Hero background image

Austin to San Jose Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

Moving from Austin, the "Live Music Capital of the World," to San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, marks an exciting shift from Texan charm to Californian innovation. You're trading brisket for tech startups, and cowboy boots for the cutting-edge. In this spirited journey of over 1,500 miles, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount. With Great Guys Moving, we employ an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're matched with the best, making your long-distance adventure as smooth as the melodies of Austin.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Austin to San Jose

#1
All Stars Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,557+ data points

San Jose, CA
LOCAL MOVING SERVICES, LONG DISTANCE MOVING SERVICES, BUSINESS MOVING SERVICES See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2971368 Verify

About All Stars Movers

All Stars Movers is a San Jose moving company fully licensed and insured in the state of California. This locally owned business provides th...Read More >>

top 10 stockton 2024 all stars movers image
top 10 ranked movers in morgan hill 2023 all stars movers image
top 10 ranked movers in sunnyvale 2022 all stars movers image
#2
D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,789+ data points

Campbell, CA
Cheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT: 2706648 Verify

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>

top 10 sunnyvale 2024 d l movers image
top 10 ranked movers in santa cruz 2023 d l movers image
top 10 ranked movers in palo alto 2022 d l movers image
#3
Heavenly Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,606+ data points

Austin, TX
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Full-service packing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3429695 Verify

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-qu...Read More >>

top 10 austin 2024 heavenly care moving storage image
top 3 ranked movers in austin 2023 heavenly care moving storage image
top 3 ranked movers in austin 2022 heavenly care moving storage image
#4
A
Exceptional

based on 606+ data points

Volente, TX
Out of state moving services, Packing services, Office moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/25/2024)

USDOT: 3119927 Verify

About Amen Moving

Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing services, offic...Read More >>

top 10 round rock 2024 amen moving image
#5
Quality Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 365+ data points

Round Rock, TX
Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 1947538 Verify

About Quality Moving & Storage

Quality Moving & Storage is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Austin, Texas. Established in 2003 with a single truck, ...Read More >>

top 10 temple 2024 quality moving storage image

Relocating from Austin to San Jose Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted waters. To ease this transition, we’ve crafted a detailed comparison of local neighborhoods between Austin, TX & San Jose, CA, focusing on the unique characteristics and similarities that make each neighborhood special. This guide aims to help you find a new community in San Jose that feels like home, using Austin's beloved neighborhoods as our baseline.

AustinSan Jose
South CongressDowntown San Jose

Vibrant nightlife, shopping

ZilkerWillow Glen

Family-friendly, green spaces

TarrytownAlmaden Valley

Upscale, tranquil residential area

Hyde ParkRose Garden

Historic homes, community vibes

Travis HeightsThe Alameda

Artsy, diverse community

Barton HillsShasta Hanchett Park

Natural beauty, close to parks

East AustinSoFA District

Trendy eateries, urban art

ClarksvilleCambrian Park

Quiet, family-friendly with charm

MuellerNorth San Jose

Modern, planned community

AllandaleEvergreen

Diverse, with a suburban feel

For those enchanted by the historic charm and bustling energy of South Congress in Austin, downtown San Jose offers a seamless transition with its vibrant nightlife, diverse shopping, and dining experiences at places like San Pedro Square Market. Nature enthusiasts drawn to Zilker’s expansive green spaces in Austin will find solace in Willow Glen’s welcoming parks and community events in San Jose. Meanwhile, Tarrytown's peaceful, upscale ambience is mirrored in the tranquility of Almaden Valley, where sprawling homes and quiet streets provide an upscale suburban lifestyle. Foodies and art lovers feeling at home in East Austin's trendy and eclectic milieu will be thrilled by the SoFA District's array of innovative eateries, like SoFA Market, and vibrant urban art scene, making it a hotspot for creative minds and palates.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in San Jose

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Austin to San Jose

Moving from one city to another can be daunting and exciting all at once. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Austin, TX to San Jose, CA. By understanding the cons and pros of such a move, you'll be better prepared for what lies ahead in this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Hotter summers
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Lower cost of living
  • Fewer cultural landmarks
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Milder climate
  • More tech jobs
  • Proximity to Silicon Valley
  • Rich cultural scene
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • More expensive
  • Higher housing costs
  • Less live music
  • Steep cost of living
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Lively music scene
  • More affordable housing
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Tex-Mex Cuisine

Moving from Austin to San Jose introduces you to a different lifestyle, with each city having its unique charm and set of challenges. Austin's vibrant music scene and Tex-Mex cuisine, as found in popular venues like Torchy's Tacos, contrast with San Jose's calmer environment but richer cultural offerings, such as the famous San Jose Museum of Art. San Jose, nestled in Silicon Valley, provides unparalleled opportunities in the tech industry, further complemented by its diverse culinary scene including dishes from around the world like those served at Original Joe's San Jose. Although San Jose's cost of living and housing are higher, its proximity to iconic landmarks and the tech job market are compelling for those moving from Austin.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Austin to San Jose

Understanding the culinary landscape is essential when relocating, as food plays a significant role in local culture and the living experience. This guide aims to enlighten you on what to expect by presenting a comparison of the local cuisine between Austin & San Jose, empowering you with insights into each city's food scene ahead of your move.

AustinSan Jose

Most iconic local food item

BBQ BrisketPho

Most popular meat dish

Texas ChiliBanh Mi

Most popular street food item

TacosTacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan BBQTofu Pho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Franklin Barbecue
    2. Uchi
    3. La Condesa
    1. Original Joe's
    2. Pho Bac
    3. Adega

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

89

Abundance of Food Trucks

97

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

78

In Austin, you'll find the streets adorned with food trucks, especially around South Congress Avenue, offering everything from the most tender BBQ brisket to innovative vegan BBQ delights. Franklin Barbecue stands out as a must-visit for meat lovers, though be prepared for long waits. On the other hand, moving to San Jose introduces you to a vibrant Vietnamese food scene, with local favorites like Pho and Banh Mi readily available in areas such as Little Saigon. Vegan options abound, with places like Adega offering sophisticated dining experiences. Both cities boast a strong foodie culture, but San Jose edges slightly more towards health-conscious dining options.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Austin to San Jose

Food plays a significant role in transforming any place into a home. This restaurant comparison of Austin to San Jose provides a delightful roadmap for newcomers to find their next cherished dining spots, mirroring their Austin favorites. Let this be your culinary guide in making San Jose feel like home.

Franklin BarbecueSmoking Pig BBQ

Authentic smoky flavors and succulent meats

UchiSantouka

Traditional Japanese ramen with a focus on quality and taste

Matt's El RanchoLa Victoria Taqueria

Known for amazing tacos and authentic Mexican dishes

Odd DuckAdega

Seasonal, chef-driven dishes with local ingredients

Home Slice PizzaPizzeria Delfina

Hand-tossed Neapolitan pizzas with a Californian twist

Kemuri Tatsu-yaJINYA Ramen Bar

Fusion of traditional and modern Japanese dishes

Barley SwineThe Table

Farm-to-table dining with innovative and creative cuisine

La BarbecueBack A Yard

Caribbean influenced BBQ with a unique and flavorful twist

Torchy's TacosZona Rosa

Gourmet tacos with a wide variety of unique fillings

SwayPho Bel-Air

Modern outlook on traditional Vietnamese, known for pho

Embarking on a culinary adventure in San Jose, you'll discover vibrant flavors and diverse cuisines that reflect the spirit of your beloved Austin eateries. Venture to Smoking Pig BBQ for an authentic taste reminiscent of Franklin Barbecue’s famed smoky brisket, or explore JINYA Ramen Bar where the fusion of traditional and modern takes on Japanese cuisine echoes Kemuri Tatsu-ya’s innovative approach. For those who relish creative, farm-to-table dining, The Table introduces a culinary experience akin to what Barley Swine offers, emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients crafted into extraordinary dishes. San Jose is ready to satisfy your culinary cravings with its own unique and unforgettable dining experiences, ensuring you feel right at home.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Austin to San Jose

Real estate is a critical component when planning a move. Understanding how Austin and San Jose compare in terms of housing including cost, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly influence your decision. This comparison offers insights into what to expect in each city.

When considering a move from Austin to San Jose, you'll find distinct differences in housing options and lifestyle. San Jose's higher median home price and monthly rent reflect its status in the heart of Silicon Valley, leading to a more urban lifestyle with a rating of 9 out of 10. The architectural mix in both cities incorporates modern elements, but San Jose notably features Spanish influences, embracing its rich history. A focus on sustainability is evident, with listings in San Jose frequently highlighting solar panels, a nod to California's commitment to green living. Both cities offer unique advantages depending on your priorities, whether it's affordability and spaciousness in Austin or a tech-driven, urban environment in San Jose.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Austin to San Jose

When planning a move from Austin, TX, to San Jose, CA, understanding the differences in climate is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight how weather varies between these two cities, focusing on key aspects like temperature, sunshine, and air quality. Weather comparison between Austin and San Jose serves as a vital tool in preparing for your relocation.

Summer icon
95°F / 72°F

Austin, TX

82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62°F / 42°F

Austin, TX

60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Austin, TX

15

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Austin, TX

0

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Austin to San Jose, you'll find that San Jose offers a cooler summer climate with lower highs and lows, which might be more comfortable for those not accustomed to Texas heat. Interestingly, despite having fewer sunshine days than Austin, San Jose enjoys better air quality, making it a potentially healthier environment for those sensitive to air pollutants. However, the significantly lower annual rainfall in San Jose compared to Austin indicates a drier atmosphere, which could influence your choice of outdoor activities. Considering these differences can help you better prepare for your new home's environmental conditions.

Ready to start your move?

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

When embarking on a relocation journey from Austin, TX to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications of your move. This comparison aims to illuminate the cost of living, income potential, and tax differences between Austin and San Jose, providing a clearer financial picture as you plan your transition.

Despite San Jose boasting a significantly higher average household income than Austin, this is somewhat offset by its higher cost of living and the state income tax. Notably, California's top rate of income tax is contrasted sharply by Texas' lack of a state income tax, a key consideration for anyone moving from Austin to San Jose. Property tax rates offer a rare financial reprieve moving to San Jose, but the higher sales tax and illustrious affluence of the area underscore the financial disparities. Understanding these differences is essential for financially preparing for your move and setting realistic expectations on living standards and the local economy in your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Austin, TX and San Jose, CA

This comparison offers a quick snapshot to help you understand the political and religious landscape as you consider moving from Austin, Texas to San Jose, California . By examining these communities, you'll gain valuable insights into the distinct character of each city's residents.

AustinSan Jose

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democratic-leaningDemocratic-leaning

Religion

Mixed, with a significant number of non-religious residentsMixed, with a strong presence of various faiths

In both Austin, Texas, and San Jose, California, you'll find a liberal political makeup with local politics that lean Democratic. This could make for an easier transition if you share similar values. Austin is known for its vibrant music scene and progressive atmosphere, which is reflective of its residents' open and accepting nature. San Jose, in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and ideologies, brought together by the tech industry. Its diverse population includes a strong presence of various faiths, offering a wide range of religious communities and places of worship, like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph. Understanding these aspects of your new city can help you connect more deeply and quickly with your community.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Austin to San Jose

Moving from Austin, TX, to San Jose, CA, brings significant changes, especially in daily commutes. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Austin & San Jose will help you better understand what to expect in your day-to-day travel.

AustinSan Jose
2630

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

78

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

57

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible but difficult

Can you get by without car?

Moving from Austin to San Jose, you'll notice the difference in average commute times and how traffic congestion plays into your daily routine. While Austin offers a vibrant community with moderately heavy traffic, San Jose, nestled in Silicon Valley, faces more significant traffic challenges due to dense job concentrations. Despite this, San Jose provides better public transit options with services like the VTA, making car-free living more feasible than in Austin. However, it's important to note that both cities present challenges for those attempting to avoid car ownership altogether, underscoring the importance of planning your commute in advance.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Austin to San Jose Movers Featured Image