Quick answer: For a 1,197-mile move from Raleigh to Houston, expect to spend around $1,021–$7,549 and two to eight days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Houston to Raleigh 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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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Raleigh to Houston

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from Raleigh to Houston can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

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 NC to TX movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 85 North Carolina 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 servicing Raleigh to Houston moves

When planning a move from Raleigh to Houston, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Raleigh who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Raleigh to Houston.

  1. Athens Moving Experts: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Miracle Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/athensmovingexperts, https://twitter.com/athensmovingexp
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts gets top marks from customers who appreciate reliable, courteous, and hardworking crews. Nearly 94% of feedback is positive across 334 reviews. People routinely mention how efficiently the teams work, how carefully they handle belongings, and how friendly and communicative they are throughout the process.
Fair pricing stands out as another frequent highlight compared to competitors. A few clients, however, report issues such as damaged or poorly packed items, especially during busy or larger moves. Some negative input also cites crews lacking experience or rushing, which led to mistakes. In the rare neutral reviews, most concerns relate to minor service lapses or pandemic-related policy misunderstandings rather than major moving problems. Athens’s consistent reputation for speed, respectful service, and professionalism places them ahead of most local movers, but a small number of clients wish for even greater attention to packing quality and oversight during complex jobs.
Show more
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3205320


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LittleGuysRaleigh, https://twitter.com/littleguyshq
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave input says Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, professional teams who handle belongings with care and keep things moving efficiently. Out of 315 reviews, an overwhelming 93.7% rate the company highly, often calling out polite staff, excellent communication, careful handling, and fast, organized service as reasons to recommend them. Quotes usually match the final cost, and customers note that movers arrive on time, stay upbeat, and make stressful moves feel easy.
On the other hand, negative feedback—about 5.4%—focuses on damaged items, with a few cases of slow or careless service, and occasional complaints about unexpectedly high or confusing charges and poor communication during claims or repairs. With positive ratings far above industry averages, Little Guys Movers garners trust through skilled teams and transparent pricing practices, though a handful of customers encounter problems with damage resolution or billing discrepancies.
Show more
Get a Quote (919) 439-2454

Company Info

State license #: 2548

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1931566


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62% of all reviews were positive
35% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking.
On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ExcelAllied/, https://twitter.com/excelms
78% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Excel Moving & Storage stands out with a stellar reputation for professionalism, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Of 283 customer experiences reviewed, 78% highlight attentive staff, timely communication, and a smooth moving process. Customers value the team's politeness, quick work, and the sense that their possessions are respected.
When compared to typical industry input, Excel's high marks for effective communication and detail-oriented care put them ahead of many competitors. Despite the strong positive feedback, 18% report concerns, mainly regarding damaged or missing items and communication lapses after incidents. While most feedback applauds reliability, negative reviews reveal challenges with problem resolution, lost goods, and slow or absent responses when something goes wrong. Neutral feedback, just over 3%, notes good customer service but occasional delivery delays or minor damages. Excel earns frequent recommendations for large or complex moves, but customers should confirm policies on claims and coverage for valuable items. The company reliably delivers efficient, careful moves, though improvements in post-move communication could further strengthen their standing.
Show more
Get a Quote (919) 213-6694

Company Info

State license #: 2311

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 076235


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/MiracleMoversRaleigh/, https://twitter.com/MMRaleigh
82% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and satisfied customers paint Miracle Movers as a standout among moving companies—of 255 reviews, 82.4% shine with positive feedback. Customers consistently praise the efficient service, careful handling, professional crews, speedy moves, and clear communication. Many note the company excels at protecting belongings and making stressful transitions feel easy.
On the other hand, the most consistent complaints are about damage to household items, slow or lacking responses to claims, and occasional unexpected or higher charges at billing. Despite these issues, negative comments account for less than one-fifth of feedback, considerably lower than industry averages. For most clients, Miracle Movers reliably delivers a prompt, safe move with friendly staff, putting it well ahead of many competitors who struggle with service consistency and trust.
Show more
Get a Quote (919) 656-4043

Company Info

State license #: 2894

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2461529

Alternate Names: Miracle Movers of Raleigh, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices

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

Raleigh movers charge $93 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 $1,376 - $6,000 $1,115 - $2,644 $936 - $1,801
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,306 - $7,549 $2,076 - $4,042 $1,021 - $2,142
4+ bedrooms $5,485 - $10,372 $2,675 - $5,085 $1,233 - $2,611
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,197 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 North Carolina to Texas

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from North Carolina to Texas typically costs between $1,376 and $6,000. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,306 and $7,549 when moving from NC to TX. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from North Carolina to Texas, you're looking at costs ranging from $5,485 up to $10,372.

Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to Texas

Moving from North Carolina to Texas? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,115 and $2,644. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,076 to $4,042. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,675 up to $5,085. 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 North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to Texas

Renting a moving truck 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 $936 and $1,801. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,021 and $2,142. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $1,233 up to $2,611 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Raleigh to Houstontoggle

The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Raleigh to Houston (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,376, while larger moves may reach $8,543 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 Raleigh,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $936 to $2,459), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to Houston

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

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

Raleigh Houston
Average rent cost $1,670 $1,549
Average home value $431,795 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $69,833
Cost of living (single person) $6,077 $2,770
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,077 $7,157
Unemployment rate 4.3% 4.1%
Sales tax 7.25% 8.25%
State income tax 4.5% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Houston are 7% lower than in Raleigh, 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 38.9% lower than in Raleigh.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Houston, where incomes are, on average, 2,615.1% higher than in Raleigh. Major employers in Houston include H-E-B, Houston Methodist, and Memorial Hermann Health System.
  • 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 54.4% lower than in Raleigh.
  • If you're moving your family to Houston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Houston is 17.8% higher than in Raleigh.
  • The unemployment rate in Houston is 4.65% lower than in Raleigh.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Houston, since its sales taxes are 13.79% higher than what you are paying in Raleigh.
  • One perk of moving to Houston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Raleigh.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,367.45 in Houston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Raleigh.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. Houston

Houston Raleigh
Population 2,301,572 467,665
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 4
Walkability score 47 31
Bike friendliness score 49 39
Crime Index 63.5 38.87
Safety Index 36.5 60.13
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Houston's population is about 392% greater than Raleigh.
  • Houston's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Raleigh's lower score of 4.
  • Houston is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Raleigh's 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 49 out of 100, Houston is more bike-friendly than Raleigh, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Houston's crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 63.5 compared to Raleigh's 38.87. This means that Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • Houston is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 36.5 vs Raleigh's 60.13.
  • Air quality in Houston is good, and in Raleigh it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh 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: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially 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: While Texas doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Houston without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Houston

Now that you've decided to make the move to HOU, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

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

  • Arts and culture: Houston is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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 sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at 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 Raleigh to Houston?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Raleigh to Houston You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Raleigh.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Houston take?

The 1,197-mile journey from Raleigh, NC to Houston, TX, typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Raleigh offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Houston.

Helpful moving resources