The best local movers for Houston to San Francisco moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Houston that also handles long-distance moves to San Francisco. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 49 local movers in Houston 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 Houston to San Francisco.
- A Better Tripp Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- 3 Men Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Square Cow: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Johnnie T. Melia Moving & Storage: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 005972633C
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 679167
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 000534796B
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 1914113
Alternate Names: 3 Men Movers LTD
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Company Info
State license #: 007018347C
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 006362543C
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1748594
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 0000005457
Years in Business: 56
DOT #: 436264
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Houston to San Francisco?
The average hourly rate for movers in Texas is $131. 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 | $1,193 – $4,752 | $1,076 – $2,717 | $1,096 – $2,112 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,360 – $7,278 | $2,057 – $4,265 | $1,174 – $2,463 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,944 – $10,881 | $2,707 – $5,470 | $1,587 – $3,233 |
Cost to hire movers from Houston to San Francisco
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Houston to San Francisco will cost between $1,193 and $4,752. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Houston to Houston will range from $3,360 to $7,278, and a large move from Houston to San Francisco will cost from $5,944 to $10,881.
Cost of moving containers from Houston to San Francisco
If you’re moving from Houston to San Francisco, expect to pay between $1,076 and $2,717 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,057 up to $4,265. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,707 and $5,470. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Texas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Houston to San Francisco
Renting a moving truck from Houston to San Francisco 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 $1,096 and $2,112. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,174 and $2,463. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,587 up to $3,233 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Houston to San Francisco
The cost of Houston movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,446, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,046.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Houston, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,096–$2,866) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Houston to San Francisco
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Francisco runs about 36% higher for singles and 22% higher for families than Houston.
Singles spend around $3,781 in Houston versus $2,770 in Houston; families pay $8,717 compared with $7,157.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Houston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,658 | $3,259 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,195 | $5,475 |
| Average home value | $263,945 | $1,241,003 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,833 | $136,689 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,770 | $3,781 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,157 | $8,717 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.4% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 8.63% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 13.3% |
- Rent is estimated to be 110% higher in San Francisco compared to Houston; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 370% greater in San Francisco than in Houston.
- Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 96% higher in San Francisco than in Houston, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Francisco, since the cost of living for a single person in San Francisco is 36% higher than in Houston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- When relocating to San Francisco, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in San Francisco is 22% greater than in Houston.
- In San Francisco, the unemployment rate is approximately 32% higher than in Houston, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes show little difference between San Francisco and Houston (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
- California has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Houston and San Francisco:
| Living Expense | Houston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $200.52 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.77 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.11 | $5.91 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.05 | $5.06 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $125.00 |
| Gym membership | $38.29 | $99.96 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Houston than in San Francisco, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Houston than in San Francisco.
- Eggs are less expensive in Houston than in San Francisco.
- Bread costs less in Houston than in San Francisco.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Houston than in San Francisco.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Houston than in San Francisco.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Houston than in San Francisco.
How life is different in Houston vs. San Francisco
| Houston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 808,988 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 10 |
| Walkability score | 47 | 99 |
| Bike friendliness score | 49 | 99 |
| Crime index | 63.5 | 61.41 |
| Safety index | 36.5 | 38.59 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- San Francisco’s population is about 65% less than Houston.
- San Francisco’s public transportation score of 10 out of 10 is higher than Houston’s score of 5.
- San Francisco is more walkable than Houston with a score of 99 out of 100 vs Houston’s 47 out of 100.
- With a score of 99 out of 100, San Francisco is more bike-friendly than Houston, which has a score of 49 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- San Francisco and Houston have a similar crime rate with scores of 61.41 and 63.5, respectively.
- San Francisco is considered to be safer than Houston with a safety index of 38.59 vs Houston’s 36.5.
- Air quality in San Francisco is Moderate, and in Houston it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Houston to San Francisco 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: California 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 San Francisco. 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 – 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in San Francisco
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Golden Gate City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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
Once you’re settled into your new home in California, it’s time to get out and discover what San Francisco has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout San Francisco, such as the Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, Walt Disney Family Museum, and San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Golden Gate Park, Presidio of San Francisco, Mission Dolores Park, and Crissy Field — 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 San Francisco 49ers (NFL)San Francisco Giants (MLB)Golden State Warriors (NBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Houston to San Francisco?
The best time to move from Houston to San Francisco is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Houston.
When is the cheapest time to move from Houston to San Francisco?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Houston to San Francisco, 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 Houston to San Francisco take?
Moving from Houston, TX to San Francisco, covers 1,928 miles and usually takes five to 16 days. Need to move faster? Some Houston movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Francisco.
Which movers in Houston 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 Houston?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 27 movers in Houston advertise piano moving expertise. 15 movers in Houston provide antique moving services. State totals show 180 piano movers and 125 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
Houston moving services
Popular Texas routes
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