Moving from Houston to San Antonio, TX
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Quick answer: Moving from Houston to San Antonio costs between $262 to $6,052 depending on your home's size and if you hire a moving company or move yourself, based on data from our moving cost calculator.
Most moves on this 196-mile route within Texas take 1 to 2 days from packing to delivery.
Compare moving options from Houston to San Antonio
The 4 most common types of movers when moving from Houston to San Antonio are full-service movers, labor-only movers, moving containers, and rental trucks.
- Full-service movers handle everything from packing in Houston to driving and unloading in San Antonio, but cost the most
- Labor-only services work well if you only want a crew for the heavy lifting
- Moving containers balance price and effort, but you handle loading or hire labor separately
- Rental trucks are the cheapest if you're comfortable driving 196 miles and require your full effort or hiring labor
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Main downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | Safeway Moving | $1,699 - $4,485 | Movers handle loading, driving, and unloading | Highest price of all options |
| Moving container | PODS | $1,248 - $2,171 | Pack and load on your own schedule | You handle all loading and unloading |
| Rental truck | Budget Truck Rental | $268 - $531 | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load, and unload everything yourself |
| Labor-only | Bellhop Moving | $75/hr | Need a loading crew and already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
How much does it cost to move from Houston to San Antonio?
It costs between $262 to $6,052 to move from Houston to San Antonio. The prices below break down your 196-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
- Full service movers: $970 - $6,052
- Moving containers: $970 - $2,759
- Rental trucks: $262 - $617
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $970 - $3,846 | $970 - $1,553 | $262 - $463 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $1,699 - $4,485 | $1,248 - $2,171 | $268 - $531 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,270 - $6,052 | $1,556 - $2,759 | $323 - $617 |
Extra costs to budget for
Most quotes won't include these line items by default — confirm each one with your mover or rental company before booking.
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Packing service | $291 - $2,425+ | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $75/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Storage | About $70/month | Moving containers |
| Shuttle fee | $194 - $776 | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $49 - $194 | Rental trucks |
| Added protection | 1% - 2% of declared value | All move types |
Best movers from Houston to San Antonio
At 196 miles, your Houston to San Antonio move sits in a range where both national and local companies can handle it well, but they serve different needs. We've listed our top pick from each category below.
Best movers for larger homes and complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our top-rated full-service pick for larger moves from Houston to San Antonio. With 14 years in the moving industry and service throughout Texas, they're a strong fit for intrastate moves of 196 miles.
Best movers for smaller homes and apartment moves
Flex Moving & Storage is the best mover for smaller homes and apartments from Houston to San Antonio. They've been in business since 2024 (2 years of experience) and 86.5% of their 111 verified reviews are positive.
More Texas moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our San Antonio to Houston guide.
Considerations when moving from Houston to San Antonio
Cost of living: Houston vs. San Antonio
When weighing the cost of living in Houston versus San Antonio, there's more to consider than just housing costs. Let’s dive into important financial factors like rent, home prices, average income, daily expenses, and job market trends, so you can see how life in San Antonio really compares to Houston.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Houston | San Antonio | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,549 | $1,496 |
| Average home cost | $258,925 | $216,453 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,894 | $62,917 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,770 | $2,194 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,157 | $4,931 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 3.8% |
| Average Sales Tax | 8.25% | 8.25% |
- Rent prices in San Antonio are similar to those in Houston, so your housing budget won’t change much, making your move easier on your wallet.
- Home prices in San Antonio are 16% lower than in Houston. That means you’ll have an easier time getting into the housing market, scoring a more affordable mortgage, and having extra cash left over for what matters most.
- Income levels in Houston and San Antonio are quite similar, so you can expect steady earning potential and less financial stress in your new city.
- Living in San Antonio is 21% cheaper for one person compared to Houston. That means more money left in your pocket—to save, spend, or invest however you like.
- If you’re moving to San Antonio, you’ll find that the cost of living is 31% lower than in Houston. That means your family can save money and potentially enjoy a better quality of life after the move.
- Unemployment in San Antonio is 7% lower than in Houston. That means you’re headed towards a healthier job market, more career opportunities, and better economic stability in your new home.
- Sales taxes are the same in San Antonio and Houston, meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in Houston, you’d need about $2,370 in San Antonio.
How life is different in Houston vs. San Antonio
Before you move, take a look at how life compares in Houston and San Antonio. From weather and population to cost of living, politics, and safety, these factors can all impact your daily life. Use this side-by-side comparison to find out which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Houston | San Antonio | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 1,434,625 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | republican 68-42 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 94ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 41ºF |
| Annual rain | 53" | 33" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 63.5 | 48.06 |
San Antonio sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- The population of San Antonio is approximately 38% lower than the population of Houston. Moving to a smaller city usually means more peace, space, and affordability, but also fewer big-city conveniences.
- In the last presidential election, San Antonio voted republican, while Houston voted Republican.
- In San Antonio and Houston, summer highs run about the same — 94°F vs. 94°F. You can expect similar weather and expenses.
- In the coldest months, both Houston and San Antonio face similar winter lows—Houston drops to 43°F, while San Antonio falls to 41°F.
- Houston usually sees more rain than San Antonio, with about 53 inches of rainfall each year compared to San Antonio’s 33 inches.
- Both Houston and San Antonio receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
- San Antonio offers more peace of mind than Houston, with a lower crime index of 48.06 versus 63.5.
Things to do in San Antonio
Looking for adventure, vibrant culture, or exciting live sports? San Antonio has it all.
Museums in San Antonio
- The Alamo
- Witte Museum
- The DoSeum - San Antonio's Museum for Kids
- Briscoe Western Art Museum
- McNay Art Museum
Parks in San Antonio
- Brackenridge Park
- Phil Hardberger park
- Japanese Tea Garden
- Mercado O'liva
- McAllister Park
Sports teams in San Antonio
- UTSA Roadrunners American football
- San Antonio Spurs Basketball
- San Antonio Missions
- San Antonio FC
Universities in San Antonio
- UT Health San Antonio
- University of Texas at San Antonio
- Texas A&M University–San Antonio
- Alamo Community College District
- Trinity University
FAQ
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Houston to San Antonio?
If you’re planning to hire a moving company to get your belongings from Houston to San Antonio, here’s what you can expect: Moving just a few items or a small bedroom typically costs between $862 and $3,281. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices generally range from $1,699 up to $4,485. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay anywhere from $2,270 to $6,052 for the whole move.
How much are moving container companies from Houston to San Antonio?
Moving containers from Houston to San Antonio will cost you $646 to $1,623 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,248 to $2,171. A larger home will cost $1,556 to $2,759.
How much is a moving truck from Houston to San Antonio?
If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is typically your most budget-friendly choice. Just keep in mind, you’ll be handling all the driving and heavy lifting yourself. We’ve factored estimated fuel costs into these price estimates, so you know what to expect.
Renting a truck to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $262 to $476. If you’re moving a bigger place, expect to pay between $268 and $531. For a four-bedroom home or larger going from Houston to San Antonio, costs usually fall between $323 and $617.
How far in advance should I book Houston-to-San Antonio movers?
To make your move from Houston to San Antonio as easy as possible, try locking in your movers at least two months ahead of time. If you’re planning to move during the busy summer season, aim for three months in advance. Booking early gives you a better shot at your ideal moving date and can land you better rates. Some companies even offer early-bird discounts when you reserve ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Antonio?
For the best deals on your move to San Antonio, aim for a date between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush not only saves you money, but also helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.
