($1,593) Cost of Moving From California to Texas

Quick answer: When planning a move from California to Texas, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,141 to $8,161. Most relocations will take about three–eight days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.

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  • Certified crews
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  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
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  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Texas to California guide.

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The best California to Texas full-service movers

Thinking about moving from California to Texas? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from California to Texas with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in California.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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(866) 835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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(866) 935-3437
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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The best local moving companies in California

With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in California, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.

  1. Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  4. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Best California Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 3489907

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

15 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92591
Get a Quote

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Best California Movers & Storage
  • An Moving Forward
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Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 3670248

Years in Business: 14

274 Wattis Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080

Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around San Bruno, CA since 2010. They stand out with a solid reputation, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp from 429 reviews, and a 4.6 average rating on Google from 129 reviews. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, customers frequently praise their professionalism and efficiency. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, along with the specialized capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. Flexible payment options, including cash and credit cards, and no required deposit, further underscore their customer-first approach.

Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOT #: 3670248
  • State license #: 0190673
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Meathead Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 921143

Years in Business: 27

3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.

Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Meathead Packers
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Air 1 Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 1095485

Years in Business: 22

9556 Cozycroft Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311

Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.

Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
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Republic Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 3369820

Years in Business: 31

8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154

Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.

Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 3369820
  • State license #: 0190491
  • DOD certified

Alternative Business Names

  • Lovejoy's Family Moving
  • Republic Relocation Services

Local Associations

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The best California to Texas moving container companies

Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in California and drops it off at your new home in Texas.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best California to Texas moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from California to Texas? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best California to Texas labor-only movers

If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.

When planning a move from California to Texas, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 22
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to TX movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from California to Texas?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to Texas. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,593 - $6,032 $1,255 - $3,050 $1,118 - $1,998
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,380 - $8,161 $2,113 - $4,533 $1,141 - $2,376
4+ bedrooms $6,102 - $11,698 $2,930 - $5,864 $1,392 - $3,020

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,406 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from California to Texas

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Texas will cost between $1,593 and $6,032. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to TX will range from $3,380 to $8,161, and a large move from California to Texas will cost from $6,102 to $11,698.

Cost of moving containers from California to Texas

If you’re relocating from California to Texas, you’ll typically spend between $1,255 and $3,050 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,113 up to $4,533. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,930 and $5,864. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Texas

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,118 and $1,998 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,141 to $2,376. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home or making a long-distance move from California to Texas, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,392 to $3,020.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to TX

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from California to Texas. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in California.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from CA to TX

If you’re moving to Texas from California, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: California vs. Texas

Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between California and Texas. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates, this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle. Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:

California Texas
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,251
Average home cost $771,057 $300,267
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $73,035
Cost of Living Index 134 93
Unemployment rate 5.4% 4.1%
Average Sales Tax 8.68% 8.19%
State Income Tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent is about 33% less expensive in Texas than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 61% lower in Texas than in California.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 21% lower in Texas than in California.
  • The cost of living in Texas is about 31% lower than in California. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
  • Texas has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 24%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 6% lower in Texas than in California. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Texas can reduce your overall living expenses.
  • Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

How life is different in Texas vs. California

Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Texas stacks up against California across important lifestyle factors:

Texas California
Population 30,503,301 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 56-44 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 94ºF 87ºF
Winter low 36ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 36" 22"
Annual snow 2" 7"
Crime index 27.32 28.43
  • The population of Texas is about 22% smaller than that of California. Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
  • In the most recent presidential election, Texas voted Republican, while California went Democratic.
  • Summer highs in Texas reach 94ºF, while California sees temperatures around 87ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and time outdoors, but be ready for higher cooling bills and some adjustments if you’re coming from a cooler climate.
  • In the coldest months, temperatures in Texas dip to around 36ºF, while California only falls to about 59ºF. Relocating to Texas means you’ll likely face colder winters, which can bring higher heating bills, change up your routine, and bring on more extreme weather, but you’ll also get to enjoy the unique beauty and experiences that come with the season.
  • Expect about 36 inches of rain each year in Texas, a noticeable difference from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
  • In Texas, you can expect about 2 inches of snow each year, while California sees around 7 inches annually. Since snowfall is pretty comparable in both places, your winter should feel pretty similar.
  • Texas and California share a similar crime rate of 28.43. However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.

Comparing the pros of California vs. Texas

Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Texas to California.

Pros of living in California Pros of living in Texas
Ample economic opportunity Ample economic opportunity
Pleasant weather Favorable climate
Abundant recreational options Delicious barbecue
High quality of life Low taxes
Fresh and healthy foods Privacy and freedom

Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Texas

Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from California to Texas, keep these tips in mind.

Cons of living in California Cons of living in Texas
High cost of living Severe weather
Heavy tax burdens Limited healthcare access
Natural disasters High crime rate
Terrible traffic Traffic issues
Strange laws Politics

Other things to consider for your California to Texas move

  • Weather: Although winters are mild, hurricane season during the summer months may affect your move.
  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
  • Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
  • Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
  • State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Texas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Texas, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Texas right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Things to do in Texas

Get excited to explore Texas. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:

Museums in Texas

  • The Houston Museum of Natural Science
  • The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
  • Waco Mammoth National Monument
  • USS Lexington Museum on the Bay
  • National Museum of the Pacific War

Parks in Texas

  • Balmorhea State Park, Toyahvale
  • Big Bend National Park, far West Texas
  • Big Thicket National Preserve, near Beaumont
  • Enchanted Rock State Park, near Fredericksburg
  • Garner State Park, Concan

Sports Teams in Texas

  • Austin FC (MLS)
  • Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
  • Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
  • Dallas Stars (NHL)
  • Dallas Wings (WNBA)

Universities in Texas

  • The University of Texas at Austin
  • Texas A&M University
  • Texas Tech University
  • University of Houston
  • The University of Texas at Arlington

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from California to Texas? toggle

Choosing a full-service California moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from California to Texas? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from California to Texas on your own through a top car shipping company.

What are the benefits of moving from California to Texas? toggle

More and more folks are relocating from California to Texas to enjoy all the perks that come with living in Texas, such as: ample economic opportunity and favorable climate.

Is it cheaper to live in California or Texas? toggle

Living in Texas usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Texas, with average rent about 33% less and home prices 61.1% lower than in California. Texas has no income tax.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Texas? toggle

If you’re planning to live solo in Texas, a comfortable income is around $68,275. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $3,087 on your own, or $7,804 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Dallas and Austin typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

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