McAllen, TX to Memphis, TN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from McAllen to Memphis typically costs $2,700–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 915 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from McAllen to Memphis
Moving from McAllen, TX to Memphis, TN typically costs $2,700–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 915-mile move from McAllen to Memphis, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 23, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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2-3 bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $3,871 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $2,866 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,187 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your McAllen to Memphis move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,300 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,800 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in McAllen.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $700 to $1,900, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Memphis, TN to McAllen, TX guide.
Best McAllen to Memphis movers by type
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Best professional movers from McAllen to Memphis
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from McAllen to Memphis much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
How we chose the best TX→TN movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 290 Texas movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- 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%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from McAllen to Memphis
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Memphis runs about 26% higher for singles and 24% higher for families than McAllen.
Singles spend around $1,842 in Memphis versus $1,457 in McAllen; families pay $4,402 compared with $3,557.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| McAllen | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $813 | $1,187 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,360 | $1,571 |
| Average home value | $221,244 | $143,715 |
| Average income (per capita) | $57,439 | $48,090 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,457 | $1,842 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,557 | $4,402 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.9% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 9.75% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 0.0% |
- Moving to Memphis from McAllen won't change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 35% more affordable in Memphis compared to McAllen.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 16% lower in Memphis compared to McAllen.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Memphis, as living costs for a single person are 26% higher than in McAllen. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Memphis, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Memphis is 24% higher than in McAllen.
- With Memphis and McAllen having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes in Memphis are 18% more than in McAllen, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Neither Texas nor Tennessee has a state income tax, so you’ll keep more of your gross income no matter where you live.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between McAllen and Memphis:
| Living Expense | McAllen | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $169.85 | $213.78 |
| Cell phone plan | $39.43 | $58.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.23 | $4.12 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.95 | $2.83 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $12.00 | $19.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $62.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $45.00 | $37.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in McAllen than in Memphis, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in McAllen than in Memphis.
- Eggs are less expensive in McAllen than in Memphis.
- Bread is more expensive in McAllen than in Memphis.
- A quick meal is cheaper in McAllen than in Memphis.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in McAllen than in Memphis.
- Gym memberships cost more in McAllen than in Memphis.
How life is different in McAllen vs. Memphis
| McAllen | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 142,210 | 633,104 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 46 | 41 |
| Crime index | 36.26 | 77.49 |
| Safety index | 63.74 | 22.51 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Memphis's population is about 345% greater than McAllen.
- Memphis's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is higher than McAllen's score of 3.
- Memphis is less walkable than McAllen with a score of 35 out of 100 vs McAllen's 41 out of 100.
- Memphis has a bike-friendliness score of 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as McAllen, which has a score of 46.
- Memphis's crime rate is higher than McAllen with a score of 77.49 compared to McAllen's 36.26. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26%.
- Memphis is considered to be less safe than McAllen with a score of 22.51 vs McAllen's 63.74.
- Air quality in Memphis is Good, and in McAllen it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your McAllen to Memphis move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Tennessee’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Memphis. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Memphis
Planning your move to Bluff City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Memphis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Binghampton
- Cooper-Young
- Crosstown
- Downtown
- Midtown
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bartlett
- Cordova
- East Memphis
- Germantown
- River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral
Things to do in Memphis
After settling into your new Tennessee home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Memphis has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Memphis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Shelby Farms Park, Mud Island River Park, Tom Lee Park, and Levitt Shell — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from McAllen to Memphis?
Planning your move from McAllen to Memphis? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in McAllen.
When is the cheapest time to move from McAllen to Memphis?
Because most people are moving from McAllen to Memphis in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from McAllen to Memphis take?
The 915-mile journey from McAllen, TX to Memphis, TN, typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in McAllen offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Memphis.
Are piano and antique moving services available in McAllen?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In McAllen, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Texas has 175 piano movers and 120 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.