Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,350) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to McAllen, TX

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 1,703 mile move from Detroit to McAllen, costs typically range from $1,122 to $7,252. Plan for the travel time to be around four–15 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Detroit 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 Detroit to McAllen

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Detroit to McAllen, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 27 interstate moving companies located in Detroit, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to McAllen seamless and enjoyable.

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 McAllen

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,703-mile move from Detroit to McAllen using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,429 – $5,203
  • Moving Container $1,506 – $2,649
  • Rental Truck $1,047 – $1,840
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,382 – $7,252
  • Moving Container $1,815 – $3,897
  • Rental Truck $1,122 – $2,348
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,735 – $9,853
  • Moving Container $2,477 – $5,073
  • Rental Truck $1,428 – $2,928
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.
Roadway Moving
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI Mikes, TX
3 Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Rockwood, MI Camargito, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 11, 2025
American Van Lines
Franklin, MI El Socio, TX
3 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Lake Angelus, MI San Fernando, TX
3 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Allen Park, MI Victoria Vera, TX
3 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
PODS
Trenton, MI Longoria, TX
2 Bedrooms
Sep 12, 2025
Safeway Moving
Ecorse, MI Mission, TX
Studio apartment
Sep 01, 2025
Mayflower Transit
New Baltimore, MI Donna, TX
2 Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Warren, MI Progreso Lakes, TX
4 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
United Van Lines
Romulus, MI Iglesia Antigua, TX
2 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

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

The best local movers for Detroit to McAllen moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Detroit that also handles long-distance moves to McAllen. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 36 local movers in Detroit who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Detroit to McAllen.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
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
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
89.0% of all reviews were positive
10.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful. Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.

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
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
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
73.1% of all reviews were positive
24.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with O’Sullivan means fast work and respectful treatment of your belongings. Out of 320 pieces of feedback, 73% rated the company positively, reflecting efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and reasonable rates as standout features. Customers frequently compliment the team’s ability to move quickly while keeping items safe, and many say the pricing is budget-friendly compared to other movers in the area. The booking process is usually described as easy, with frequent recommendations citing trustworthy, hardworking crews. Some negative input highlights recurring problems: several clients reported damage to their items or property and faced slow responses or unreturned calls when seeking compensation. Unexpected or higher-than-expected charges also appear regularly in the negative feedback. In contrast to other movers, O’Sullivan receives high levels of repeat and referral business, pointing to a generally higher satisfaction rate but is also flagged for inconsistent resolution of claims. If customer communication and claims response matched their crews’ care and speed, customer satisfaction would likely be among the best in the region.
Get a Quote (800) 430-7881

Company Info

State license #: 20587

Years in Business: 42

DOT #: 1660642

Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

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

The average hourly rate for movers in Michigan is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,350 – $5,225 $1,091 – $2,665 $1,037 – $1,974
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,382 – $7,252 $1,815 – $3,897 $1,122 – $2,348
4+ bedrooms $5,735 – $9,853 $2,477 – $5,073 $1,428 – $2,928
*Approximate cost ranges for a 1,703-mile move from Detroit to McAllen are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to McAllen

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Detroit to McAllen will cost between $1,350 and $5,225. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Detroit to Detroit will range from $3,382 to $7,252, and a large move from Detroit to McAllen will cost from $5,735 to $9,853.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to McAllen

If you’re moving from Detroit to McAllen, expect to pay between $1,091 and $2,665 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,815 up to $3,897. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,477 and $5,073. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to McAllen

Renting a moving truck from Detroit to McAllen is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,037 and $1,974. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,122 and $2,348. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,428 up to $2,928 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to McAllen

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,476, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $9,303.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Detroit, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,037–$2,597) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Detroit to McAllen

Many movers find McAllen easier on the wallet than Detroit – roughly 42% less for singles and 47% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,457 for one person in McAllen versus $2,500 in Detroit. For a family of four, it’s $3,557 compared with $6,687.

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

Detroit McAllen
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $813
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $1,360
Average home value $73,156 $221,244
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $57,439
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $1,457
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $3,557
Unemployment rate 9.06% 7.9%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.25%
State income tax 4.25% 0.0%
  • Rent is estimated to be 8% higher in McAllen compared to Detroit; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 202% greater in McAllen than in Detroit.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 52% higher in McAllen than in Detroit, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in McAllen. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 42% lower than in Detroit.
  • Choosing to move to McAllen can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 47% less than in Detroit.
  • McAllen enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 13% lower compared to Detroit, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 38% in McAllen over Detroit, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • 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 a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Detroit and McAllen:

Living Expense Detroit McAllen
Basic utilities $251.12 $169.85
Cell phone plan $55.77 $39.43
Dozen eggs $3.52 $3.23
Loaf of bread $2.94 $2.95
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $12.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $62.50
Gym membership $43.00 $45.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in McAllen.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in McAllen.
  • Eggs cost more in Detroit than in McAllen.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in McAllen.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Detroit than in McAllen.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Detroit than in McAllen.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Detroit than in McAllen.

How life is different in Detroit vs. McAllen

Detroit McAllen
Population 639,111 142,210
Transportation score 7 3
Walkability score 51 41
Bike friendliness score 52 46
Crime index 72.92 36.26
Safety index 27.08 63.74
Air quality Good Moderate
  • McAllen’s population is about 78% less than Detroit.
  • McAllen’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • McAllen is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 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 Detroit, which has a score of 52.
  • McAllen’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 36.26 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • McAllen is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 63.74 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in McAllen is Moderate, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to McAllen move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving license and its status 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to McAllen. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in McAllen

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The City of Palms, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

Once you’re settled into your new home in Texas, it’s time to get out and discover what McAllen has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout McAllen, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Detroit to McAllen, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Detroit to McAllen take?

Moving from Detroit, MI to McAllen, covers 1,703 miles and usually takes four to 15 days. Need to move faster? Some Detroit movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in McAllen.

Which movers in Detroit give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Detroit?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 22 movers in Detroit advertise piano moving expertise. 8 movers in Detroit provide antique moving services. State totals show 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle