Local moving companies in Austin
- Bellhop Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Square Cow: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Apple Moving : 4.86 out of 5 stars
- 3 Men Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.76 out of 5 stars
Bellhop Moving

DOT #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
2505 Longview Street, Austin, TX 78705 USFast moves and friendly attitudes set Bellhop Moving apart, with 163 feedback responses showing 69% positive and 30% negative experiences. Customers highlight the companyโs quick-moving teams, professional and approachable staff, and the convenience of straightforward bookingโqualities often missing from larger movers. Many found the service easy to use and appreciated clear communication, with several reporting moves done faster than estimated. On the downside, dissatisfied customers most frequently point to property damage, citing broken or scratched furniture and poor packing techniques. Complaints also reference a lack of experience among movers and occasional delays or no-shows. While helpful for simple moves and tight timelines, the service sometimes falls short on handling fragile or valuable items, losing ground to competitors with more rigorous training and consistent reliability.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2878240
- State license #: 009668291C
Square Cow

DOT #: 1748594
Years in Business: 17
11517 Manchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748 USCustomer feedback on Square Cow rolls in with glowing praise for their professionalism and efficiencyโmost clients found their moves smooth, fast, and well-handled. Out of 1,395 reviews analyzed, 88% shared positive input, highlighting efficient service, friendly and capable staff, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication. These traits set Square Cow apart from many competitors. Customers especially valued the polite movers and careful work, often noting stress-free moves even under challenging circumstances. Although a small portion of responses (about 10%) reported issues, the main complaints focused on damages to property, slow or inefficient teams, and missing items. In particular, some moves took far longer than estimates or resulted in damaged goods that were hard to recover or claim. Only 1.8% of reviews were neutral, often mentioning slow pace or unexpected fees but balanced with some satisfactory points. Compared to other movers, Square Cowโs high volume of enthusiastic recommendations and consistent reliability make it a leading choice, though there is still risk of service lapses. Many customers return for repeat moves, citing trustworthy teams and honest pricing, underscoring a reputation for genuine customer careโyet it pays to keep an eye on timeframes and item handling.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Additional Information
- DOT #: 1748594
- State license #: 006362543C
Alternative Business Names
- Square Cow Movers
- Square Cow Moovers LLC
Apple Moving

DOT #: 1934458
Years in Business: 24
9807 Brown Ln, Austin, TX 78754 USCustomer input for Apple Moving stands out for consistent, reliable moving crews who are efficient, caring, and professional. Feedback praises staff friendliness and careful handling of belongings, with several customers noting quick, hassle-free moves. Many appreciate how movers placed boxes accurately and worked swiftly in challenging conditions or with short notice. Nevertheless, reports of scratched or broken items and unsatisfactory resolutions to claims are more common here than with top-tier moving companies. Several clients described surprise fees or price hikes, leading to frustration and a sense of distrust. Unprofessional behavior and communication lapses also surfaced among criticisms. Apple Movingโs high number of positive endorsements and repeat business ratings set it above most competitors, but reliable item protection and transparent billing need improvement. Out of 256 feedback entries, 72% rate their experience highly, but some warn about damage and unexpected costs.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- DOT #: 1934458
- State license #: 009119390C
3 Men Movers

DOT #: 1914113
Years in Business: 40
1005 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 USMoving with 3 Men Movers often means working with a team that's fast, careful, and consistently professional. From 273 customer reviews, 92.7% praised their efficient service, careful handling, and friendly staff. Many highlighted how the crew communicated well, worked rapidly, and treated belongings with respect. Customers frequently noted that movers arrived on time, finished quickly, and handled even difficult moves smoothly compared to other companies. Despite these strengths, 7% of feedback involved serious concerns like property or item damage, late arrivals, or jobs feeling rushed or incomplete. A few reviews described items broken or damaged without adequate compensation, as well as instances where crews arrived late and moved slowly. Only 0.4% delivered neutral input, mentioning minor unprofessional conduct and the need for careful home inspection after moving. People looking for a reliable moving team with a strong focus on efficiency and careful handling will find 3 Men Movers consistently delivers what most other companies do not, though it's wise to verify details in advance and check your property before the team leaves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- DOT #: 1914113
- State license #: 000534796B
Alternative Business Names
- 3 Men Movers LTD
Little Guys Movers

DOT #: 1931566
Years in Business: 32
2363 E State Hwy 71 Service Rd, Austin, TX 78617 USLittle Guys Movers earns standout marks for professionalism and reliability, with 93.5% of 248 customer reviews rating their experience positively. Feedback highlights their courteous staff, quick and efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Many customers mention transparent pricing and strong communication as reasons for choosing this company repeatedly. Some clients point out affordable rates and the crew's willingness to handle last-minute changes or logistical challenges. On the negative side, a few reviewers report surprise charges, inexperienced movers leading to slower service or minor damage, and higher overall costs than expected. Compared to other moving services, Little Guys Movers receives more praise for dependability and friendliness, but a handful of clients encourage improving transparency around pricing and mover experience. Most people experience fast, careful moves with a friendly team, making this company one of the most recommended options around, while a few suggest clarifying expectations to avoid disappointment.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1931566
- State license #: 006269796C
Key factors that impact the cost of your Austin to San Francisco move
What to know before moving from Austin to San Francisco
Moving from Austin to San Francisco comes with exciting new opportunities โ but also higher living costs. Since San Francisco is generally more expensive than Austin, itโs important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Austin | San Francisco | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,765 | $3,250 |
Average home value | $508,841 | $1,241,003 |
Average income (per capita) | $68,258 | $136,689 |
Cost of living (single person) | $3,345 | $3,781 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,815 | $8,717 |
Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 5.4% |
Sales tax | 8.25% | 8.63% |
State income tax | 0.0% | 13.3% |
- Rent prices in San Francisco are 84% higher than in Austin, which means youโll have less money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Austin.
Home prices in San Francisco are 143.9% higher than in Austin. - Income in San Francisco is 100.3% higher than in Austin, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in San Francisco include Lyft, Securitize, and Wells Fargo.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Francisco, since the cost of living for a single person in San Francisco is 13.0% higher than in Austin. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If youโre moving your family to San Francisco, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Francisco is 11.5% higher than in Austin.
- The unemployment rate in San Francisco is 54.29% higher than in Austin.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in San Francisco, since the cityโs sales taxes in San Francisco are 4.61% higher than in Austin.
- State income taxes in San Francisco are 13.30% higher than in Austin.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,391.03 in San Francisco to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Austin.
How life is different in Austin vs. San Francisco
San Francisco | Austin | |
---|---|---|
Population | 808,988 | 974,447 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 10 | 5 |
Walkability score | 99 | 42 |
Bike friendliness score | 99 | 54 |
Crime Index | 61.41 | 42.91 |
Safety Index | 38.59 | 59.87 |
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
- San Francisco might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 17% less than Austin.
- San Francisco offers better access to buses and trains than Austin, based on public transportation ratings. San Francisco has a transit score of 10 out of 10 compared to 5 in Austin. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
- Living in San Francisco means youโll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Austin. San Francisco is considered more walkable than Austin, with a score of 99 out of 100 versus 42 out of 100 in Austin. A cityโs walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
- If cycling is your thing, San Francisco is considered more bike-friendly than Austin in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. San Francisco has a bike-friendliness score of 99 out of 100, while Austin is rated as 54 out of 100.
- The crime rate in San Francisco is higher than in Austin, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 61.41 in San Francisco, it is 42.91 in Austin. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a cityโs crime levels.
- You may want to exercise more caution as youโre getting used to your new surroundings in San Francisco. With a crime index of 38.59, San Francisco ranks lower in overall safety than Austin, whose index is Austin's 59.87. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
- The air quality in San Francisco isnโt as good as it is in Austin, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. San Francisco has an air quality rating of Moderate, and Austin is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.
Other things to consider for your Austin vs. San Francisco move
- Weather: San Francisco's weather is strongly influenced by the cool currents of the Pacific Ocean on the west side of the city, and the water of San Francisco Bay to the north and east. This moderates temperature swings and produces a remarkably mild year-round climate with little seasonal temperature variation.
- HOA rules: Itโs a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโs 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a โT Numberโ issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโs license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While California doesnโt 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 San Francisco 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. Opt for Released Value Protection โ a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in San Francisco
With your sights set on "Golden Gate City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in San Francisco.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Marina District
- Mission Bay
- Mission District
- Noe Valley
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bernal Heights
- Inner Sunset
- Noe Valley
- North Beach
- Presidio Heights
Things to do in San Francisco
After settling into your new California home, youโll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, San Francisco has lots to offer, no matter what youโre interested in:
- Arts and culture: San Francisco is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, Walt Disney Family Museum, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and Legion of Honor.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Golden Gate Park, Presidio of San Francisco, Mission Dolores Park, and Crissy Field โ among other sites โ are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an San Francisco 49ers (NFL), San Francisco Giants (MLB), or Golden State Warriors (NBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Austin to San Francisco?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Austin to San Francisco are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Austin are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Austin to San Francisco?
With many people choosing to move from Austin to San Francisco in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Austin to San Francisco take?
Moving from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA covers 1,757 miles and usually takes five to 16 days. Need to move faster? Some Austin movers offer expedited options. If youโre not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Francisco.