Best Houston to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Houston to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,873 mile move from Texas to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Houston to Salinas moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Mod Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Houston compared to Salinas. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Houston to Salinas Moving Companies
Cost to Move from Houston to Salinas
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,873 miles from Houston, TX to Salinas, CA will cost on average $3,374 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to Salinas move is roughly $8,138. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,264 | 300 ft³ | 7.55 |
1 Bedroom | $3,374 | 450 ft³ | 7.50 |
2 Bedrooms | $5,586 | 750 ft³ | 7.45 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,138 | 1100 ft³ | 7.40 |
4 Bedrooms | $11,756 | 1600 ft³ | 7.35 |
5+ Bedrooms | $13,136 | 1800 ft³ | 7.30 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Houston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Houston to Salinas Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Mod Movers
1118 Airport Way STE 100
Monterey, CA, 93940
About Mod Movers
Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Interstate Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Pinpoint Movers
7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199
Houston, TX, 77036
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3070055 / 944442 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |

Right Rate Movers of Houston
2925 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX, 77098
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Go Movers
Missouri City, TX
About Go Movers
Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and...
Services
- Local moves
- Nationwide moves
- Cheap moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3790949 / 1365663 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2023) |

Poulos Moving Systems
222 Commission St
Salinas, CA, 93901
About Poulos Moving Systems
A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...
Services
- Local Moves
- Office Moves
- Intrastate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (2022) |

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Houston vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a relocation journey can be both exciting and daunting, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison, focusing on the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Salinas, CA , to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home. By drawing parallels between familiar locales in Houston and their Salinas counterparts, this guide aims to provide a sense of community and continuity in your new surroundings.
Houston | Salinas | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
River Oaks | Maple Park | High-end homes, family-friendly |
Montrose | South Salinas | Diverse, artsy vibe |
The Heights | Laurel Heights | Historic charm, local shops |
Midtown | North Salinas | Dynamic, urban feel |
West University | Creekbridge | Safe, academic atmosphere |
EaDo (East Downtown) | East Salinas | Vibrant, cultural hub |
Galleria | Hardy Park | Shopping, dining options |
Memorial | University Park | Lush landscapes, tranquil |
Upper Kirby | Boronda | Upscale amenities, modern living |
Clear Lake | Sherwood Gardens | Waterfront activities, family-oriented |
If you're drawn to the upscale, historic charm of River Oaks in Houston, you'll find a similar sense of community and architectural grandeur in Maple Park in Salinas, known for its high-end homes and family-friendly environment. Art lovers and those who thrive in a diverse, culturally rich atmosphere, akin to Montrose, will feel right at home in South Salinas. This neighborhood mirrors Montrose's artsy vibe with an eclectic mix of dining and shopping options. For those who appreciate the historic charm combined with local boutiques and eateries as found in The Heights, Laurel Heights offers a comparable experience in Salinas, showcasing its historic roots with a cozy, community feel. On the other hand, if the urban, dynamic lifestyle of Midtown appeals to you, North Salinas presents a similar urban experience, complete with vibrant community events and convenient amenities close to residential areas.

Things to Do in Salinas
- Explore Pinnacles National Park.
- Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
- Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
- Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
- Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
- Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
- Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Salinas
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that can impact your lifestyle in numerous ways. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Houston, TX to Salinas, CA . By contrasting the advantages and disadvantages, we hope to offer valuable insights to help you make a well-informed decision about this life-changing move.
- High humidity
- Flat landscape
- Long summers
- Greater traffic congestion
- Mild climate
- Scenic views
- Shorter, cooler summers
- Smaller population size
- Higher cost of living
- Smaller diversity
- More limited job opportunities
- Fewer dining options
- Lower cost of living
- Diverse culture
- Strong job market
- Wide variety of dining
Choosing between Houston's vibrant city life and Salinas's serene environment comes with its unique set of trade-offs. In Houston, you might be used to a diverse cultural scene full of various dining options like Uchi for upscale sushi or indulging in the legendary Texas BBQ at Killen's Barbecue. Moving to Salinas, though the dining options may be more limited, you'll discover gems like Giannini's Bistro & Grill, offering insights into the local flavors with a personal touch. Moreover, Salinas grants access to outdoor delights with places like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Torro Park nearby, presenting a refreshing blend of scenic beauty and recreational activities.
Houston vs. Salinas Food Guide
When relocating, the flavors and culinary experiences you'll encounter are pivotal to understanding your new home. In this guide, we embark on a delicious journey to compare the local cuisine between Houston, TX & Salinas, CA , helping you savor the essence of each city before making your move.
Houston | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Texas BBQ Brisket | Artichoke |
Most popular meat dish | Fajitas | Tri-tip |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fruit Cups |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegetarian Tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Houston, the culinary scene is as diverse as its population, with restaurants like The Original Ninfa's on Navigation making the city famous for its Tex-Mex, particularly fajitas. Meanwhile, Salinas, located in the heart of California's agricultural region, celebrates its rich produce in dishes like artichoke and tri-tip, a Central Coast barbecue staple. Farmers markets in Salinas offer a delightful selection of fresh, local ingredients, and restaurants such as Giannini's Bistro & Grill present meals that showcase regional produce. Whether it's Houston's iconic BBQ brisket or Salinas's fresh vegetable dishes, each city brings unique flavors to the table.
Houston vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite spot to dine is essential when moving to a new city. This restaurant comparison between Houston and Salinas aims to ease the transition, using familiar tastes from Houston to discover new favorites in Salinas. Whether you're craving upscale dining or a casual bite, this guide will help you find a match in your new hometown.
Houston | Salinas | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Uchi | Montrio Bistro | Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on innovative cuisines. |
Truth BBQ | Salinas City BBQ | Traditional, hearty BBQ meals reminiscent of Texas flavors. |
Common Bond Café & Bakery | Red's Donuts | Though focused on donuts, it offers a cozy, casual café vibe similar to Common Bond. |
The Breakfast Klub | First Awakenings | Known for breakfast and brunch, boasting a friendly atmosphere. |
Hugo's | Ellis Great American Restaurant | Features diverse American and Mexican cuisines, similar in spirit to Hugo's. |
Ninfa's on Navigation | Eagle Restaurant | Authentic Mexican dishes that mirror the traditional flavors found at Ninfa's. |
Phoenicia Specialty Foods | The Market Restaurant | Offers a variety of international foods, akin to Phoenicia's selection. |
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Fisherman's Wharf | Serving fresh seafood dishes in a setting that rivals Pappadeaux's lively atmosphere. |
La Table | Patria | Imparts an elegant dining setting with European influences, similar to La Table's ambiance. |
Katz's Deli | Portobello's | Offers a deli-style menu with a local twist, capturing the essence of Katz's. |
Transitioning from Houston's diverse culinary landscape to Salinas offers an exciting opportunity to discover new dining favorites, without completely leaving behind the flavors you've grown to love. Montrio Bistro in Salinas parallels Houston's Uchi with its focus on innovative and upscale dining, offering a seamless transition for fine dining aficionados. Meanwhile, BBQ enthusiasts will find solace at Salinas City BBQ, where the smoky flavors and hearty meals closely mirror those at Houston's Truth BBQ. And for early risers or brunch lovers, First Awakenings offers a friendly atmosphere alongside delicious breakfast and brunch options, reminiscent of the beloved Breakfast Klub in Houston. These comparisons ensure you won’t have to compromise on taste or experience in your new Salinas home.

Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a vital component of relocating, and understanding how Houston, TX and Salinas, CA compare in terms of housing can significantly influence your decision-making process. This comparison covers various housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
Comparison | Houston | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Ranch-style and Modern | Spanish Revival and Ranch-style |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious layouts, luxury finishes | Family-friendly neighborhoods, proximity to nature |
When considering a move from Houston to Salinas, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rent is immediately noticeable. Salinas offers a more expensive real estate market, nearly doubling Houston's median home price and monthly rent figures. This reflects California's generally high cost of living compared to Texas. Architecturally, while both cities share a fondness for Ranch-style homes, Salinas also prominently features Spanish Revival architecture, adding a unique cultural flair to its housing landscape. For those valuing an active, walkable lifestyle, Salinas marginally outpaces Houston in terms of walkability and bikeability, suggesting a slightly more accommodating environment for pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, real estate listings in Salinas tend to highlight family-friendly attributes and the city's closeness to natural landscapes, aligning with California's renowned outdoor lifestyle.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA
1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.
2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.
3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.
Houston vs. Salinas Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Houston, TX to Salinas, CA, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to can significantly impact your transition. This comparison will illuminate the weather differences between Houston and Salinas, aiding in your preparation for the move.
Houston, TX
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Houston | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tropical Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Houston and Salinas offer their own charm, the transition in weather may be quite stark. You'll likely find Salinas to have a more temperate climate with cooler summers and slightly milder winters compared to the hotter, more humid conditions of Houston. The increased days of sunshine in Salinas compared to Houston offer more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. However, it's also important to consider the difference in natural disaster risks; moving from an area prone to hurricanes to one with risks of earthquakes and wildfires requires adjustments in emergency preparedness. Understanding these nuances ensures you can make the most out of your new environment in Salinas.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Salinas
When considering a move, it's crucial to compare the financial landscapes of your current and future homes. This comparison between Houston and Salinas determines how your finances might adjust. Consider the cost of living, taxes, and income potential to ensure a smooth transition.
Comparison | Houston | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | $80,154 |
Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 0% | 9.3% |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.09% | 0.79% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 9.25% |
Top 3 Industries | Energy, Aerospace, Manufacturing | Agriculture, Educational Services, Manufacturing |
Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
Poverty | Notable | Lower |
Homelessness | Moderate | Less |
The chart above illustrates significant differences that could affect your financial well-being. For instance, while the average household income is higher in Salinas, the cost of living index also significantly outpaces that of Houston, indicating that your income may not stretch as far as anticipated. Additionally, the absence of state income tax in Texas compared to California's considerable rate can have a profound impact on your take-home pay. Finally, the higher affluence and lower poverty rates in Salinas might suggest a higher standard of living, but this comes with its own financial pressures, particularly in terms of housing and daily expenses. Considering these factors is crucial in preparing for your move.
Houston vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Houston, TX to Salinas, CA, understanding the local culture and community is crucial. This comparison of the politics between Houston & Salinas offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you gauge how well you might fit into your new home.
Houston | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Participatory with substantive minority representation | A focus on agricultural and labor issues |
Religion | Diverse, with a strong evangelical Christian presence Lakewood Church | Majority Catholic with significant Diocese of Monterey influence |
The shift from Houston’s balanced yet Democratic-leaning political landscape to Salinas’s predominantly Democratic stance could be notable for you. Houston’s vibrant, participatory local politics with a strong representation across minority groups contrasts with Salinas’s more focused local political scene, especially in areas concerning agriculture and labor due to its position in one of the nation’s most fertile farming regions. Religious life in both cities is rich and varied, but while Houston offers a diverse range of faith communities including a significant evangelical presence, Salinas skews more towards Catholicism, reflecting its demographic makeup and traditional values.
Houston vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Houston, TX to Salinas, CA requires an understanding of the differences in driving and transiting experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston & Salinas will help you better grasp what to expect in your daily commute and traffic conditions.
Comparison | Houston | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 23 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
In Houston, you might find yourself spending a bit more time in your car due to higher traffic congestion compared to Salinas. The availability of public transit in Houston does exist but might not fully support a car-free lifestyle, making it somewhat challenging to get by without one. On the other hand, Salinas offers slightly better public transit options and less traffic congestion, making it more feasible to live without a vehicle. However, depending on your particular needs and lifestyle, both cities will require some level of adaptation when it comes to commuting and getting around.



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