If you're moving from Fargo to Arizona, you're looking at roughly 1,600 miles and a climate shift that's hard to overstate. Summer in Phoenix hits 99°F. Winter in Fargo? Zero degrees. You'll pay more to live there—rent runs about 24% higher—but you'll also get milder winters, less snow, and stronger job prospects. That said, the move itself doesn't come cheap.
Here's what you need to know to plan the thing properly.
Top Moving Companies in Fargo for Arizona Relocations
Out of several movers in the Fargo area capable of handling long-distance moves, these five have the strongest track records and customer ratings:
- Midwest Moving Company — 4.48 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.44 / 5
- 5 Star Moving — 4.28 / 5
- The Apartment Movers — 4.26 / 5
- Schiele Enterprise — 4.02 / 5
Midwest Moving Company
Location: 430 28th Ct NW, Unit A, West Fargo, ND 58078
Rating: 4.48 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB profile
The takeaway: Nearly 94% of their reviews are positive, and for good reason. Customers consistently praise their efficiency, professionalism, and affordability. Movers show up on time, work fast, and actually care about your stuff. A few complaints mention property damage or slow claims handling, but that's the exception.
What they offer: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano moving, crating, full-valuation coverage, safes, and specialty items (hot tubs, pool tables, antiques). They accept cash and credit card, though a deposit is required.
Contact: (800) 851-8235 | License #148 | DOT #3263587 | In business 6 years
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Location: 3222 4th Ave S, #1, Fargo, ND 58103
Rating: 4.44 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews
The takeaway: 93% positive feedback across 223 reviews. Customers love their politeness, swift work, and careful handling. They book easily, arrive promptly, and protect your belongings. The downside: occasional damage reports, unexpected extra charges, or late arrivals. Still, they rank above many competitors for friendliness and speed.
What they offer: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano moving, storage, safes, and credit card payment.
Contact: (701) 297-2264 | DOT #2527384 | In business 24 years
5 Star Moving
Location: 3709 Grandwood Dr, North Fargo, ND 58102
Rating: 4.28 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews
The takeaway: Solid option with 22 years in business. They handle both local and interstate moves with straightforward pricing. Reviews highlight their reliability and professional approach.
What they offer: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, cash and credit card payment.
Contact: (701) 356-6683 | DOT #1087336 | In business 22 years
The Apartment Movers
Location: 541 16th St NE, West Fargo, ND 58078
Rating: 4.26 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB profile
The takeaway: 89% positive across 52 reviews. Customers praise their efficiency and attention to detail. Some report damage or surprise charges, but most note fast, careful work.
What they offer: Local moves, piano moving, storage, full-valuation coverage, cash and credit card payment.
Contact: (701) 365-8600 | DOT #513176 | In business 35 years
Schiele Enterprise
Location: 100 36th Street, South Fargo, ND 58103
Rating: 4.02 / 5 | BBB profile
The takeaway: A solid choice for specialty moves, with 25 years of experience. They handle pianos, art, antiques, and unusual items with care.
What they offer: Local moves, office relocations, piano moving, specialty item crating, safes, cash and credit card payment.
Contact: (701) 532-1377 | DOT #125550 | In business 25 years
What to Expect: Moving Costs from Fargo to Arizona
The price depends on three main variables: how much stuff you have, what service level you choose, and when you move. Here's the breakdown:
Professional Moving Company
| Home Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,364 – $5,748 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,314 – $7,915 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,013 – $10,860 |
Moving Containers (PODS, U-Pack, etc.)
| Home Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,020 – $2,294 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,767 – $3,668 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,433 – $4,623 |
DIY Truck Rental
| Home Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $877 – $1,737 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,037 – $2,128 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,246 – $2,602 |
These estimates are based on a 1,601-mile move and include fuel costs. Your actual quote will vary by move size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel prices, and timing. Always get multiple estimates for comparison.
To estimate your specific move, use our moving cost calculator and get real quotes from multiple companies.
What Drives These Costs
Move size. More stuff = higher cost. A studio runs half the price of a four-bedroom home.
Time of year. Summer is peak season in Fargo. Movers charge premium rates June through August. Spring and fall are cheaper, winter even more so—but you'll deal with weather delays.
Service level. A full-service mover handles everything. You pay more, but you don't lift a finger. Moving containers let you load at your own pace. Truck rentals are cheapest but require you to do all the heavy work yourself.
Cost of Living: Fargo vs. Arizona
Before you pack, understand what "more expensive" actually means in dollars:
| Metric | Fargo, ND | Arizona | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,055 | $1,308 | +24% |
| Average home price | $287,548 | $428,711 | +49% |
| Per capita income | $59,493 | $72,581 | +22% |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 107 | +18% |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 3.6% | No change |
| State income tax | 2.9% | 2.5% | −14% |
Rent jumps 24%. Monthly housing costs will hit harder. If you're renting, budget an extra $250+ per month.
Homes cost 49% more. A house that runs $287k in Fargo goes for $429k in Arizona. That's a bigger mortgage payment, period.
Incomes run higher. Arizona averages 22% more income, which helps offset some costs. Job opportunities tend to be stronger, especially in tech and healthcare.
Overall cost of living is 18% higher. Everything from groceries to utilities costs more. Plan your budget accordingly.
Income tax actually drops. Arizona's state income tax is 0.4 percentage points lower than North Dakota—small relief, but it adds up.
Unemployment is the same. Job availability shouldn't be a concern in either place. Both hover around 3.6%.
Life in Arizona vs. Fargo: What Changes
| Factor | Fargo, ND | Arizona | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 125,990 | 7.4 million | Much bigger, busier |
| Summer high | 82°F | 99°F | Scorching heat |
| Winter low | 0°F | 34°F | Mild winters |
| Annual rain | 24″ | 12″ | Much drier |
| Annual snow | 49″ | 6″ | Almost no snow |
| Crime index | 8.02 | 24.89 | Higher crime |
| Political lean | Republican (50–47) | Democrat (56–44) | More liberal state |
Heat is real. Summer temperatures hit 99°F regularly. That's 17 degrees hotter than Fargo. You'll spend more on air conditioning and need to adjust to the intensity. Outdoor activities shift to early morning and evening.
Winters are mild. Zero-degree nights in Fargo become 34-degree lows in Arizona. No shoveling. No black ice. Heating bills drop significantly.
Much less moisture. Arizona gets 12 inches of rain annually versus Fargo's 24 inches. Snow barely registers—about 6 inches per year versus Fargo's 49 inches. Your skin will feel the dryness; invest in a humidifier.
Crime is higher. Arizona's crime index (24.89) nearly triples Fargo's (8.02). Research neighborhoods before you move. Urban areas like Phoenix and Scottsdale have more property crime than small Fargo. That said, many Arizona neighborhoods are safe; just do your homework.
Politics lean left. Arizona voted Democrat in 2020. If you're coming from a conservative area, the political climate is noticeably different.
Before You Move: Important Details
Don't overlook these logistics—they can slow down or complicate your move:
HOA and Building Rules
Check with your Arizona HOA or building management about moving restrictions. Some have specific windows, elevator reservation requirements, or damage deposits.
Truck Parking and Permits
A few Arizona cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Call ahead to your destination city and ask. Most of the state doesn't require moving permits, but parking regulations vary by neighborhood.
State Licensing
Arizona doesn't regulate movers as heavily as some states, but companies must comply with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and Department of Weights and Measures. Verify your mover has proper licensing before booking.
You can check licensing on Arizona's Department of Weights and Measures website.
Change Your Address with USPS
Submit your USPS change of address at least a week before moving. You can do it online at usps.com. Your mail will forward automatically for 12 months.
Moving Insurance
Most movers offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge—but it covers only 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV would be worth just $15 in a claim. For full replacement value coverage, ask your mover about additional options or third-party insurance.
Use a Moving Checklist
Staying organized is half the battle. Our moving checklist walks you through every step so nothing gets missed.
What to Do in Arizona
Whether you're into outdoors, culture, or sports, Arizona has it.
Museums:
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks & Nature:
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Saguaro National Park
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
Sports:
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities:
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQ
How long does a move from Fargo to Arizona take?
Typically 4 to 15 days depending on the mover's schedule and route. Summer moves may take longer due to higher demand. Confirm delivery timelines with your mover upfront to avoid surprises.
How many Fargo movers offer specialty crating?
Several Fargo movers can handle art, antiques, and delicate items. Midwest Moving Company and Schiele Enterprise both offer custom crating. Confirm before booking if you have unusual items.
What's the best way to ship my car from Fargo to Arizona?
Auto transport services handle the logistics. Choose a company with solid reviews and insurance. Get multiple quotes to compare pricing and timelines.
Why do people move from Fargo to Arizona?
Milder winters, job growth, and lower state income tax draw many people. Arizona has strong opportunities in tech, healthcare, and construction—and the weather is a huge draw for those tired of harsh winters.
Where can I find long-distance movers in Fargo?
Check our long-distance movers guide for detailed company profiles and ratings.
Do Fargo movers accept cash?
Yes—several do. However, cash is uncommon in moving. You'll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due at pickup or after delivery. Confirm payment methods and schedule with your mover.
Ready to Move?
Get quotes from Midwest Moving Company) and other top Fargo movers using our moving cost calculator. Compare prices, services, and timelines side by side, then book with confidence.