A lot of people in Texas relocate to other cities within the state, and the move from Houston to Austin is a popular one. Some make the jump for work or school, others want more time outside and a smaller-city feel.
However, even though it is only a few hours up the road, Austin can feel like a different rhythm once you’re there. That’s why this guide covers what changes when you leave Houston, how the costs compare, and what a typical Houston to Austin move costs right now so you know what to expect.
Houston vs. Austin: Key Differences to Know Before You Move
If you are weighing a move from Houston to Austin, it helps to picture day-to-day life. For a deeper dive on neighborhoods and vibe, see our in-depth guide, Should You Move to Austin?. Below are the money basics and the lifestyle differences you will feel the most, and will help you make the decision on whether you should make the move or not.
Houston vs. Austin Cost of Living
Here’s a quick look at the core numbers people ask about before they move. Buying a home usually costs more in Austin, while rent prices are fairly similar across both cities, with big swings depending on the neighborhood. Utilities tend to run higher for a standard apartment in Houston, and Austin’s “comfortable” salary target comes in higher overall because of its housing costs and lifestyle expenses.
What this really feels like: If you rent, your day-to-day life may not change much after you arrive. If you plan to buy, Austin’s pricing is the biggest shift. Utilities often run higher in Houston, while Austin’s “comfortable salary” target reflects pricier housing and more spending on experiences.
A few notes on neighborhoods and prices
Rent and home prices can vary a lot depending on where you land in each city. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re narrowing down your search:
- Both cities’ housing costs vary a lot by neighborhood. Houston’s Inner Loop hot spots like Montrose, Heights, and the Museum District can rent above the city median, while farther out tends to be lower. Austin’s central pockets (Zilker, South Congress, and Hyde Park) command more, while farther east or north can be gentler on the budget.
- 2025 rent trends cooled in both metros compared to the post-pandemic run-up, which helps renters a bit.
Houston vs. Austin Lifestyle and Culture
Houston and Austin offer two very different lifestyles. Houston moves fast and feels expansive, built around industry, opportunity, and big energy. Austin, on the other hand, runs on creativity and community. It’s smaller, more personal, and shaped by music, tech, and time outdoors.
Commuting and transportation
Houston is built around freeways and the Loop. Most people drive, and trips can be long, even inside Beltway 8. Austin drives a lot, too, but many new arrivals end up driving less once they pick a central neighborhood. If you plan to bike or bus, Austin’s CapMetro network and trail access make it easier in the core of the city. Make sure you test your actual commute at the time you would travel, not on a weekend.
Job market
Houston’s economy is broad and resilient. Energy and engineering are still foundational, but healthcare, aerospace, and the port also drive a lot of opportunity. Austin leans harder into tech and startups and draws more remote workers who value flexibility. If you work in software, design, or product, Austin can feel like home. If you are in energy or heavy industry, Houston still holds the deeper network.
Lifestyle and recreation
Houston’s food scene is massive, with incredible global options and a steady calendar of festivals. Austin is more patio-and-live-music, with weekends that start on a trail and end at a food truck. While in Austin, you’ll trade some square footage for easy access to parks, Barton Springs, and the Lady Bird Lake Trail.
Weather and allergies
Both cities are hot and humid in summer, but Austin’s cedar pollen can hit hard from December through February. If allergies tend to affect you, plan ahead for that first winter.
Neighborhood vibe
Houston offers a mix of historic bungalows, new townhomes, and master-planned suburbs. Austin’s central neighborhoods are quirkier and more compact. You will likely downshift your square footage in exchange for walkability and community feel.
Types of People Who Will Like Moving from Houston to Austin
Not everyone leaving Houston clicks with Austin right away, but many do. The people who settle in fastest are usually looking for a change of pace: something smaller, greener, and a little more personal.
- Flexible and creative workers. If you work remotely or in tech, Austin’s flexible work culture and startup energy make it a natural fit. It also attracts creatives, musicians, and makers who want to be part of a community that values expression over polish.
- Outdoor lovers. Instead of long drives to the coast or big suburban commutes, you can hike, paddle, or catch live music minutes from home. People who love spending time outside tend to thrive here.
- Families. Many families appreciate the slower rhythm and community feel, even if it means giving up a bit of space. Neighborhoods often feel like their own small towns within the city.
For anyone leaving Houston in search of balance or a tighter-knit lifestyle, Austin delivers: shorter drives, more time outside, and a sense of connection that’s harder to find in bigger metros.
Quick reality check before you pick a neighborhood
Before you sign a lease or make an offer, take a few minutes to think through how you’ll actually live day-to-day. Here are a few things that can make or break your experience:
- Live close to work if you can to save time and stress.
- Visit in summer if possible to get a real feel for the Austin heat, which stays late into the evening.
- If you’re prone to allergies, be ready for cedar season in winter.
- If you plan to use transit, double-check your route in CapMetro’s planner.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Houston to Austin?
Houston to Austin is roughly a 165 to 200-mile route, depending on where you start and finish. Prices vary by home size and service type, but here is what most people pay based on HireAHelper’s 2025 data.
If you are renting a truck and hiring movers just to load and unload, expect to spend around $325–$600 total for labor. That typically covers a two-person crew for several hours on each end.
For a full-service move, where the company handles loading, driving, and unloading, prices start near $900–$1,500 for smaller homes and can climb even higher for larger houses. However, the convenience might be worth it if you are short on time or cannot manage heavy lifting.
“Houston humidity and Austin heat are no joke. Load early in the morning, keep water handy, and take breaks, especially if you’re moving during the summer.”
There is also the hybrid option. Many people use labor-only movers to load a rental truck or portable container, then drive it themselves. It is one of the most popular ways to save on the Houston to Austin route without doing all the work by yourself.
Factors That Impact the Price of Your Move from Houston to Austin
The cost of moving from Houston to Austin can vary a lot depending on your timing, home size, and the type of service you choose. Here’s what usually makes the biggest difference.
Size of your home
The more space you have, the longer it takes to load, unload, and drive. A small apartment might only need a few hours of labor, while a three- or four-bedroom house can take most of the day. Labor-only help for smaller homes usually falls between $325 and $600, while full-service movers often range from $900 to $1,500 once packing and transport are included.
Type of service
If you want to save money, you can always rent a truck or get a moving container and just hire movers to handle the loading and unloading. A hybrid move like this usually costs between $700 and $1,300, depending on your home size and how much help you need.
Time of year
Summer in both cities is hot, humid, and busy, so moving during that time can be tough on you and your movers. Peak season (May through August) fills up fast and often comes with higher rates, while spring and late fall tend to be easier on your schedule and your budget.
Day of the week
Weekends are always busier and pricier. If your schedule allows, moving midweek or mid-month can shave a noticeable amount off your total.
Access and traffic
Both cities are known for traffic, but in different ways. Houston’s freeway sprawl can slow down loading crews, while Austin’s narrow downtown streets and limited parking add time if movers have to park far from your door. Let your mover know about stairs, long hallways, or tricky parking so they can plan the right number of helpers and avoid delays.
When you’re moving between two major Texas cities, timing and preparation matter just as much as distance. Booking early, staying flexible, and avoiding peak heat can make a big difference in both your stress level and your final bill.
Getting the Best Price on Your Houston-Austin Move
The best way to save money on your Houston-Austin move is to plan early and compare. Start by getting quotes from a few movers so you can see what’s typical for your home size and timing. When you request a quote, be specific — mention stairs, elevators, or long hallways so your estimate is accurate from the start.
If your schedule is flexible, pick a weekday or mid-month move to avoid higher weekend rates. Booking a few weeks ahead also locks in better pricing before crews fill up.
And don’t forget to check the HireAHelper Best Price Guarantee. If you find the same service for less on our platform, HireAHelper will match it so you can book with confidence. It’s an easy way to make sure you’re getting trusted movers at the right price.
Best Local Moving Companies for Houston–Austin Moves
Finding a mover you can trust makes all the difference. Through HireAHelper, you can browse real reviews, compare quotes, and book directly with licensed, insured professionals who handle this route every week.
For labor-only help, A1 Loyalty Movers is a top-rated choice. With more than 1,000 verified reviews and 13 years of experience, they’ve completed over 1,500 moves through HireAHelper. A two-person crew for two hours starts around $175, perfect if you’re renting your own truck or portable container. Customers praise their efficiency, care, and clear communication.
“Both cities are known for traffic, but in different ways. Houston’s freeway sprawl can slow down loading crews, while Austin’s narrow downtown streets and limited parking add time if movers have to park far from your door.”
If you’d rather book a full-service move, ACE PLUS Moving & More Services LLC offers great value. Their three-person crew with a truck starts near $1,189, covering both loading and transport. They’re fully licensed and insured, with flexible scheduling from 6 AM to 7 PM.
Every mover on HireAHelper is vetted and backed by our Best Price and Value Guarantee, so you can book with confidence knowing you’re getting trusted professionals at a fair rate.
Tips for a Smooth Move Between Houston and Austin
Moving from Houston to Austin is a short trip, but it can still be a big job. The heat, the traffic, and all the little details can add up fast if you don’t plan ahead. Here are a few simple, local-tested tips to make your move easier from start to finish.
- Book your movers early. Summer fills up fast, especially once temperatures climb. Try to reserve your crew at least three weeks ahead to get the date and time you want.
- Declutter before you load. Every extra box adds time and cost. Donate or sell what you can so movers aren’t hauling things you don’t need.
- Plan your route. Most people take US-290 or I-10 to TX-71. Check for construction near Cypress and Bastrop before moving day, and keep your EZ TAG or TxTag active for tolls.
- Work around the weather. Houston humidity and Austin heat are no joke. Load early in the morning, keep water handy, and take breaks, especially if you’re moving during the summer.
- Mind the traffic. Avoid rush hours when leaving Houston and arriving in Austin — both can get jammed, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to keep the drive under three hours.
- Plan the last mile. Older central Austin neighborhoods can have narrow streets and limited parking. Ask your mover about truck size, staging, or temporary loading zones if needed.
- Set up Austin utilities ahead of time. Schedule Austin Energy and Austin Water before you arrive, and remember that trash, recycling, and compost are managed through Austin Resource Recovery.
- Plan for pets and plants. Keep them cool and hydrated during the drive. Austin’s summer heat and long travel time can take a toll.
- Watch out for cedar season. If you’re moving in winter, bring allergy meds. Cedar pollen peaks from December through February and surprises a lot of new residents.
Once you’re unpacked, you’ll have more time to enjoy Austin’s trails, lakes, and everything that makes the city such a welcome change of pace.
The Houston to Austin Moving Checklist
Every move needs a plan, but when you’re heading from Houston to Austin, a few local details can make things a lot easier. Think of this as your route-specific checklist: what to do, when to do it, and how to keep the process running smoothly from start to finish.
If you haven’t already, check out our complete moving checklist for the big-picture planning timeline. You might also want to bookmark our guides on how to change your address everywhere before you move and packing tips to make your prep even easier.
4–6 Weeks Before Your Move
This is the time to get organized and start handling the tasks that take the longest to arrange.
- Notify your Houston utility providers. Contact CenterPoint Energy for electricity delivery, your retail electric provider for your supply contract, and the City of Houston (or your municipal provider) for water and trash. Let them know your move-out date so final bills are accurate.
- Set up new utilities in Austin. Schedule Austin Energy and Austin Water Utility to start service at least a few days before you arrive.
- Request moving quotes. You should get at least three to see what’s expected for your area and timing. You can also compare Houston-to-Austin movers who know the US-290 and I-10 corridors. Booking early can help you avoid the busiest days and get better rates.
- Update your toll tags. Add TxTag compatibility to your EZ TAG account so you can pass through tolls seamlessly between cities.
- Start decluttering. Every item you skip saves time and money. Houston-area donation centers like The Salvation Army Family Store, Goodwill Houston, or The Purple Heart Foundation offer pickup for larger items.
- Reserve your movers. If you’re moving in summer, aim for a weekday slot. Prices and availability can tighten quickly at that time of year.
2–3 Weeks Before Your Move
Now it’s about locking in logistics and setting up the essentials in your new city.
- Plan your driving route. Most movers use US-290 or I-10 to TX-71, depending on where you’re starting. Check live construction updates near Cypress and Bastrop and have alternate routes planned before moving day, just in case.
- Secure parking or permits. If you’re moving into Central Austin (South Congress, Zilker, East Austin), contact the City of Austin Transportation Department for temporary parking or loading permissions.
- Arrange city services. Austin handles trash, recycling, and compost through Austin Resource Recovery. Set these up online ahead of time.
- Forward your mail. File your change of address with USPS and update your information with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, since you’ll be switching counties.
- Take inventory. Snap a few photos of your most valuable items before packing. It’s a simple way to document their condition if anything is damaged during the move.
1 Week Before Your Move
It’s almost go-time, so focus on wrapping up loose ends in Houston and making sure you’re ready for day one in Austin.
- Cancel local memberships. End or transfer gym passes, library cards, and any neighborhood or community memberships tied to Houston.
- Transfer school records. If you have children, arrange record transfers to Austin ISD or your new district before the move.
- Refill prescriptions. Choose a new pharmacy in Austin so you’re not scrambling your first week.
- Confirm your movers. Double-check arrival times, addresses, and any building access details.
- Schedule your move-out inspection. Whether you’re leaving an apartment or a home, make sure everything’s ready for hand-off to your landlord or buyers.
Moving Day
The drive from Houston to Austin usually takes about three hours by truck, but it’s best to plan for more in case of traffic or weather delays.
- Get an early start. Leaving before sunrise helps you avoid Houston’s morning rush and Austin’s midday slowdown.
- Pack an essentials box. Keep medications, chargers, snacks, and a change of clothes with you. Austin grocery stores like H-E-B and Central Market can be packed on weekends, so having basics on hand helps.
- Keep toll tags active. Having an updated EZ TAG or TxTag will save time and a few dollars along the way.
- Watch the weather. If the forecast calls for heat or storms, pace your loading schedule and have cold water available for everyone helping.
- Mind your parking. Austin’s older neighborhoods have tight streets, so check clearance for large trucks and avoid blocking driveways.
First Week in Austin
You made it! The hardest part is behind you. Now it’s time to get settled and make Austin feel like home.
- Register your vehicle. Visit a Travis County Tax Office to update your registration and get new license plates if needed.
- Update your driver’s license. Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety to make your address change official.
- Know your trash, recycling, and compost rules. Austin Resource Recovery has its own schedule and “What Goes Where” lookup tool, which helps when you’re surrounded by boxes.
- Test your real commute. Drive it at your usual time for a few days to see what works best. If traffic’s tough, try park-and-ride options or alternate routes.
- Handle your Houston utility deposits. If you left deposits with CenterPoint, your electric provider, or internet service, request refunds once final bills are processed.
- Get to know your neighborhood. Join local Facebook or Nextdoor groups for plumber, electrician, or pet-sitter recommendations. Austinites are usually happy to share their favorites.
- Register to vote. Update your information through the Travis County Elections Office so you’re ready for the next election.
- Explore local apps and markets. Download CapMetro for transit info or Austin Parks for weekend events, and visit a farmers’ market like Mueller or Downtown SFC to meet your new neighbors.
- Enjoy your new city. Spend your first weekend walking the Lady Bird Lake Trail, cooling off at Barton Springs Pool, or watching the sunset from Mount Bonnell. It’s one of the easiest ways to shake off the stress of moving and start feeling like you belong.
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