Local moving companies in California
When making the move from California to Houston, TX, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Houston, TX.
- Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- 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
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191566
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2950711
Since 2017, 680 Movers has been a trusted local moving company serving Walnut Creek, CA, and nearby areas. Known for their comprehensive local residential moving services, they stand out from competitors with their top-rated customer satisfaction, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond local moves, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized services such as piano and pool table relocations. At $125 per hour, 680 Movers provides a blend of quality and affordability that makes them a popular choice among Walnut Creek residents.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Houston, TX
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from California to Houston, TX, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,240 – $4,692 | $1,012 – $2,576 | $1,062 – $2,042 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,986 – $7,184 | $1,975 – $3,727 | $1,095 – $2,220 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,685 – $9,626 | $2,723 – $5,317 | $1,449 – $2,774 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,764-mile move from California to Houston, TX using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Houston, TX
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Houston, TX, you can expect prices to land between $1,240 and $4,692. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,986 to $7,184. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,685 and $9,626.
Cost of moving containers from California to Houston, TX
Moving containers from California to Houston, TX, will cost you $1,012 to $2,576 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,975 to $3,727. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,723 to $5,317. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Houston, TX
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 $1,062 and $2,042 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Houston, TX with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,095 to $2,220. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,449 to $2,774.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from California to Houston, TX
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Republic Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| 680 Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how California movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Houston, TX
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Houston, TX stacks up against California. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: California vs. Houston, TX
| California | Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,549 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $263,945 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $69,833 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 97 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.1% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
Houston sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Houston is about 17% cheaper than in California, which means extra cash for other priorities.
- Moving to Houston means you’ll spend about 66% less on housing compared to California, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Houston are typically about 24% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Houston is about 24% lower than in California, so you may have better chances of finding work.
- One big perk of Texas is that it has no income tax, letting you hold on to more of your paycheck each month.
How life is different in Houston from California
| Houston | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 53″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 63.5 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Houston voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
- Summer temperatures in Houston typically reach 94ºF, while in California, highs average around 87ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and hotter days.
- Winter in Houston can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 43ºF, much chillier than the 59ºF winters of California. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Houston have their own special appeal.
- 53 inches of rain each year in Houston, considerably more than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- Houston doesn’t get snow, while California sees around 7 inches annually. Relocating to Houston means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in Houston are higher than in California, with a crime index of 63.5 versus 28.43. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Houston
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Houston can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Houston
- Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
- Children’s Museum of Houston
- The Menil Collection
- Houston Museum of Natural Science
- Holocaust Museum Houston
Parks in Houston
- Hermann Park
- Terry Hershey Park
- Lake Houston Park
- Memorial Park
- Tranquility Park
Sports teams in Houston
- Houston Texans (NFL)
- Houston Astros (MLB
- Houston Dash (NWSL)
- Houston Dynamo FC (MLS)
- Houston Rockets (NBA)
Universities in Houston
- Houston Community College
- San Jacinto College
- University of Houston
- University of Houston – Downtown
- Texas Southern University
Other considerations when moving to Houston, TX
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Texas moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Texas, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Texas. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: 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: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Houston take?
The time it takes to move from California to Houston, TX varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Houston from northern California, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from California to Houston typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Houston?
Because of the 1,764-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Houston as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Houston, TX?
With summer temperatures reaching 94°F and winter nights dipping to 43°F, most people make the move from California to Houston in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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