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($1,280) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Houston, TX

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 1,310 miles from Detroit to Houston, expect to pay between $845 and $6,342. The journey should take about three–eight days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Detroit to Houston

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 Detroit to Houston

For a stress-free interstate move from Detroit to Houston, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 28 interstate moving companies in Detroit, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Houston.

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 Detroit to Houston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,310-mile move from Detroit to Houston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,288 – $4,746
  • Moving Container $1,198 – $2,253
  • Rental Truck $789 – $1,553
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,680 – $6,342
  • Moving Container $1,656 – $3,175
  • Rental Truck $845 – $1,759
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,768 – $9,060
  • Moving Container $2,247 – $4,132
  • Rental Truck $1,020 – $2,123
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
Wolverine Lake, MI Stafford, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 20, 2025
North American Van Lines
Grosse Pointe Shores, MI Morgan’s Point, TX
4 Bedrooms
Nov 20, 2025
American Van Lines
Huntington Woods, MI Brookshire, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 26, 2025
BLVD Moving
River Rouge, MI Aldine, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Hamtramck, MI Tomball, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 05, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Bloomfield Hills, MI Liberty, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 29, 2025
Roadway Moving
Milford, MI Thompsons, TX
3 Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Madison Heights, MI Hitchcock, TX
2 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Franklin, MI Woodloch, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 11, 2025
PODS
Novi, MI Richmond, TX
4 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Houston, TX to Detroit, MI guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Detroit to Houston moves

When planning a move from Detroit to Houston, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 37 local movers in Detroit who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Detroit to Houston.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Handy Relocations: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors. Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.0% of all reviews were positive
7.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive. People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.3% of all reviews were positive
25.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive. Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.9% of all reviews were positive
11.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Handy Relocations receives strong praise from most customers, with 85.9% providing positive feedback from 71 reviews analyzed. Shoppers appreciate professional staff, helpful movers, and clear communication throughout the process. Efficient service and upfront, transparent pricing stand out when compared to other companies, along with a reputation for going the extra mile to help customers find what they need. Negative feedback, though limited, points to issues like unexpected charges, challenges with the store’s availability, and marketing that some felt was misleading. Handy Relocations sets a high standard for customer service in the moving industry, though attention to billing accuracy and schedule consistency can further enhance the customer experience.
Get a Quote (313) 649-4917

Company Info

State license #: 39343

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3345697

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.8% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage stands out for delivering fast, careful, and respectful service. Out of 152 feedback entries analyzed, nearly 91% were positive. Customers routinely describe crews as professional, efficient, and polite. Movers excel at handling belongings with caution and working quickly while keeping clients informed, making the process smooth and easy. Many clients also highlight the staff’s helpfulness and the accuracy of estimates—qualities that set this company ahead of typical industry standards. On the downside, some input identified concerns such as damaged items, bills running higher than quoted, and complaints not always being resolved satisfactorily. Still, such occurrences are much less frequent than the many glowing reports. Compared to other movers, Grosse Pointe earns notably stronger praise for speed, professionalism, and quality care, with negative incidents reported far less often.
Get a Quote (313) 822-4400

Company Info

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 279708

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Movers in Michigan charge 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 $1,280 – $4,875 $899 – $2,313 $821 – $1,568
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,680 – $6,342 $1,656 – $3,175 $845 – $1,759
4+ bedrooms $4,768 – $9,060 $2,247 – $4,132 $1,020 – $2,123
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 1,310-mile relocation from Detroit to Houston, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Houston

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Houston, you can expect to spend between $1,280 and $4,875. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,680 to $6,342 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Detroit to Houston typically runs between $4,768 and $9,060.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Houston

When moving from Detroit to Houston, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $899 and $2,313. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,656 to $3,175. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,247 up to $4,132. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Houston

Renting a moving truck in Detroit is usually your cheapest option to get to Houston. 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 $821 and $1,568. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $845 and $1,759. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,020 and $2,123.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Detroit to Houston

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,335, but larger homes can run up to $7,886.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Detroit.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($821–$2,001) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Houston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Houston runs about 11% higher for singles and 7% higher for families than Detroit.

Singles spend around $2,770 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $7,157 compared with $6,687.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Detroit Houston
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,658
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $3,195
Average home value $73,156 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $69,833
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $2,770
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $7,157
Unemployment rate 9.06% 4.1%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.25%
State income tax 4.25% 0.0%
  • As you consider relocating to Houston, note that rent can be roughly 24% more expensive than it is in Detroit; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 261% higher in Houston than in Detroit.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 85% higher in Houston compared to Detroit, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Houston, since the cost of living for a single person is 11% more than in Detroit. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Houston, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Houston is 7% more than it is in Detroit.
  • Houston experiences an unemployment rate that is about 55% lower than that of Detroit. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
  • Sales taxes are 38% higher in Houston than in Detroit. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • 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.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Detroit with Houston:

Living Expense Detroit Houston
Basic utilities $251.12 $200.52
Cell phone plan $55.77 $60.77
Dozen eggs $3.52 $4.11
Loaf of bread $2.94 $3.05
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $80.00
Gym membership $43.00 $38.29
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Houston.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Detroit than in Houston.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Houston.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Houston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Detroit than in Houston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Houston.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Houston.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Houston

Detroit Houston
Population 639,111 2,301,572
Transportation score 7 5
Walkability score 51 47
Bike friendliness score 52 49
Crime index 72.92 63.5
Safety index 27.08 36.5
Air quality Good Good
  • Houston’s population is about 260% greater than Detroit.
  • Houston’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Houston is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • Houston has a bike-friendliness score of 49 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Detroit, which has a score of 52.
  • Houston’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 63.5 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Houston is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 36.5 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Houston is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Houston move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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 verify a Texas moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Texas doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Houston smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Houston

Now that you’ve chosen HOU as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Houston to check out.

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: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Houston offers cultural landmarks like the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Children’s Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, and Houston Museum of Natural Science.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Houston Texans (NFL)Houston Astros (MLBHouston Dash (NWSL)Houston Dynamo FC (MLS)Houston Rockets (NBA)Houston SaberCats (MLR) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Detroit to Houston are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Detroit are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Detroit to Houston are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Detroit to Houston take?

A move of 1,310 miles from Detroit, MI to Houston, generally takes three to eight days. Movers in Detroit sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Houston is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Detroit?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 3 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 3 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in Detroit offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 22 movers in Detroit have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 8 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,300 and 1,465.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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