Best Houston to Austin Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Houston to Austin and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 166 mile long distance Texas move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 220 Houston to Austin moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Jonah's Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Houston compared to Austin. 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 Austin Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Houston to Austin
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 166 miles from Houston, TX to Austin, TX will cost on average $1,922 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to Austin move is roughly $4,589. 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 | $1,297 | 300 ft³ | 4.32 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,922 | 450 ft³ | 4.27 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,166 | 750 ft³ | 4.22 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,589 | 1100 ft³ | 4.17 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,595 | 1600 ft³ | 4.12 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,330 | 1800 ft³ | 4.07 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Houston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Houston to Austin Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Jonah's Movers
This listing has been claimed by Jonah's Movers11714 Boudreaux Rd Suite 216
Tomball, TX, 77375
About Jonah's Movers
If you’re looking for a trusted, insured moving company in the Conroe or Woodlands area, then you can stop your search....
Services
- Local Moving Service
- In-State Moving Service
- Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2574928 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2024) |
Einstein Moving Company
9200 Brown Ln a
Austin, TX, 78754
About Einstein Moving Company
For almost ten years, the locally owned and operated Einstein Moving Company has been striving to provide Texas with the highest-quality...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Hourly Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2193963 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 70 |
| Registered Drivers | 70 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 880,193 (2023) |
Webster & Company Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by Webster & Company Moving ServicesCedar Park, TX
About Webster & Company Moving Services
For over ten years, movers in Austin, TX, Webster & Company Moving Services has been the mover of choice for families...
Services
- Local and long distance moves
- Disassembling, packing, wrapping, protecting, and reassembling items for homes
- Moving services for apartments and condos
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1698370 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 0 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Einstein Moving Company
10101 Harwin Dr. # 275
Houston, TX, 77036
About Einstein Moving Company
Einstein Moving Company knows moving is not just about dumping everything into a truck and driving off. In order for your...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Power Movers
2125 Yale St ste 501
Houston, TX, 77008
About Power Movers
Power Movers is a moving company that aims to solve an age-old problem. A police officer who received countless damage and...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Full & Partial Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3176352 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (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. Austin Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from Houston to Austin, it's beneficial to compare and contrast the neighborhoods of your current city with those of your future home. This guide aims to familiarize you with Austin by finding equivalents to Houston, TX & Austin, TX neighborhoods . From hip, bustling areas to serene, residential locales, we'll help you discover which Austin neighborhood feels most like your corner of Houston.
| Houston | Austin | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Heights | South Congress | Eclectic shops, vibrant arts scene |
| Montrose | East Austin | Diverse, with a strong sense of community |
| River Oaks | Tarrytown | Upscale, with a tranquil atmosphere |
| West University | Hyde Park | Family-friendly, known for its education-oriented vibe |
| Midtown | Rainey Street Historic District | Lively nightlife, modern living spaces |
| Museum District | Zilker | Proximity to cultural institutions, green spaces |
| Eado | South Lamar | Booming with eateries and entertainment |
| Galleria | The Domain | Upscale shopping and dining |
| Clear Lake | Travis Heights | Quiet, scenic, with a close-knit community feel |
| Greenway Plaza | 2nd Street District | Business-centric, with leisure and shopping |
For those moving from Houston's Museum District, well-known for its world-class museums like the Houston Museum of Natural Science, you'll find a similar blend of culture and greenery in Austin’s Zilker neighborhood. Zilker is home to the Austin Nature & Science Center and Zilker Metropolitan Park, akin to Houston’s Hermann Park. If you're drawn to the unique and bustling vibe of Montrose with its array of dive bars and multicolored bungalows, you'll appreciate East Austin's close-knit community and vibrant culture, including spots like the historic Victory Grill. Moreover, those accustomed to the upscale shopping experience of the Galleria will find a new haven in Austin's The Domain, where luxury meets lifestyle, hosting a range of high-end retailers and chic eateries similar to those in Uptown Park Houston. Transitioning between these iconic cities doesn’t have to mean giving up the neighborhood feel you’ve grown to love.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Austin
Moving from Houston, TX to Austin, TX presents a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits against the pitfalls, providing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. This comparison aims to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect from both cities.
Houston, TX- Higher humidity
- More traffic
- Flatter landscape
- Fewer tech jobs
Austin, TX- More outdoor activities
- Less congestion
- Hillier terrain
- Thriving tech scene
Austin, TX- Higher rent prices
- Smaller food variety
- More allergies
- Smaller airport
Houston, TX- Lower cost of living
- Diverse food scene
- Better air quality
- International airport
When considering the move from Houston to Austin, it's important to note the vibrant cultural scene and outdoor activities that Austin offers. Neighborhood parks like Zilker Park provide a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, while renowned restaurants such as Franklin Barbecue showcase the city's culinary prowess. Moreover, Austin's booming tech industry presents ample career opportunities, making it an attractive destination for professionals. Though the change in scenery from Houston's flatter landscape to Austin's hillier terrain may seem minor, it significantly enhances the variety of outdoor activities available. However, be prepared for a tighter housing market and potentially higher living costs in Austin. Despite these challenges, Austin's unique blend of culture, innovation, and natural beauty makes it a compelling choice for many.
Houston vs. Austin Food Guide
When deciding on a new place to call home, the vibrancy of the local food culture can greatly enhance your living experience. Understanding this, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & Austin to help you get acquainted with what culinary delights await you in these cities.
| Houston | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Texas BBQ Brisket | Breakfast Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Fajitas | Smoked Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tex-Mex | Vegan BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Austin brings you into the heart of a city celebrated for its love of breakfast tacos, a testament to its creative culinary scene. Franklin Barbecue, a must-visit, has achieved legendary status among BBQ enthusiasts, while Torchy's Tacos (part of the fabric of Austin) offers a taste of the city's informal, diverse food culture. Austin's thriving food truck landscape, notably denser than Houston's, provides a kaleidoscope of flavors from around the world, easily accessible throughout the city, particularly in vibrant neighborhoods like South Congress and East Austin. For those with a penchant for plant-based diets, Austin's progressive attitude towards food is evident in its abundance of vegan options, challenging traditional Texan fare with innovative twists.
Houston vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison
Food is a cornerstone of culture and comfort, turning a new city from a place you live to a place you call home. This comparison charts Houston's top dining spots with their Austin equivalents, helping you find new favorite eateries in your new city. Comparison chart making Houston and Austin your home through culinary exploration.
| Houston | Austin | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Uchi | Uchiko | Similar upscale Japanese cuisine with a focus on sushi and inventive dishes |
| The Breakfast Klub | Counter Cafe | Classic breakfast and American diner fare with a local twist |
| Hugo's | La Condesa | Authentic Mexican food with modern interpretations |
| Kenny & Ziggy's Delicatessen | Franklin Barbecue | While not a deli, it offers an iconic Austin food experience with its renowned BBQ |
| Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Perla's | Upscale seafood dishes with a focus on freshness and coastal recipes |
| Ninfa's on Navigation | Matt's El Rancho | Known for Tex-Mex, offering a cozy similarity with a strong local following |
| Phoenicia Specialty Foods | Central Market | Both offer a wide variety of global ingredients and ready-to-eat meals |
| Underbelly | Odd Duck | Farm-to-table concept with a similar creative approach to local cuisines |
| Khon's Wine Darts Coffee Art | Halcyon | Both are eclectic venues where coffee, art, and wine blend seamlessly |
| Brennan's of Houston | Jeffrey's | Fine dining with a strong emphasis on service quality and luxurious experience |
Austin, with its vibrant food scene, offers many parallels to what you're used to in Houston. At Uchiko, you'll delight in a dining experience akin to Uchi, where the sushi bar serves as a stage for culinary artistry. Fans of the iconic lean brisket from Franklin Barbecue will appreciate the craft and dedication that echoes that of Kenny & Ziggy's Delicatessen in Houston, albeit with a decidedly Texan twist on barbecue. Diners seeking a blend of shopping and gourmet fare will find a welcoming assortment at Central Market, reminiscent of the global bazaar vibe of Phoenicia Specialty Foods. This comparison not only invites you to explore new dining spots but reassures that the unique flavors you cherished in Houston can be found in Austin’s dynamic culinary landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role in your relocation decision-making process. Understanding how Houston and Austin compare in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can greatly influence your choice. This comparison aims to shed light on these essential aspects.
| Comparison | Houston | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Ranch | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Open floor plans | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to amenities |
While Houston presents more affordable housing options, with its large yards and spacious floor plans, Austin leaps ahead with its higher median home prices that reflect the city's booming economy and desirability. The typical architecture in Austin tends to be more varied, incorporating modern and craftsman styles that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Significantly, the higher walkability and bikeability scores in Austin translate into a more urban lifestyle, with easy access to amenities and a stronger emphasis on eco-friendly living. This comparison highlights the diverse living experiences each city offers, catering to different preferences and priorities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX
1. Zilker: This neighborhood is a paradise for your pets, offering the sprawling Zilker Metropolitan Park and the leash-free Barkin Springs, where your furry friends can play and splash to their heart's content.
2. South Congress: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, South Congress is pet-friendly with numerous cafes and shops like Jo's Coffee that welcome pets, making it the perfect neighborhood for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry companions.
3. Travis Heights: With its close proximity to the Stacy Parks and off-leash areas, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a community that values outdoor activities and has access to pet-friendly spaces.
Houston vs. Austin Weather Considerations
When moving from Houston, TX to Austin, TX, it's vital to know how the climate differs. Comparing weather elements like annual rainfall and average temperatures can help anticipate how your lifestyle might adjust. This comparison is key, especially considering Houston's humidity vs. Austin's more variable climate. Here's how these two cities stack up weather-wise.
Houston, TX
Austin, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Austin, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Austin, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
Austin, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Houston | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Flooding, Drought |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Houston and Austin boast warm summers and mild winters, you'll find Austin offers more sunny days and a slightly drier climate. Houston's humidity is notably higher, making summers feel hotter than the actual temperature might suggest. Air quality also sees a difference, with Austin generally providing better conditions. For those susceptible to allergies, Austin's cedar and oak pollen could be more of a challenge compared to Houston's mold and pollen mix. Lastly, natural disaster risks shift from hurricanes in Houston to more drought and flooding concerns in Austin, potentially influencing your preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Austin
Relocating between cities requires a keen understanding of how your expenses will shift. This comparison is crucial for anyone moving from Houston to Austin, as it breaks down key financial differences. Knowing the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes ensures a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Houston | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | $79,542 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 95.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.09% | 1.83% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 8.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Manufacturing, Aeronautics | Technology, Education, Health Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
While both Houston and Austin offer a dynamic economic environment with no state income tax, key differences in the cost of living and average earnings are evident. Austin presents a higher average household income and is perceived to be more affluent, which correlates with its higher cost of living index. Despite the similarities in sales tax, the average property tax rate in Houston is slightly higher. Industry-wise, Houston's energy and aeronautics sectors contrast with Austin's tech-driven market. These financial and economic variations will shape your experience when transitioning between these Texas cities.
Houston vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison
When planning a move from Houston to Austin, it's insightful to consider the different vibes and values that define each city. This comparison aims to provide a quick look at the political and religious makeup between Houston & Austin , offering a glimpse into the character and beliefs of the residents you'll soon join. Whether you lean more towards community activism or are curious about local spiritual gatherings, understanding these aspects can help you integrate seamlessly into your new hometown.
| Houston | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | Very Liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse with a strong focus on economic growth and infrastructure | Highly engaged, sustainability and social equity are prominent |
| Religion | Mixed, with Christianity being predominant. A range of churches and faith communities. | Diverse, but less religious overall. Vibrant spiritual communities and secular groups. |
Moving from Houston to Austin, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city that leans liberal to one that is very liberal, especially in terms of local governance and community values. While Houston's politics concentrate on economic and infrastructural developments, Austin puts a high value on sustainability and social equity, fostering a highly engaged political atmosphere. Religious practices in Houston are varied, with a significant presence of Christianity, whereas Austin hosts a diverse, yet comparatively less religious population, making room for a plethora of spiritual and secular communities. Familiarizing yourself with these nuances will aid in your acclimatization to Austin's unique cultural and social landscape.
Houston vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Houston, TX to Austin, TX, it's crucial to understand the differences in their traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you better grasp what to expect for your daily commute and traffic experiences as you transition between these vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Houston | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
While both Houston and Austin are bustling cities with their unique charms, differences in their transportation infrastructures are notable. In Houston, an average commute time is slightly longer, but it offers better public transit options, such as the METRORail and METRO buses, making navigating the city somewhat more manageable without a car, though still challenging. On the other hand, Austin's slightly less congested roads may not significantly reduce your commute time, but the city’s smaller public transit system, including Capital Metro buses and the MetroRail, makes it more difficult to rely solely on public transportation. Understanding these nuances will assist you in adjusting your daily commute and travel expectations as you make your move.
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