Moving from California to Texas (2024 Guide)
A lower cost of living, a lack of income taxes, and lots of wide-open spaces are just a few of the reasons California residents consider moving to Texas. If youโre considering moving to the Lone Star State, it may be a good idea to begin looking at moving companies to get an idea of relocation costs and which services youโll need.
Weโve highlighted our picks for the best moving companies serving California and Texas below and given you a quick look at reasons for relocating and perks and downsides.
Best California to Texas Movers
The highest-rated moving companies to use when moving from California to Texas include:
Compare the Top California to Texas Movers
Our Pick
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#1 out of 10 companies | #2 out of 10 companies | #3 out of 10 companies | #4 out of 10 companies | #5 out of 10 companies | #6 out of 10 companies | #7 out of 10 companies | #8 out of 10 companies | |
A+ | A+ | B- | B | A+ | A+ | A+ | A+ | |
FMCSA Licensing |
Carrier | Carrier | Carrier | Broker | Carrier | Carrier/Broker | Carrier/Broker | Carrier/Broker |
Average Price* |
$5,250 | $5,625 | $5,631 | $5,054 | $7,171 | $5,370 | $5,969 | $2,547 |
Deposit Required |
Up to 25% | Up to 50% | Up to 40% | Up to 33% | $250 | None | None | Varies |
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Summary |
We recommend International Van Lines (IVL) if you want the most moving service options possible. The company boasts one of the most extensive moving service catalogs at highly competitive rates. |
We recommend American Van Lines if you’re moving high-end items or antiques because it focuses on training its staff to move difficult and valuable items. |
We recommend Safeway Moving Inc. for condo or HOA residents. The company has a special focus and training on the regulations and problems that may arise with these moves. |
We recommend Interstate Moving & Relocation Group as a reputable broker if you need to move quickly. The company’s customer service is prompt, and its broker network helps you find a vetted mover fast. |
We recommend JK Moving Services for its ability to offer financing options through its partnership with Enhancify and its high-end, white-glove packing services. |
We recommend Allied if you want to ship a vehicle due to the companyโs in-house vehicle relocation services. |
We recommend North American Van Lines (NAVL) as the best long-distance mover overall because of its customizable insurance packages, highly rated customer service, and extensive service options. |
We recommend 1-800-PACK-RAT for partial-service moves because of its simple and affordable storage and transportation solutions. |
Rating Categories |
International Van Lines | American Van Lines | Safeway Moving Inc. | Interstate Moving & Relocation Group | JK Moving Services | Allied Van Lines | North American Van Lines | 1-800-PACK-RAT |
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Company | Star Rating | BBB Rating | Estimate Info | Visit Site |
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A+ | $2,500โ$4,300 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
A+ | $3,200โ$3,500 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
B- | $6,300โ$7,500 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
B | $2,800โ$4,000 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
B | $2,968โ$5,668 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
A+ | $7,550 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
A+ | $4,700โ$5,350 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
A+ | $4,730โ$5,380 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
A+ | $5,169โ$7,003 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
A+ | Contact for Pricing | GET ESTIMATE |
Benefits of Moving from California to Texas
As of 2050, approximately 20 million people who used to live in California will have moved to Texas. The projection is based on an ongoing trend of Californians becoming Texans. So, why are so many California residents wanting to call the Lone Star State home?
Here are three of the top reasons:
1. Lower Cost of Living
Texas is far less costly than California. Living in California costs nearly 50% more than the national average. The single biggest factor that contributes to this is housing costs. At 235% higher than the national average, your rent or mortgage takes up a substantial portion of your monthly expenses. Texasโs overall cost of living, by comparison, is 5.8% lower than the national average, with housing 16.5% lower than nationwide norms. According to Zillow*, average home costs are currently over $716,000 in California and $290,800 in Texas.*
Zillow data is current as of March 2023
2. Growth Economy
Several of Texasโ major metropolitan areas are among some of the fastest-growing economies in the nation, with Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas-Fort Worth holding the second, third, and fifth spots, respectively, on Forbesโ list of the 10 largest cities with the fastest-growing economies. That growth has only generated more interest from major corporations and industries. Apple, Google, Amazon, and Facebook have all expanded or opened up offices in Austin in recent years, and Texas has a stronghold in the manufacturing and hospitality industries.
3. Unique Culture
There are few U.S. states with as distinct culture as Texas, but itโs not all cowboy boots and country music. A mix of rural and urban locales and a diverse population make Texas culture as varied as its people and geography. The Lonestar State is home to more than 2,000 barbecue restaurants featuring the much-loved southern fare with a distinct Texas style and flavor. Austin is a big draw from musicians of all genres, thanks in no small part to the annual South by Southwest Festival. A deeply rooted Latino tradition also remains a strong influence on the tastes and sounds that make Texas stand out. An influx of people from across the country is continually evolving Texasโ culture, though at its heart, the state maintains its reputation for being one of the friendliest places to live.
Top Movers: California to Texas
Before you make a move to Texas from California, itโs important to set your budget and decide which moving services youโll need. Once you decide what youโll need and your budget, we recommend reaching out to at least three moving companies before making a final decision.
Our Top Picks For California to Texas Movers
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to do before moving cross country, and when should I begin preparing?
If you are planning a long-distance relocation, there is a lot to consider and take care ahead long before moving day. It is best to get at least a three-month head start on moving day by deciding on a budget and beginning the search for a moving company. Itโs also good to determine how you and your family will be traveling to your new destination. If youโre flying, you may need to pick a mover that can handle transporting your vehicles.
In the weeks leading up to moving day, you should be packing up the items you donโt need and selling or giving away items you no longer want, as well as contacting physicians for copies of any records needed and your homeowners insurance provider to confirm your coverage will transfer to your new location.
If I handle some or all of the packing on my own, will the mover still be responsible if something is lost or broken in transit?
Moving companies are liable for losses and damage caused during transit unless a loss or damage is due to an act of natureโsuch as a lightning strike, tornado, or earthquakeโor other scenarios involving extenuating circumstances, such as a piece of furniture being dropped down the stairs due to a pre-existing loose handrail or a broken floorboard causing a crew member to stumble and knock over a fragile item. To ensure safe transport of a customerโs belongings, movers often operate under a tariff provision that allows them to repack improperly or unsafely packed boxes.
Itโs important to note that movers are also exempt from liability if the loss or damage was caused by an act of omission on the shipperโs part. Improper packing falls under that act of omission category, so itโs crucial that you follow professional moving tips on proper packing and notify your movers of any questions or potential issues you may have concerning the items you packed.
What should I do if my bill is higher on moving day than previously estimated?
If the moving cost is higher on moving day, you are not necessarily obligated to pay the additional charges at that time. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you are not required to pay more than 100% of a binding estimate (or 110% of a non-binding estimate) for any price increases after the moving truck has been loaded. The mover is required to bill any additional charges 30 days after delivery of your goods.
A company cannot refuse to deliver your items due to non-payment of any added charges, which can be incurred if the inventory you provided ahead of moving day is incomplete or inaccurate. If you feel you have been hit with extra fees unfairly or a company will not deliver your possessions, you can file an online complaint with the FMCSA or contact the organization at 1-888-368-7238.
Our Rating Methodology
We back up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through the company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling, trailer and container options, additional benefits, and reputation to arrive at a final score out of 100.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.