Top Local Movers for Los Angeles to Houston
If you're moving from Los Angeles to Houston, you already know that finding a local operator who also handles long-distance work isn't straightforward. I've reviewed 102 local movers in Los Angeles that offer interstate service, scoring them on pricing, customer feedback, and track record.
Here are the ones worth your attention:
- Sterling Van Lines — 4.7 / 5
- NorthStar Moving Company — 4.52 / 5
- Seka Moving — 4.64 / 5
- Rigo's Moving Company Inc — 4.66 / 5
- Best Fit Movers — 4.5 / 5
Sterling Van Lines
4.7 / 5 stars | 155 Yelp reviews | 231 Google reviews | Grade A+ BBB
Sterling Van Lines stands out for consistent professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, and competitive rates. Customers consistently report polite crews, safe arrivals, and on-time finishes. The negatives: missed delivery windows and occasional communication gaps. They're solid for small to medium moves, but punctuality can slip.
Get a Quote: (866) 266-8751
License: 0189566 | DOT: 568254 | Years in business: 33
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, specialty items.
NorthStar Moving Company
4.52 / 5 stars | 1,029 Yelp reviews | 766 Google reviews | Grade A+ BBB
Out of 1,215 reviews, 92% were positive. Customers rave about efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, and responsiveness. Staff protect belongings, arrive on time, and make stressful transitions easier. Rates are competitive. The 6% who had issues cite damaged items, unexpected charges, or delivery delays. Still, NorthStar earns its reputation for reliability and above-and-beyond service. This is a top choice if you want experienced crews and fair pricing.
Get a Quote: (213) 622-7767
License: 0182466 | DOT: 1836576 | Years in business: 7
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Seka Moving
4.64 / 5 stars | 28 Yelp reviews | 60 Google reviews | Grade A+ BBB
Seka Moving earns high marks for professionalism, efficiency, and careful work. Customers mention polite staff, quick finishes (often ahead of schedule), and damage-free delivery. Communication is responsive and crews are genuinely helpful. Negative feedback—about 12%—centers on rare instances of damaged items and unsatisfactory dispute resolution. Overall, Seka is a solid choice if you prioritize professionalism and reliability.
Get a Quote: (323) 483-4288
License: 0192497 | DOT: 3014539 | Years in business: 7
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks), crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Rigo's Moving Company Inc
4.66 / 5 stars | 315 Yelp reviews | 245 Google reviews | Grade A+ BBB
Rigo's wins points for speed, courtesy, and respectful handling. About 80% of 522 reviews were positive—better than average for the industry. Crews load and unload efficiently; staff communicate well and work quickly to reduce moving-day stress. Some customers report furniture damage, unexpected fees, and late arrivals. A few mention being charged for unworked hours. Rigo's shines for reliability and work ethic, but clarify policies and fees upfront to avoid surprises.
Get a Quote: (323) 519-2845
License: 0191663 | DOT: 3075110 | Years in business: 11
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, storage.
Best Fit Movers
4.5 / 5 stars | 65 Google reviews | Grade A+ BBB
About 71% of feedback was positive. Many customers found Best Fit made moving easier with quick service and careful item handling. Staff are professional and friendly. On the downside, some faced significant problems: furniture damage and surprise charges. Communication issues and unresolved claims were reported by dissatisfied customers. Best Fit outperforms many local operators, but damage and billing complaints warrant caution. Get everything in writing before booking.
Get a Quote: (323) 827-8950
License: 0191680 | DOT: 3051481 | Years in business: 7
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, safes), crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Houston?
Movers in California charge around $129 per hour. Here's what you can expect for this 1,547-mile move:
| Move Size | Full-Service Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,119 – $4,555 | $919 – $2,332 | $861 – $1,701 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,756 – $6,179 | $1,794 – $3,402 | $969 – $2,044 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,056 – $9,013 | $2,420 – $4,406 | $1,233 – $2,449 |
Figures represent approximate costs as of January 2026, based on verified moving quotes. Final pricing depends on shipment size, optional services, access challenges, fuel, and timing. Always collect quotes from multiple movers.
Cost to Hire Movers from Los Angeles to Houston
A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,119–$4,555. Two to three bedrooms: $2,756–$6,179. Got a larger household? Four or five bedrooms typically cost $5,056–$9,013.
The variation depends on how much you're moving, whether you need packing/unpacking, and current market demand. Use the calculator to get a personalized estimate.
Cost of Moving Containers from Los Angeles to Houston
Small loads: $919–$2,332. Two to three bedrooms: $1,794–$3,402. Four-plus bedrooms: $2,420–$4,406.
Moving containers like PODS can be a middle ground between a full-service move and a DIY truck rental. You get flexibility on timing and don't have to drive cross-country yourself.
Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Los Angeles to Houston
Renting a truck is the cheapest option, but you're doing all the work. Studio or one-bedroom: $861–$1,701. Two to three bedrooms: $969–$2,044. Four-plus bedrooms: $1,233–$2,449 (fuel included).
Truck rentals make sense if you have a small load and don't mind driving 1,547 miles yourself. For anything larger or if you value your time, hiring movers usually pays for itself.
Factors That Impact Moving Costs from Los Angeles to Houston
Size of your move: More belongings = higher costs. A small one-bedroom starts around $2,333; larger homes run $8,531+.
Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season. Expect premium rates in June, July, August. Spring and fall are moderate; winter is cheapest but less comfortable.
DIY vs. professional: Cheap truck rentals ($861–$2,237) beat full-service moves, but you're handling all packing, loading, and driving.
Add-on services: Packing, unpacking, piano moving, or specialty items increase costs. Get quotes that spell out what's included.
What to Know Before Moving from Los Angeles to Houston
Houston is significantly cheaper than Los Angeles. Singles save roughly 53%; families save around 44%.
Monthly basics:
- One person: $2,770 in Houston vs. $5,833 in Los Angeles
- Family of four: $7,157 in Houston vs. $12,720 in Los Angeles
Cost-of-Living Breakdown
| Category | Los Angeles | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1BR rent | $2,603 | $1,658 |
| Average 3BR rent | $4,443 | $3,195 |
| Average home value | $2,368,088 | $263,945 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,833 | $2,770 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $12,720 | $7,157 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 4.1% |
| Sales tax | 9.5% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0% |
Key takeaways:
- Rent is about 48% lower in Houston—you'll have more monthly breathing room.
- Home prices are roughly 89% lower. Your mortgage or down payment goes further.
- Income is around 7% lower on average, so factor that into your job search.
- Cost of living for a single is 53% less; for families, 44% less.
- Unemployment is 61% lower—a sign of a healthier job market.
- Sales tax is 13% lower (8.25% vs. 9.5%).
- Texas has no state income tax—a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees.
Daily Living Expenses
| Expense | Los Angeles | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $192.54 | $200.52 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.50 | $60.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $7.02 | $4.11 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.58 | $3.05 |
| Fast-food meal | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Mid-range dinner for 2 | $100.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $47.76 | $38.29 |
Groceries, gas, and restaurant meals are notably cheaper in Houston. Utilities and cell plans run slightly lower too. Only utilities are slightly higher in Houston, so Houston wins on almost every front.
How Life Differs: Los Angeles vs. Houston
| Factor | Los Angeles | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,820,914 | 2,301,572 |
| Transit score | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Walkability | 69/100 | 47/100 |
| Bike-friendliness | 59/100 | 49/100 |
| Crime index | 53.81 | 63.5 |
| Safety index | 46.19 | 36.5 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
What this means:
- Houston is 40% smaller—less crowded, more spread out.
- Public transit is weaker (score of 5 vs. 8). You'll likely need a car.
- Walkability is lower. Houston is car-dependent.
- Biking is less friendly, though still manageable.
- Crime and safety are slightly less favorable in Houston, though both cities have varied neighborhoods.
- Air quality is actually better in Houston.
Other Things to Consider for Your Los Angeles to Houston Move
HOA and community rules: Check regulations before moving day to avoid surprises.
Elevator reservation: If your building requires elevator access, reserve it early to prevent delays.
Truck parking permits: Some cities require permits for large vehicles. Verify local rules in advance.
State licensing: Texas requires movers to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV). Each carrier gets a 10-digit TXDMV number. Confirm your mover is properly licensed.
Verify via Texas regulator: Check the state's public utilities commission to confirm any mover's credentials.
Moving permits: Texas doesn't mandate moving permits, but check local parking guidelines anyway.
USPS change of address: File about a week before you move so mail reaches you in Houston smoothly.
Moving company insurance: Texas requires movers to carry insurance. Most provide Released Value Protection at no extra cost (covers items at 60 cents per pound). For full protection, discuss Full Value Protection options or explore third-party providers. Read reviews and understand coverage limits before choosing.
Use a checklist: Reference our moving checklist to stay organized and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to Live in Houston
Once you've committed to Houston, consider these neighborhoods:
Best for Singles
- Downtown
- Greenway/Upper Kirby
- Montrose
- Museum District
Best for Families
- Clear Lake City
- Friendswood
- Kingwood
- Memorial
- Sugar Land
Things to Do in Houston
Houston has plenty to offer:
Arts and culture: Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Children's Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Outdoor recreation: Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, Memorial Park—great for hiking, biking, and nature walks.
Sports: Root for the Houston Texans (NFL), Houston Astros (MLB), Houston Dash (NWSL), Houston Dynamo FC (MLS), Houston Rockets (NBA), or Houston SaberCats (MLR).
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to move from Los Angeles to Houston?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and moderate moving rates. Avoid summer if you can—peak season = higher prices.
When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Houston?
Winter. Fewer people move when it's cold, so rates drop. It's less pleasant to move in December or January, but your wallet will thank you.
How long does a move from Los Angeles to Houston take?
This 1,547-mile move typically takes 4–15 days depending on the mover's schedule and services. Some offer expedited service; others can arrange storage if you need flexibility.
Which discounts are available from Los Angeles movers?
Many carriers offer AAA, military, and senior discounts. Confirm details with each mover before booking, as amounts and eligibility vary.
Which Los Angeles movers handle pianos or antiques?
About 82 Los Angeles movers offer piano transport; 71 specialize in antiques. When requesting quotes, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage.
Get Started with Your Move
Ready to compare quotes? Use the calculator to estimate your move cost, then reach out to movers on this list directly for binding estimates. Collect at least three quotes so you can compare pricing and services side by side.
The move from Los Angeles to Houston is substantial—1,547 miles and a big lifestyle shift. But with the right mover and a solid plan, you'll land in a more affordable city with a growing job market. Spend time vetting your moving company, understand the cost-of-living difference, and plan your neighborhood carefully. The payoff is worth it.