Moving from Austin to McAllen, TX
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Quick answer: Moving from Austin to McAllen costs $383–$7,578, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 313-mile route within Texas take 1–4 days from packing to delivery, based on moveBuddha's analysis of 285+ Texas moving companies.
- Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service pick at 4.9 out of 5 stars, our best overall value mover for this route.
- NorthStar Moving Company leads local picks at 4.62 out of 5 stars across 43 verified customer reviews.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Austin to McAllen?
Moving from Austin to McAllen doesn't have to mean hiring a full-service crew and paying top dollar. Whether you want movers to handle the whole job or you're up for tackling parts of it yourself, there's an option that fits.
For full-service moves, we recommend Safeway Moving (4.9/5) and NorthStar Moving Company (4.62/5) for smaller homes and apartment moves.
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 313-mile move:
Moving from Birmingham to Huntsville costs between $122 and $5,102, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 100-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | Safeway Moving | $2,081–$5,416 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options |
| Moving container | PODS | $1,324–$2,493 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading |
| Rental truck | Budget Truck Rental | $391–$808 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself |
| Labor-only | College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | $90/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 285+ Texas movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Austin to McAllen?
Expect to spend between $383 and $7,578 on a Austin to McAllen move, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The 313-mile route prices below show what each moving service charges across home sizes:
- Full-service movers: $1,224–$7,578
- Moving containers: $1,058–$3,129
- Rental trucks: $383–$1,024
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves include packing, loading, transport, and unloading. Professional packing alone adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers cut costs by handling transport while you load and unload yourself.
- Rental trucks save roughly 30% versus full-service, but require you to drive 313 miles and supply your own labor.
- Using moveBuddha's cost calculator helps movers save 30% compared to their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,224–$4,612 | $1,058–$1,758 | $383–$661 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,081–$5,416 | $1,324–$2,493 | $391–$808 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,908–$7,578 | $1,803–$3,129 | $524–$1,024 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 285+ Texas moving companies, and are updated as of May 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
What extra fees should you expect on a Austin to McAllen move?
Extra fees to watch for on a Austin to McAllen move include professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. These rarely show up on initial quotes, but they can add 10%–25% to the base price by the time the move is done.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $90/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Austin to McAllen
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Austin to McAllen, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. NorthStar Moving Company leads local picks for smaller moves at 4.62 out of 5 stars across 43 verified customer reviews. At 313 miles, both local and national movers can handle this route well. Your best fit depends on home size, timeline, and budget.
Best movers for larger homes & complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our best overall value pick for full-service moves from Austin to McAllen. With 14 years in the moving industry, statewide service throughout Texas, and a 4.9 out of 5 stars moveBuddha rating, Safeway Moving handles intrastate moves of 313 miles with the logistics infrastructure most local operators can't match.
moveBuddha's top 5 full-service movers, ranked:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
Best movers for smaller homes & apartment moves
NorthStar Moving Company is the top-rated local mover for smaller homes and apartment moves from Austin to McAllen, earning 4.62 out of 5 stars on moveBuddha. NorthStar Moving Company has been in business since 1995 (31 years), with 93.0% of 43 verified customer reviews positive. For a move under 500 miles, a strong local mover is priced the same as a national operator and often offers more flexibility on scheduling.
More Texas moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our McAllen to Austin guide.
How does McAllen compare to Austin?
Cost of living: Austin vs. McAllen
A cost-of-living comparison between Austin and McAllen covers more than housing. Rent, home prices, average income, daily expenses, and job market trends all factor in. The breakdown below shows how life in McAllen compares to Austin.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Austin | McAllen | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,765 | $1,350 |
| Average home cost | $512,969 | $173,919 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,461 | $60,165 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,345 | $1,457 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,815 | $3,557 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 7.9% |
| Average sales tax | 8.25% | 8.25% |
Cost-of-living data for Austin and McAllen comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated May 2026 across 285+ Texas cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent in McAllen is 24% lower than Austin. Apply the savings to a larger unit, a better neighborhood, or higher monthly savings.
- Home prices in McAllen are 66% lower than Austin. The discount accelerates timelines for first-time buyers and improves cash flow for trade-up moves.
- Average income in McAllen is 34% lower than Austin. A same-role transfer typically requires offsetting the salary gap with cost-of-living savings.
- Cost of living for one person in McAllen runs 56% cheaper than Austin. The savings rate compounds quickly if held constant.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 in McAllen is 54% lower than Austin. The discount typically lands on housing and childcare, the two largest line items.
- Unemployment in McAllen is 126% higher than Austin. Job security is less certain, especially in cyclical or layoff-prone industries.
- Sales taxes in McAllen and Austin match. Day-to-day taxable purchases cost the same in both cities.
To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in Austin, you'd need about $1,320 in McAllen.
How life is different in Austin vs. McAllen
A comparison of life in Austin and McAllen covers weather, population, cost of living, politics, and safety. These factors all impact your daily life. The side-by-side breakdown below shows which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Austin | McAllen | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 974,447 | 142,210 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 71-26 | Democratic 58-41 |
| Summer high | 96ºF | 96ºF |
| Winter low | 38ºF | 49ºF |
| Annual rain | 35" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 42.91 | 36.26 |
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McAllen is 85% smaller in size than Austin. Smaller cities typically offer lower housing costs and shorter commutes, with fewer industry options for niche careers.
- In the last presidential election, McAllen voted Democratic, while Austin voted Democrat.
- Summer highs in McAllen (96°F) and Austin (96°F) are similar. Existing summer routines transfer.
- Winter lows in Austin reach 38°F, colder than McAllen's 49°F. Lower heating loads and milder winters are the practical upside.
- Annual rainfall in Austin runs 35 inches, higher than McAllen's 22 inches. Expect drier conditions and reduced rain-related home maintenance.
- Annual snowfall in Austin and McAllen is effectively zero. No winter weather budget or gear adjustments required.
- Crime index in McAllen (36.26) is lower than Austin (42.91). The lower-risk profile expands feasible neighborhoods and reduces insurance carry.
Things to do in McAllen
McAllen's lifestyle is defined by outdoor recreation, museums and cultural venues, professional and college sports, and a strong university presence. Top destinations in each category appear below.
Museums in McAllen
- International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
- The McAllen Heritage Center
- Nuevo Santadar Gallery
Parks in McAllen
- McAllen Nature Center
- Town Lake at Firemen's Park
- McAllen's New Park & Spray Ground
Sports teams in McAllen
Universities in McAllen
- South Texas College
Final verdict: best movers from Austin to McAllen
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Austin to McAllen, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide Texas service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service. For smaller homes and apartment moves, NorthStar Moving Company (4.62 out of 5 stars) is the top local pick, with 93.0% positive reviews across 43 verified customer reviews.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $383–$7,578 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 285+ Texas movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Austin to McAllen
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Austin to McAllen?
A move from Austin to McAllen with a professional moving company costs $1,177–$3,826 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom move, prices range from $2,081 up to $5,416. For a 4-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay $2,908–$7,578 for the whole move.
How much are moving container companies from Austin to McAllen?
Moving containers from Austin to McAllen cost $767–$1,674 for a studio or 1-bedroom home. For a 2–3 bedroom move, moving containers run $1,324–$2,493. A larger home costs $1,803–$3,129.
How much is a moving truck from Austin to McAllen?
A rental moving truck from Austin to McAllen costs $363–$689 for a studio or 1-bedroom. A 2–3 bedroom move costs $391–$808, and a 4-bedroom or larger move falls between $524 and $1,024.
Rental trucks are typically the most budget-friendly choice for movers willing to handle the driving and heavy lifting. The estimates above factor in estimated fuel costs.
How far in advance should I book Austin-to-McAllen movers?
Lock in your movers for a Austin to McAllen move at least 2 months ahead of time. For a summer move, aim for 3 months in advance. Early booking gives you a better shot at your ideal moving date and can land better rates. Some companies offer early-bird discounts for reservations placed ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to McAllen?
The best deals on a move to McAllen fall between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush saves you money and helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.
