Quick answer: A move from McAllen to Arlington costs $1,455–$9,089 and takes four to 15 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 1,750-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Arlington to McAllen guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from McAllen to Arlington

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from McAllen to Arlington 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 TX to VA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 134 Texas 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.

The top local movers servicing McAllen to Arlington moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in McAllen that also handles long-distance moves to Arlington. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in McAllen who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from McAllen to Arlington.

  1. Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  2. Groves Moving and Storage: 4.1 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/Jonesmovingandstorage/,
81% of all reviews were positive
19% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc. shines a spotlight on their standout professionalism and courteous staff. Out of 42 customer inputs, 81% express satisfaction, noting respectful employees, careful handling, open communication, efficiency, and affordable service. People often mention movers being prompt, effective, and polite, frequently exceeding expectations.
On the flip side, a smaller portion describes interactions with unfriendly representatives, missed communication, and surprise costs. Most complaints center around rude behavior and lack of responsiveness. While most moving companies struggle with frequent damages or big delays, Jones Moving & Storage receives much more praise for their professional approach and careful handling than most in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 684-3894

Company Info

State license #: 0000006770

Years in Business: 86

DOT #: 125563


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
,
69% of all reviews were positive
31% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Groves Moving and Storage earns consistent praise for its efficient service, punctual and polite staff, and a fast moving process. Many customers describe team members as helpful and knowledgeable, especially during appliance installations and deliveries. Positive feedback outnumbers negative, with 69% of reviews highlighting great communication, courteous crews, and quick turnaround.
In contrast, dissatisfied customers report rude interactions, damaged items, and a lack of clear responses when issues arise. Compared to industry competitors, Groves excels at friendliness and promptness, while improvement is needed in handling complaints and ensuring damages are addressed professionally. A total of 29 reviews inform these patterns, with over two-thirds reflecting a positive customer experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (956) 423-1000

Company Info

State license #: 005443977C

Years in Business: 26


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/bellhopmoving?lang=en
81% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving impresses with speedy, attentive service and a team of polite professionals. Most customer feedback highlights their efficiency, prompt communication, and the attentive care movers show with belongings. Over 81% of the 32 reviews express satisfaction, noting a stress-free process and careful handling of property.
Many appreciate the staff’s professionalism and their ability to accommodate last-minute requests, setting Bellhop apart from typical moving companies. Nonetheless, about 16% of feedback mention frustration when crews arrive unprepared, lack proper equipment, or do not follow customer instructions, sometimes leading to damaged items. A few reviews also describe gaps in communication or unresolved complaints. In comparison to local competitors, Bellhop stands out for its consistently courteous staff but needs to address occasional lapses in preparedness and coordination to maintain a strong reputation.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 009668291C

Years in Business: 13

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/FlexStorageInc/,
91% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Flex Moving & Storage for efficient service, professional and friendly movers, quick moving processes, careful handling, and helpful attitudes. Out of 70 reviews analyzed, a strong 91% reflected positive experiences. Many praised the respectful and skilled crews who made moving stress-free with their timeliness and attention to fragile items, outpacing competitors in reliability.
Some feedback highlighted problems, with 6 reviewers (just under 9%) citing incidents such as property damage, unexpected and unauthorized charges, or poor communication around billing and security. Several customers experienced unresolved or challenging claims relating to damages or hidden fees. While the majority benefited from a smooth, trustworthy service, a handful of customers expressed disappointment due to mishandling of belongings or billing disputes. Flex Moving & Storage earns a higher-than-average satisfaction rate compared to many moving firms, yet potential clients should stay vigilant for possible extra charges and ensure clear communication about services and costs.
Show more
Get a Quote (786) 738-9516

Company Info

Years in Business: 2

DOT #: 3610638


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from McAllen to Arlington?

McAllen movers charge $80 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 $1,616 - $5,875 $1,334 - $3,425 $1,304 - $2,435
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,175 - $9,089 $2,378 - $4,814 $1,455 - $2,927
4+ bedrooms $7,410 - $12,946 $3,413 - $6,727 $1,851 - $3,727
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,750 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 Texas to Virginia

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Texas to Virginia typically costs between $1,616 and $5,875. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,175 and $9,089 when moving from TX to VA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Texas to Virginia, you're looking at costs ranging from $7,410 up to $12,946.

Cost of moving containers from Texas to Virginia

Moving from Texas to Virginia? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,334 and $3,425. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,378 to $4,814. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,413 up to $6,727. 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 Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Texas to Virginia

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you'll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you're moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,304 and $2,435. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,455 and $2,927. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,851 and $3,727.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from McAllen to Arlingtontoggle

The cost of McAllen movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from McAllen to Arlington can be as low as $1,616 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $11,785.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in McAllen so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,304 to $3,205. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from McAllen to Arlington

Moving from McAllen to Arlington comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Arlington is generally more expensive than McAllen, it's 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:

McAllen Arlington
Average rent cost $1,350 $2,718
Average home value $221,244 $810,670
Average income (per capita) $57,439 $128,145
Cost of living (single person) $1,457 $6,867
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,557 $11,970
Unemployment rate 7.9% 4.0%
Sales tax 8.25% 6.0%
State income tax 0.0% 5.75%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Arlington, since prices are typically 101% higher than in McAllen.
  • The home prices in Arlington are 266.4% higher than in McAllen, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Arlington, where incomes are, on average, 123.1% higher than in McAllen. Major employers in Arlington include U.S. Department of Defense, Safran, and BAE Systems.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Arlington, since the cost of living for a single person in Arlington is 371.3% higher than in McAllen. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Arlington, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Arlington is 236.5% higher than in McAllen.
  • The unemployment rate in Arlington is 49.37% lower than in McAllen.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Arlington, since the city's sales taxes in Arlington are 27.27% lower than in McAllen.
  • State income taxes in Arlington are 5.75% higher than in McAllen.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $14,139.33 in Arlington to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in McAllen.

How life is different in McAllen vs. Arlington

Arlington McAllen
Population 238,643 142,210
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 3
Walkability score 71 41
Bike friendliness score 72 46
Crime Index 15.67 36.26
Safety Index 79.15 63.74
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Arlington's population is about 68% greater than McAllen.
  • Arlington's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus McAllen's lower score of 3.
  • Arlington is more walkable than McAllen with a score of 71 out of 100 vs McAllen's 41 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Arlington is more bike-friendly than McAllen, which has a score of 46 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Arlington's crime rate is lower than McAllen with a score of 15.67 compared to McAllen's 36.26. This means that Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26%.
  • Arlington is considered to be safer than McAllen with a safety index of 79.15 vs McAllen's 63.74.
  • Air quality in Arlington is good, and in McAllen it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your McAllen vs. Arlington move

  • Weather: Arlington has hot humid summers, mild to moderately cold winters, and pleasant spring and fall seasons.
  • 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 addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Virginia, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Virginia 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 Arlington 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 Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Arlington

Now that you've decided to make the move to , these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Arlington.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Aurora Highlands
  • Ballston-Virginia Square
  • Bluemont
  • Clarendon-Courthouse
  • Radnor-Ft Myer Heights

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Arlington Ridge
  • Barcroft
  • Forest Glen
  • Lyon Village
  • Westover Village

Things to do in Arlington

After getting comfortable in your new Virginia home, it's time to see what Arlington is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Arlington include museums and art centers like the JW Tumbles, Ball-Sellers House Museum, David M. Brown Planetarium, Arlington Historical Museum, and Arlington Arts Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Gravelly Point Park, Long Bridge Park, Bon Air Park, and Upton Hill Regional Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Arlington Youth Football Club game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from McAllen to Arlington?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from McAllen to Arlington?

Because spring and fall moves from McAllen to Arlington 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 McAllen to Arlington take?

The 1,750-mile journey from McAllen, TX to Arlington, VA, typically takes four to 15 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 Arlington.

Helpful moving resources