Factors that influence moving costs from Houston to Minneapolistoggle

The cost of Houston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Houston to Minneapolis might cost as little as $1,435, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,998.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Houston, 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 $945 to $2,185. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Houston to Minneapolis

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

Houston Minneapolis
Average rent cost $1,549 $1,484
Average home value $263,945 $312,602
Average income (per capita) $69,833 $70,099
Cost of living (single person) $2,770 $3,900
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,157 $4,710
Unemployment rate 4.1% 4.5%
Sales tax 8.25% 9.03%
State income tax 0.0% 9.85%
  • Rent prices in Minneapolis are 4% lower than in Houston, 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 Minneapolis are 18.4% higher than in Houston.
  • Income is the same in Minneapolis and Houston. The top employers in Minneapolis include Aeon, Target, and Medtronic.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Minneapolis, since the cost of living for a single person in Minneapolis is 40.8% higher than in Houston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Minneapolis is 34.2% lower than in Houston.
  • The unemployment rate in Minneapolis is 9.76% higher than in Houston.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Minneapolis, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Minneapolis are 9.45% higher than in Houston.
  • State income taxes in Minneapolis are 9.85% higher than in Houston.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,223.83 in Minneapolis to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Houston.

How life is different in Houston vs. Minneapolis

Minneapolis Houston
Population 425,115 2,301,572
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 5
Walkability score 71 47
Bike friendliness score 83 49
Crime Index 56.06 63.5
Safety Index 43.94 36.5
Air Quality Good Good
  • Minneapolis's population is about 82% less than Houston.
  • Minneapolis's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Houston's lower score of 5.
  • Minneapolis is more walkable than Houston with a score of 71 out of 100 vs Houston's 47 out of 100.
  • With a score of 83 out of 100, Minneapolis is more bike-friendly than Houston, which has a score of 49 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Minneapolis's crime rate is lower than Houston with a score of 56.06 compared to Houston's 63.5. This means that Minneapolis neighborhoods are safer than 56.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5%.
  • Minneapolis is considered to be safer than Houston with a safety index of 43.94 vs Houston's 36.5.
  • Air quality in Minneapolis is good, and in Houston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Houston vs. Minneapolis move

  • Weather: Minneapolis has cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Minneapolis experiences a full range of precipitation and related weather events, including snow, sleet, ice, rain, thunderstorms, and fog. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during 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: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Minnesota, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Minnesota 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 Minneapolis 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 Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Minneapolis

With your sights set on "City of Lakes", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Minneapolis.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Linden Hills
  • Northeast Minneapolis
  • North Loop (Warehouse District)
  • Uptown
  • Whittier

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Diamond Lake
  • Fulton
  • Kenny
  • Linden Hills
  • Minnehaha

Things to do in Minneapolis

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

  • Arts and culture: Minneapolis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Mill City Museum, American Swedish Institute, The Museum of Russian Art, and Foshay Tower.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Minnehaha Park, Mill Ruins Park, Loring Park, and Gold Medal 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 Minnesota Lynx (WNBA), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), Minnesota Twins (MLB), or Minnesota Vikings (NFL) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

Helpful moving resources