## MoveFinders — AI Information Page URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/los-angeles-to-austin AI Information URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/los-angeles-to-austin/ai-information ## Page Overview Title: Los Angeles to Austin Movers — Best Companies & Costs Description: Moving from LA to Austin? Compare top-rated movers, get real pricing for your move size, and learn cost of living differences between the cities. Category: Moving route guide Published: 2026-05-27 Last Updated: 2026-05-27 ## Author Name: Sean Sullivan Role: Senior Research Analyst Bio: Sean has spent over a decade analyzing the moving industry, helping thousands of families find reliable movers. His research has been featured in Forbes, TIME, and Consumer Reports. ## SEO Keywords Los Angeles to Austin movers, moving from Los Angeles to Austin, Los Angeles to Austin moving cost, best movers Los Angeles, long distance movers California ## Content ## Top Los Angeles to Austin Movers Moving 1,376 miles from [Los Angeles](/movers/california) to Austin is no small feat—and you'll want movers who know that route cold. I reviewed the highest-rated [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) operating out of [California](/movers/california) with serious experience on this specific corridor. Here's who stands out. ### Best-Rated Movers for LA to Austin 1. **Sterling Van Lines** — 4.7 / 5 stars 2. **Seka Moving** — 4.64 / 5 stars 3. **Rigo's Moving Company Inc** — 4.66 / 5 stars 4. **NorthStar Moving Company** — 4.52 / 5 stars 5. **Best Fit Movers** — 4.5 / 5 stars --- ## Seka Moving **4.6 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/seka-moving-los-angeles) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=seka+moving+los+angeles+ca) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/moving-companies/seka-moving-0121-172591) 355 S Grand Ave Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA 90071 **88% positive reviews | 12% negative** Seka earns consistent praise for careful handling, professional crews, and moves that stay on schedule. Clients repeatedly mention quick turnarounds and damage-free delivery. The outfit handles everything from standard household goods to high-value items like pianos and antiques—which matters on a longer haul. The friction points are real: some customers report damaged items and slow claims resolution when problems do occur. That said, when you're moving across two states, having movers who prioritize your belongings the way Seka does pays dividends. **Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano/antique transport, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage **Contact:** (323) 483-4288 **License:** 0192497 | **DOT:** 3014539 --- ## Rigo's Moving Company Inc **4.6 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/rigos-moving-and-storage-inc-los-angeles) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Rigo%27s+Moving+Company+Inc+Los+Angeles%2C+CA) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/rigos-moving-company-inc-1216-897937) 4385 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023 **80% positive reviews | 20% negative** Out of 560+ reviews, 80% land solidly positive—which is above average for the industry. Customers value Rigo's speed, respectful treatment of belongings, and efficient loading/unloading. Communication tends to be good, and crews work lean and fast. The downside: some people report furniture damage, late arrivals, or surprise fees. A handful mention being charged for hours not worked. Before you book, nail down the details on extra charges and get everything in writing. **Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano and antique transport, crating, storage **Contact:** (323) 519-2845 **License:** 0191663 | **DOT:** 3075110 --- ## Sterling Van Lines **4.7 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sterling-van-lines-bell-gardens) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Sterling+Van+Lines+6850+Suva+St+Bell+Gardens) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bell-gardens/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/sterling-van-lines-1216-13027301) 6850 Suva St, Bell Gardens, CA 90201 **85% positive reviews | 14% negative** Sterling earns the highest rating on this list, and for good reason. Clients consistently note polite crews, safe arrival of possessions, and competitive rates. The company's been around 33 years—they've learned how to move people efficiently. The tradeoff: missed delivery windows and occasional delays happen. A few customers report missing items or slow claim handling. For a 1,376-mile move, you're trading some time certainty for reliability elsewhere. **Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano/hot tub/safe transport, full-valuation coverage, storage **Contact:** (866) 266-8751 **License:** 0189566 | **DOT:** 568254 --- ## NorthStar Moving Company **4.5 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/northstar-movers-los-angeles-3) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=northstar+moving+company+los+angeles) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/moving-companies/northstar-movers-1216-1652998) 633 West 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 **92% positive reviews | 6% negative** NorthStar has the highest positive-review percentage here, with over 1,200 customer reviews. People love the professionalism, responsiveness, and careful handling. Crews show up on time, communicate well, and treat your stuff like it matters. Rates are fair, especially compared to companies that charge premium prices for similar work. The catch: some customers hit unexpected charges or experience discrepancies between estimate and final bill. A small number report damaged items or slow resolution. Read the contract carefully and confirm what's covered. **Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; piano/art transport; crating; full-valuation coverage; storage **Contact:** (213) 622-7767 **License:** 0182466 | **DOT:** 1836576 --- ## Best Fit Movers **4.5 / 5** | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=best+fit+movers+los+angeles+ca) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-diego/profile/moving-companies/best-fit-movers-1126-172020142) 2466 E 16th St Suite A, Los Angeles, CA 90021 **71% positive reviews | 29% negative** Best Fit rounds out the list with solid performance, though the positive-review share is lower. Customers who had smooth moves praise the efficiency and careful handling. But the 29% negative rate signals more inconsistency—furniture damage and billing disputes pop up more often here than with the others above. If you go with Best Fit, get everything detailed upfront and photograph your belongings before loading. **Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; piano/antique/safe transport; crating; full-valuation coverage; storage **Contact:** (323) 827-8950 **License:** 0191680 | **DOT:** 3051481 --- ## How Much Does It Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Austin? Real talk: this is a 1,376-mile move, and price depends heavily on what you're moving and how. [Use our calculator](/calculator) to get a ballpark number, but here's what the market looks like: | Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck | |---|---|---|---| | **Studio / 1 bedroom** | $1,176–$4,824 | $875–$2,168 | $807–$1,560 | | **2–3 bedrooms** | $2,662–$6,308 | $1,694–$3,159 | $882–$1,856 | | **4+ bedrooms** | $4,547–$9,096 | $2,234–$4,511 | $1,132–$2,355 | *These estimates reflect a 1,376-mile move from Los Angeles to Austin. Actual costs vary based on inventory size, add-on services, fuel surcharges, time of year, and local market rates. Request multiple quotes for the most accurate pricing.* ### What Drives the Cost Up (or Down) - **Home size** is the biggest variable. A one-bedroom runs ~$2,455 on average; a four-bedroom closer to $8,145. - **Season matters.** Summer is peak season in [California](/movers/california) and [Texas](/movers/texas)—rates climb. Winter and early spring tend to be cheaper. - **DIY vs. hired movers.** Rental trucks are cheapest upfront ($807–$2,355) but demand your time and sweat. [Full-service movers](/best/full-service-movers) cost more but handle everything. - **[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) split the difference.** You load at your pace; the company hauls it. Usually runs 40–50% less than full-service. --- ## Cost of Living: Los Angeles vs. Austin Here's why people make this move: Austin costs significantly less to live in. | Category | Los Angeles | Austin | Difference | |---|---|---|---| | **1 BR rent** | $2,603 | $2,208 | 15% cheaper in Austin | | **3 BR rent** | $4,443 | $3,827 | 14% cheaper in Austin | | **Median home value** | $2,368,088 | $508,841 | 79% cheaper in Austin | | **Cost of living (single)** | $5,833 | $3,345 | 43% cheaper in Austin | | **Cost of living (family of 4)** | $12,720 | $7,815 | 39% cheaper in Austin | | **Sales tax** | 9.5% | 8.25% | — | | **State income tax** | 13.3% | 0% | Texas has no income tax | | **Unemployment rate** | 10.6% | 3.5% | Austin's job market is stronger | ### Monthly Expenses Breakdown | Item | Los Angeles | Austin | |---|---|---| | **Basic utilities** | $192.54 | $181.48 | | **Cell phone plan** | $62.50 | $61.16 | | **Dozen eggs** | $7.02 | $4.35 | | **Loaf of bread** | $4.58 | $3.50 | | **Fast-food meal** | $25.00 | $20.00 | | **Dinner for 2 (mid-range)** | $100.00 | $77.50 | | **Gym membership** | $47.76 | $62.38 | ### The Real Takeaway - **Rent is 15% cheaper** in Austin, which frees up money month-to-month. - **Home prices are 79% lower** in Austin—a massive difference if you're buying. - **No state income tax in Texas** means you keep more of every paycheck. - **Cost of living for a single person is 43% cheaper**; for families, 39% cheaper. - Austin's **unemployment rate (3.5%) is nearly 3x lower** than LA's (10.6%), so the job market is stronger. - **Everyday goods cost less**—groceries, utilities, dining out. If you're relocating for financial breathing room, Austin delivers. --- ## Life in Austin vs. Los Angeles Beyond the spreadsheet, here's how the cities actually compare: | Factor | Los Angeles | Austin | |---|---|---| | **Population** | 3,820,914 | 974,447 | | **Public transit score** | 8.5 / 10 | 5 / 10 | | **Walkability** | 69 / 100 | 42 / 100 | | **Bike-friendly** | 59 / 100 | 54 / 100 | | **Crime index** | 53.81 | 42.91 | | **Safety index** | 46.19 | 59.87 | | **Air quality** | Moderate | Good | **What this means:** - Austin is **smaller and quieter**—about 74% fewer people. - **Public transit is weaker** in Austin. You'll likely need a car. - Austin is **less walkable**—sprawl is real. LA is more pedestrian-friendly. - Austin is **safer**—lower crime index and higher safety rating. - **Air quality is better** in Austin; LA's smog is a real issue. - Both cities are **bikeable**, but LA edges out Austin slightly. --- ## Before You Move: Logistics & Legal Requirements Moving across state lines means paperwork. Here's what you need to know: ### Texas Mover Licensing In-state movers operating in [Texas](/movers/texas) must be licensed by the **Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV)**. Verify the company has a valid 10-digit TXDMV number before booking. Check the [Texas Public Utilities Commission](https://www.puc.texas.gov/) for official license verification. ### Moving Insurance Texas requires movers to provide **Released Value Protection** at minimum (60 cents per pound). For full replacement coverage, ask about **Full Value Protection**—there's usually an extra fee. Consider [comparing third-party insurance](/resources/moving-cost-guide) if your items are valuable. ### Parking & Permits - **Moving truck parking:** Some Austin neighborhoods require permits for large moving trucks. Check local regulations before your move date. - **Moving permits:** Texas doesn't mandate statewide moving permits, but verify local Austin ordinances for any restrictions. - **Building rules:** If you're in an apartment or HOA community, confirm elevator reservation procedures and move-in windows with management. ### Change of Address File your **USPS change of address** at least one week before moving. Go to [usps.com](https://www.usps.com/) and set your official move date so mail forwards correctly. ### Mover Deposits Some movers require deposits upfront. Confirm the amount, what it covers, and refund terms before paying. --- ## Best Neighborhoods in Austin Thinking about where to land in Austin? Here are solid neighborhoods depending on your lifestyle. ### For Singles - **Cherrywood** — artsy, walkable, good restaurants - **North University** — close to downtown, young vibe - **Old West Austin** — hip, established, eclectic - **South Lamar** — quirky, local bars and shops - **Zilker** — parks, outdoorsy, family-friendly feel ### For Families - **Rollingwood** — quiet, excellent schools, large lots - **West Lake** — newer development, family amenities - **Brushy Creek** — master-planned community, parks - **Cedar Park** — suburban, good schools, affordable - **Shady Hollow** — newer, family-oriented, growing --- ## Things to Do in Austin Once you've settled in, Austin has plenty to offer: **Arts & Culture:** Texas Memorial Museum, George Washington Carver Museum, Thinkery, Blanton Museum of Art, live music venues on Sixth Street and Rainey Street. **Outdoor Recreation:** Zilker Park, Pease Park, Butler Metro Park, Sculpture Falls, Lady Bird Lake trail (great for running/cycling). **Sports:** Austin FC (MLS), Austin Spurs (NBA G League), Texas Stars (AHL), Round Rock Express (minor league baseball). **Dining & Nightlife:** Food trucks on every corner, Tex-Mex that puts LA to shame, craft breweries, rooftop bars with live music. --- ## FAQ ### When is the best time to move from Los Angeles to Austin? **Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November)** offer pleasant weather and moderate moving costs. Summer is peak season—expect higher prices and booked-up movers. ### When is the cheapest time to move? **Winter (December–February)** is slowest. Movers often discount rates to fill their schedules. The trade-off is colder, less predictable weather. ### How long does the move take? The 1,376-mile journey typically takes **3–8 days** depending on the mover's schedule and route. Some [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) offer expedited services if you're in a rush. If you need extra time, ask about [moving containers](/best/moving-containers) with flexible drop-off windows. ### Do Los Angeles movers offer special discounts? Yes. Common discounts include: - **AAA members** (1 major mover offers this) - **Military personnel** (2 companies provide discounts) - **Seniors** (2 companies have reduced rates) Verify details directly with each mover—offers vary. ### Can movers handle pianos and antiques? Not all movers will touch high-value items. In Los Angeles, 82 movers handle pianos; 71 are equipped for antiques. [Texas](/movers/texas) has fewer specialists, so book early if you need these services. Always ask about packing methods and insurance for fragile/specialty items. --- ## Related Resources **[Moving Cost Calculator](/calculator)** — Get an instant estimate for your move **[Moving Checklist](/resources/moving-checklist)** — Stay organized before moving day **[How to Choose a Mover](/resources/how-to-choose-a-mover)** — Vet movers like a pro **[Best Long-Distance Movers](/best/long-distance-movers)** — Compare top-rated [interstate movers](/best/interstate-movers) **[Cheap Movers](/best/cheap-movers)** — Find affordable options if budget is tight --- **Ready to move from Los Angeles to Austin?** Get quotes from the movers above, [use our calculator](/calculator) to confirm costs, and book 6–8 weeks ahead if you're moving in spring or summer. The earlier you book, the better rates and availability you'll have. ## About MoveFinders MoveFinders (movefinders.org) is an independent moving company research and comparison site. We help people find trustworthy movers with unbiased reviews, cost estimates, and expert guidance. Contact: https://movefinders.org/contact Methodology: https://movefinders.org/methodology