Quick answer: The cost to move from Irvine to Houston ranges from $1,297 to $8,451 and the journey will take approximately four to 15 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 1,532-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Houston to Irvine guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Irvine to Houston

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Irvine to go to Houston can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

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.

Local moving companies in Irvine

  1. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Merit Moving Systems: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.
Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/meatheadmovers?lang=en
77% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process.
On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
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Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful.
Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
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Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057481208808, https://twitter.com/meritmovingsyst
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Merit Moving Systems stands out for smooth coordination and a dedicated customer-focused team. Of the 258 customer inputs analyzed, 95.3% express positive experiences. Customers frequently highlight prompt and friendly communication, consistent professionalism, careful handling of items, speedy service, and movers who work efficiently.
Many stress that their property arrived safely, with no or minimal damage, and that the moving crews were courteous and respectful throughout. A substantial number also mention how staff provided regular updates and accommodated last-minute timeline shifts. On the downside, a small percentage report cases of belongings being damaged, items lost or misplaced, or surprise charges that were not clearly explained beforehand. Most criticism centers on damage or incomplete claims resolution, with some reviewers citing miscommunication regarding insurance or inventory. Compared to typical moving companies, Merit receives more praise for communication and professionalism, though negative feedback follows common moving industry complaints about damage and claims. For those seeking a moving partner that values customer interaction and efficiency, Merit matches or exceeds industry standards in key service areas.
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Get a Quote (855) 950-4471

Company Info

State license #: 0192009

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 1839600

Alternate Names: Merit Moving & Logistics LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/VIPMayflower/,
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Stellar service and professionalism are at the heart of most customer input for VIP Transport, Inc. Out of 244 reviews analyzed, 88.5% reflect positive feedback with standout praise for the company’s professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling of possessions. Movers are routinely described as efficient, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile, making the moving process much less stressful.
Customers also highlight helpful attitudes and strong organizational skills from both office and field staff, setting VIP Transport ahead of many competitors. The main negative feedback, making up about 9%, centers on damaged items, slow resolution of claims, or lapses in communication and delivery timelines. Still, these issues appear in a small minority of cases. A few neutral comments mention price competitiveness and the condition of vehicles. With consistent praise for attentive and skilled teams, transparent communication, and a reputation for reducing the hassle of relocation, VIP Transport remains a top choice for complex or long-distance moves—even if some room for improvement persists regarding claims and rare mishandled items.
Show more
Get a Quote (951) 272-3700

Company Info

State license #: 0137029

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit, VIP Transport East, Inc, VIP Transport - United Van Lines, VIP Transport - Mayflower Transit, United Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Irvine to Houston?

Irvine movers charge $75 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,500 - $6,344 $1,306 - $3,123 $1,199 - $2,124
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,694 - $8,451 $2,333 - $4,467 $1,297 - $2,735
4+ bedrooms $6,836 - $11,362 $3,177 - $6,149 $1,571 - $3,024
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,532 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to Texas

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Texas, you can expect to spend between $1,500 and $6,344. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,694 to $8,451 on the same route (CA to TX). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Texas typically runs between $6,836 and $11,362.

Cost of moving containers from California to Texas

If you're moving from California to Texas, expect to pay between $1,306 and $3,123 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,333 up to $4,467. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,177 and $6,149. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Texas

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,199 and $2,124. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,297 and $2,735. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,571 and $3,024.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Irvine to Houstontoggle

The cost of Irvine movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Irvine to Houston (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,500, while larger moves may reach $11,305 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Irvine,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $1,199 to $2,966), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Irvine to Houston

Moving from Irvine to Houston means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Irvine than in Houston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Irvine compares to Houston so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Irvine Houston
Average rent cost $4,000 $1,549
Average home value $1,561,760 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $114,027 $69,833
Cost of living (single person) $9,167 $2,770
Cost of living (family of 4) $18,000 $7,157
Unemployment rate 5.4% 4.1%
Sales tax 7.75% 8.25%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Houston are 61% lower than in Irvine, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Houston.
    Home prices in Houston are 83.1% lower than in Irvine.
  • Income in Houston is 38.8% lower than in Irvine, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Houston — including H-E-B, Houston Methodist, and Memorial Hermann Health System — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Houston. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 69.8% lower than in Irvine.
  • A move to Houston can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 60.2% less than what it costs in Irvine.
  • The unemployment rate in Houston is 24.07% lower than in Irvine.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Houston, since its sales taxes are 6.45% higher than what you are paying in Irvine.
  • One perk of moving to Houston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Irvine.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $906.51 in Houston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Irvine.

How life is different in Irvine vs. Houston

Houston Irvine
Population 2,301,572 307,670
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 4
Walkability score 47 43
Bike friendliness score 49 69
Crime Index 63.5 31.01
Safety Index 36.5 68.99
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Houston is about 648% greater than Irvine, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Houston offers better access to buses and trains than Irvine, based on public transportation ratings. Houston has a transit score of 5 out of 10 compared to 4 in Irvine. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Houston means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Irvine. Houston is considered more walkable than Irvine, with a score of 47 out of 100 versus 43 out of 100 in Irvine. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Houston, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Irvine. While Irvine has a bike-friendliness score of 69 out of 100, Houston earned a 49. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • The crime rate in Houston is higher than in Irvine, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 63.5 in Houston, it is 31.01 in Irvine. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Houston. With a crime index of 36.5, Houston ranks lower in overall safety than Irvine, whose index is 68.99. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Houston and Irvine is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Irvine vs. Houston move

  • Weather: Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your move.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Texas doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • 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 Houston. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Houston

With your sights set on HOU, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Houston.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Greenway/Upper Kirby
  • Montrose
  • Museum District

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Clear Lake City
  • Friendswood
  • Kingwood
  • Memorial
  • Sugar Land

Things to do in Houston

After getting comfortable in your new Texas home, it's time to see what Houston is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Houston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Children’s Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and Holocaust Museum Houston.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Houston Texans (NFL), Houston Astros (MLB, Houston Dash (NWSL), or Houston Dynamo FC (MLS) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Irvine to Houston?

The best time to move from Irvine to Houston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Irvine.

When is the cheapest time to move from Irvine to Houston?

With many people choosing to move from Irvine to Houston in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Irvine to Houston take?

The 1,532-mile move from Irvine, CA, to Houston, TX, takes four to 15 days. Some Irvine movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Houston.

Helpful moving resources