---
title: "Moving from Stockton, CA to Arizona: Costs, Top Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Real cost estimates, top mover reviews, and an honest cost-of-living breakdown for moving from Stockton to Arizona. Updated for 2026."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Stockton to Arizona", "Stockton to Arizona movers", "Stockton to Arizona moving cost", "long-distance movers Stockton CA", "moving companies Stockton", "California to Arizona moving cost"]
---
If you're moving from Stockton to [Arizona](/movers/arizona), the financial argument makes itself pretty quickly. Rent is cheaper, the job market is stronger, and Arizona's income tax rate is a fraction of what [California](/movers/california) takes. This is a route where the numbers are generally on your side before you've even called a mover.
The drive is about 855 miles — squarely in long-distance territory. That means interstate regulations, delivery windows, and pricing that looks different from a local move. Here's what it actually costs, which Stockton movers I'd recommend for this route, and what changes when you cross into Arizona.
---
## Top Stockton Movers for Your Move to Arizona
Out of 18 Stockton-area movers with interstate authority, these five are the ones worth your time:
1. **MidCal Moving and Storage Company** — 4.38 / 5
2. **Grace Moving Company** — 4.76 / 5
3. **Pete's Moving Services** — 4.56 / 5
4. **All Star Movers & Storage** — 4.70 / 5
5. **Casey Moving Systems** — 4.50 / 5
---
## Local Moving Companies in Stockton
### MidCal Moving and Storage Company
607 N. Carlton Ave Ste B, Stockton, CA 95203 | **4.3 / 5**
- **85%** positive reviews | **12%** negative
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/mid-cal-moving-and-storage-agent-for-bekins-van-lines-stockton) (33) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Mid+Cal+Moving+stockton+ca&source=lmns&bih=929&biw=1920&rlz=1C1CHBF_enPH1019PH1019&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjQ57Tk2Nf7AhVXEKYKHS8rBoYQ_AUoAHoECAEQAA#lrd=0x80900d8eb3632191:0x571c84786557aa2,1,,,) (68) | [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/stockton/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/midcal-moving-and-storage-company-1156-13000108)
- **Phone:** (855) 780-0707
**State license:** 0190750 | **DOT:** 2778166 | **Years in business:** 169
**Also known as:** Bekins, D & S Simoni Inc.
Across 107 reviews, MidCal scores well for careful handling, prompt crews, and organized packing — the fundamentals that matter most when you're shipping a household 855 miles. Damage-free deliveries get mentioned repeatedly, which isn't something you can say about every mover in this market. The caveat: the minority of negative reviews involve real problems — missing items, property damage, and claims processes that customers describe as unresponsive. If you're moving irreplaceable items, review your coverage options before signing. Otherwise, MidCal is a legitimate choice for this route.
**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes, credit card accepted.
---
### Grace Moving Company
800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA 95351 | **4.7 / 5**
- **92%** positive reviews | **7%** negative
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/grace-moving-modesto) (231) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Grace+Moving+Company+modesto&ei=V_f-YP33HdqntQa7pbG4Ag&oq=Grace+Moving+Company+modesto&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAMyCwguEMcBEK8BEJMCOgcIABBHELADSgQIQRgAUMAfWMAfYKYhaAJwAngAgAFbiAGUAZIBATKYAQCgAQGqAQdnd3Mtd2l6yAEGwAEB&sclient=gws-wiz&ved=0ahUKEwi9_4rNp4HyAhXaU80KHbtSDCcQ4dUDCA8&uact=5#lrd=0x8090537df9eb66e3:0xa7fdce087ec1d155,1,,,) (117) | [BBB: Grade A](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/modesto/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/grace-moving-company-llc-1156-40000128)
- **Phone:** (209) 821-1520
**State license:** 0189642 | **DOT:** 2806730 | **Years in business:** 26
A 92% positive rate across 467 reviews is hard to fake and genuinely hard to achieve. Grace's customers consistently point to on-time arrivals, transparent pricing, and final bills that land at or under the estimate — which is rarer than it should be in this industry. Crews get praised for being communicative and careful with belongings. The 7% negative reviews flag damage and claims responsiveness as weak points, which are the same complaints you see at most movers. The difference here is how small that percentage is. Grace is the highest-rated company on this list by review volume, and for good reason.
**Services:** Local, interstate, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, credit card accepted.
---
### Pete's Moving Services
5662 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368 | **4.5 / 5**
- **86%** positive reviews | **13%** negative
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/petes-moving-services-salida) (255) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Pete%E2%80%99s+Moving+Services+active%095662+Pirrone+Road&ei=IW_SY6n4Fp6G1e8PhNm2uAg&ved=0ahUKEwjpjNzBm-X8AhUeQ_UHHYSsDYcQ4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=Pete%E2%80%99s+Moving+Services+active%095662+Pirrone+Road&gs_lcp=Cgxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAQAzIFCAAQogQyBwgAEB4QogQyBQgAEKIEMgUIABCiBDoKCAAQRxDWBBCwAzoNCAAQRxDWBBDJAxCwAzoICAAQkgMQsAM6BggAEBYQHkoECEEYAEoECEYYAFCtDFiLP2D5QWgDcAF4AIABfIgBzwGSAQMxLjGYAQCgAQGgAQLIAQnAAQE&sclient=gws-wiz-serp#lrd=0x809051acfcac6913:0x9163aed54a06f31,1,,,,) (831) | [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/modesto/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/petes-moving-services-1156-90018960)
- **Phone:** (209) 442-4949
**State license:** 0191440 | **DOT:** 3314910 | **Years in business:** 12
**Also known as:** Petes Moving Services LLC, Pete's Moving Services LLC
Pete's has 471 reviews and 86% are positive — enough volume to trust the trend. Crews get consistent credit for punctuality, clear communication, and working efficiently without cutting corners. The 13% negative reviews are worth noting: a meaningful portion involve damaged items and packing quality issues. On an 855-mile interstate haul, packing matters more than on a local job. If you're booking Pete's, ask explicitly about their packing standards and what coverage applies if something gets damaged in transit.
**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage, credit card accepted.
---
### All Star Movers & Storage
101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA 94568 | **4.7 / 5**
- **96%** positive reviews | **4%** negative
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/all-star-movers-and-storage-dublin) (216) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=All+Star+Movers+%26+Storage+Dublin%2C+CA&oq=All+Star+Movers+%26+Storage+Dublin%2C+CA&aqs=chrome..69i57j0i30j69i61l2.4811j0j9&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x808fe93480ae629f:0x6f21b55f7d804593,1,,,,) (283) | [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/dublin/profile/moving-companies/all-star-movers-storage-inc-1116-535162)
- **Phone:** (925) 905-9889
**State license:** 0191302 | **DOT:** 2971368 | **Years in business:** 10
The 96% positive rate across 421 reviews puts All Star at the top of this list for consistency. What I find meaningful isn't just the rating — it's what customers actually mention: crews finishing faster than expected, rates that match the quote, and no surprise charges at delivery. Those are exactly the things that go sideways with the movers you regret hiring. The handful of complaints center on estimate accuracy and minor damage. Overall, All Star is the most reliably reviewed option in this group.
**Services:** Local, interstate, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, crating, full-valuation coverage, credit card accepted.
---
### Casey Moving Systems
2209 Fairview Drive, Ceres, CA 95307 | **4.5 / 5**
- **75%** positive reviews | **25%** negative
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/casey-moving-systems-ceres-2) (31) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Casey+Moving+Systems+%092209+Fairview+Drive+Ceres&ei=rHbSY8vmDIGphwP2nLaQBQ&ved=0ahUKEwjL7LTaouX8AhWB1GEKHXaODVIQ4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=Casey+Moving+Systems+%092209+Fairview+Drive+Ceres&gs_lcp=Cgxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAQAzIHCAAQHhCiBDoKCAAQRxDWBBCwAzoGCAAQFhAeSgQIQRgASgQIRhgAULwEWP9RYLdTaAJwAXgAgAGlAogB2AaSAQUyLjEuMpgBAKABAaABAsgBA8ABAQ&sclient=gws-wiz-serp) (25) | [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/ceres/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/casey-moving-systems-1156-350088)
- **Phone:** (209) 531-9010
**State license:** 0115405 | **DOT:** 153088 | **Years in business:** 23
**Also known as:** Casey Records Management, Dawson Van & Storage, [United Van Lines](/company/united-van-lines)
Casey's review sample is small — 63 total — so I'd weight their numbers accordingly. A 75% positive / 25% negative split is workable for some moves but leaves more room for uncertainty than I'd like on a long interstate haul. Positives focus on organized crews, respectful movers, and honest pricing. Negatives hit on damaged or missing items and poor claims follow-through. Casey can deliver a good experience, but given the smaller track record and higher negative rate, make sure your insurance coverage is solid before you book.
**Services:** Local, interstate, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage, credit card accepted.
---
## Moving Services Available in Stockton, CA
Here's a quick look at what the 18 interstate-capable Stockton movers offer:
| Service | # of Movers | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 15 | 83% |
| Small moves | 4 | 22% |
| Antiques | 9 | 50% |
| Art handling | 10 | 56% |
| Piano moving | 15 | 83% |
| Fragile-only packing | 5 | 28% |
---
## Cost to Move from Stockton, CA to Arizona
Before you start calling movers, it helps to know what you're working with. Use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a personalized estimate based on your home size, move date, and specific needs. The table below gives you the rough ranges for this 855-mile route across three service types.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 BR | $1,180 – $4,215 | $764 – $1,783 | $549 – $1,078 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,222 – $5,769 | $1,305 – $2,711 | $635 – $1,269 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,706 – $7,468 | $1,881 – $3,477 | $765 – $1,510 |
*Estimates based on an 855-mile move from Stockton, CA to Arizona using pricing data compiled by MoveFinders as of January 2026. Your total will vary with load size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel prices, and your move date. Get multiple quotes to validate.*
### Cost to Hire Movers from Stockton to Arizona
A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,180–$4,215. Two to three bedrooms land between $2,222 and $5,769. A four-plus bedroom home pushes costs to $3,706–$7,468. If the upper end feels steep, keep in mind that [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) are managing a full household over 855 miles — the cost reflects that scope.
### Cost of Moving Containers from Stockton to Arizona
[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are a reasonable middle ground: the company handles transport while you control the loading and timing. Expect $764–$1,783 for a small move, $1,305–$2,711 for two to three bedrooms, and $1,881–$3,477 for a larger home. It's worth comparing a few container companies — pricing on this route varies more than you'd expect.
### Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Stockton to Arizona
[Rental trucks](/best/truck-rentals) are the cheapest option on paper, provided you're willing to do the driving and heavy lifting. A studio or one-bedroom haul runs $549–$1,078. Two to three bedrooms: $635–$1,269. Four-plus bedrooms: $765–$1,510. Fuel is factored into these estimates. Just factor in that an 855-mile drive through the desert in a loaded moving truck is a real commitment — "cheaper" has a cost of its own.
Stockton sits between Sacramento and the Bay Area, so if you're starting from elsewhere in the region, the costs will be comparable. Our [San Francisco to Arizona guide](/movers/san-francisco-to-az) covers similar distance at similar rates if you need a second reference point.
---
## What Affects Your Moving Cost from Stockton to Arizona
Three variables move the number most:
- **Home size and volume:** Your load size is the biggest single driver of cost — it determines truck size, crew size, and time.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season. If your schedule allows, fall and winter moves typically come with better availability and lower rates.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Hiring movers costs more upfront but gets you eight-plus hours of your life back. Renting a truck is cheaper but requires driving 855 miles yourself.
---
## What to Know Before Moving from Stockton to Arizona
### Cost of Living: Stockton vs. Arizona
The financial case for this move is real. Here's the side-by-side:
| | Stockton, CA | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,775 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $437,561 | $428,711 |
| Per capita income | $63,915 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 125 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |
*Stockton sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Arizona sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*
What this actually means for your budget:
- **Rent** is about 26% lower in Arizona — that difference shows up every month without you doing anything.
- **Home prices** are comparable, so your mortgage math stays roughly the same if you're buying.
- **Per capita income** is around 14% higher in Arizona, meaning more room to save or invest on top of the lower expenses.
- **Cost of living** is about 14% lower overall — that compounds across groceries, utilities, and services.
- **Unemployment** is around 65% lower in Arizona. That's a meaningful difference for anyone job-hunting after the move.
- **State income tax** is the headline number: Arizona's 2.5% versus California's 13.3%. For higher earners, this move can pay for itself in the first year.
### How Life Changes: Stockton vs. Arizona
| | Stockton, CA | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 320,804 | 7,431,344 |
| Political leaning | Democratic (49.8–48.3) | Democrat (56–44) |
| Summer high | 93°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 38°F | 34°F |
| Annual rain | 17″ | 12″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 6″ |
| Crime index | 75.2 | 24.89 |
*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, AirNow.*
A few things worth calling out:
- **Heat:** Arizona summers push to 99°F, noticeably hotter than Stockton's 93°F. Budget for meaningfully higher cooling costs — this isn't a rounding error.
- **Winter:** Both cities bottom out around 34–38°F, so the adjustment there is minimal.
- **Snow:** Arizona gets about 6 inches annually. Stockton sees none. Depending on where in Arizona you land, you may need winter gear and a snow shovel for the first time in your life.
- **Crime:** Arizona's crime index of 24.89 versus Stockton's 75.2 is a dramatic difference. That's not just a statistic — it's a change in daily life for a lot of people who make this move.
### Other Logistics Before the Move
- **HOA rules:** If you're moving into a community with an HOA, check their moving policies early. Many restrict hours, truck sizes, or access points.
- **Elevator reservations:** Moving into a multi-story building? Reserve the elevator well in advance — most require a time window and advance notice.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Arizona cities require permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles. Check with your destination city before moving day, not after.
- **State licensing:** Arizona movers operate under oversight from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and the Department of Weights and Measures. Verify that your mover holds a valid license before you sign anything.
- **Moving permits:** Arizona doesn't require moving permits, but confirm local parking restrictions at your destination address.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address form at least a week before the move. Set it to activate on your actual move date so your mail follows you without a gap.
- **Moving insurance:** Every carrier is required to offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge — but the coverage is minimal. The limit is 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV that gets destroyed pays out $15 under that plan. For anything of real value, ask your mover about full-value protection or look at third-party insurance.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to stay organized through the whole process and avoid the things people forget until it's too late.
---
## Things to Do in Arizona
Once you're settled, Arizona has a lot going on:
### Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
### Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
### Sports Teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona
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