Best Houston to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Houston to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,875 mile move from Texas to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Houston to San Jose 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 D&L 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Houston to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,875 miles from Houston, TX to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,376 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to San Jose move is roughly $8,142. 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 | $2,265 | 300 ft³ | 7.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,376 | 450 ft³ | 7.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,589 | 750 ft³ | 7.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,142 | 1100 ft³ | 7.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,763 | 1600 ft³ | 7.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,143 | 1800 ft³ | 7.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Houston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Houston to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & San Jose, CA , helping you find areas with similar vibes, amenities, and overall feel. Whether you're searching for bustling streets or serene parks, we've matched neighborhoods to help you start your new chapter on familiar footing.
| Houston | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Heights | Willow Glen | Historic homes, local shops |
| Montrose | The Alameda | Diverse culture, vibrant arts scene |
| River Oaks | Rose Garden | Luxury homes, scenic beauty |
| Midtown | Downtown San Jose | Urban living, nightlife |
| West University | Almaden Valley | Family-friendly, excellent schools |
| The Galleria | Santana Row | Shopping, dining, entertainment |
| EaDo (East Downtown) | SoFA District | Emerging arts, food scene |
| Cypress | Evergreen | Suburban, spacious parks |
| Clear Lake | Alviso | Waterfront views, tech hubs |
| Kingwood | Los Gatos | Green spaces, community spirit |
Exploring neighborhoods like Willow Glen in San Jose can remind you of The Heights in Houston, where the charm of historic homes and the comfort of local shops such as Willow Glen's downtown area creates a welcoming community atmosphere. Similarly, those accustomed to the luxury and scenic beauty of Houston's River Oaks might find themselves drawn to the Rose Garden area in San Jose, renowned for its exquisitely maintained Municipal Rose Garden and upscale residences. For nightlife and urban living, Downtown San Jose offers a dynamic mix of entertainment and dining options, echoing the vibrant energy found in Houston's Midtown. Whether you seek serene suburbs like Almaden Valley, reminiscent of West University's family-friendly environment, or the tech-centric vibe of Alviso as Houston's Clear Lake, San Jose welcomes newcomers with diverse neighborhoods that echo the comforts of home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to San Jose
Moving from Houston, TX to San Jose, CA offers a unique set of challenges and rewards. In this guide, we aim to present an honest reflection of both the good and bad aspects of such a relocation. We've crafted comparative charts to visually break down the cons and pros, helping you weigh Houston's charm against San Jose's allure . It's crucial to consider these factors to make the most informed decision for your lifestyle needs.
Houston, TX- High humidity
- Lower cost of living
- Some areas flood-prone
- Less tech jobs
San Jose, CA- Milder climate
- Higher cost of living
- Less flood risk
- More tech opportunities
San Jose, CA- Expensive housing
- Higher living expenses
- State income tax applies
- Less cultural diversity
Houston, TX- Affordable housing
- Diverse food scene
- No state income tax
- Cultural diversity
When moving from Houston to San Jose, you're not just changing your address but also transitioning into a different lifestyle. Houston's diverse food scene, featuring establishments like Underbelly and its renowned barbecue, contrasts with San Jose's high-tech environment and opportunities in Silicon Valley. While Houston offers reasonably priced housing and a vibrant cultural blend, San Jose stands out with its milder climate and reduced flood risk, making outdoor activities and trips to iconic locations like Alum Rock Park or the Santana Row shopping district more enjoyable year-round. The transition involves adapting to higher living and housing costs but promises a wealth of tech career advancement opportunities not as prevalent in Houston. This comparison sheds light on the necessary considerations and adjustments involved in such a significant move.
Houston vs. San Jose Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and can greatly influence your living experience. In this guide, we will embark on a culinary journey, comparing the local cuisine between Houston & San Jose, so you can better understand the food scene in your new city.
| Houston | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Texas BBQ Brisket | Pho |
| Most popular meat dish | Fajitas | Bánh mì |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Taco Trucks Item |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Houston's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its Tex-Mex and barbecue culture, with iconic dishes like Texas BBQ Brisket and Fajitas widely available, especially in areas like The Heights and Downtown. On the other hand, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, presents a melting pot of cultures, reflecting prominently in its food scene with Vietnamese Pho and Bánh mì being extremely popular, largely attributed to the robust Vietnamese community in neighborhoods like Little Saigon. Both cities boast a vibrant food truck scene, but San Jose slightly edges out with its plethora of options and vegan-friendly offerings, making it an exciting destination for food enthusiasts moving from Houston.
Houston vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Discovering local dining gems is pivotal in making a new city feel like home. This succinct comparison leverages your Houston favorites to guide you to San Jose's restaurant scene, ensuring you quickly find new go-to spots for exceptional meals and memorable dining experiences.
| Houston | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Scott's Seafood | Traditional and fresh seafood offerings |
| Hugo's | Mezcal | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist |
| Brennan's of Houston | The Table | Southern-inspired contemporary American cuisine |
| Uchi | Yuki Sushi | Innovative sushi and Japanese fare |
| The Breakfast Klub | Bill's Café | Classic American breakfast and brunch favorites |
| Truth BBQ | Smoking Pig BBQ | Acclaimed barbeque with a loyal following |
| Phoenicia Specialty Foods | Zanotto's Family Market | A vast selection of international and specialty foods |
| Ninfa's on Navigation | Luna Mexican Kitchen | Authentic and fresh Mexican dishes |
| Killen's Steakhouse | Alexander's Steakhouse | A blend of American and Japanese approaches to steak |
| House of Pies | Peter's Bakery | Known for their burnt almond cake and other classic pastries |
Transplanting from Houston to San Jose doesn't mean you have to compromise on the diversity and quality of your culinary adventures. For instance, the transition from Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen to Scott's Seafood promises a seamless experience for seafood lovers, embodying fresh, traditional dishes that remind you of Gulf favorites. Likewise, those enamored with the rich, Mexican flavors at Hugo's will find Mezcal in San Jose a worthy counterpart, serving authentic Mexican cuisine with a creative flair that's bound to impress. BBQ enthusiasts will rejoice at Smoking Pig BBQ, a spot that rivals the best of Houston's smokehouses, delivering robust flavors that could easily become your new BBQ benchmark. These establishments in San Jose not only parallel the culinary excellence you've cherished in Houston but also welcome you to explore the unique local palate of your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the differences in real estate between Houston, TX, and San Jose, CA, is crucial. This comparison will shine a light on the key aspects that make each city unique, from costs to lifestyle, guiding your decision in the house hunting process.
| Comparison | Houston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch-style, Modern | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Energy efficiency | Proximity to tech hubs, Sustainability |
In comparing Houston and San Jose, it's paramount to weigh both the financial and lifestyle aspects. Houston boasts more affordable living options, with spacious yards being a common feature in homes, reflecting its suburban charm. In contrast, San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, demands a higher cost of living but offers closer proximity to major tech hubs and boasts higher walkability and bikeability scores, appealing to those seeking a more urban lifestyle. Additionally, sustainability and energy efficiency are prevalent attributes in San Jose home listings, mirroring California's strong environmental consciousness.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Houston vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another means adapting to new surroundings, especially the climate. This comparison will highlight how the weather dynamics in Houston and San Jose differ significantly, giving you an insightful prepare for what lies ahead. Knowing these differences is crucial for planning your move effectively.
Houston, TX
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Houston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Houston and San Jose both offer warm climates, the nuances in their weather patterns significantly impact daily life. Houston's higher humidity and risk of hurricanes contrast with San Jose's drier atmosphere and earthquake risk. Additionally, San Jose enjoys more sunny days yearly, which might be appealing if you prefer consistent sunshine. However, it's essential to consider San Jose's significantly lower annual rainfall and potential for wildfires. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move, ensuring that you have the appropriate clothing and home preparations in place.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to San Jose
Moving from one city to another requires a clear understanding of financial differences. This comparison highlights the money and finance aspects between Houston and San Jose to help you gauge the cost of living and economic conditions you're about to face.
| Comparison | Houston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.02% | 0.79% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 9.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Manufacturing, Aeronautics | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Considerable |
It's evident that moving from Houston to San Jose will significantly alter your financial landscape. With an average household income nearly double in San Jose compared to Houston, the opportunities for higher wages are apparent. However, this comes at the cost of a much higher cost of living index and state income tax in San Jose. While the property tax rate is lower in San Jose, the overall expenses, including sales tax, remain high. Industries also differ markedly, with San Jose’s economy heavily leaning on technology. This financial overview should help you prepare for the economic adjustments required in such a move.
Houston vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Houston, TX, to San Jose, CA, it's important to understand the social and cultural landscape you're transitioning into. This quick comparison will provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Houston & San Jose , helping you gauge the community vibe in each city.
| Houston | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Diverse, Lean Liberal | Very Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mixture of Democratic and Republican influence | Primarily Democratic Leadership |
| Religion | Mix, with a notable Christian majority | Diverse, smaller percentage identify with a religion |
In moving from Houston to San Jose, you'll notice a shift towards a more liberal political atmosphere, reflecting in local politics and community initiatives. San Jose's leadership is predominantly Democratic, influencing city policies and social programs. Religious practices in San Jose are diverse, yet there's a trend towards a smaller percentage of the population identifying with a specific religion compared to Houston, where a significant Christian majority shapes public sentiment and community events. This transition might offer you a different cultural and social environment, likely more secular and politically liberal than you're used to in Houston.
Houston vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Houston, TX, to San Jose, CA, brings its own set of changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston & San Jose is designed to help you understand what to expect and how to navigate your new city efficiently.
| Comparison | Houston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | It's challenging |
In both Houston and San Jose, having a car significantly eases mobility, yet each city has distinct transportation nuances. Houston's public transit system, though improving, often makes it difficult to rely solely on it for daily commutes. On the other hand, San Jose, while still presenting challenges for car-free living, offers slightly better public transit options, thanks to the VTA light rail and bus services. Traffic congestion, a common frustration in major cities, is somewhat higher in Houston compared to San Jose, reflecting the larger spatial spread and dependency on cars in Houston. Essentially, adjusting to San Jose from Houston might mean slightly shorter commutes and a marginally better public transit system, but the adaptation will still require navigating a city where a car is an important asset.
Additional Resources
Houston Moving Services
Popular Houston to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
