Moving from Phoenix, AZ to San Francisco, CA
Your Complete Guide
849
Miles
15.4 hrs
Drive Time
I-20 West
Primary Highway
Off-Peak
Current Season
Cost of Living Comparison
Category
Phoenix, AZ
San Francisco, CA
Cost of Living Index
103
200
Median Home Price
$380,000
$1,400,000
Median 1BR Rent
$1,300/mo
$3,100/mo
Avg Monthly Utilities
$175
$125
Grocery Index
100
112
Best Stops Along the Way
Breaking up a 849-mile drive? Here are great places to stop between Phoenix, AZ and San Francisco, CA.
Tucson, AZ
A desert city with a rich cultural identity blending Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences. Named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
Saguaro National Park, University of Arizona, and Sonoran cuisine
Las Vegas, NV
The Entertainment Capital of the World, famous for its Strip, shows, and nightlife. A rapidly growing desert metropolis with no state income tax.
The Strip, world-class entertainment, and 24/7 nightlife
State Transition Guide: Arizona → California
Moving from Arizona to California? Here's what you need to know about updating your documents.
Driver's License
Update within 10 days of establishing residency in California
Vehicle Registration
Register vehicle within 20 days in California
Vehicle inspection: Smog check required
Things to Know About California
- Smog certification required for vehicle registration
- Proposition 13 limits property tax increases
- Lane splitting on motorcycles is legal
Frequently Asked Questions
The drive is approximately 849 miles via I-20 West, taking about 15.4 hours of driving. We recommend breaking this into 2 days of driving, accounting for stops, fuel, and rest.