Best Seattle to Austin Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Seattle to Austin and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,240 mile move from Washington to Texas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 44 Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle 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 Seattle to Austin Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Seattle Moves & More9.569.39Authorized For HHG
2MoverTron Moving9.479.52Authorized For HHG
3John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
4Heavenly Moving and Storage9.299.38Authorized For HHG
5People Movers9.179.54Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,240 miles from Seattle, WA to Austin, TX will cost on average $3,686 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Austin move is roughly $8,900. 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$2,472300 ft³$8.24
1 Bedroom$3,686450 ft³$8.19
2 Bedrooms$6,106750 ft³$8.14
3 Bedrooms$8,9001100 ft³$8.09
4 Bedrooms$12,8661600 ft³$8.04
5+ Bedrooms$14,3841800 ft³$7.99
*Please note: These Washington to Texas moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & 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 WA to TX mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Seattle guide.

Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Austin Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,099+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
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
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 3,248+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
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.

Seattle vs. Austin Neighborhood Comparison

When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's helpful to find familiar grounds to ease the transition. This guide is designed to compare the popular neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Austin, TX , offering a glimpse into how your current urban comforts can translate into your new city. By matching top neighborhoods from Seattle with their Austin equivalents, we aim to make you feel right at home, even before you arrive.

SeattleAustinHow They're Similar
Capitol HillEast AustinEclectic and vibrant nightlife
BelltownRainey Street Historic DistrictTrendy with bustling bars
BallardSouth CongressBlend of historic and hip with unique shops
Queen AnneTravis HeightsQuiet, scenic, with beautiful homes
FremontHyde ParkBohemian with a tight-knit community feel
GreenwoodNorth LoopQuirky with a mix of vintage shops
West SeattleLake TravisRelaxed vibe with water activities
WallingfordCherrywoodFamily-friendly with a mix of activities
Pioneer SquareEast Cesar ChavezRich history with modern flair
MadronaClarksvilleQuiet, leafy with charming local spots

For those making the move from Seattle's vibrant Capitol Hill to Austin, you'll find a kindred spirit in East Austin, where the balance between trendy eateries like Launderette and cultural hotspots such as the George Washington Carver Museum reflects Capitol Hill’s eclectic mix of modernity and history. Belltown’s comparison, the Rainey Street Historic District in Austin, is a perfect match for those who appreciate the blend of old and new, where converted houses now serve as some of the city's most popular bars and restaurants. For the laid-back charm of Ballard, South Congress in Austin offers an equally engaging experience with its array of shops, cafes like Joann’s Fine Foods, and cultural landmarks, ensuring that the transition between cities is as smooth as the artisan coffee in both neighborhoods.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Austin

Making a move from Seattle, WA, to Austin, TX, encompasses a significant shift in lifestyle and environment. This comparison aims to provide a balanced perspective, showcasing the challenges and benefits of relocating from Seattle, WA to Austin, TX. Such insight could be essential in making an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High living costs
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Cooler summers
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Lower living costs
  • More sunny days
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Warmer summers
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Less green landscapes
  • Fewer tech job opportunities
  • Hotter summers limit outdoor activities
  • Less prominent coffee scene
  • Scorching summer heat
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Lush greenery
  • Abundant tech jobs
  • Plentiful outdoor activities
  • Strong coffee culture
  • Cooler summers

Relocating from Seattle to Austin brings about changes beyond just the weather and job prospects. In Austin, you'll find yourself enjoying the outdoors at Zilker Park, indulging in the vibrant food scene with establishments like Franklin Barbecue, and diving into the rich cultural experiences like those offered at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Conversely, leaving Seattle means saying goodbye to the lush landscapes of the Discovery Park, the innovative vibe of tech startups, and the iconic coffee shops like Starbucks' original location. Each city has unique traits that cater to different preferences and lifestyles, making this decision heavily dependent on what you value most in your surroundings and community.

Seattle vs. Austin Food Guide

As you consider relocating, understanding the essence of local cuisine is crucial because food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in either Seattle, WA or Austin, TX . This comparison will provide insights into each city's food scene, aiding you in anticipating the flavors and dining experiences that await in your new home.

Seattle
Austin
Most iconic local food item
Salmon
Tex-Mex
Most popular meat dish
Teriyaki Chicken
Brisket
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa Salad
Jackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Rovers
  • Salumi
  • Franklin Barbecue
  • Uchi
  • Guero's Taco Bar
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Seattle's dining scene prides itself on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with seafood like salmon taking center stage. Popular neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill boast a multitude of dining options, including the famed Canlis for an upscale experience or Salumi for something more artisanal. In contrast, Austin's food scene is rich with the flavors of Tex-Mex and barbecue, particularly brisket, which can be savored at iconic spots like Franklin Barbecue. The city's food trucks, such as those lining the streets of South Congress, offer a diverse array of cuisines, making Austin a paradise for food lovers. Each city presents a unique culinary journey tailored to diverse palates and preferences.

Seattle vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison

As you embark on a journey from Seattle to Austin, discovering your new culinary favorites is key to making Austin feel like home. This restaurant comparison will guide the transition from Seattle, WA, to Austin, TX, helping you find local eateries that resonate with your taste. Food is more than nourishment; it's about community, comfort, and indulgence in your new locale.

SeattleAustinWhat You'll Love
CanlisJeffrey'sUpscale dining with meticulous attention to detail and service
The Pink DoorJustine's BrasserieIntimate, French-inspired ambiance with rustic charm
Pike Place ChowderPerla'sFresh, high-quality seafood in a cozy setting
Serious PieBufalinaNeapolitan pizzas with a focus on quality ingredients
Matt's in the MarketOdd DuckFarm-to-table ethos with an ever-changing seasonal menu
Ray's BoathouseClark's Oyster BarSeafood-centric fare with exceptional views
Skillet DinerCounter CafeClassic diner experience with a modern, local twist
Toulouse Petit Kitchen & LoungeJune's All DaySophisticated yet casual, with a diverse menu and vibe
RevelElizabeth Street CafeFusion of flavors in a quaint, vibrant space
SalumiSalt & TimeButcher shop and restaurant focusing on cured meats and local fare

Exploring the culinary scene in Austin as a newcomer from Seattle, you'll find that places like Jeffrey's and Odd Duck offer an upscale dining experience reminiscent of Canlis and Matt's in the Market respectively, with a keen focus on quality ingredients and an exceptional dining atmosphere. Moreover, for those who relish fresh seafood, Perla's in Austin echoes the sentiments of Pike Place Chowder, emphasizing fresh and high-quality catch in a welcoming environment. On a more casual note, Counter Cafe embodies the essence of Skillet Diner with its classic diner experience infused with a modern twist and commitment to local sourcing. This comparison not only helps bridge the experiences between two vibrant food cities but also eases the transition by connecting you to flavors and atmospheres that feel familiar yet excitingly new.

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Ready to start your move?

Seattle vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering relocation. Understanding how the housing markets of Seattle, WA and Austin, TX compare is key to making an informed decision. This comparison sheds light on the crucial differences and similarities between the two cities in terms of housing costs, architecture style, and overall lifestyle.

Seattle
Austin
Typical Architecture Style
Modern, Craftsman
Modern, Texas Hill Country
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views, Eco-friendly
Outdoor living, Smart home features

While the median home price in Seattle is significantly higher than in Austin, reflecting Seattle's robust job market and desirability, the difference in median monthly rent is notable, suggesting Austin offers a more affordable living situation for renters. Seattle's architecture leans towards modern and Craftsman styles, fitting its natural, rainy environment, whereas Austin embraces Modern and Texas Hill Country styles, reflecting its warmer climate and regional heritage. Additionally, Seattle's higher scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle indicate a more condensed urban environment compared to Austin, which offers more spread-out living with a focus on outdoor living spaces and smart home features. Choosing between the two cities will depend on your priorities in home affordability, preferred architectural style, and lifestyle.

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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.

Seattle vs. Austin Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Seattle, WA to Austin, TX, understanding the climate changes you'll face is vital. This guide lays out key weather differences to prepare you for what's ahead. Focus on the weather comparison between Seattle and Austin to ensure a smooth transition.

Seattle
Austin
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Volcanoes
Floods, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Good
Variable
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 55°F
95°F / 73°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 37°F
62°F / 42°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38
34
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

5
0


Relocating from Seattle to Austin brings significant weather changes. Austin's notable warmer summers and milder winters contrast sharply with Seattle's cooler and wetter conditions. Additionally, you will experience more sunshine and less humidity in Austin, which could influence your outdoor activities and overall comfort. Preparing for the heat and different seasonal allergies, such as ragweed in Austin compared to Seattle's tree pollen, is key. Also, consider the shift in natural disaster risks, trading the Pacific Northwest's earthquakes for the thunderstorms and potential floods in Texas.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Seattle, WA and Austin, TX's cost of living and other money-related factors will help you gauge how your finances might change. Whether it's the differing state income tax rates or the average income levels, getting a handle on these differences can significantly impact your decision-making process.

Seattle
Austin
Avg. Household Income
$110,781
$79,542
Cost of Living Index
121.4
95.5
State Income Tax
0
0
Avg. Property Tax
0.93
1.8
Avg. Sales Tax
10.1
8.25
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Aerospace, Global Health
Technology, Music/Entertainment, State Government
Affluence
High
Moderate to High
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Noticeable

In transitioning from Seattle to Austin, you'll find significant differences in the cost of living, with Austin being more affordable on many fronts. However, it's essential to consider the higher property tax rate in Austin, which might offset some of the cost benefits for homeowners. Both cities have no state income tax, which is a financial perk. The average household income is higher in Seattle, but when adjusted for the cost of living, your financial situation in Austin may still be quite comfortable. Industries also differ, with both cities having a strong tech presence but varying secondary industries. Lastly, while both cities face challenges with homelessness, the situation is considered more significant in Seattle.

Seattle vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Seattle, WA, to Austin, TX, involves a significant change in scenery and culture. A key aspect of this transition is understanding the differing landscapes of your new environment. This comparison of the politics between Seattle & Austin provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, helping you grasp the community you'll be joining.

Seattle
Austin
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive policies, high focus on environmental sustainability
Progressive with a strong emphasis on social issues and local governance
Religion
Less religiously affiliated
Mixed religious affiliations with a strong presence of Christian and non-religious communities

While Seattle and Austin are both known for their liberal and Democratic leaning, the way these political views are expressed in local governance and policy can differ. Seattle prides itself on its environmental sustainability efforts and progressive policies. Austin, while also progressive, places a stronger emphasis on social issues and local governance. Religiously, Seattle tends towards less affiliation, reflecting its diverse and inclusive approach to life. Meanwhile, Austin hosts a vibrant mix of religious affiliations, including a noticeable Christian community alongside a significant portion of non-religious residents. This subtle yet significant difference in religious makeup underlines the diverse cultural fabric you're about to step into.

Seattle vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Seattle, WA to Austin, TX, understanding the differences between traffic and transportation options is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to give you insights into what your daily commute and overall traffic experience could be like, helping you navigate your new city with ease.

Seattle
Austin
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
27.3
22.7
Traffic Congestion
7.2 out of 10
6.9 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, but challenging
Challenging

While both cities experience their own unique traffic and transportation challenges, there are notable differences. Seattle tends to have a higher average commute time and slightly more congestion than Austin. However, it offers better public transit options, making it somewhat easier to navigate without a car. In contrast, Austin, despite having less traffic congestion, scores lower in public transit availability, suggesting a stronger dependence on personal vehicles for getting around. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your daily commute and mobility needs in your new city.

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