Factors that influence moving costs from Phoenix to Houstontoggle

The cost of Phoenix movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Phoenix to Houston might cost as little as $1,507, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $9,355.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Phoenix, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $909 to $2,365. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Phoenix to Houston

Moving from Phoenix to Houston comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Houston is generally more expensive than Phoenix, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Phoenix Houston
Average rent cost $1,695 $1,549
Average home value $411,139 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $64,552 $69,833
Cost of living (single person) $2,369 $2,770
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,226 $7,157
Unemployment rate 6.6% 4.1%
Sales tax 8.6% 8.25%
State income tax 2.5% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Houston are 9% lower than in Phoenix, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Houston.
    Home prices in Houston are 35.8% lower than in Phoenix.
  • Income in Houston is 8.2% higher than in Phoenix, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Houston include H-E-B, Houston Methodist, and Memorial Hermann Health System.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Houston, since the cost of living for a single person in Houston is 16.9% higher than in Phoenix. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Houston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Houston is 36.9% higher than in Phoenix.
  • The unemployment rate in Houston is 37.88% lower than in Phoenix.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Houston, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Houston are 4.07% lower than in Phoenix.
  • One perk of moving to Houston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Phoenix.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,507.81 in Houston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Phoenix.

How life is different in Phoenix vs. Houston

Houston Phoenix
Population 2,301,572 1,608,139
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 6
Walkability score 47 41
Bike friendliness score 49 56
Crime Index 63.5 53.06
Safety Index 36.5 46.94
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Houston's population is about 43% greater than Phoenix.
  • Houston's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Phoenix's higher score of 6.
  • Houston is more walkable than Phoenix with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Phoenix's 41 out of 100.
  • Houston has a bike-friendliness score 49 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Phoenix, which has a score of 56 out of 100.
  • Houston's crime rate is higher than Phoenix with a score of 63.5 compared to Phoenix's 53.06. This means that Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Phoenix neighborhoods are safer than 53.06%.
  • Houston is considered to be less safe than Phoenix with a score of 36.5 vs Phoenix's 46.94.
  • Air quality in Houston is good, and in Phoenix it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Phoenix vs. Houston move

  • Weather: Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your move.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Texas does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Houston. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Houston

Now that you've decided to make the move to "HOU", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Houston.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Greenway/Upper Kirby
  • Montrose
  • Museum District

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Clear Lake City
  • Friendswood
  • Kingwood
  • Memorial
  • Sugar Land

Things to do in Houston

Now that you've made the move to Texas, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Houston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Houston, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Childrenโ€™s Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and Holocaust Museum Houston.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Houston Texans (NFL), Houston Astros (MLB, Houston Dash (NWSL), or Houston Dynamo FC (MLS) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Phoenix to Houston?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Phoenix to Houston. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Phoenix.

When is the cheapest time to move from Phoenix to Houston?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Phoenix to Houston, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Phoenix to Houston take?

The 1,176-mile journey from Phoenix, AZ to Houston, TX typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Phoenix offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Houston.

Helpful moving resources