los angeles to dallas

---
title: "Moving from Los Angeles to Dallas: Costs, Best Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Real cost estimates, top-rated movers, and honest advice for your Los Angeles to Dallas move. Find out what it actually costs and what to watch out for."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Los Angeles to Dallas", "Los Angeles to Dallas movers", "Los Angeles to Dallas moving cost", "long distance movers Los Angeles", "LA to Dallas movers", "moving companies Los Angeles", "Dallas cost of living"]
---

If you're moving from Los Angeles to Dallas, you're already doing the math. At 1,435 miles, this is a serious haul — and the financial difference between the two cities is large enough that most people making this move notice it within the first few months. Lower taxes, cheaper housing, a tighter job market. The pull is real.

What I want to give you here is straight information: what the move actually costs, which movers have earned solid reputations on this route, and what you need to know before you land in Texas.

## Top-Rated Movers for Your Los Angeles to Dallas Move

Finding a reliable [long-distance mover](/best/long-distance-movers) out of Los Angeles for a 1,435-mile haul takes some work. I went through 102 LA-based movers who handle interstate moves to identify the ones consistently delivering for customers headed to Dallas.

Here's the shortlist:

1. **Seka Moving** — 4.64 / 5
2. **Rigo's Moving Company Inc** — 4.66 / 5
3. **Sterling Van Lines** — 4.70 / 5
4. **NorthStar Moving Company** — 4.52 / 5
5. **Best Fit Movers** — 4.50 / 5

---

### Seka Moving

355 S Grand Ave Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA 90071 | (323) 483-4288

**88% positive | 12% negative**
[Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/seka-moving-los-angeles) (28) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=seka+moving+los+angeles+ca) (60) · [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/new-york-city/profile/moving-companies/seka-moving-0121-172591)

Seka's reputation is built on efficiency. Customers frequently mention moves finishing ahead of schedule, careful handling of belongings, and crews that actually communicate — which is more of a differentiator in this industry than it should be. The 88% positive rate across reviews is solid. The negative 12% tends to cluster around damaged items and disputes that didn't get resolved well. That's the main caution: most moves go fine, but if something goes wrong, getting it made right can be a challenge.

**State license:** 0192497 | **DOT:** 3014539 | **7 years in business**

**Services:** Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing

---

### Rigo's Moving Company Inc

4385 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023 | (323) 519-2845

**80% positive | 20% negative**
[Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/rigos-moving-and-storage-inc-los-angeles) (315) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Rigo%27s+Moving+Company+Inc+Los+Angeles%2C+CA) (245) · [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/rigos-moving-company-inc-1216-897937)

With 522 reviews across platforms, Rigo's has a sample size large enough to be meaningful. The 80% positive rate holds across Yelp and Google — customers tend to praise fast loading and unloading, professional crews, and careful handling of furniture and fragile items. The 20% negative reviews point to a few recurring problems: furniture or property damage, unexpected fees added to final bills, and some late arrivals. A handful of customers specifically mentioned being billed for hours not worked. If you book Rigo's, get the estimate in writing and confirm what triggers additional charges before move day.

**State license:** 0191663 | **DOT:** 3075110 | **11 years in business**

**Services:** Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, storage

---

### Sterling Van Lines

6850 Suva St, Bell Gardens, CA 90201 | (866) 266-8751

**85% positive | 14% negative**
[Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sterling-van-lines-bell-gardens) (155) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Sterling+Van+Lines+6850+Suva+St+Bell+Gardens) (231) · [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bell-gardens/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/sterling-van-lines-1216-13027301)

Sterling has been operating for 33 years, and the 85% positive rate across 362 reviews reflects that institutional experience. Customers call out professionalism, careful handling, and competitive pricing — particularly on smaller moves, where Sterling seems to have a real edge. The criticisms center on missed delivery windows and a few incidents involving lost or missing items. Not disqualifying, but worth noting if you're moving anything irreplaceable. For a Dallas move with a modest household load, Sterling is a strong candidate.

**State license:** 0189566 | **DOT:** 568254 | **33 years in business**

**Services:** Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes

---

### NorthStar Moving Company

633 West 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 | (213) 622-7767

**92% positive | 6% negative**
[Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/northstar-movers-los-angeles-3) (1,029) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=northstar+moving+company+633+W.+5th+Street+26th+Floor+Los+Angeles%2C+CA+90071) (766) · [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/moving-companies/northstar-movers-1216-1652998)

NorthStar has the largest review volume on this list — nearly 1,800 reviews across platforms — and a 92% positive rate is hard to argue with. Customers consistently cite on-time arrivals, protective handling, and crews that communicate clearly throughout the move. Pricing is generally seen as fair for the service level. The 6% negative feedback covers damaged items, final bills higher than estimated, and some friction in the claims process. What I'd tell a friend: NorthStar is one of the more reliable options for this route, but read your estimate carefully and flag anything vague on pricing before you sign.

**State license:** 0182466 | **DOT:** 1836576 | **7 years in business**

**Services:** Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage

---

### Best Fit Movers

2466 E 16th St Suite A, Los Angeles, CA 90021 | (323) 827-8950

**71% positive | 29% negative**
[Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=best+fit+movers+los+angeles+ca) (65) · [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-diego/profile/moving-companies/best-fit-movers-1126-172020142)

Best Fit Movers outperforms a lot of local competition, but the 29% negative rate is the highest on this list. Positive feedback focuses on efficient service and careful handling. Complaints center on damaged furniture, unexpected charges, and unresolved billing disputes. The review volume is also lower than the others, which means ratings can swing more easily. I'd consider Best Fit for a smaller, lower-stakes move — and approach with more caution for a full-household cross-country haul.

**State license:** 0191680 | **DOT:** 3051481 | **7 years in business**

**Services:** Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes

---

## How Much Does It Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Dallas?

This distance puts the route squarely in [full-service mover](/best/full-service-movers) territory for most people, though containers and truck rentals are viable if you're willing to trade money for effort. Before you contact anyone, use our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a personalized ballpark based on your actual home size and timing.

Here's the range across the three main options:

| Move size | Full-service movers | Moving containers | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,169 – $4,873 | $889 – $2,275 | $814 – $1,655 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,675 – $6,057 | $1,705 – $3,485 | $916 – $1,912 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,988 – $8,986 | $2,138 – $4,376 | $1,132 – $2,220 |

*Ranges are approximations for a 1,435-mile move based on verified rate data as of January 2026. Actual costs vary with shipment weight, access conditions, fuel surcharges, and timing.*

### Cost to Hire Movers from Los Angeles to Dallas

For a studio or one-bedroom, expect professional moving companies to quote somewhere between $1,169 and $4,873. The wide range reflects differences in volume, company, and move date. A two- or three-bedroom move typically runs $2,675 to $6,057. Large four-plus bedroom households are usually looking at $4,988 to $8,986.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Los Angeles to Dallas

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) give you flexibility on timing — you pack at your own pace, and the container company handles the transport. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $889 to $2,275. A two- or three-bedroom move runs $1,705 to $3,485. Four-bedroom and larger households will typically land in the $2,138 to $4,376 range. PODS and similar services are worth pricing out if your schedule allows for a broader delivery window.

### Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Los Angeles to Dallas

A [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the cheapest option on paper, but you're trading money for time, physical effort, and 1,435 miles of driving through the desert. For a studio or one-bedroom, rentals typically run $814 to $1,655. A two- or three-bedroom move usually costs $916 to $1,912. Four-bedroom and larger moves range from $1,132 to $2,220. These estimates factor in average fuel costs.

### Key Factors That Affect Your Moving Cost

- **Home size:** The biggest driver. Plan for roughly $2,284 for a one-bedroom, up to $7,774 for a four-bedroom with full-service movers.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season in [California](/movers/california). Rates climb from June through August. If your schedule is flexible, fall or winter moves almost always come in cheaper.
- **Full-service vs. DIY:** Rental trucks run $814 to $2,008 but require significantly more work. Know what you're actually trading off before defaulting to the cheapest option.

## What to Know Before Moving from Los Angeles to Dallas

The financial case for this move is strong. Dallas runs about 52% cheaper than Los Angeles for a single person and 39% cheaper for a family of four. Monthly living costs for one person average $2,828 in Dallas versus $5,833 in Los Angeles. For a family of four, it's $7,793 compared to $12,720.

Here's the direct comparison:

| | Los Angeles | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,603 | $1,616 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,443 | $3,504 |
| Average home value | $2,368,088 | $303,900 |
| Average income (per capita) | $74,993 | $68,291 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,833 | $2,828 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $12,720 | $7,793 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 3.6% |
| Sales tax | 9.5% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation*

A few numbers worth spelling out:

- **Rent** is roughly 40% cheaper in Dallas — visible immediately in your monthly budget.
- **Home prices** are nearly 87% lower in Dallas. That's the difference between renting indefinitely and actually owning something.
- **Average income** is about 9% lower in Dallas than in Los Angeles, so factor that in before assuming the savings are automatic.
- **Cost of living** for a single person is 52% lower, covering food, gas, and utilities.
- [Texas](/movers/texas) has **no state income tax**. That's a real, compounding number — especially for higher earners, freelancers, and retirees.
- **Sales tax** is about 13% lower in Dallas. Not huge on its own, but it adds up over time.
- **Unemployment** in Dallas runs about 66% lower than in Los Angeles, reflecting a generally active job market.

Here's how everyday expenses compare:

| Living Expense | Los Angeles | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $192.54 | $227.04 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.50 | $76.44 |
| Dozen eggs | $7.02 | $3.76 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.58 | $3.64 |
| Fast food / casual meal | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range) | $100.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $47.76 | $41.69 |

One counter-intuitive data point: **utilities and cell phone plans** are actually cheaper in Los Angeles. Dallas summers drive up cooling costs. Groceries and dining out are cheaper in Dallas across the board, though.

### How Life Compares: Los Angeles vs. Dallas

| | Los Angeles | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,820,914 | 1,304,379 |
| Transit score | 8 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 69 | 46 |
| Bike-friendliness score | 59 | 49 |
| Crime index | 53.81 | 51.4 |
| Safety index | 46.19 | 48.6 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |

*Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow*

Dallas is a car city. The transit score of 6 versus LA's 8, combined with a walkability score of 46 versus 69, tells the story. If you've been walking or taking the Metro in LA, budget for more driving and, if you don't already own one, a reliable car. If you need to [ship a vehicle](/best/car-shipping) to Dallas, factor that into your total moving budget before you compare quotes.

The upside: air quality in Dallas is rated Good compared to Moderate in Los Angeles, and crime rates between the two cities are roughly comparable.

### Practical Things to Sort Out Before You Move

- **Texas licensing:** Movers operating in Texas must hold a license from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Verify this before booking.
- **Moving insurance:** Texas movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no additional charge, which covers items at $0.60 per pound. That's minimal coverage. Ask specifically about Full Value Protection or look into third-party moving insurance if you have anything worth protecting.
- **Truck parking:** Check local ordinances in your Dallas neighborhood before move day. Some areas require permits for large moving vehicles parked on the street.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move so mail forwarding is active when you arrive.
- **HOA rules:** If you're moving into a community with an HOA, confirm any restrictions on move-in days, hours, or elevator reservations before you lock in your date.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to make sure the small stuff doesn't fall through the cracks in the last two weeks before your move.

## Where to Live in Dallas

Once you're settled in Dallas, the neighborhoods vary more than people expect coming from LA. Here's a starting point.

### Best Neighborhoods for Singles

- **Bishop Arts District** — walkable, arts-focused, solid food and bar scene
- **Deep Ellum** — live music, nightlife, historic warehouse buildings
- **Design District** — gallery-heavy, newer restaurants, good highway access
- **Knox-Henderson** — walkable corridor, mix of restaurants and retail, popular with young professionals
- **Uptown** — dense and urban; expensive by Dallas standards but still significantly cheaper than most of LA

### Best Neighborhoods for Families

- **Preston Hollow** — large lots, strong schools, quiet residential character
- **Lake Highlands** — family-friendly, more affordable, tight community feel
- **Lakewood** — historic homes near White Rock Lake, well-regarded schools
- **University Park** — top-tier public schools, higher price point
- **Richardson** — suburban, tech-corridor adjacent, solid value

### Things to Do in Dallas

Dallas has more going on than its reputation suggests:

- **Arts and culture:** The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the Dallas Museum of Art are all worth your time.
- **Outdoors:** Klyde Warren Park, White Rock Lake, Main Street Garden Park, and Fair Park offer trails, cycling, and open space — important in a car-dependent city.
- **Sports:** The Cowboys (NFL), Mavericks (NBA), Stars (NHL), Rangers (MLB), FC Dallas (MLS), and Dallas Wings (WNBA) give you year-round options.

## FAQ

### When is the best time to move from Los Angeles to Dallas?

Spring and fall. Weather is manageable in both cities, and you'll avoid the peak-season surge that pushes prices up between June and August.

### When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Dallas?

Winter. Demand drops in January and February, movers are more available, and there's more room to negotiate. The tradeoff is that late November and December can get complicated around the holidays.

### How long does a move from Los Angeles to Dallas take?

The 1,435-mile trip typically means a delivery window of three to eight days with a full-service mover. Some companies offer expedited service — ask about it upfront, since it's rarely advertised. If your new place isn't ready when your stuff arrives, ask about short-term storage options in Dallas before you commit to a mover.

### Are there discounts available from Los Angeles movers?

Some movers on this route offer savings worth asking about. Among those serving the LA-to-Dallas corridor: one offers AAA member pricing, two offer military discounts, and two extend reduced rates to seniors. Availability varies, so verify directly with the company — these programs aren't always prominently listed.

### Can I move a piano or antiques from Los Angeles to Dallas?

Yes, but not every mover handles them. In Los Angeles, 82 movers are equipped for piano moves and 71 handle antique transport. Statewide in California, those numbers grow to 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers. Always confirm a company's specific experience with your item type — and ask how they handle claims if something gets damaged.

## Plan Your Los Angeles to Dallas Move

Get multiple quotes before you commit to anyone. Prices vary more than people expect on long-distance routes, and it takes less than an hour to compare three or four legitimate estimates. Start with our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a working number, then request quotes from at least three movers.

If you're weighing other Texas destinations, the [Los Angeles to Houston](/movers/los-angeles-to-houston) guide has a full breakdown for that route. The [Los Angeles to Austin](/movers/los-angeles-to-austin) guide covers a slightly shorter haul with a different city profile. And if someone in your life is making the return trip, the [Dallas to Los Angeles](/movers/dallas-to-los-angeles) guide covers that direction in full.