Factors that influence moving costs from Memphis to Houstontoggle

The cost of Memphis movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Memphis to Houston might cost as little as $1,460, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,263.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Memphis, 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 $507 to $1,305. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Memphis to Houston

Moving from Memphis to Houston comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Houston is generally more expensive than Memphis, 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:

Memphis Houston
Average rent cost $1,299 $1,549
Average home value $143,715 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $48,090 $69,833
Cost of living (single person) $1,842 $2,770
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,402 $7,157
Unemployment rate 8.0% 4.1%
Sales tax 9.75% 8.25%
State income tax 0.0% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Houston are 19% higher than in Memphis, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Memphis.
    Home prices in Houston are 83.7% higher than in Memphis.
  • Income in Houston is 45.2% higher than in Memphis, 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 50.4% higher than in Memphis. 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 62.6% higher than in Memphis.
  • The unemployment rate in Houston is 48.75% lower than in Memphis.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Houston, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Houston are 15.38% lower than in Memphis.
  • State income taxes are the same in Houston and Memphis.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,511.40 in Houston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Memphis.

How life is different in Memphis vs. Houston

Houston Memphis
Population 2,301,572 633,104
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 4
Walkability score 47 35
Bike friendliness score 49 41
Crime Index 63.5 77.49
Safety Index 36.5 22.51
Air Quality Good Good
  • Houston's population is about 264% greater than Memphis.
  • Houston's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Memphis's lower score of 4.
  • Houston is more walkable than Memphis with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Memphis's 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 49 out of 100, Houston is more bike-friendly than Memphis, which has a score of 41 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Houston's crime rate is lower than Memphis with a score of 63.5 compared to Memphis's 77.49. This means that Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49%.
  • Houston is considered to be safer than Memphis with a safety index of 36.5 vs Memphis's 22.51.
  • Air quality in Houston is good, and in Memphis it's good.

Other things to consider for your Memphis 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: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Texas, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Texas doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Houston without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Houston

With your sights set on "HOU", these are some of the most popular 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

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in Texas, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Houston has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Houston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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€” among other spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during 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 Memphis to Houston?

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Memphis 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 Memphis to Houston take?

The 568-mile journey from Memphis, TN to Houston, TX typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Memphis 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