A lot of people are relocating from city to city in Texas, and the move from Dallas to Austin is a popular one these days. Some go for new jobs or school, others just want a slower pace and a little more green around them.
Austin has its own rhythm compared to other metros: less rush, more music, and plenty of places to unwind. Even though it’s only a few hours away, it can feel like a whole new world once you’re there. This guide breaks down what’s different between the two cities, what the move usually costs, and a few tips to make the trip go smoothly.
Dallas vs. Austin: Key Differences to Know Before You Move
If you’re considering moving from Dallas to Austin, it helps to understand how life will really be different. Before you unpack the boxes, take a moment to explore our in-depth guide to Austin, Should You Move to Austin?, which dives into neighborhoods, culture, and what might fit you best. Now let’s focus on the practical: what you’ll be paying, what you’ll be feeling, and which types of people will thrive with this switch.
Dallas vs. Austin Cost of Living
One of the biggest factors when moving from Dallas to Austin is cost. Many folks assume the move will mean “cheaper,” but the reality is a bit more nuanced, especially when you dig into housing, utilities, and how far your salary will stretch.
Housing & general costs
- According to Zillow data, average home values in Austin sit around $497,815, while in Dallas, they hover near $304,000.
- Rent prices are 7.7% higher in Austin, but grocery costs are 7.8% lower.
- Utilities are roughly 22% cheaper in Austin, averaging $167.91 per month compared to $216.57 in Dallas for an ~85 m² apartment.
Here’s a summary table for some key datapoints:
Even though buying in Austin costs more, its lower utilities, groceries, and slightly cheaper rent keep overall living costs fairly balanced. For most people moving from Dallas, Austin feels different, but not drastically more expensive once you settle in.
Finding a place that fits
If you’re thinking about heading to Austin, these tips will help you land a place that feels right for your life and budget.
- Use an apartment locator: Licensed apartment locators are common in Austin and are paid by the property, not by you. They are helpful if you are on a tight timeline or moving sight-unseen.
- Be cautious with private listings: If you are browsing Facebook or Craigslist, be careful with anything priced well below market. It could be a scam or something else that’s not entirely legitimate. Tour in person or use trusted platforms to avoid bait-and-switch listings.
- Prioritize neighborhoods that cut down on driving: If you do not love driving, start with central areas that have bike routes or frequent transit, then compare prices from there. This helps you balance cost with an easier daily routine.
Dallas vs. Austin Lifestyle and Culture
Cost aside, Dallas and Austin feel like two very different versions of Texas. Dallas leans polished and professional, while Austin is creative, relaxed, and a little bit unconventional.
Housing, commuting, and transportation
In Dallas, wide roads and suburban sprawl make driving almost unavoidable. Most neighborhoods are built around cars, and traffic can stretch commutes.
Austin has its own traffic reputation, especially on I-35, but many people find they drive less once they move. Central neighborhoods like East Austin, South Congress, and Zilker are more walkable and bike-friendly, and public transit has been growing.
“[If] you’re moving [to Austin] in winter, bring allergy meds. Cedar fever, a strong reaction to mountain cedar pollen that peaks from December through February, catches a lot of new residents by surprise.”
Austin is still “car first” outside the core, so try to live close to where you work. East-west drives are usually easier than long north-south commutes on MoPac or I-35 during rush hour. When you test your commute, make sure you do it at the time you would actually travel, not on a Sunday afternoon. If you plan to use transit, CapMetro’s trip planner is solid in central areas, but check your exact route before you sign a lease. Biking can be a great option around central neighborhoods, just plan for heat and a few hills.
Job market
Dallas’s economy is powered by corporate headquarters and large employers. It’s home to major players in finance, telecommunications, and logistics.
Austin, on the other hand, has become one of the country’s biggest tech and startup hubs and is sometimes called Silicon Hills. Tesla, Apple, and Oracle all have major footprints there. That means Austin tends to attract younger professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives, while Dallas draws people who want stability and traditional corporate growth.
Culture, lifestyle, and recreation
Dallas has world-class shopping, dining, and major-league sports, but it can feel more buttoned-up. Austin offers a more casual lifestyle with outdoor patios, live music, and hiking before happy hour. Instead of massive malls, you’ll find vintage markets, art festivals, and local food trucks. Outdoor spaces like Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park become part of everyday life for many residents.
Heat and allergies
In Austin, expect long stretches of hot, humid days in summer and limited cooling at night. In winter, cedar pollen peaks between December and February, which can trigger strong allergies even for people who have never had them before.
Neighborhood vibe
Dallas’s suburbs (like Plano, Frisco, and McKinney) are known for good schools, spacious homes, and planned communities. Austin’s neighborhoods are quirkier and more compact, with unique character from one block to the next. You’ll trade square footage for local flavor, but you’ll gain a strong sense of community and easy access to green space.
Here’s a quick look at some of the biggest differences you’ll feel after the move:
Types of People Who Will Like Moving from Dallas to Austin
Some people adjust to Austin life faster than others. If you’re looking for a place that feels a little looser, more personal, and community-driven, you’ll likely fit right in.
- Remote workers and creative professionals: Austin attracts people who set their own schedules. Between the city’s growing tech scene and thriving arts community, it’s a natural fit for remote workers, startup founders, musicians, and makers.
- People who love the outdoors: Austin’s parks, lakes, and trails make it easy to stay active year-round. If you like hiking, kayaking, or just spending weekends outside, you’ll find plenty of ways to unwind close to home.
- Families looking for a friendly pace: Even though homes are smaller, the lifestyle feels more connected. Families appreciate the local parks, bike-friendly neighborhoods, and strong sense of community that make Austin a great place to grow.
If you’re leaving Dallas in search of balance, creativity, or a fresh start, Austin tends to make you feel at home fast. It might take a little time to settle in, but the trade-off is worth it—more space to breathe, more time outdoors, and neighbors who value the same.
Quick reality check before you pick a neighborhood
Think Austin sounds like the right fit for you? Perfect. Here’s how to narrow in on a neighborhood that matches your lifestyle before you sign a lease.
- Live close to work: It saves both time and sanity. Austin traffic can get intense, especially during rush hour, so short commutes make a big difference day to day.
- Test the weather firsthand: If you can, visit in summer. Austin heat is no joke, and nights stay warm even after sunset. Experiencing it yourself helps you know what to expect.
- Plan for cedar season: If you’re sensitive to allergies, winter can be tough. Cedar pollen peaks from December through February and catches many newcomers off guard.
- Check your transit options: If you plan to rely on public transit, confirm your exact route in CapMetro’s planner before you commit. Some neighborhoods have great access, while others are less connected.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Dallas to Austin?
Moving from Dallas to Austin is roughly a 200-mile trip, so it falls right between a local and long-distance move. Prices can vary a lot depending on your home size and how much help you need, but here’s what most people pay based on HireAHelper’s 2025 data.
If you’re renting a truck and hiring movers just to load and unload, expect to spend somewhere around $350–$600 total for labor. That covers a team of two movers for several hours of work on each end.
For a full-service move, where the company handles everything (loading, driving, and unloading), prices start around $1,700 and can climb past $3,000 for larger homes. The convenience is worth it if you’re short on time or can’t manage heavy lifting yourself.
There’s also a middle ground: many people use labor-only movers to load a rental truck or moving container, then drive it themselves. It’s one of the most popular ways to save money on the Dallas-to-Austin route without doing all the work alone.
Whatever option you choose, it helps to compare a few quotes early. Moving rates can change fast, especially during the summer, and booking in advance often locks in a better price.
Factors That Impact the Price of Your Move from Dallas to Austin
The distance between Dallas and Austin doesn’t change, but the price of your move can swing a lot depending on when and how you do it. Here’s what makes the biggest difference.
Size of your home
The more rooms 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 run most of the day. Labor-only help for smaller homes usually lands between $350 and $600, while full-service movers can range from $2,400 to $3,200 once packing and transport are included.
Type of service
If you’re trying to save, you can always drive the truck yourself (or get a moving container) and just hire movers to handle the heavy lifting. A hybrid move like this often costs between $700 and $1,400, depending on the size of your home and how much loading or unloading you need.
Time of year
Austin’s heat plays a big role in mover availability and even performance. Locals joke that the city has four seasons: no power, allergies, too hot, and actually nice. Summer brings triple-digit temps that slow down loading times and fill up schedules fast. If you can move in spring or late fall, you’ll likely pay less and avoid battling 100-degree weather while hauling boxes.
Day of the week
Weekend moves are always more expensive and book up quickly. If your schedule allows, moving midweek can shave a noticeable amount off your quote.
Access and traffic
Both cities are known for traffic, but Austin’s tight downtown streets and limited parking can add time if movers have to park far from your door. Let your mover know ahead of time about stairs, long hallways, or tricky loading zones 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 Dallas-Austin Move
Getting a fair price for your move starts with being prepared. Start by collecting a few quotes from different movers so you can see what’s typical for your home size and timeline. When you request a quote, be specific. Be sure to mention things like stairs, long hallways, or bulky furniture. The more accurate you are, the more accurate your quote will be.
“Even though buying in Austin costs more, its lower utilities, groceries, and slightly cheaper rent keep overall living costs fairly balanced.”
Booking early also helps, especially during Austin’s busy summer season when prices rise fast. If your schedule is flexible, mid-week or mid-month dates can save you money, too.
And don’t forget to check the HireAHelper Best Price Guarantee. If you find the same service for less on our platform, we’ll 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 Dallas–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 make this route all the time.
For labor-only help, Alka Moving Service LLC stands out. They’ve earned hundreds of five-star reviews for their careful handling, punctuality, and easy communication. A two-person crew for two hours starts at around $170, which works well if you’re renting your own truck or using a moving container.
If you’d rather have someone take care of the entire move, Hawkboyz Moving LLC is a dependable full-service option. With more than a decade of experience, they handle everything from packing to unloading. A typical three-person crew with a truck averages about $2,018 for a Dallas-to-Austin move.
Every mover listed on HireAHelper is vetted, insured, and backed by a service guarantee. That means if anything goes wrong, you won’t be left figuring it out alone. It’s the simplest way to find help that’s both professional and personal.
Tips for a Smooth Move Between Dallas and Austin
Moving from Dallas to Austin might sound simple, but there are a few things that can make things easier for you. Here are a few local-tested tips to help the trip go smoothly from start to finish.
- Book your movers early. Summer months fill up fast, especially when the heat kicks in. Try to reserve your crew at least 4-6 weeks ahead to get the time slot you want.
- Declutter before you load. Every extra box and piece of furniture costs you time and money. Sell or donate what you can so the movers aren’t hauling things you don’t need.
- Plan the last mile. Older central streets can be narrow. Ask your mover about truck size, where they can stage, and whether you need a temporary loading zone.
- Plan around the weather. Austin heat can hit 100 degrees with humidity that makes it feel even hotter. To avoid the heat, load early in the morning, take breaks, and keep cold drinks nearby.
- Avoid I-35 rush hours. The stretch between Waco and Round Rock gets clogged most afternoons. Leave early or later in the evening to keep the drive under four hours.
- Watch your timing. Big weekends like SXSW, Austin City Limits, or UT home games make traffic and hotel availability unpredictable.
- Set up utilities ahead of time. Schedule Austin Energy and Austin Water before you arrive, and remember that trash and compost pickup are handled through Austin Resource Recovery, not the same as Dallas services.
- If you have pets, plan for them too. Austin’s heat can be rough on animals during travel. Keep them hydrated and give them a cool, quiet place when you arrive.
- And one last local tip, if you’re moving in winter, bring allergy meds. Cedar fever, a strong reaction to mountain cedar pollen that peaks from December through February, catches a lot of new residents by surprise.
A little planning goes a long way here. Once you’re unpacked, you’ll have more time to enjoy Austin’s parks, patios, and everything that makes the city feel worth the move.
The Dallas to Austin Moving Checklist
Every move needs a plan, but when you’re heading down I-35 from Dallas to Austin, a few local details can make things a lot easier. Think of this as your route-specific checklist — a mix of what to do, when to do it, and how to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
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 smoother.
4–6 Weeks Before Your Move
This is the time to get organized and start tackling the tasks that take the longest to arrange.
- Notify your Dallas utility providers. Let Oncor Electric Delivery and Atmos Energy 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. Compare Dallas-to-Austin movers who know the I-35 corridor. Booking early can help you avoid the busiest days and get better rates.
- Update your toll tags. Add TxTag compatibility to your North Texas Tollway Authority account so you can cruise through tolls without extra charges.
- Start decluttering. Every item you skip saves time and money. Dallas donation centers like Genesis Benefit Thrift Store and Goodwill Dallas offer pickup for large donations.
- Reserve your movers. If you’re moving in summer, aim for a weekday slot. Prices can spike, and availability can dry up fast 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. Construction on I-35 shifts often, especially near Waco and Round Rock. Use navigation apps to check live closures and alternate routes before you go.
- Secure parking or permits. If you’re moving into Central Austin areas like South Congress, Clarksville, or East Austin, contact the City of Austin Transportation Department for temporary parking or loading permissions.
- Arrange city services. Austin runs separate programs for trash, recycling, and compost through Austin Resource Recovery. Set these up online in advance.
- Forward your mail. Change your address with USPS and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles — you’ll be switching counties when you move.
- Take inventory. Snap a few photos of your most valuable items before packing. It’s a simple way to document their condition in case of loss or damage.
1 Week Before Your Move
It’s almost go-time, so focus on wrapping up loose ends in Dallas and making sure you’re ready for day one in Austin.
- Cancel local memberships. End or transfer gym passes, library cards, and community center memberships tied to Dallas.
- Transfer school records. If you have children, arrange record transfers to Austin ISD or your new district before the move.
- Refill prescriptions. Find a new pharmacy in Austin so you’re not scrambling for refills during your first week, and make sure you have enough medication to last you through the move and a little longer while you’re in Dallas.
- Confirm with your movers. Double-check arrival time, address, and any building access details.
- Schedule your move-out inspection. Whether you’re in an apartment or an HOA community, make sure everything’s ready for hand-off.
Moving Day
Dallas to Austin usually takes about three to four hours by truck, but it’s worth planning as if it might take longer.
- Get an early start. Leave before sunrise if possible to avoid I-35 bottlenecks near Waco and Round Rock and the worst of the heat.
- 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. It’ll save you time (and a few dollars) when driving through toll sections.
- Watch the weather. If the forecast calls for extreme heat, pace the loading process and keep cold water handy.
- Mind your parking. Older Austin neighborhoods have narrower streets, so check clearance for large trucks and avoid blocking driveways.
First Week in Austin
You made it! The hardest part is behind you, and now it’s time to settle in and make Austin home. Those first few days in a new place can feel busy and a little disorienting, but a few small steps will help you feel grounded fast.
- Register your vehicle. Head to a Travis County Tax Office to update your registration and get new license plates if needed.
- Update your driver’s license. Visit a Texas Department of Public Safety office to make your address change official and avoid any hiccups down the road.
- Know your trash, recycling, and compost rules. Austin Resource Recovery has its own guidelines. The “What Goes Where” lookup helps when you are drowning in boxes.
- Test your real commute. Drive it at your actual departure time for a few days. If it is rough, adjust your schedule or explore park-and-ride options.
- Handle your Dallas utility deposits. If you had deposits with Oncor, Atmos Energy, or your old internet provider, request your refunds once your final bills are processed.
- Get to know your neighborhood. Join local Facebook or Nextdoor groups for plumber, electrician, or pet-sitter recommendations. Neighbors in Austin are usually happy to share their favorites.
- Register to vote. If you changed counties, update your voter registration through the Travis County Elections Office so you’re ready for the next election.
- Try local apps and markets. Download CapMetro for transit or Austin Parks for events, and visit a weekend farmers’ market like Mueller or Downtown SFC. It’s one of the easiest ways to start feeling connected.
- Explore your new backyard. Spend your first weekend wandering Zilker Park, swimming at Barton Springs Pool, or walking the Lady Bird Lake Trail. It’s the best way to shake off the stress of moving and start feeling like you belong here.
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