traffic experiences, contrasting the transportation characteristics of Detroit & Tucson.

Detroit
Tucson
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
24
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Yes, with planning

While Detroit and Tucson have similar average commute times, Tucson enjoys slightly less traffic congestion, making your commute potentially less stressful. Detroit's public transit system rates lower in availability compared to Tucson’s, which slightly edges out with a better score, making it more feasible to rely on public transit in Tucson with the right planning. Living without a car in Detroit can be challenging due to the city’s vast layout and less frequent public transportation options. In contrast, Tucson’s layout and public transit system make it possible, though still requiring a bit of strategy regarding where you live and work.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Detroit to Tucson Movers Featured Image