McAllen, TX to Billings, MT Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from McAllen to Billings typically costs $3,400–$7,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,715 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from McAllen to Billings
Moving from McAllen, TX to Billings, MT typically costs $3,400–$7,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,715-mile move from McAllen to Billings, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,725 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 30, 2026
Key factors that impact the cost of your McAllen to Billings move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,700 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,800 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in McAllen.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,200 to $3,300, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Billings, MT to McAllen, TX guide.
Best McAllen to Billings movers by type
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Best professional movers from McAllen to Billings
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from McAllen to Billings much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best TX→MT movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 291 Texas movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from McAllen to Billings
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Billings runs about 22% higher for singles and 28% higher for families than McAllen.
Singles spend around $1,773 in Billings versus $1,457 in McAllen; families pay $4,536 compared with $3,557.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| McAllen | Billings | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $813 | $1,150 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,360 | $2,125 |
| Average home value | $221,244 | $381,592 |
| Average income (per capita) | $57,439 | $63,515 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,457 | $1,773 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,557 | $4,536 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.9% | 4.1% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 6.75% |
- Moving to Billings from McAllen won't change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Billings are about 72% higher than those in McAllen.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 11% higher in Billings compared to McAllen, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Billings, as living costs for a single person are 22% higher than in McAllen. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Billings, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Billings is 28% higher than in McAllen.
- The unemployment rate in Billings is about 48% lower than in McAllen. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Billings has no sales tax, so you’ll save money on every taxable purchase compared to McAllen. This can be especially helpful if you make frequent or larger purchases.
- Montana has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between McAllen and Billings:
| Living Expense | McAllen | Billings |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $169.85 | $187.19 |
| Cell phone plan | $39.43 | $49.20 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.23 | $3.10 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.95 | $4.33 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $12.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $62.50 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $45.00 | $48.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in McAllen than in Billings, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in McAllen than in Billings.
- Eggs cost more in McAllen than in Billings.
- Bread costs less in McAllen than in Billings.
- A quick meal is cheaper in McAllen than in Billings.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in McAllen than in Billings.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in McAllen than in Billings.
How life is different in McAllen vs. Billings
| McAllen | Billings | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 142,210 | 184,167 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 46 | 47 |
| Crime index | 36.26 | 48.63 |
| Safety index | 63.74 | 50.37 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Billings's population is about 30% greater than McAllen.
- Billings's public transportation score is within about 5% of McAllen, making them very similar.
- Billings is less walkable than McAllen with a score of 35 out of 100 vs McAllen's 41 out of 100.
- Both Billings and McAllen have similar bike-friendliness scores (46 vs 47), meaning Billings is about as safe for cyclists as McAllen. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Billings's crime rate is higher than McAllen with a score of 48.63 compared to McAllen's 36.26. This means that Billings neighborhoods are safer than 48.63% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26%.
- Billings is considered to be less safe than McAllen with a score of 50.37 vs McAllen's 63.74.
- Air quality in Billings is Good, and in McAllen it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your McAllen to Billings move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Montana’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Montana does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Billings. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Billings
Planning your move to Magic City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Billings.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Billings
- South Park
- Poly Vista
- North Park
- Shiloh Crossing
Best neighborhoods for families
- Josephine Crossing
- West End
- Heights
- Briarwood
- Ironwood Estates
Things to do in Billings
After settling into your new Montana home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Billings has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Billings features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Moss Mansion, Yellowstone Art Museum, Western Heritage Center, and Yellowstone County Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's The Rimrocks, ZooMontana, DanWalt Gardens, and Pictograph Cave State Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Montana State Billings Yellowjackets (GNAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from McAllen to Billings?
Planning your move from McAllen to Billings? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in McAllen.
When is the cheapest time to move from McAllen to Billings?
Because most people are moving from McAllen to Billings in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from McAllen to Billings take?
The 1,715-mile journey from McAllen, TX to Billings, MT, typically takes four to 15 days. Some movers in McAllen offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Billings.
Are piano and antique moving services available in McAllen?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In McAllen, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Texas has 176 piano movers and 120 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
