buffalo to az

---
title: "Moving from Buffalo to Arizona: Costs, Top Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Heading from Buffalo, NY to Arizona? Real cost ranges, ranked local movers, cost-of-living comparison, and practical tips for this 2,100-mile move."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Buffalo to Arizona", "Buffalo to Arizona movers", "cost to move from Buffalo to Arizona", "Buffalo NY moving companies", "long-distance movers Buffalo", "Buffalo Arizona moving cost", "moving companies Buffalo to Arizona"]
---

# Moving from Buffalo to Arizona

If you're moving from Buffalo to Arizona, you already know you're making a dramatic trade: lake-effect winters and a tight Rust Belt city for desert heat, open landscapes, and a cost of living that's noticeably higher than what you're used to. The distance alone — roughly 2,121 miles — puts this firmly in long-haul territory, and the planning needs to match.

This guide covers what the move actually costs, which Buffalo movers hold up on a cross-country haul, and what to expect when you land.

## Local Moving Companies in Buffalo

Out of the Buffalo movers I've tracked that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the five worth considering for the Arizona route:

1. Wayfinder Moving Services — 4.5 / 5
2. Corrigan Moving Systems — 4.36 / 5
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.28 / 5
4. Best Buffalo Movers — 4.02 / 5
5. Pryority Movers — 4.16 / 5

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### Wayfinder Moving Services
**75 Comet Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216**

- 4.5 / 5
- [15 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/wayfinder-moving-services-buffalo)
- [375 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Wayfinder+Moving+Services+Buffalo%2C+NY&sca_esv=dd138bd06aacfbd4&sxsrf=AHTn8zra-10ijJua_33xFRhO8CVvlA1DAw%3A1738223761365&ei=kTCbZ6aAFsXU1e8Pl-i5mQ4&ved=0ahUKEwjmjNiO_JyLAxVFavUHHRd0LuMQ4dUDCBE&uact=5&oq=Wayfinder+Moving+Services+Buffalo%2C+NY#lrd=0x89d36dff098f2d77:0xed951d2b45f6d3a2,1,,,,)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/buffalo/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/wayfinder-moving-services-inc-0041-235991885)

**92% positive | 4% negative**

Wayfinder earns the top spot here. Across 227 reviews analyzed, 91.6% were positive — customers consistently mention professional crews, efficient work, careful handling, and jobs that came in at or below the quoted price. That last piece matters a lot on a move this long. The minority of negative feedback points to item damage, estimates that ran higher than expected, and occasional delayed arrivals or lack of follow-up on problems. For most people making the Buffalo-to-Arizona trip, though, Wayfinder delivers.

**State license:** 40318 | **DOT #:** 3104397 | **Years in business:** 6

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage | Accepts credit cards

---

### Corrigan Moving Systems
**1845 Dale Rd, Buffalo, NY 14225**

- 4.36 / 5
- [5 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/corrigan-moving-systems-buffalo)
- [546 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Cook+Moving+Systems+Buffalo+NY&source=lmns&bih=929&biw=1920&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjdisfP-On_AhUmFGIAHV6XDJkQ_AUoAHoECAEQAA#lrd=0x89d30d16f8ceb5eb:0x8e6e62f80c3167be,1,,,,)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/buffalo/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/corrigan-moving-0041-235991799)

**96% positive | 4% negative**

Corrigan's numbers are genuinely strong. Of 224 reviews analyzed, 95.5% were positive — customers highlight professional and courteous crews, careful handling, and well-organized moves through high-stress situations. The rare complaints involve unexpected charges, missing items, or property damage. That negative rate is well below the industry norm. At 97 years in business, they carry real institutional knowledge on interstate moves.

**State license:** 779 | **DOT #:** 77949 | **Years in business:** 97

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, crating, storage

---

### TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
**3860 Broadway, Suite A1, Cheektowaga, NY 14227**

- 4.28 / 5
- [34 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/two-men-and-a-truck-cheektowaga)
- [611 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=two+men+and+a+truck+%22buffalo%22&biw=1440&bih=718&ei=8uvZYML-OMma_QaVwoOYCw&oq=two+men+and+a+truck+%22buffalo%22#lrd=0x89d30b22ce069c3b:0xe271a2cfb06a1291,1,,,)
- [BBB Grade: F](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/cheektowaga/profile/moving-companies/two-men-and-a-truck-0041-236006672)

**79% positive | 21% negative**

The brand name is recognizable, but the F from the BBB and a 21% negative review rate deserve attention. Of 246 reviews, roughly 79% were positive — customers mention quick crews, polite teams, and movers who take care with fragile items. The more common complaints involve damaged belongings and billing surprises. If you use them, get every line item in writing before moving day.

**State license:** 40835 | **DOT #:** 2527384 | Also operates as: Bulldog Movers LLC

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, storage, safes | Accepts credit cards

---

### Best Buffalo Movers
**392 Genesee Street, Buffalo, NY 14204**

- 4.02 / 5
- [4 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/best-buffalo-movers-buffalo)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/buffalo/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/best-buffalo-movers-0041-235986038)

**92% positive | 6% negative**

The review pool is smaller (71 analyzed), but the signal is consistent. Customers point to on-time arrivals, fair pricing, careful handling, and responsive communication throughout the job. Negative cases mention no-shows, unprofessional interactions, and a few lost items — rare, but real. With 28 years in business and a clean BBB record, they're worth a quote.

**Years in business:** 28

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, storage, safes

---

### Pryority Movers
**1616 Main Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14305**

- 4.16 / 5
- [14 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/pryority-delivery-services-niagara-falls-3)
- [BBB Grade: F](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/niagara-falls/profile/moving-companies/pryority-delivery-services-0041-235995186)

**40% positive | 60% negative**

I'll be direct: the numbers here are a real problem. Despite a passable star rating, only 40% of feedback is genuinely positive — more than half of reviews describe delayed service, unexpected charges, and billing disputes. The BBB gives them an F. Some customers had fine experiences, but the recurring pattern of complaints around honesty and reliability is too consistent to dismiss. I'd try every other option on this list first.

**State license:** 41063 | **Years in business:** 6 | Also operates as: Pryority Delivery Services

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, crating | Accepts credit cards

---

## Local Moving Services in Buffalo, NY

A quick look at specialty service availability across these five Buffalo movers:

| Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 5 of 5 (100%) |
| Small moves | 3 of 5 (60%) |
| Pianos | 4 of 5 (80%) |
| Antiques | 0 of 5 (0%) |
| Art | 0 of 5 (0%) |
| Fragile-only packing | 0 of 5 (0%) |

## Cost to Move from Buffalo, NY to Arizona

Here's what you can expect to pay depending on your home size and service type. All figures are based on the approximately 2,121-mile route from Buffalo to Arizona.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,074 – $4,299 | $1,090 – $2,952 | $1,207 – $2,196 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,018 – $6,252 | $1,958 – $4,206 | $1,269 – $2,562 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,279 – $9,558 | $2,713 – $5,572 | $1,570 – $3,365 |

*Estimates based on verified pricing data as of January 2026, updated monthly. Final charges vary based on move scope, add-ons, parking or access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. Get multiple quotes to nail down your actual number.*

Use the [MoveFinders moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a personalized estimate based on your specific home size and dates.

### Cost to Hire Movers from Buffalo to Arizona

A studio or one-bedroom move runs **$1,074 to $4,299** with a full-service mover. Two- to three-bedroom homes typically fall in the **$3,018 to $6,252** range. Larger households — four bedrooms and up — should expect **$5,279 to $9,558**.

Those ranges are wide on purpose. Timing, access conditions, stairs, extra stops, and how far ahead you book all affect the final number. [Long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) who regularly run interstate routes tend to price this corridor more accurately than generalist local companies that do out-of-state moves occasionally.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Buffalo to Arizona

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are worth considering on a move this long — a carrier drops off the container, you load it on your own schedule, and they ship it to Arizona. For a small load, expect **$1,090 to $2,952**. A two- or three-bedroom home typically runs **$1,958 to $4,206**. Larger households should budget **$2,713 to $5,572**.

Compare a few container companies directly — pricing variation on a 2,000-mile-plus route is more significant than on shorter hauls.

### Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Buffalo to Arizona

If you want the cheapest option and don't mind doing all the work yourself, a [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the way to go. For a studio or one-bedroom, plan on **$1,207 to $2,196**. Two- to three-bedroom moves typically land at **$1,269 to $2,562**, and larger households run **$1,570 to $3,365**. These ranges include estimated fuel costs.

Before you commit, seriously price out the fuel, lodging, and time for a 2,100-mile drive. The savings narrow faster than most people expect.

## Factors Influencing Moving Costs from Buffalo to AZ

A few variables consistently move your price up or down:

- **Move size:** More rooms and more belongings mean more truck space, more labor, and a higher bill. No surprise, but it's the strongest single driver.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak moving season. Booking in fall or early spring typically gets you better rates and more mover availability.
- **DIY vs. professional:** [Cheap movers](/best/cheap-movers) or a rental truck saves money upfront, but you're trading protection, convenience, and liability coverage for it.

## What You Should Know Before Moving from Buffalo to AZ

[Moving to Arizona](/movers/arizona) from Buffalo is a full lifestyle shift. The weather, housing costs, job market, and tax situation all change meaningfully. Here's the honest comparison.

### Compare Cost of Living: Buffalo vs. Arizona

| | Buffalo, NY | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,200 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $213,418 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,443 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.5% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 2.5% |

*Buffalo sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Arizona sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

What these numbers actually mean for your budget:

- **Rent** is about 9% higher in Arizona. Manageable, but worth factoring into your monthly numbers before you sign a lease.
- **Home prices** run roughly 101% higher than in Buffalo. If you're buying, this is the biggest financial adjustment you'll face.
- **Incomes** average about 14% higher in Arizona, which partially offsets the higher cost of living.
- **Overall cost of living** in Arizona is about 16% higher than Buffalo's. Build that into your first-year budget from day one.
- **Unemployment** is approximately 62% lower in Arizona than in Buffalo — if part of the reason you're leaving is work, the numbers support the move.
- **State income tax** drops from [New York](/movers/new-york)'s 10.9% to Arizona's 2.5%. You'll see real additional take-home pay every paycheck.

### How Life Is Different in Buffalo, NY from Arizona

| | Buffalo, NY | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 278,349 | 7,431,344 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57–42 | Democrat 56–44 |
| Summer high | 81°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 17°F | 34°F |
| Annual rain | 39″ | 12″ |
| Annual snow | 85″ | 6″ |
| Crime index | 8.0 | 24.89 |

*Buffalo sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Arizona sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow.*

The honest breakdown:

- **Summer heat is serious.** Arizona averages 99°F highs — sustained desert heat, not a heat wave. Budget for higher cooling costs and adjust your outdoor habits accordingly.
- **Winters are genuinely mild.** Arizona bottoms out around 34°F versus Buffalo's 17°F lows and 85 inches of annual snow. No more digging out your car at 6 a.m. That alone moves a lot of people.
- **Significantly drier.** Arizona averages 12 inches of rain annually versus Buffalo's 39. More sun, less grey — which is either a feature or a loss depending on how you're wired.
- **Crime is higher.** Arizona's crime index sits at 24.89 compared to Buffalo's 8.0. Research specific neighborhoods carefully before committing to a location — the state average doesn't tell the full story.
- **Politically similar margins.** Both lean Democratic, though Arizona's edge is tighter. Not a sharp culture shock either way.

### Other Considerations When Moving to Arizona

A few practical details that can trip people up on a long-distance move if you wait until the last minute:

- **HOA rules:** Many Arizona neighborhoods have HOAs with specific rules about moving trucks, times, and access. Check before booking your mover.
- **Elevator reservation:** If either end of your move involves a building with an elevator, reserve it in advance. Losing two hours waiting on an elevator on moving day is an expensive mistake.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some cities require permits for large moving vehicles. Confirm the rules at both your departure address in Buffalo and your destination in Arizona.
- **State licensing:** Arizona is largely an unregulated state for movers, but local companies are still subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations. Verify that your mover is properly licensed before you book.
- **Moving permits:** Arizona doesn't require a general moving permit, but check local parking ordinances at your specific destination address.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address at least one week before the move. You can set the exact forwarding start date at usps.com.
- **Moving insurance:** The baseline Released Value Protection most movers include at no extra charge pays out only 60 cents per pound per item. On a 25-pound TV, that's $15 in coverage. For anything of real value, ask your mover about Full Value Protection or look into third-party insurance before your belongings travel 2,100 miles.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to track everything from first quote to final box. The small details are consistently what bite people on long-distance moves.

### Things to Do in Arizona

Whether you're drawn to outdoor spaces, cultural institutions, or sports, Arizona has serious depth once you settle in.

#### 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 Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)

#### Universities in Arizona

- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Buffalo to Arizona take?

Typically 6 to 17 days, depending on the service level and carrier schedule. Full-service movers on long-distance routes quote a delivery window rather than a specific date — your position on their truck route determines where in that window you land. Summer moves tend to push toward the longer end. Always get your delivery window in writing before you sign anything.

### What's the availability of custom crating among movers in Buffalo?

Three Buffalo movers can build custom crates for items like art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. If you have specific dimensional requirements or need particular materials, confirm those details directly with the company — don't assume a standard crate will fit what you need.

### What is the best way to get a car from Buffalo to Arizona?

Auto transport is the practical choice for most people on a move this long. Look for carriers with solid reviews specifically on the New York–Arizona corridor. See our guide to the [best car shipping companies](/best/car-shipping) for vetted options, or use the [car shipping cost calculator](/calculator/car-shipping) for a baseline number.

### Why are people moving from Buffalo to Arizona?

Mostly two things: economic opportunity and weather. Arizona's unemployment rate is dramatically lower than Buffalo's, and the mild winters are a genuine draw for anyone who's spent decades under lake-effect snow. The trade-offs — higher housing costs and relentless summer heat — are real, but most people making this move consider it a worthwhile exchange.

### Where can I find long-distance moving companies in Buffalo?

The ranked list above is your starting point. For a broader look at vetted [interstate movers](/best/long-distance-movers) who cover this corridor, see our full guide.

### Can I use cash to pay a mover in Buffalo, NY?

No Buffalo movers currently listed accept cash. Most require a card, ACH transfer, or certified funds — typically a deposit at booking and the balance at pickup or delivery. Confirm the exact payment timeline and method before you commit to anything.

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*Compare multiple quotes before locking in a mover for a haul this long. [Start your estimate here.](/calculator)*