Moving from Houston to Lubbock, TX
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Quick answer: Moving from Houston to Lubbock costs $498–$9,762, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 518-mile route within Texas take 1–6 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.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Houston to Lubbock?
Moving from Houston to Lubbock 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).
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 518-mile move:
Moving from Houston to Lubbock costs between $498 and $9,762, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 518-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $2,411–$6,606 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options | |
| Moving container | $1,476–$2,794 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading | |
| Rental truck | $531–$1,062 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $75/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 Houston to Lubbock?
A move from Houston to Lubbock runs $498 to $9,762, per moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Costs on this 518-mile route shift based on service type and home size, with the breakdown below:
- Full-service movers: $1,548–$9,762
- Moving containers: $1,209–$3,555
- Rental trucks: $498–$1,280
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 518 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 | $1,548–$4,805 | $1,209–$2,168 | $498–$887 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,411–$6,606 | $1,476–$2,794 | $531–$1,062 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,657–$9,762 | $2,042–$3,555 | $662–$1,280 |
*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 Houston to Lubbock move?
Common extra fees on a Houston to Lubbock 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 | $75/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 Houston to Lubbock
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Houston to Lubbock, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 518 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 Houston to Lubbock. 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 518 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.
More Texas moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Lubbock to Houston guide.
How does Lubbock compare to Houston?
Cost of living: Houston vs. Lubbock
The cost of living in Houston vs. Lubbock 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 Lubbock stacks up against Houston.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Houston | Lubbock | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,549 | $1,250 |
| Average home cost | $258,925 | $197,578 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,894 | $60,487 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,770 | $1,715 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,157 | $3,996 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.9% |
| Average sales tax | 8.25% | 8.25% |
Cost-of-living data for Houston and Lubbock 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 Lubbock is about 19% cheaper than Houston. Renters often use the difference to upgrade location, size, or building amenities.
- Home prices in Lubbock are 24% lower than Houston. Equity from a Houston sale typically buys more square footage in Lubbock.
- Income levels in Houston and Lubbock are nearly identical. Local pay scales should not require an adjustment to your budget.
- Cost of living for one person in Lubbock is 38% lower than Houston. Apply the difference to debt paydown, retirement, or lifestyle upgrades.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 in Lubbock is 44% lower than Houston. Most households convert the savings into housing upgrades, college savings, or retirement contributions.
- Unemployment in Lubbock runs 44% higher than Houston. Time the move around a job offer rather than relocating speculatively.
- Sales taxes are equal in Lubbock and Houston. Retail spending remains level through the move.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,860 in Lubbock to maintain the same standard of life that you could have with $3,000 in Houston.
How life is different in Houston vs. Lubbock
Life in Lubbock vs. Houston 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.
| Houston | Lubbock | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 263,930 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | Republican 56-42 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 92ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 26ºF |
| Annual rain | 53" | 20" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 7" |
| Crime index | 63.5 | 50.39 |
- Lubbock is 89% smaller in size than Houston. Plan for lower density and a more concentrated local job market.
- In the last presidential election, both Houston and Lubbock voted Republican.
- Summer highs in Lubbock (92°F) match Houston (94°F). Plan for the same AC load and seasonal pace.
- Winter lows in Lubbock hit 26°F, colder than Houston's 43°F. Heating loads, winter wardrobe, and home weatherization budgets all rise.
- Annual rainfall in Houston is 53 inches, vs. 20 inches in Lubbock. The drier climate in Lubbock typically supports more outdoor lifestyle and less wet-weather gear.
- Annual snowfall in Houston is zero, while Lubbock averages 7 inches. Budget for winter tires, snow gear, and possible heating-system upgrades.
- Crime index in Lubbock (50.39) runs lower than Houston (63.5). Insurance costs and security investment typically drop accordingly.
Things to do in Lubbock
Lubbock balances outdoor access, cultural depth, sports culture, and academic presence. The categories below cover the best of each.
Museums in Lubbock
- The Buddy Holly Center
- National Ranching Heritage Center
- Science Spectrum Museum
- Silent Wings Museum
- American Wind Power Center
Parks in Lubbock
- Maxey Park
- Alex & Verna Cooke Park
- Mackenzie Park
- Prairie Dog Town
- Tech Terrace Park
Sports teams in Lubbock
- Texas Tech Red Raiders
- Lubbock Renegades
- Lubbock Matadors
Universities in Lubbock
- Texas Tech University
- Lubbock Christian University
- South Plains College
- Wayland Baptist University
- Sunset International Bible Institute
Final verdict: best movers from Houston to Lubbock
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Houston to Lubbock, 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 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 $498–$9,762 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 Houston to Lubbock
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Houston to Lubbock?
A professional moving company from Houston to Lubbock charges $1,470–$4,027 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, prices run $2,411–$6,606. For a home with 4 or more bedrooms, expect to pay $4,657–$9,762.
How much are moving container companies from Houston to Lubbock?
Moving containers from Houston to Lubbock typically cost as follows. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices start around $775 and go up to $1,907. For a 2–3 bedroom home, costs typically fall between $1,476 and $2,794. For 4–5 bedroom homes, expect to spend $2,042–$3,555.
How much is a moving truck from Houston to Lubbock?
A rental moving truck from Houston to Lubbock costs $478–$943 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move runs $531–$1,062, and a 4-bedroom or larger move costs $662–$1,280.
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 Houston-to-Lubbock movers?
Book your move from Houston to Lubbock 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 Houston-to-Lubbock 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.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Lubbock?
The cheapest time to move to Lubbock 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.
