Moving from Austin to Garland, TX
Quick answer: Moving from Austin to Garland costs $287–$6,540, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 214-mile route within Texas take 1–2 days from packing to delivery, based on moveBuddha's analysis of 285+ Texas moving companies.
- Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service pick at 4.9 out of 5 stars, our best overall value mover for this route.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Austin to Garland?
Moving from Austin to Garland doesn't have to mean hiring a full-service crew and paying top dollar. Whether you want movers to handle the whole job or you're up for tackling parts of it yourself, there's an option that fits.
For full-service moves, we recommend Safeway Moving (4.9/5).
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 214-mile move:
Moving from Austin to Garland costs between $287 and $6,540, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 214-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $1,760–$5,070 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options | |
| Moving container | $1,235–$2,198 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading | |
| Rental truck | $323–$625 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $90/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 285+ Texas movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Austin to Garland?
The cost to move from Austin to Garland ranges from $287 to $6,540, according to moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Pricing on this 214-mile route depends on which moving service you pick and how much you're hauling:
- Full-service movers: $1,071–$6,540
- Moving containers: $959–$3,013
- Rental trucks: $287–$716
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves cover packing, loading, transport, and unloading end-to-end. Professional packing on its own adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers lower the price because you handle loading and unloading while the company drives the container.
- Rental trucks come in roughly 30% cheaper than full-service, but you drive 214 miles and provide all the labor.
- Running quotes through moveBuddha's cost calculator helps movers save 30% versus their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,071–$4,078 | $959–$1,654 | $287–$534 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,760–$5,070 | $1,235–$2,198 | $323–$625 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,412–$6,540 | $1,702–$3,013 | $365–$716 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 285+ Texas moving companies, and are updated as of May 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
What extra fees should you expect on a Austin to Garland move?
Plan for a few extra fees on a Austin to Garland move: professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. They aren't usually included in initial quotes, but together they can add 10%–25% on top of the base price.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $90/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Austin to Garland
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Austin to Garland, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 214 miles, both local and national movers can handle this route well. Your best fit depends on home size, timeline, and budget.
Best movers for larger homes & complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our best overall value pick for full-service moves from Austin to Garland. With 14 years in the moving industry, statewide service throughout Texas, and a 4.9 out of 5 stars moveBuddha rating, Safeway Moving handles intrastate moves of 214 miles with the logistics infrastructure most local operators can't match.
moveBuddha's top 5 full-service movers, ranked:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
More Texas moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Garland to Austin guide.
How does Garland compare to Austin?
Cost of living: Austin vs. Garland
The cost of living in Austin vs. Garland is more than just housing costs. Rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends all shape your budget. The comparison below shows how life in Garland measures up against Austin.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Austin | Garland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,765 | $1,624 |
| Average home cost | $512,969 | $249,342 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,461 | $74,717 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,345 | $2,827 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,815 | $7,793 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 6.5% |
| Average sales tax | 8.25% | 8.25% |
Cost-of-living data for Austin and Garland comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated May 2026 across 285+ Texas cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent in Garland runs 8% cheaper than Austin. Consider upgrading to a larger unit or banking the savings.
- Home prices in Garland are 51% lower than Austin. Most buyers translate the gap into bigger square footage or a faster path to ownership.
- Average income in Garland is 18% lower than Austin. Watch your real take-home, since lower salaries don't always pair with lower expenses.
- Cost of living for one person in Garland is 15% lower than Austin. The savings typically free up 15% of monthly take-home for savings or discretionary spending.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 is nearly identical in Garland and Austin. Expect childcare, groceries, and healthcare to track at similar levels.
- Unemployment in Garland runs 86% higher than Austin. Lock in a role before relocating, especially if you depend on a single income.
- Sales taxes are nearly identical in Garland and Austin. No tax-driven adjustment to spending behavior is required.
If you typically live on $3,000 a month in Austin, you'll need about $2,550 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in Garland.
How life is different in Austin vs. Garland
A look at how life in Garland measures up to Austin covers weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population. The comparison below makes it easier to tell which city better fits your lifestyle and needs.
| Austin | Garland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 974,447 | 239,928 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 71-26 | Republican 56-43 |
| Summer high | 96ºF | 96ºF |
| Winter low | 38ºF | 35ºF |
| Annual rain | 35" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 1" |
| Crime index | 42.91 | 37.13 |
- Garland is roughly 75% smaller in size than Austin. The smaller scale typically translates to lower density, lower cost, and a tighter local job market.
- In the last presidential election, Garland voted Republican, while Austin leaned Democrat.
- Summer highs in Garland (96°F) match Austin (96°F). No wardrobe or cooling-cost adjustment required.
- Winter lows are comparable in Austin (38°F) and Garland (35°F). Heating loads stay level.
- Annual rainfall matches across Austin (35 inches) and Garland (40 inches). Existing rain habits and gear carry over.
- Annual snowfall in Austin is zero, while Garland averages 1 inch. Budget for winter tires, snow gear, and possible heating-system upgrades.
- Crime index in Garland (37.13) runs lower than Austin (42.91). The safety profile typically translates to insurance and housing flexibility.
Things to do in Garland
Adventure, cultural attractions, live sports, and college campuses define Garland's lifestyle profile. The categories below highlight where to start.
Museums in Garland
- Garland Landmark Museum
Parks in Garland
- Rowlett Creek Preserve
- Spring Creek Park
- Lake Ray Hubbard
Sports teams in Garland
- Garland Independent School District (IISD) high schools
Universities in Garland
- Richland College
- Amberton University
Final verdict: best movers from Austin to Garland
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Austin to Garland, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide Texas service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $287–$6,540 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 285+ Texas movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Austin to Garland
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Austin to Garland?
A full-service move from Austin to Garland typically costs $969–$3,431 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,760–$5,070. For a 4-bedroom home or larger, prices fall between $2,412 and $6,540 on the same route.
How much are moving container companies from Austin to Garland?
Moving containers from Austin to Garland have typical costs as follows. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices fall between $659 and $1,531. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,235–$2,198. For 4–5 bedroom homes, moves typically range from $1,702 to $3,013.
How much is a moving truck from Austin to Garland?
A rental moving truck from Austin to Garland costs $307–$497 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move costs $323–$625. A 4-bedroom or larger move costs $365–$716.
Rental trucks are the most budget-friendly choice for movers willing to handle the driving and heavy lifting. Estimated fuel costs are factored into the pricing above.
How far in advance should I book Austin-to-Garland movers?
Lock in your movers for a Austin to Garland move at least 2 months before your big day. For a summer move, aim for 3 months ahead, since spots fill up fast. Early booking boosts your chances of getting the date you want, and many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Garland?
The cheapest time of year to move to Garland is between early October and late April. This period falls outside the moving industry's peak season (May through September), which means demand and pricing both run lower. Most U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months saves money.