How Much Does It Cost to Move in Texas?
Texas is the top domestic migration destination in the US. Local moves average $980, long-distance moves into or out of Texas average $4,200. Costs vary significantly by city — Austin and Dallas run higher than San Antonio and Fort Worth.
Average Moving Costs in Texas — 2026
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local move — professional movers | $980 |
| Long-distance move — professional movers | $4,200 |
| Mover hourly rate (per mover) | $45/hr |
| Moving truck rental (per day) | $110/day |
Averages based on a 2-bedroom local move. Long-distance averages assume 500+ miles.
What Affects Moving Costs in Texas
Distance: Local moves are priced hourly ($45/mover/hr). Long-distance moves switch to a weight-plus-mileage model, which is why the jump from local to long-distance is so large.
Timing: Peak season (May–September) adds 15–30% to any quote. The last 3 days of a month are the most expensive — most leases expire on the 1st, so demand spikes.
Home size: Every additional bedroom adds roughly $100–200 to a local move (more movers or more hours). Long-distance moves price by weight — a 3-bedroom house weighs 3× a studio.
Access: Stairs, long carry distances, and tight elevator access trigger surcharges. Expect $50–100 per flight of stairs. Parking permits in dense Texas cities can add $50–150.
Texas Moving Cost by City
Texas's largest moving markets are Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, Fort Worth. Metro areas with high demand and traffic typically run 15–25% above the state averages above.
- Austin
- Dallas
- Houston
- San Antonio
- Fort Worth
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How much does it cost to move locally in Texas?
Local moves in Texas average $980 for a 2-bedroom home. Mover hourly rates run $45/hr per mover. Most local moves take 4–8 hours with a 2–3 mover crew.
How much does a long-distance move to or from Texas cost?
Long-distance moves to or from Texas average $4,200 with professional movers. DIY truck rentals typically run $1,200–2,500 depending on distance and truck size.
What is the cheapest way to move in Texas?
Renting a moving truck yourself is the cheapest option — expect $110/day plus fuel. Booking movers for a weekday in the off-season (October–April) can save 20–30% vs. weekend peak rates.
When is the cheapest time to move in Texas?
October through April is the cheapest time to move in Texas. Avoid May–September (peak season), the last three days of any month, and weekends — all carry 15–30% premiums.
Which cities in Texas are most expensive for moving?
Austin and Dallas typically run 15–25% above the state average due to higher demand, traffic congestion, and longer drive times between pickup and delivery.
Is Texas gaining or losing residents?
Texas is currently a net migration destination — more people are moving in than out, which keeps mover demand and prices elevated.