dallas to nashville

---
title: Moving from Dallas to Nashville: Cost, Top Movers & What to Expect
description: Moving from Dallas to Nashville? Real cost estimates, top movers, and what to expect when you trade Texas for Tennessee. Updated 2025.
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Dallas to Nashville", "Dallas to Nashville movers", "Dallas Nashville moving cost", "long distance movers Dallas", "Nashville moving companies", "Dallas to Nashville relocation", "cost of moving Dallas to Nashville"]
---

If you're moving from Dallas to Nashville, you're looking at a 663-mile haul across four states. The route itself isn't complicated — the decisions around it are. Which movers actually handle this run well? What does it cost? And what happens to your monthly budget when you land in Tennessee?

Here's what I've found after going through the numbers and the reviews.

## Top-rated Dallas movers that handle the Nashville run

Finding a local Dallas mover that's also competent at [long-distance moves](/best/long-distance-movers) is harder than it sounds. Many local operators subcontract interstate jobs or just don't have the infrastructure for it. I looked at Dallas movers who offer interstate service and scored them on price, customer reviews, and reliability. These five rose to the top for the Dallas-to-Nashville route:

1. Element Moving and Storage — 4.86 / 5
2. AB Moving — 4.62 / 5
3. AM Moving Company LLC — 4.58 / 5
4. Evolution Moving Company — 4.58 / 5
5. Johnson Storage & Moving — 4.56 / 5

---

## Element Moving and Storage

**12011 Denton Dr., Dallas, TX 75234**

- [17 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/element-moving-and-storage-dallas-3)
- [945 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=element+moving+and+storage#lrd=0x864c26a651c1821b:0x330b35d69b2ee6a5,1,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/dallas/profile/moving-companies/element-moving-and-storage-llc-0875-90248058)

**92% positive | 7% negative | 4.8 / 5**

In 14 years of business, Element Moving and Storage has built one of the strongest review profiles among Dallas-area long-distance movers. Across 251 analyzed reviews, 92% are positive — customers consistently point to efficient crews, careful handling, and clear communication from the first call through final delivery. A lot of reviewers specifically note that the team works fast without cutting corners on wrapping and loading.

The negatives are real: some customers report damaged or missing items on complex or long-distance jobs, and claims resolution is where the most consistent criticism lands. If you have high-value items, ask specifically about full-valuation coverage before you sign anything.

**State license:** 006519926C | **DOT:** 2038052 | **In business:** 14 years

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, storage, full-valuation coverage, international moves

---

## AB Moving

**325 North St. Paul Street, Suite 300, Dallas, TX 75201**

- [301 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/ab-moving-dallas-dallas)
- [542 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=AB+moving+dallas#lrd=0x864e99d71a97da87:0xacad6516b3a8297,1,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/plano/profile/moving-companies/ab-moving-0875-45000104)

**62% positive | 37% negative | 4.6 / 5**

AB Moving has been around for 25 years and gets consistent praise for speed and competitive rates — about 62% of 487 analyzed reviews are positive, with customers highlighting quick crews and straightforward pricing. For a basic local Dallas job, they often deliver.

That 37% negative rate is worth paying attention to, though. The recurring complaints cover property damage, surprise charges beyond the original quote, and movers who stretch job times. If you hire them for a Dallas-to-Nashville run, get everything in writing upfront. Ask specifically how their pricing works at this distance and whether there are any add-ons not reflected in the initial estimate.

**State license:** 000571862B | **DOT:** 1939700 | **In business:** 25 years

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, international moves

---

## AM Moving Company LLC

**5641 SMU Blvd., #128, Dallas, TX 75206**

- [496 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/am-moving-company-dallas)
- [430 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=am+moving+company+dallas+tx#lrd=0x864e9c8c3f1dc5eb:0x5afc911aca2e605e,1,,,)
- [BBB: Grade B+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/dallas/profile/moving-companies/am-moving-company-0875-90621441)

**81% positive | 17% negative | 4.5 / 5**

AM Moving Company has been operating for 9 years and earns strong marks for on-time arrival, efficient pacing, and attentive handling. Across 711 analyzed reviews, more than 80% are positive. Rates tend to come in at or below what comparable Dallas movers charge, and they carry DOD certification — relevant if you're a military family relocating on orders.

The negatives cluster around damaged furniture, claims-resolution friction, and occasional last-minute cancellations. Those aren't disqualifying issues, but they're worth asking about directly before you commit to a booking.

**State license:** 006870171C | **DOT:** 2571411 | **In business:** 9 years

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, DOD certified

---

## Evolution Moving Company

**11884 Greenville Ave #100A, Dallas, TX 75243**

- [50 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/evolution-moving-company-dallas-4)
- [867 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Evolution+Moving+plano+tx#lrd=0x864c33739c60af33:0xb1200cd0946e2843,1,,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/dallas/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/evolution-moving-company-0875-91033851)

**96% positive | 3% negative | 4.5 / 5**

That 96% positive rate across 271 reviews is genuinely rare. Evolution Moving Company is the standout here when it comes to consistency. Customers describe professional crews who finish ahead of schedule without rushing the parts that matter — packing, wrapping, loading. Pricing is transparent, and the booking process doesn't leave you chasing down details.

Negative reviews are sparse and tend to reflect the kind of issues that show up industry-wide (a damaged item, a surprise charge) rather than anything systemic. A sub-4% negative rate on a sample this size is a real signal. In my experience, that kind of review profile holds up under scrutiny in ways that outlier-heavy four-star operations don't.

**State license:** 006779351C | **DOT:** 2467590 | **In business:** 11 years

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage

---

## Johnson Storage & Moving

**646 Bronze Way, Dallas, TX 75236**

- [18 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/johnson-storage-and-moving-dallas-4)
- [87 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=johnson+storage+%26+moving+dallas+tx#lrd=0x864e906a8292a09b:0xb56cf0ceac90d3f7,1,,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/co/centennial/profile/moving-companies/johnson-storage-moving-company-1296-9167)

**75% positive | 21% negative | 4.5 / 5**

Johnson Storage & Moving has been in business for 125 years — longer than most companies you'll compare them against. That track record matters. Customers cite professionalism, careful packing, transparent pricing, and a team that keeps them informed throughout. Out of 105 reviewed cases, 75% are positive.

The 21% negative feedback tends to center on damaged or lost items, occasional unprofessional crew behavior, and delivery delays. The review sample is smaller than the others on this list, so I'd give more weight to the long operating history. They're particularly worth considering if your move involves storage on either end — that's where their depth actually shows.

**State license:** 006615079C | **DOT:** 286130 | **In business:** 125 years

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, storage, international moves, DOD certified

---

## How much does it cost to move from Dallas to Nashville?

Use the [MoveFinders moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a ballpark before you start collecting quotes. Below are the ranges for each method on this 663-mile route, based on pricing data current as of January 2025.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving containers | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,153 – $3,664 | $680 – $1,727 | $470 – $836 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,001 – $5,042 | $1,250 – $2,344 | $522 – $983 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,517 – $7,147 | $1,639 – $3,164 | $602 – $1,214 |

*Final pricing varies based on shipment size, optional services, access constraints, fuel costs, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to pin down your actual number.*

### Cost to hire full-service movers from Dallas to Nashville

[Texas](/movers/texas) movers average around $131 per hour for local work, but interstate pricing shifts to weight- and distance-based rates. On this route, a studio or one-bedroom move typically runs between $1,153 and $3,664. A two- or three-bedroom home lands between $2,001 and $5,042. Larger households — four bedrooms or more — should plan for $3,517 to $7,147.

### Cost of moving containers from Dallas to Nashville

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) work well on a route like this: you load at your own pace, the company hauls it, and you unload on your schedule. For a smaller load (studio or one bedroom), expect $680 to $1,727. A two- or three-bedroom move typically runs $1,250 to $2,344. Larger households can expect $1,639 to $3,164.

### Cost of renting a truck from Dallas to Nashville

If you want the lowest possible price and can handle driving a loaded truck 663 miles yourself, [renting a truck](/best/truck-rentals) is your cheapest option. Studio and one-bedroom moves: $470 to $836. Two- to three-bedroom: $522 to $983. Four-plus bedrooms: $602 to $1,214. These ranges already include estimated fuel costs — but confirm current prices when you book since fuel moves around.

The trade-off is straightforward: you're handling all the lifting, packing, and long-haul driving. For a move this long, that's a solid two days of real effort at minimum.

### What drives costs on this route

- **Size of your load.** The gap between a small one-bedroom and a large family home is enormous — we're talking $1,153 versus $7,147+ at the extremes.
- **Time of year.** Summer is peak season in Texas. Moving in late fall or winter typically gets you lower rates and better scheduling flexibility.
- **Full-service vs. DIY.** Hiring [full-service movers](/best/full-service-movers) costs more upfront but removes the physical labor and logistics burden. The right call depends on your situation, your timeline, and how much your time is actually worth.

## What to know before moving from Dallas to Nashville

The short version: Nashville costs more than Dallas, but it also pays more. Singles can expect to spend roughly 10% more per month; families, around 8% more. Here's the full comparison.

| | Dallas | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,616 | $1,887 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,504 | $4,044 |
| Average home value | $303,900 | $428,678 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,291 | $79,020 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,828 | $3,108 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,793 | $8,447 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 4.5% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 9.75% |
| State income tax | 0% | 0% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation*

A few things worth calling out:

- **Rent** in Nashville runs about 11% higher than in Dallas. Don't sign a lease sight-unseen — tour the neighborhood first.
- **Home prices** are roughly 41% higher in Nashville. If buying is part of the plan, get pre-approved before you land in [Tennessee](/movers/tennessee).
- **Average income** is about 16% higher in Nashville, which helps offset the cost increase for most households.
- **Sales tax** in Nashville (9.75%) is about 18% higher than in Dallas (8.25%). It adds up, especially on large purchases.
- **Neither state has a state income tax.** That's a genuine financial advantage on both sides of the line.
- **Unemployment** in Nashville runs about 25% higher than Dallas — not alarming, but worth knowing if you're job-hunting rather than transferring.

And the day-to-day granular stuff:

| Expense | Dallas | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $227.04 | $202.09 |
| Cell phone plan | $76.44 | $70.35 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.76 | $3.92 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.64 | $4.08 |
| Fast food / casual meal | $20.00 | $17.50 |
| Dinner for two (mid-range) | $80.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $41.69 | $40.82 |

Some everyday expenses are actually cheaper in Nashville — utilities, cell service, grabbing a quick lunch. Housing is where the real gap lives.

### How daily life in Dallas compares to Nashville

| | Dallas | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,304,379 | 689,447 |
| Transit score | 6 / 10 | 4 / 10 |
| Walkability score | 46 / 100 | 96 / 100 |
| Bike-friendliness score | 49 / 100 | 72 / 100 |
| Crime index | 51.4 | 49.1 |
| Safety index | 48.6 | 50.9 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |

*Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow*

A few things that might catch you off guard:

- Nashville's walkability score (96) is dramatically higher than Dallas's (46). If you've been car-dependent in Dallas, this is a real lifestyle shift — in a good way.
- Nashville is more bike-friendly too (72 vs. 49 for Dallas), which matters in a city with that terrain and those distances.
- Public transit is actually worse in Nashville (4 vs. 6). If you relied on transit in Dallas, plan to still need a car.
- Crime and safety indexes are similar enough that neither city has a clear edge.
- Nashville is roughly half Dallas's size by population — that affects traffic, restaurant wait times, and how easy it is to feel like you know a place.

### Practical things to handle before moving day

- **State licensing:** Tennessee doesn't require a separate state mover license, but your mover must carry a valid USDOT registration. Always verify their DOT number before signing — it's a quick check that weeds out fly-by-night operations.
- **Insurance:** Tennessee movers must offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge, which covers 60 cents per pound per item. That's minimal. Ask about Full Value Protection, or look at a third-party policy if you have anything irreplaceable in the load.
- **HOA and building rules:** Check your new community's move-in policies before scheduling. Some Nashville buildings have specific hours, truck parking restrictions, or elevator reservation requirements.
- **Parking permits:** Confirm with the city or your building manager whether a permit is required for a large moving truck on your street or in your lot.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address about a week before the move — it takes a few days to process, and chasing down forwarded mail from a new city is a headache you don't need.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to keep the details from slipping through the cracks.

## Where to live in Nashville

Nashville's neighborhoods are more varied than the city's reputation suggests. Here's where to focus your search depending on your situation.

### Best neighborhoods for singles

- **Downtown** — Walkable, close to nightlife and restaurants, easy access to the entertainment corridor. Rents are higher here.
- **Germantown** — Historic, increasingly popular, and genuinely walkable with a strong food and coffee scene.
- **The Gulch** — Trendy and central. Expect to pay for the convenience.
- **Midtown** — A reasonable balance of access and cost compared to The Gulch.
- **Music Row** — More residential than the name implies; quieter but still centrally located.

### Best neighborhoods for families

- **Belmont-Hillsboro** — Quiet streets, good schools, close to Belmont University.
- **Buena Vista** — More affordable than some south Nashville options; worth putting on the list.
- **Green Hills** — Suburban feel, top-rated schools, strong amenities.
- **Lockeland Springs** — Established with strong community character.
- **Oak Hill** — Spacious, family-oriented, one of Nashville's more settled communities.

### Things to do in Nashville

Once you're settled in [Tennessee](/movers/tennessee), Nashville gives you plenty of reasons to get out:

- **Arts and culture:** The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, The Johnny Cash Museum, and RCA Studio B are all worth your time — even if you've done similar museums elsewhere.
- **Outdoor recreation:** Centennial Park, Radnor Lake State Park, Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, and Riverfront Park cover hiking, cycling, and getting outside without driving far.
- **Sports:** The Tennessee Titans (NFL), Nashville Predators (NHL), and Nashville SC (MLS) all call Nashville home if live sports are part of your routine.

## FAQ

### When is the best time to move from Dallas to Nashville?

Spring and fall are the practical sweet spots — moderate weather in both cities and lower demand means you'll find better rates and easier scheduling. Summer is when Dallas moves get expensive.

### When is the cheapest time to move from Dallas to Nashville?

Winter. Moving demand drops significantly after the holidays, and that's when you have the best shot at lower rates and open scheduling. The weather adds some unpredictability, but the savings can be meaningful.

### How long does a move from Dallas to Nashville take?

For a 663-mile move, plan for one to six days depending on the mover's schedule and how quickly they can dispatch a truck. Some Dallas movers offer expedited service if your timeline is tight. Nashville storage is a reasonable fallback if your delivery window and move-in date don't line up cleanly.

### Which movers offer discounts on this route?

Twelve Dallas-area movers offer reduced rates for military members; nine offer senior discounts. Availability and amounts vary, so ask directly when you're getting quotes — don't assume a discount applies automatically.

### Which Dallas movers handle pianos and antiques?

Forty-nine Dallas movers have the equipment and experience for piano transport. Forty specialize in antiques. Across [Texas](/movers/texas), those numbers expand to 179 piano movers and 124 antique specialists. Always ask about specialty experience and confirm insurance coverage separately before you book — not every mover's standard policy covers high-value or fragile items adequately.

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Ready to get moving? [Compare Dallas-to-Nashville quotes](/calculator) and lock in your rate before demand picks up.