Are you considering trading the Pacific Coast for the Lone Star State? You’re not alone. Whether you’re pursuing employment opportunities, seeking a lower cost of living, or simply ready for a change of pace, there’s a lot to know about moving between these two economic powerhouses—more than just packing boxes and hiring movers. You’ll need to navigate new tax structures, adapt to a different climate, understand local culture, and rebuild your social and professional networks.
This guide recommends the best moving companies and breaks down the entire process into manageable steps, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions about your upcoming move.
Why Are People Moving Out of California to Texas?
Over recent years, Texas has seen a high influx of people moving out of California in favor of the Lone Star State. According to the Texas Realtors’ 2024 Texas Relocation report, an estimated 102,000 Californians moved to Texas in 2022—more than any other state. The U.S. Census American Community Survey migration data supports this trend, noting that from 2009 to 2019, Texas has been the number one destination for those leaving California.
Why is Texas such a popular place for Californians to move to? Ask Texans who have chosen to move from the Golden State, and you’ll likely find an array of answers. However, based on data collected by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, one primary reason could be that California has the third-highest cost of living out of all 50 U.S. states, with Texas ranking as the 15th cheapest state.
Housing affordability is also a more significant issue in California than in the Lone Star State, with the Zillow Home Value Index showing prices in San Jose up almost 8% year-over-year compared to Austin, where real estate prices have fallen over 3% in the same time frame.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Texas
Moving from California to Texas isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Like any other move, settling in the Lone Star State has various benefits and challenges. Consider factors such as the cost of living, lifestyle changes, climate, and more that can impact your quality of life before making any final decisions.
Pros
Some pros to moving to Texas include the following:
- Unique culture: Texas affords Californians the opportunity to immerse themselves in its distinct statewide culture and traditions, including things like Texas barbeque, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, bluebonnet season, and more.
- Affordable living: According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), you’d have to have almost 31% more income to earn a living wage in California than in Texas, showing that your dollar will travel further in the Lone Star State.
- No state income taxes: Texas earns a reputation as a tax-friendly state because, unlike other states, it lacks income taxes on both state and local levels.
Cons
While the pros of moving to Texas could be tempting, consider some cons as well:
- Hurricane risk: Texas, especially along the coastline, is at risk for hurricanes. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, a hurricane strikes the Lone Star State’s coast on average every three years.
- Limited natural landscapes: While Texas’s landscape is unique, it is less diverse than California’s beaches, mountains, and redwood forests.
- High property taxes: While Texas lacks income taxes on a state level, its property tax rate is among the highest, at 1.6%, compared to the national average of 0.99%.
Best Movers for Moving from California to Texas
After rating reputable moving companies offering services to the Lone Star State, we named the following providers as our top picks for moving from California to Texas.
- Allied Van Lines: Best for Vehicle Relocation
- North American Van Lines: Best for Claims
- JK Moving Services: Best Specialized Packing
- International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Best Self-Service Mover
Comparing Top Texas Movers
The table below breaks down the typical interstate moving costs of our top recommended moving companies, as well as their licensing and deposit requirements. It also helps you get a quick quote from each mover to speed up your move.
| Provider | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating* | Average Price** | Deposit | FMCSA Licensing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A+ | $3,520 | None | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,601 | None | Carrier/Broker | ||
A+ | $2,273 | $250 | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,112 | Up to 25% | Carrier/Broker | ||
A+ | $2,012 | Varies | Carrier/Broker |
*The Better Business Bureau is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of February 2025.
**We calculated average moving costs based on five quotes for a two-bedroom move ranging between 500 and 800 miles.
The table below provides an overview of each provider. All offer packing and loading, but specialty services vary and ultimately determine which mover is best for you.
| Specialty Services Offered | Allied Van Lines | North American Van Lines | JK Moving | International Van Lines | Safeway Moving Inc. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle shipping | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fragile-only packing | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Furniture disassembly/reassembly | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Crating | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Appliance and electronics handling | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Antique/specialty services | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Piano moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Office moves | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Moving Service Options
When it comes to moving 1,300+ miles from California to Texas, you have several options. Below, we explain the main choices and help you decide which one best suits your situation.
Full-Service Moving Companies
If you’re looking for the most hands-off approach and have room in your budget, full-service movers handle everything from packing to transportation. They’ll wrap your furniture, load the truck, drive to Texas, and unload everything at your new home. Depending on your exact location and timing, this option typically costs between $4,000 and $8,000 for a two-bedroom home.
This option is ideal if:
- You have valuable or delicate items requiring professional handling.
- You’re relocating for work with a moving allowance.
- You’re short on time or physically unable to handle the move.
- You want to minimize the stress of moving.
Moving Containers
Moving container services like PODS, U-Pack, or 1-800-PACK-RAT offer a middle-ground moving solution. They drop off containers at your California home, and then you pack them at your own pace. You then notify the company when to transport them to Texas for you. This option typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000 for a two-bedroom home.
Consider this option if:
- You have time to pack but don’t want the hassle of driving.
- You need temporary storage during your move.
- You prefer not to drive a truck but still want to save money.
- You want flexibility with packing and unpacking timing.
Rental Trucks
For a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, renting a moving truck from companies like U-Haul, Penske, or Budget can save significant money. Expect to pay $2,000–$3,500 for a medium-sized truck, including fuel and tolls. Keep in mind that you’ll be driving a large vehicle across multiple states, which will likely take two to three days.
This method works best when:
- You’re comfortable driving a large vehicle long-distance.
- You have friends or family to help with loading and unloading.
- You want direct control over your belongings.
- You’re working with a tighter budget.
How Much Does It Cost To Move From California to Texas?
The average cost of moving from California to Texas for a two-bedroom home ranges from $7,125 to $7,375. This estimate is based on aggregated data from major moving companies and real customer experiences for long-distance moves between these states.
Due to the significant distance (typically 1,300–1,500 miles) and the popular nature of this relocation route, prices tend to be higher than the national average for similar-distance moves. Additionally, you’ll notice higher prices around big cities like the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Home Size
The size of your home is one of the biggest factors affecting your moving costs. Larger homes mean more items to move, which requires bigger trucks, more movers, and more time. All these factors increase the final price.
The table below shows the average expenses associated with long-distance moves, categorized by home size and distance. We obtained this information by collecting 84 binding estimates from 11 different moving companies.
| 1 Bedroom (2,000–4,000 lbs) | 2 Bedroom (4,000–7,000 lbs) | 3 Bedroom (7,000–10,000 lbs) | 4 Bedroom(10,000+ lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | Average Cost | Average Cost | Average Cost | Average Cost |
| <1,000 miles | $3,540 | $5,605 | $7,970 | $12,900 |
| 1,000–1,500 miles | $4,190 | $7,125 | $10,125 | $14,800 |
| >1,500 miles | $4,340 | $7,375 | $10,325 | $16,600 |
Full-Service vs. Partial-Service Moves
Full-service moves, which include packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking, typically cost 50%–90% more than partial-service moves, in which you handle the packing and unpacking yourself. For example, a partial-service move for a two-bedroom home might cost $3,200, while a full-service move could cost $6,400 or more.
Tipping
For long-distance moves like California to Texas, the standard tipping rate is $5–$7 per hour per mover for the loading and unloading days. For a two-bedroom home, you might have 3–4 movers working 4–6 hours each day, so plan on setting aside $120–$300 total for tips. Remember to tip the loading crew and unloading crew separately, as they’re often different teams.
How To Get a Good Price
Here are some tips for securing the best possible price on your California-to-Texas move:
- Ask about any current promotions or discounts for California to Texas routes.
- Book your move during the off-season (October–April) to save 20%–30%.
- Check if your employer offers relocation assistance or tax deductions.
- Compare prices between different origin and destination cities if you have flexibility. For example, would it be cheaper to move from San Diego, a two-hour driving distance from Los Angeles?
- Declutter and downsize your belongings before getting quotes. Fewer items mean lower costs.
- Get a binding estimate to avoid surprise charges.
- Get at least three detailed quotes from reputable moving companies.
- Purchase additional insurance through a third party rather than the moving company.
- Schedule your move for mid-month and mid-week when rates are lower.
- Use a hybrid approach: Rent a container for larger items and ship boxes separately.
Remember that the cheapest quote isn’t always the best deal. Balance cost and reliability by checking reviews, verifying licenses, and confirming moving insurance coverage. Many movers offer price matching, so don’t be afraid to negotiate if you find a better rate with a competitor.
California and Texas Moving Regulations
When planning your move from California to Texas, there are some key regulations you’ll need to keep in mind. In California, moving companies must be licensed by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and carry a valid Cal-T number, while Texas requires companies to be registered with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). Both states mandate written estimates and contracts, though California’s regulations are generally stricter, requiring movers to provide a “not to exceed” price and specific consumer protection documentation.
Since you’re crossing state lines, federal regulations also come into play. Your moving company must have a valid USDOT number and provide you with the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. It is required to carry basic liability insurance of at least $0.60 per pound of goods transported and must provide written estimates and inventories.
To protect yourself from potential moving scams, always verify the mover’s licenses and insurance certificates, be wary of companies that only accept cash or demand large deposits, and keep copies of all documentation, including your bill of lading and inventory list, for at least a year after your move.
Nailing Down Your Moving Timeline
Creating a solid timeline can be invaluable. Even if you don’t have a lot to move, planning ahead is key to a smooth transition.
- 3–4 weeks in advance: Begin by listing everything you plan to take with you, aiming to keep it minimal. Consider selling or donating some items; the fewer things you need to transport, the less you’ll spend. Look into transportation options early, such as renting a small moving truck or a U-Haul, especially during peak moving times, as these can book up quickly. If you’re thinking about hiring a moving company, it’s wise to arrange that now, even for a smaller load.
- 2 weeks in advance: Start packing in full force now, focusing first on items you rarely use. For a smaller move, it often helps to pack by room or category (like books or kitchen supplies). Set aside essential items you’ll need right after the move, like chargers, toiletries, or cleaning supplies. This is also the perfect time to ensure everything is organized and ready to avoid any last-minute chaos.
- 1 week in advance: Review the items you’ve set aside and ensure everything is packed neatly. Take care of final tasks, like informing utilities and forwarding your mail. Confirm your transportation plans, whether it’s the rental truck or moving company, to avoid any surprises. If you’ve asked friends or family for assistance, it’s a good idea to touch base with them as well.
- Moving day: When loading the truck, think strategically and place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top to facilitate unloading. Keep a few boxes of essentials close by so you can easily access what you need once you arrive at your new place.
FAQs About Moving From California to Texas
Is it a good idea to move to Texas from California?
Moving to Texas from California can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for lower living costs, no state income tax, and a strong job market. Texas offers diverse cities, more affordable housing, and a business-friendly environment, though you’ll need to adjust to different weather patterns and cultural norms.
What is required to move from California to Texas?
To move from California to Texas, you must update your driver’s license within 90 days of relocating, register your vehicle within 30 days, and secure housing to establish residency. New residents should also update their addresses with USPS, transfer their medical records, and register to vote.
Is it cheaper to live in Texas or California?
It is significantly cheaper to live in Texas than in California, with home prices typically 50%–60% lower and no state income tax. The overall cost of living in Texas, including utilities, healthcare, groceries, and transportation, averages 30%–40% less than in California, though specific costs vary by city.
How We Evaluated Movers for California to Texas Moves
We thoroughly research each mover we recommend by reading websites and sample contracts, reviewing customer feedback, and speaking to customer service representatives and industry experts.
Our Rating System
To pick the best interstate moving providers, we created a rating system based on six factors that reflect the overall quality and reliability of each company. Here’s a quick look at our moving methodology:
- Item protection (20%): All movers are required to offer two insurance options, but many offer additional options to protect your belongings. We scored companies that offer at least three options the highest. We also awarded more points to movers that offer additional protections such as antique and specialty services, custom crating, and GPS tracking.
- Service offerings (19%): We looked for companies with a wide range of services to meet different needs. The more services a company offers, the higher we scored it.
- Customer service (18%): Great customer service makes a stressful move easier. Companies with high BBB ratings and high customer response rates received more points. We also awarded more points to movers with easy access to moving calculators, helpful checklists, and contact information on their websites.
- Value (18%): We gathered five quotes for the same size move from each mover to create an average price. Companies offering competitive rates, binding estimates, and flexible payment options scored higher in this category.
- Reputation (14%): Besides customer service, we analyzed each company’s overall reputation in the industry. We checked each provider’s licensing status and gave higher marks to companies that operate as carriers rather than brokers. We also factored in background checking processes and how a provider’s inspection rate compared to the average FMCSA fail rate.
- Scheduling (11%): A reliable mover makes scheduling straightforward, with flexible availability and clear timelines. We gave more points to companies that offer at least two contact options, have a mobile app for tracking, and offer virtual surveys for quotes for added convenience.
