Best overall value
Factors that influence moving costs from Washington DC to Houston
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Houston
Moving from Washington DC to Houston means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Houston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Washington DC compares to Houston so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Washington DC | Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,400 | $1,549 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $263,945 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $69,833 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,963 | $2,770 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $11,093 | $7,157 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 4.1% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 0.0% |
- Rent prices in Houston are 36% lower than in Washington DC, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Houston.
Home prices in Houston are 55.6% lower than in Washington DC. - Income in Houston is 31.3% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Houston include H-E-B, Houston Methodist, and Memorial Hermann Health System.
- The cost of living for a single person in Houston is 30.1% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Houston is 35.5% lower than in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Houston is 41.43% lower than in Washington DC.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Houston, since the cityโs sales taxes in Houston are 37.50% higher than in Washington DC.
- One perk of moving to Houston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Washington DC.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,096.90 in Houston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Houston
| Houston | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 705,749 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 47 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 49 | 70 |
| Crime Index | 63.5 | 60.37 |
| Safety Index | 36.5 | 39.63 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Houston's population is about 226% greater than Washington DC.
- Houston's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
- Houston is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 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 Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100.
- Houston and Washington DC have a similar crime rate.
- Houston and Washington DC are considered to be equally safe.
- Air quality in Houston is good, and in Washington DC it's good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC 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: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Texas doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Houston. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Houston
Ready to relocate to "HOU"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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
After getting comfortable in your new Texas home, itโs time to see what Houston is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ thereโs plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Houston include museums and art centers like the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Childrenโs Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and Holocaust Museum Houston.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial Park โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on 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 Washington DC to Houston?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Washington DC to Houston. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Houston?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Houston take?
The 1,408-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Houston, TX typically takes three to eight days. Some movers in Washington DC 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.
