Best Detroit to Austin Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Austin and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,400 mile move from Michigan to Texas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Detroit to Austin moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is MoverTron Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Austin. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Detroit to Austin Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1MoverTron Moving9.479.52Authorized For HHG
2Heavenly Moving and Storage9.299.38Authorized For HHG
3Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHG
4Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHG
5High Quality Moving Company8.248.5Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Detroit to Austin?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,400 miles from Detroit, MI to Austin, TX will cost on average $2,972 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Austin move is roughly $7,154. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,996300 ft³$6.65
1 Bedroom$2,972450 ft³$6.60
2 Bedrooms$4,915750 ft³$6.55
3 Bedrooms$7,1541100 ft³$6.50
4 Bedrooms$10,3261600 ft³$6.45
5+ Bedrooms$11,5271800 ft³$6.40
*Please note: These Michigan to Texas moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & Texas. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MI to TX mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Austin Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

MoverTron Moving Logo

MoverTron Moving

Exceptional9.47/10
based on 280+ data points

Briarcliff, TX, 78669

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4135479 / 1584479

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Heavenly Moving and Storage Logo

Heavenly Moving and Storage

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 4,140+ data points

9311 N Fm 620

Austin, TX, 78726

About Heavenly Moving and Storage

Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-quality packing...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Full-service packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3429695 / 1110864

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.24/10
based on 757+ data points

32401 W 8 Mile Rd

Livonia, MI, 48152

About High Quality Moving Company

High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Detroit vs. Austin Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted waters. To ease this transition, we're offering a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Austin, TX . By drawing parallels between familiar and new surroundings, this comparison aims to help you quickly feel at home in a city that might initially feel foreign.

DetroitAustinHow They're Similar
MidtownEast AustinVibrant arts scene and eateries
CorktownSouth CongressHip, eclectic vibe with unique shops
WoodbridgeHyde ParkHistoric homes and leafy streets
DowntownDowntown AustinUrban living, nightlife, and lakeside access
Palmer WoodsTarrytownAffluent, with a mix of traditional homes
Indian VillagePemberton HeightsLuxury homes, quiet streets
West VillageTravis HeightsTrendy, with a close-knit community feel
RiverfrontLady Bird LakeWaterfront living, outdoor activities
Boston-EdisonClarksvilleHistoric charm, local cafes, and shops
Rosedale ParkAllandaleFamily-friendly, great parks, and schools

When exploring new neighborhoods, it's the unique establishments and community features that truly define an area. For instance, if you're drawn to the historic charm and tight-knit community of Woodbridge in Detroit, with its picturesque streets lined with Victorian homes, you'll find a similar spirit in Austin's Hyde Park. Here, the Elisabet Ney Museum and Quack's 43rd Street Bakery contribute to the neighborhood's distinctive character. Moreover, those who enjoy the waterfront lifestyle and recreational options of Detroit's Riverfront might find themselves at home along Austin's Lady Bird Lake, where activities like kayaking and paddle boarding are popular pastimes, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. This blend of outdoor activities and community-focused living creates a seamless transition between these seemingly disparate cities.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Austin

Considering a move from Detroit to Austin brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to highlight the contrasts between Detroit, MI and Austin, TX , shedding light on what changes you can anticipate. It is an honest reflection of what to expect, capturing both the positives and negatives of such a relocation.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Harsh winters
  • Economic struggles
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less cultural diversity
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Milder winters
  • Booming job market
  • Lower crime rates
  • Great cultural diversity
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Costlier living
  • Lacks auto culture
  • Overcrowded festivals
  • More transient population
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Affordable housing
  • Rich automotive heritage
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Strong community feel

Moving from Detroit to Austin, you're trading harsh winters for milder ones, which means more time spent at Austin's Zilker Park or along the Barton Creek Greenbelt. The booming job market in Austin's tech and entertainment industries might make the higher cost of living palatable; places like South Congress Avenue offer a plethora of dining and shopping options. On the other hand, Detroit's rich automotive culture and vibrant music scene, from historic venues like the Motown Museum to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, represent a deep-rooted community feeling that might be less tangible amidst Austin's growing and ever-changing landscape. Despite Austin's renowned festivals like SXSW, some might find these events overcrowded, taking away from the city's otherwise vibrant music scene.

Detroit vs. Austin Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between Detroit, MI & Austin, TX is essential for understanding the diversity and vibrancy of the food scene in these cities. Food plays a crucial role in defining the local culture and the lifestyle of an area. This comparison will give you a better idea of what to expect culinary-wise in your new home.

Detroit
Austin
Most iconic local food item
Detroit-style Pizza
Brisket
Most popular meat dish
Coney Dog
Brisket
Most popular street food item
Coney Dog
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
BBQ Cauliflower Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Buddy's Pizza
  • Franklin Barbecue
  • Torchy's Tacos
  • Uchi
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from Detroit to Austin, you're transitioning from the hearty, comfort flavors of Detroit-style pizza and Coney Dogs to the smoky, savory delights of Texas brisket and innovative street tacos. Austin's reputation as a haven for food lovers is embodied in its wide array of food trucks and vegan options. Neighborhoods like South Congress or the East Side are bustling with food trucks serving everything from gourmet doughnuts to authentic Mexican street food. Meanwhile, iconic establishments like Franklin Barbecue and Torchy's Tacos are must-visits for any food enthusiast, offering a taste of the city's rich culinary landscape. Whether you're seeking health-conscious eateries or indulgent dining experiences, Austin's food scene caters to all.

Detroit vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This Detroit to Austin restaurant comparison will help you discover your next favorite dining spots, transforming your relocation journey into a delicious adventure.

DetroitAustinWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardOdd DuckBoth emphasize farm-to-table dining with innovative menus.
Supino PizzeriaBufalinaKnown for their wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, a match in quality and authenticity.
Rose's Fine FoodCounter CafeLocal diners focusing on high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
Slows Bar BQFranklin BarbecueA pilgrimage for barbecue lovers, both places have a cult following for their meats.
Dime StoreJosephine HouseBoth offer a chic, cozy brunch setting with exceptional food and attention to detail.
Astoria Pastry ShopGourdough'sBoth are heaven for those with a sweet tooth, offering unique desserts.
IridescenceUchiHigh-end dining that focuses on a unique and contemporary approach to their cuisine.
Lafayette Coney IslandFrankHot dogs and sausages with a creative twist, capturing a similar iconic status.
RoastSalt & TimeBoth are known for their focus on quality meat, offering a butchery and a sit-down experience.
SheWolfItalicBoth are revered for their authentic and innovative Italian dishes.

Upon arriving in Austin, you'll find that Odd Duck's menu parallels the seasonally changing, locally-sourced dishes you loved at Selden Standard, ensuring that farm-to-table dining remains a staple in your life. Bufalina's wood-fired pizzas will instantly remind you of Supino Pizzeria's dedication to authenticity and quality. Meanwhile, Franklin Barbecue offers an immersive experience akin to Slows Bar BQ, serving up slow-cooked meats that are worth every minute of the wait. Whether it's a casual brunch or a lavish dinner, Austin's dining scene promises to deliver flavors and experiences that echo your Detroit favorites while introducing you to the city's unique culinary character.

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Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a big move, it's critical to weigh the real estate market as it can significantly impact your decision and lifestyle. In this comparison, we take a detailed look at the housing market between Detroit, MI, and Austin, TX, including costs, architecture, and livability aspects. Understanding these differences will ensure you make an informed choice tailored to your needs.

Detroit
Austin
Typical Architecture Style
Historic, Craftsman
Modern, Texas Hill Country
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious lots, Detroit art
Green energy features, Community amenities

Moving from Detroit to Austin represents a substantial shift not only in environment but also in the cost of living, particularly in the housing market. In Austin, the median home price is significantly higher than in Detroit, reflecting Austin's booming economy and attractiveness to new residents seeking opportunities in tech and other burgeoning sectors. This price difference is mirrored in the rental market as well. Additionally, Austin's walkability and bikeability scores are higher, which reflects the city's investment in sustainable transportation options. The architecture in Austin often incorporates modern and green energy features, catering to a growing demand for sustainable living, while Detroit showcases historic homes with character and spacious lots, reminding residents and visitors alike of the city's rich industrial past. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for the lifestyle changes that accompany a move from Detroit to Austin.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

1. South Lamar : You’ll love South Lamar for its numerous pet-friendly apartments and access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt for outdoor adventures.

2. Mueller : You and your pet can enjoy long walks in the expansive parks, and you'll find many businesses in the area that welcome pets.

3. Zilker : Zilker is a haven for pet owners with its proximity to Zilker Park, where you can enjoy leash-free spaces and pet-friendly events.

Detroit vs. Austin Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, such as Detroit to Austin, it's crucial to compare how the weather conditions will change. This comparison will help you adjust your lifestyle and prepare for the climate differences in your new home .

Detroit
Austin
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Ice
Floods, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 63°F
95°F / 73°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 18°F
62°F / 42°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

33"
34"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

34"
0"


Moving from the colder, snowy winters of Detroit to the warmer, sun-drenched climate of Austin brings significant lifestyle changes. Austin's higher summer temperatures and more sunshine days mean you'll have more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. However, be prepared for hotter summers and the potential for more intense UV exposure. Adjusting will also involve understanding local natural disaster risks, with Austin facing potential floods and tornadoes. On the bright side, Austin typically enjoys better air quality and a different set of top seasonal allergies, which might come as a relief or require some adjustment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Austin

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will highlight the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between Detroit, MI and Austin, TX, to help you better prepare for your relocation.

Detroit
Austin
Avg. Household Income
$36,140
$79,542
Cost of Living Index
99.4
95.5
State Income Tax
4.25
0
Avg. Property Tax
2.3
1.83
Avg. Sales Tax
6
8.25
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Technology, Healthcare
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Affluence
Lower
Higher
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

When moving from Detroit to Austin, you're heading into a city with a significantly higher average household income, which is reflected in its higher cost of living index. However, Texas's absence of state income tax may offset some of these costs compared to Michigan's 4.25% tax rate. While Austin boasts a thriving tech scene leading its top industries, Detroit has a strong automotive and emergent technology and healthcare sector. Understanding these economic and industrial differences will help you make an informed decision as you plan your move.

Detroit vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison

As you consider moving from Detroit, MI to Austin, TX, understanding the comparison of the politics between Detroit & Austin and religious landscapes can offer insights into the cultural fabric of your new city. This quick snapshot aims to give you a comparative overview of the political and religious makeup of these two diverse cities.

Detroit
Austin
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Highly influenced by industrial and economic challenges
Focused on tech industry, environmental issues, and progressive policies
Religion
Largely Christian, with notable Muslim and Jewish communities
Varied, with a strong non-religious or "spiritual but not religious" contingent

When you move from Detroit to Austin, you'll be transitioning from a city with a strong Democratic leaning influenced greatly by its industrial roots and economic revitalization efforts to a city known for its tech-driven economy and progressive leanings. Austin's political scene is vibrant, with an active participation in environmental issues, and an emphasis on innovative policies that often make headlines. Religion plays a different role in each city, with Detroit hosting a diverse religious community encompassing Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, whereas Austin presents a more eclectic religious landscape. This includes a significant portion of residents identifying as non-religious or embracing more individualistic spiritual practices. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to the unique cultural and social fabric of Austin.

Detroit vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Detroit, MI to Austin, TX, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic to help you better navigate your new city. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Austin aims to make your transition smoother.

Detroit
Austin
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
26
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
Possible, but limited

In both Detroit and Austin, the average commute times are fairly similar, hovering around the 25-minute mark, which suggests that moving to Austin won't significantly alter the amount of time you spend commuting. However, traffic congestion in Austin is slightly higher; experiencing traffic flow could be different from what you're used to in Detroit, where lower congestion levels might have made your drive smoother. While both cities present challenges for those attempting to live without a car, Austin offers a marginally better public transit system. Still, in both locales, relying entirely on public transit could complicate your daily routines.

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