Moving from Phoenix, AZ, to Spokane, WA

Cooling down doesn’t have to mean slowing down in the Pacific Northwest 

Planning to relocate to Spokane, WA, from Phoenix, AZ? Here are three helpful things to know: 

  1. It’s pronounced “Spo-CAN,” not “Spo-CANE” 
  2. Spokane is a fraction of the size of Phoenix 
  3. Snow gear is essential 

Get a head start on your transition to Spokane by learning more about this scenic Eastern Washington city. Then, we’ll tell you about an easy and affordable option for your 1,400-mile move from Phoenix. 

Scale down and discover more value 

While Spokane isn’t tiny, it is compared to Phoenix. Spokane has a population of 230,000 inhabiting the city’s 70 square miles. Conversely, Phoenix (1.7 million) is the nation’s fifth most populated city and covers 517 square miles. That means Spokane is seven times smaller, both in population and in land mass, which creates greater competition for housing. 

Realtor.com ranked Spokane No. 3 on its list of the top 10 hottest housing markets for 2022, behind Salt Lake City, UT and Boise, ID. Spokane’s median housing cost is $350,000 and average rent is $1,350 compared to over $400,000 and $2,000 respectively in Phoenix. Also, while Washington has one of the highest sales tax rates in the U.S., there’s no personal income tax.  

Elements, location create rare climate 

Spokane gets its name from a Native American tribe and translates to “children of the sun.” Though Spokanites don’t see as much sunshine as Phoenicians, locals enjoy what they get. Spokane has a warm-summer humid continental climate because of its combination of heavy winter precipitation (nearly 50 inches of snowfall per year) and elevation. July, the warmest month, averages a pleasant 71 degrees while December temperatures hover around freezing. 

A small-town vibe with big-city amenities 

“Near Nature, Near Perfect” is Spokane’s motto and many of its residents would agree. A river runs through downtown, setting the backdrop for lots of green space and easy access to numerous bike paths, lakes and ski resorts. Here are some attractions you won’t want to miss: 

  • The Spokane River and nearby Columbia River are popular spots for fishing, boating and water activities. 
  • Coeur d’Alene, Idaho — with its sandy beaches and cool blue waters — is just a 40-minute drive north. 
  • Riverfront Park, site of the 1974 World’s Fair, is an eye-catching green space with a sculpture walk. 
  • The Numerica SkyRide, an enclosed cable car, carries passengers on a 15-minute trek over the second largest urban waterfalls in the U.S. The falls are strongest from March through June, offering the best and most diverse views. 
  • Street art brightens the landscape and is abundant throughout the city. 
  • The Northwest Museum of the Arts and Culture keeps the region’s art and history alive. 

While the Spokane sports scene can’t match Phoenix in terms of volume (with four professional teams and Arizona State University), you’ll still have options. Head to the McCarthey Athletic Center (a.k.a. “The Kennel”) and catch the Gonzaga University Bulldogs, one of the top NCAA men’s basketball programs in the country. Baseball fans can watch the Spokane Indians, minor league affiliate of MLB’s Colorado Rockies, play at Avista Stadium from April to September. 

It's much easier to get around 

Unlike Phoenix, traffic is rarely congested in Spokane. For those who opt for public transit, the Spokane Transit Authority operates bus routes throughout the metro area. Cyclists can access numerous bike paths and a system of skywalks connects major buildings, protecting pedestrians from the elements. 

Find your fit in a diverse job market 

Military members from the Phoenix area’s two Air Force bases might be interested to learn that Fairchild Air Force Base, located near Spokane, is home to thousands of military families. Spokane also has a large healthcare sector and agriculture is prominent throughout the area, with more than 2,000 farms producing wheat, apples and dairy products. 

U-Pack eases the stress of long-distance moving 

Do you think driving a large rental truck for 1,400 miles is truly the best option for completing your Phoenix-to-Spokane move? If so, you may want to reconsider. U-Pack® is a long-distance moving company that offers full-service solutions at a DIY price. Save money by loading and unloading at your home or at one of our 240 service centers nationwide, and we’ll take care of the driving. While you manage the other important aspects of your move, we’ll deliver your belongings to your new residence in less than a week. 

Learn more. Get a free quote today!