($1,820) Movers From Seattle, WA to Austin, TX

What to know before moving from Seattle to Austin

Moving from Seattle to Austin means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Seattle than in Austin, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Seattle compares to Austin so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Austin are 11% lower than in Seattle, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Austin.
  Home prices in Austin are 39.6% lower than in Seattle.
• Income in Austin is 12.3% lower than in Seattle, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Austin include Keller Williams Realty, Whole Foods Market, and Arrow Value Recovery.
• The cost of living for a single person in Austin is 10.6% lower than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Austin is 20.3% lower than in Seattle.
• The unemployment rate in Austin is 27.08% lower than in Seattle.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Austin, since the city’s sales taxes in Austin are 20.29% lower than in Seattle.
• State income taxes are the same in Austin and Seattle.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,683.16 in Austin to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.

How life is different in Seattle vs. Austin

• Austin's population is about 32% greater than Seattle.
• Austin's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Seattle's higher score of 8.
• Austin is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 out of 100.
• Austin has a bike-friendliness score 54 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Seattle, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
• Austin's crime rate is lower than Seattle with a score of 42.91 compared to Seattle's 58.88. This means that Austin neighborhoods are safer than 42.91% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
• Austin is considered to be safer than Seattle with a safety index of 59.87 vs Seattle's 49.23.
• Air quality in Austin is good, and in Seattle it's good.

Other things to consider for your Seattle vs. Austin move

• Weather: Austin has mild winters and hot summers, the rainiest months are typically May, June, and October so your move may be affected in these months.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’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 company’s license in Texas, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While Texas doesn’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 Austin 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 Austin

With your sights set on "ATX", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Austin.

Helpful moving resources