Dallas to Austin Movers & Costs (2026)
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A Dallas to Austin, TX move (~195 miles) runs $267–$6,482 across all service types.
Local movers such as AB Moving, moveBuddha's top-rated local mover for this route at 4.72 out of 5 stars across 487 verified customer reviews, bill hourly at an average of $60/hr per mover, with a typical 2–3 hour minimum and round-trip drive time added.
Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
July availability is going fast in Dallas
Summer is the busiest time to move. Prices run 20–30% above the annual average and movers fill weeks in advance. Book now to secure your preferred date.
What are the best ways to move from Dallas to Austin?
At 195 miles, this is a local move, billed hourly by most Texas companies. You don't need a national carrier to handle it, though they're an option for larger homes or complex logistics. A local or regional mover working this corridor will typically give you faster scheduling, same-day or next-day delivery, and competitive hourly pricing.
For full-service moves, we recommend AB Moving (4.72/5) as the top local pick, followed by AM Moving Company LLC (4.64/5). Safeway Moving (4.9/5) is also available for full-service or larger-home moves.
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 195-mile move:
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | AB Moving | $1,699–$4,761 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options |
| Moving container | PODS | $1,174–$2,395 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading |
| Rental truck | Budget Truck Rental | $304–$574 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself |
| Labor-only | AB Moving | $60/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 286+ Texas movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Dallas to Austin?
A move from Dallas to Austin runs $267 to $6,482, per moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Costs on this 195-mile route shift based on service type and home size, with the breakdown below:
- Full-service movers: $969–$6,482
- Moving containers: $921–$2,926
- Rental trucks: $267–$621
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves combine packing, loading, transport, and unloading in one quote. Professional packing alone runs $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers lower the cost by putting the loading and unloading on you while the company handles transport.
- Rental trucks land roughly 30% under full-service pricing, but you drive 195 miles and source your own labor.
- Movers using moveBuddha's cost calculator typically save 30% compared to their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $969–$3,918 | $921–$1,665 | $267–$490 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,699–$4,761 | $1,174–$2,395 | $304–$574 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,245–$6,482 | $1,618–$2,926 | $368–$621 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 286+ Texas moving companies, and are updated as of Jul 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.
Learn more about the cost of Dallas, TX movers.
What extra fees should you expect on a Dallas to Austin move?
Common extra fees on a Dallas to Austin move include professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. None of these typically appear on initial quotes, but together they can add 10%–25% on top of the base price.
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 | $60/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 Dallas to Austin
At 195 miles, this route is well within the range of local and regional Texas movers. For most home sizes, a local mover bills hourly and can deliver same-day or next-day, without the long-haul logistics overhead of a national carrier. AB Moving leads moveBuddha's local rankings at 4.72 out of 5 stars across 487 verified customer reviews.
Best local & regional movers for this route
Local movers operating within Texas specialize in intrastate logistics, Texas regulations, and same-day or next-day delivery windows that national van lines can't always match. At 195 miles, they are often priced the same as or cheaper than national operators, and scheduling flexibility is significantly better.
moveBuddha scored 69 Dallas movers drawing on 18,035 verified customer reviews. Rankings factor in BBB rating, customer satisfaction, and proximity to this route.
rating
- AB Moving at 4.72 out of 5 stars across 487 verified reviews. 61.8% of customers rate them positively.
- AM Moving Company LLC at 4.64 out of 5 stars across 711 verified reviews. 80.7% of customers rate them positively.
- 3 Men Movers at 4.64 out of 5 stars across 265 verified reviews. 90.6% of customers rate them positively.
- Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage at 4.64 out of 5 stars across 251 verified reviews. 89.2% of customers rate them positively.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving at 4.56 out of 5 stars across 217 verified reviews. 91.7% of customers rate them positively.
National carriers also available for this route
Safeway Moving (4.9/5) is moveBuddha's best overall value pick among national full-service carriers. National movers offer binding estimates, comprehensive coverage options, and established claims processes, worth considering for 4+ bedroom moves or high-value shipments.
moveBuddha's top national full-service movers:
- 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.
More popular routes from Dallas, TX
Dallas residents also frequently move to these destinations. Compare pricing and top-rated movers for each route below.
More Texas moving resources
What to know about moving from Dallas to Austin
Intrastate move: what that means for you
Because Dallas and Austin are both in Texas, this is an intrastate move, regulated by Texas law, not federal DOT rules that govern interstate (state-to-state) moves. Texas movers handling intrastate jobs must hold a valid Texas intrastate operating authority in addition to any USDOT number. When comparing quotes, confirm each mover is licensed for intrastate work in Texas, not just for crossing state lines. A carrier with a USDOT number but no Texas intrastate authority cannot legally haul your belongings on this route.
Delivery timing on this route
At 195 miles, most Dallas-to-Austin moves complete in 1–2 days from pickup to drop-off. Full-service movers working this corridor frequently offer same-day delivery for smaller homes, and next-day delivery is standard for most 2–3 bedroom jobs. If you need a guaranteed delivery date, get it in writing before signing. Intrastate movers can commit to tighter windows than long-haul interstate carriers who work on spread delivery dates. Packing a 2–3 bedroom home takes 4–8 hours on top of transit time, so factor that into your move-day schedule.
Building and access requirements
High-rise apartments and managed communities in Dallas and Austin commonly require a certificate of insurance (COI) from your moving company before granting elevator or loading dock access. Request the COI from your mover at least 1 week before moving day and forward it to your building manager. Confirm elevator reservation windows, parking permits for moving trucks, and any building-specific moving hours at both the origin and destination. Showing up without a COI or outside the permitted window can result in same-day delay fees of $150–$400 or rescheduling.
Texas summer heat and fragile items
Summer moves in Texas expose belongings to temperatures that can exceed 120°F inside a closed truck. Electronics, candles, vinyl records, wine, wood furniture, and musical instruments are all vulnerable. If your move falls between June and August, discuss heat-sensitive items with your mover before loading day. Request an early-morning start. Trucks loaded by 8 a.m. avoid peak afternoon heat during transit. Climate-controlled storage at the destination is worth the added cost for items that can't tolerate extreme heat during an overnight hold.
Pre-move checklist for a Dallas to Austin move:
- Verify your mover holds Texas intrastate operating authority (not just a USDOT number).
- Request a COI from your mover at least 7 days before moving day for both buildings.
- Confirm elevator and loading dock reservations at origin and destination.
- Ask for a guaranteed delivery date in writing. Intrastate carriers can commit to same or next day.
- For summer moves, schedule an early-morning start and flag heat-sensitive items in advance.
- Compare at least 3 quotes using moveBuddha's cost calculator. Movers who use it save an average of 30% versus their first quote.
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Austin to Dallas guide.
How does Austin compare to Dallas?
Cost of living: Dallas vs. Austin
The cost of living in Dallas vs. Austin goes beyond housing prices. This section breaks down the financial factors that shape your day-to-day budget, including rent, home values, income, daily expenses, and employment rates, so you can see how life in Austin stacks up against Dallas.
Check out how the 2 cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Dallas | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,774 | $1,765 |
| Average home cost | $303,018 | $512,969 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,760 | $91,461 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,828 | $3,345 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,793 | $7,815 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 3.5% |
| Average sales tax | 8.25% | 8.25% |
Cost-of-living data for Dallas and Austin comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated July 2026 across 286+ Texas cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent prices in Austin are nearly identical to Dallas. Your housing line item won't shift in the move.
- Home prices in Austin are 69% higher than Dallas. Existing homeowners trading up to similar square footage face a meaningful jump in down payment and monthly mortgage.
- Salaries in Austin average 35% higher than Dallas. Match your salary to local rates rather than your current pay band when negotiating.
- Living expenses for one person in Austin run 18% higher than Dallas. The gap typically lands on rent, groceries, and transportation.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 matches across Austin and Dallas. Plan the move on existing household budget assumptions.
- Unemployment rates in Austin match Dallas. Job seekers should expect similar competition and time-to-hire.
- Sales taxes are equal in Austin and Dallas. Retail spending remains level through the move.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,540 in Austin to maintain the same standard of life that you could have with $3,000 in Dallas.
How life is different in Dallas vs. Austin
Life in Austin vs. Dallas differs across weather, population, cost of living, politics, and safety. All of these factors shape your day-to-day experience. The side-by-side comparison below helps you decide which city suits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Dallas | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,304,379 | 974,447 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | Democrat 71-26 |
| Summer high | 96ºF | 96ºF |
| Winter low | 36ºF | 38ºF |
| Annual rain | 39" | 35" |
| Annual snow | 1" | 0" |
| Crime index | 51.4 | 42.91 |
- Austin is 25% smaller in size than Dallas. Plan for lower density and a more concentrated local job market.
- In the last presidential election, Austin leaned Democrat, while Dallas went Republican.
- Summer highs in Austin (96°F) match Dallas (96°F). Plan for the same AC load and seasonal pace.
- Winter lows in Dallas (36°F) and Austin (38°F) are similar. Heating costs and seasonal wardrobe carry over without adjustment.
- Annual rainfall in Dallas (39 inches) and Austin (35 inches) is similar. No adjustment to outdoor or commuting routines.
- Annual snowfall in Austin is zero, while Dallas averages 1 inch. Snow tires, plowing services, and winter gear become unnecessary expenses.
- Crime index in Austin (42.91) runs lower than Dallas (51.4). Insurance costs and security investment typically drop accordingly.
Things to do in Austin
Austin balances outdoor access, cultural depth, sports culture, and academic presence. The categories below cover the best of each.
Museums in Austin
- Texas Memorial Museum
- George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center
- Thinkery
- Blanton Museum of Art
- Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
Parks in Austin
- Pease Park
- Butler Metro Park
- Zilker Park
- Sculpture Falls
- Onion Creek Metropolitan Park
Sports teams in Austin
- Round Rock Express
- Austin Spurs
- Texas Stars
- Austin Outlaws
- Austin Huns
Universities in Austin
- Acton School of Business
- Austin Community College District
- Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
- Concordia University Texas
- Huston–Tillotson University
Final verdict: best movers from Dallas to Austin
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Dallas to Austin, 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, AB Moving (4.72 out of 5 stars) is the top local pick, with 61.8% positive reviews across 487 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 $267–$6,482 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 286+ Texas movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Dallas to Austin
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Dallas to Austin?
A professional moving company from Dallas to Austin charges $905–$3,411 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, prices run $1,699–$4,761. For a home with 4 or more bedrooms, expect to pay $2,245–$6,482.
How much are moving container companies from Dallas to Austin?
Moving containers from Dallas to Austin typically cost $672 to $1,671 for a studio or 1-bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, costs typically fall between $1,174 and $2,395. For 4–5 bedroom homes, expect $1,618–$2,926.
How much is a moving truck from Dallas to Austin?
A rental moving truck from Dallas to Austin costs $259–$481 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move runs $304–$574, and a 4-bedroom or larger move costs $368–$621.
Rental trucks are usually the cheapest option, but require you to handle the driving and labor. The estimates above include estimated fuel cost.
How far in advance should I book Dallas-to-Austin movers?
Book your move from Dallas to Austin at least 2 months before your moving date for the smoothest experience. For a summer move, aim for at least 3 months in advance, since that's the busiest season. Locking in your movers early helps you snag your preferred date and the best prices. Some moving companies sweeten the deal with early-bird discounts on advance bookings. Intrastate movers within Texas can typically commit to same-day or next-day delivery at this distance once booked.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Austin?
The cheapest time to move to Austin is between early October and late April. A move outside the busy May-to-September season means less competition and better rates, helping you avoid peak prices and busy schedules.
Is moving from Dallas to Austin considered a long-distance move?
A move from Dallas to Austin is classified as an intrastate move. Both cities are in Texas, so Texas law governs the job rather than federal DOT rules that apply to interstate (state-to-state) moves. Whether a mover labels it "long-distance" depends on their internal pricing structure. Most full-service movers price intrastate moves over 50 miles based on weight and mileage rather than hourly rates, similar to how interstate pricing works. At 195 miles, expect distance-based pricing from most full-service movers on this route. Confirm your mover holds a valid Texas intrastate operating authority (not just a USDOT number) before signing a contract.
How long does a move from Dallas to Austin take?
Most moves from Dallas to Austin take 1–2 days from pickup to delivery, based on moveBuddha's route data. The driving distance is 195 miles. For intrastate moves at this distance, same-day or next-day delivery is common when the mover has confirmed availability. Add 4–8 hours for professional packing of a 2–3 bedroom home before the truck departs, and factor in any elevator reservation windows or building access restrictions at the destination. Getting your delivery date in writing before signing gives you a binding commitment. Intrastate movers can offer tighter guarantees than long-haul interstate carriers.
