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($1,296) Cost to Move From San Francisco, CA to McAllen, TX

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,972 miles from San Francisco to McAllen has an average cost ranging from $1,248 to $7,094. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly five–16 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from San Francisco to McAllen

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from San Francisco to McAllen

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from San Francisco to McAllen. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 71 interstate moving companies in San Francisco. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to McAllen.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from San Francisco to McAllen

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,972-mile move from San Francisco to McAllen using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,366 – $5,120
  • Moving Container $1,632 – $3,008
  • Rental Truck $1,108 – $2,092
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,184 – $7,094
  • Moving Container $1,931 – $4,257
  • Rental Truck $1,248 – $2,542
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,307 – $10,636
  • Moving Container $2,836 – $5,515
  • Rental Truck $1,559 – $3,018
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Colonial Van Lines
San Anselmo, CA La Joya, TX
4 Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
United Van Lines
Tiburon, CA Mikes, TX
2 Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
PODS
Fetters Hot Springs-Agua Caliente, CA El Socio, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 15, 2025
North American Van Lines
Moraga, CA Quesada, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 30, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Sausalito, CA Alamo, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 26, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Burlingame, CA Sammy Martinez, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 28, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Lagunitas-Forest Knolls, CA Raymondville, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Hayward, CA La Villa, TX
4 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
BLVD Moving
Shell Ridge, CA Zarate, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 13, 2025
Safeway Moving
Fairview, CA E. Lopez, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from McAllen, TX to San Francisco, CA guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for San Francisco to McAllen moves

Organizing a move from San Francisco to McAllen can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 91 local movers in San Francisco known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from San Francisco to McAllen.

  1. Pure Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Good Green Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.6% of all reviews were positive
1.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A standout among moving companies, Pure Moving Company consistently earns praise for efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail. Input from 1,008 customers shows 97.6% positive feedback, making it one of the highest-rated moving services in the Bay Area. Clients highlight the team’s quick, organized approach and their careful handling of belongings, often noting that nothing was damaged and furniture was wrapped thoroughly. Customers also appreciate clear communication before and during moves, as well as polite staff and easy booking. Some mention affordable, transparent rates compared to local competitors. Feedback reveals a small number of negative experiences, mainly focused on item damage, slow arrival, or inexperienced staff, although management often responds and resolves complaints promptly. Compared to other moving services, Pure Moving stands out for combining efficient work with care and professional service. Most report smooth, stress-free moves, with only rare setbacks. For those seeking a reliable Bay Area mover, Pure Moving Company sets a benchmark for quality.
Get a Quote (415) 919-6497

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant’s efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.
Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Company Info

State license #: 0167668

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.9% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 3670248

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStar’s efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Get a Quote (415) 635-3844

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1836576

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.6% of all reviews were positive
10.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Good Green Moving earns high marks for professionalism and efficiency, with nearly 89% of 341 customer feedback entries praising their staff’s courtesy, clear communication, and careful handling of belongings. Customers frequently mention efficient service, stress-free moves, and quick, reliable crews—traits that set the company apart from many others in the industry. The reusable eco-friendly bins and transparent pricing also are widely appreciated. Negative feedback, making up about 11%, primarily centers on damaged items, poor follow-up from management, and late arrivals or missed time commitments. Some customers report unresolved complaints or lost belongings, especially with storage services. Compared to typical movers, Good Green Moving stands out for its positive staff interactions and above-average customer satisfaction, though a few reports of communication lapses and damaged property remind potential clients to clarify expectations for timing and claims handling.
Get a Quote (855) 613-4663

Company Info

State license #: 0191035

Pricing: $70/hr

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2604063

Alternate Names: Green Move, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from San Francisco to McAllen?

On average, moving companies in California charge about $128 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,296 – $4,705 $1,106 – $2,850 $1,141 – $2,157
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,184 – $7,094 $1,931 – $4,257 $1,248 – $2,542
4+ bedrooms $6,307 – $10,636 $2,836 – $5,515 $1,559 – $3,018
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,972-mile move from San Francisco to McAllen are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to McAllen

When planning a move to McAllen from San Francisco, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,296 and $4,705. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,184 and $7,094 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,307 to $10,636.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to McAllen

When you’re heading from San Francisco to McAllen, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,106 and $2,850. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,931 and $4,257. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,836 to $5,515. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Francisco to McAllen

A moving rental truck from San Francisco to McAllen is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,141 to $2,157. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,248 to $2,542, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Francisco to McAllen costs around $1,559 to $3,018.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from San Francisco to McAllen

The cost of San Francisco movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from San Francisco to McAllen may only cost $2,547, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $9,934.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in San Francisco.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,141–$2,898), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from San Francisco to McAllen

Many movers find McAllen easier on the wallet than San Francisco – roughly 61% less for singles and 59% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,457 for one person in McAllen versus $3,781 in San Francisco. For a family of four, it’s $3,557 compared with $8,717.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

San Francisco McAllen
Average 1 BR rent $3,259 $813
Average 3 BR rent $5,475 $1,360
Average home value $1,241,003 $221,244
Average income (per capita) $136,689 $57,439
Cost of living (single) $3,781 $1,457
Cost of living (family of four) $8,717 $3,557
Unemployment rate 5.4% 7.9%
Sales tax 8.63% 8.25%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent is about 58% less expensive in McAllen than in San Francisco, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 82% cheaper in McAllen than in San Francisco.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 58% less in McAllen than in San Francisco.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in McAllen. The cost of living for a single person there is 61% below that of San Francisco.
  • A move to McAllen can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 59% lower compared to San Francisco.
  • McAllen has a higher unemployment rate than San Francisco by about 46%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes are nearly equal in both McAllen and San Francisco (within a 5% range), so budgeting should not be affected by this change.
  • 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.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in San Francisco versus McAllen:

Living Expense San Francisco McAllen
Basic utilities $229.35 $169.85
Cell phone plan $62.91 $39.43
Dozen eggs $5.91 $3.23
Loaf of bread $5.06 $2.95
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $12.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $125.00 $62.50
Gym membership $99.96 $45.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Francisco than in McAllen.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in McAllen.
  • Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in McAllen.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in McAllen.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in San Francisco than in McAllen.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in McAllen.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in McAllen.

How life is different in San Francisco vs. McAllen

San Francisco McAllen
Population 808,988 142,210
Transportation score 10 3
Walkability score 99 41
Bike friendliness score 99 46
Crime index 61.41 36.26
Safety index 38.59 63.74
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • McAllen’s population is about 82% less than San Francisco.
  • McAllen’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco’s score of 10.
  • McAllen is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 41 out of 100 vs San Francisco’s 99 out of 100.
  • McAllen has a bike-friendliness score of 46 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
  • McAllen’s crime rate is lower than San Francisco with a score of 36.26 compared to San Francisco’s 61.41. This means that McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
  • McAllen is considered to be safer than San Francisco with a safety index of 63.74 vs San Francisco’s 38.59.
  • Air quality in McAllen is Moderate, and in San Francisco it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Francisco to McAllen move

  • HOA rules: Costs across San Francisco and McAllen are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Texas, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Texas, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to McAllen. Get started 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in McAllen

With your sights set on The City of Palms, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in McAllen.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown McAllen
  • South McAllen
  • La Vista
  • Dove Landing
  • The Village of Westlakes

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North McAllen
  • Sharyland Plantation
  • Tres Lagos
  • Royal Oak Estates
  • Tuscan Estates

Things to do in McAllen

With your move to Texas complete, you can dive right into experiencing McAllen. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: McAllen is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), The McAllen Heritage Center, and Nuevo Santadar Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s McAllen Nature Center, Town Lake at Firemen’s Park, and McAllen’s New Park & Spray Ground — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Francisco to McAllen?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from San Francisco to McAllen. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in San Francisco.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to McAllen?

Want to save on your move from San Francisco to McAllen? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from San Francisco to McAllen take?

The 1,972-mile move from San Francisco, CA, to McAllen, , takes five to 16 days. Some San Francisco movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in McAllen.

What kinds of discounts do San Francisco movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In San Francisco, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in San Francisco?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 72 movers in San Francisco provide piano moving services. 64 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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