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Houston to Los Angeles Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from the bustling energy of Houston, the Space City, to the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles, the City of Angels, marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. You're swapping the Texan BBQ for California sushi and trading in cowboy boots for surfboards. In this significant life change, it's crucial to ensure that your belongings are in the hands of trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this journey and are here to guide you every step of the way, providing not just resources and information but connecting you with the best movers, determined by our unbiased ranking algorithm.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

#1
Best California Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,003+ data points

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

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3489907 Verify

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>

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#2
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 11,757+ data points

Los Angeles, CA
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3983945 Verify

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a locally-...Read More >>

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#3
Pinpoint Movers Logo
Superb

based on 2,347+ data points

Houston, TX
Homepage:, Residential moving, Commercial moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3070055 Verify

About Pinpoint Movers

Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all you...Read More >>

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#4
Right Rate Movers of Houston Logo
Fabulous

based on 3,973+ data points

Houston, TX
Residential Moving, Labor Only, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2200927 Verify

About Right Rate Movers of Houston

Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability and efficie...Read More >>

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#5
A Better Tripp Moving & Storage Logo
Fabulous

based on 1,248+ data points

Houston, TX
Full service, local company provides packing, crating, and relocation for any size residential home or office., Nationally recognized long distance movers that can relocate you to or from any state., Unique capability to transport small shipments cross country on a time sensitive schedule. See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 679167 Verify

About A Better Tripp Moving & Storage

Founded over 20 years ago in Houston, Texas, A Better Tripp Moving & Storage performs local, statewide, and nationwide moves catering to...Read More >>

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Relocating from Houston to Los Angeles Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're unsure where to plant your roots. By comparing local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Los Angeles, CA, we aim to help you familiarize yourself with your new city, using your old city as a baseline. Find out which Los Angeles neighborhood mirrors your Houston favorite below.

HoustonLos Angeles
The HeightsSilver Lake

Trendy, artsy vibe with a strong sense of community

MontroseWest Hollywood

Diverse, rich in LGBTQ+ culture, with vibrant nightlife

River OaksBeverly Hills

Upscale, luxury living with premier shopping

Museum DistrictLos Feliz

Cultural hotspot with easy access to museums and parks

MidtownDowntown LA

Urban living, dense with bars, restaurants, and arts

EaDo (East Downtown)Arts District

Industrial vibes, full of galleries, boutiques, and eateries

West UniversityStudio City

Family-friendly, suburban feel with access to quality schools

GalleriaBrentwood

Luxurious, with a concentration of high-end shopping and dining

Clear LakeMarina Del Rey

Waterfront living with boating and watersports galore

MemorialPacific Palisades

Exclusive, with stunning ocean views and hiking trails

For those enchanted by the artistic and communal atmosphere of The Heights in Houston, Silver Lake in Los Angeles offers a similar appeal with its trendy shops, hip coffee bars like Intelligentsia Coffee, and indie music scene. Those moving from the upscale River Oaks neighborhood will find Beverly Hills to match their luxury lifestyle, boasting iconic streets like Rodeo Drive, known for world-class shopping and dining. Meanwhile, if you relish the cultural richness and the proximity to major museums like those in Houston's Museum District, Los Feliz stands out in Los Angeles, home to the Griffith Observatory and within arm's reach of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Montrose's vibrant, eclectic spirit is mirrored in West Hollywood, celebrated for its lively LGBTQ+ scene and community events, making it a seamless transition for those seeking diversity and inclusion.

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Things to Do in Los Angeles

  • Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Explore LACMA's art collections
  • Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
  • Walk Santa Monica Pier
  • Experience Disneyland
  • Hike in Eaton Canyon

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

Moving from Houston, TX to Los Angeles, CA offers a chance to weigh the aspects of both cities. This comparison is crafted to provide an honest evaluation of the advantages and challenges you might face, highlighting the significant changes in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities this relocation entails.

CONs
PROs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • High humidity
  • Lower housing costs
  • Fewer job opportunities in entertainment
  • Less diverse dining
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Better entertainment
  • More professional opportunities
  • World-class cuisine
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Fewer public parks
  • Expensive dining
  • Far from beaches
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Affordable housing
  • More green spaces
  • Diverse food scene
  • Access to Gulf Coast

Moving to Los Angeles from Houston means embracing a city renowned for its outdoor entertainment, world-class cuisine, and vast professional opportunities, especially in the entertainment industry. However, this comes with higher living expenses. Los Angeles' dining scene is accelerated by establishments such as Bestia and n/naka, offering an expansive palette from high-end dining to street food. Contrarily, Houston's appeal includes affordable living and extensive green spaces like Discovery Green, yet it might fall short in professional opportunities in entertainment and diverse climate experiences. Whether craving the bustling streets of West Hollywood or the serene parks of Houston, each city offers unique lifestyles worth considering.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

When considering a move, the flavors of your new city can greatly influence your lifestyle and happiness. That's why we've created a comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & Los Angeles to help you understand the food scene in your future home.

HoustonLos Angeles

Most iconic local food item

Texas BBQ BrisketFish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Smoked RibsKorean BBQ

Most popular street food item

TacosStreet Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit BBQAcai Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Killen's BBQ
  • Uchi
  • The Pass & Provisions
  • n/naka
  • Bestia
  • Pizzanista

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

89

Foodie Scene

810

Vegan Friendly

710

Both Houston and Los Angeles offer unique and vibrant food scenes, but they cater to different palates and lifestyles. In Houston, Texas BBQ brisket and smoked ribs dominate the meat scene, with iconic spots like Killen's BBQ where the smoke and flavor run deep. Moving to Los Angeles introduces you to a diverse culinary landscape, influenced by its coastal location and bustling street food scene. Fish tacos and Korean BBQ are staples here, with neighborhoods like Koreatown and the streets of Venice being prime spots to indulge in these favorites. Additionally, LA's emphasis on health and wellness shines through its food, making it a paradise for vegans and health-conscious diners.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

Food plays an essential role in making a new area feel like home. This comparison chart serves as a guide for those moving from Houston to Los Angeles, helping you find your new favorite eateries based on your existing preferences. From high-end destinations to local gems, discover places where your taste buds will feel right at home.

UchiSUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa

Similar focus on high-quality sushi and a unique dining experience

The Breakfast KlubRoscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles

Iconic for its soul food breakfast and comfort vibes

Hugo'sGuelaguetza

Authentic Oaxacan cuisine that resonates with Hugo's commitment to traditional Mexican flavors

Truth BBQBludso's Bar & Que

Both are known for their authentic BBQ and casual, yet immersive, dining experience

Pappas Bros. SteakhouseCUT by Wolfgang Puck

Premium steakhouse offering a similarly upscale dining experience with exceptional meats

Brennan's of HoustonCommander's Palace

Southern elegance and creole cuisine, capturing the essence of Brennan's

UnderbellyAnimal

Focused on innovative, market-driven cuisine, mirroring Underbelly’s commitment to locality and seasonality

Moon Tower InnWurstküche

Both offer a unique selection of crafted beers and exotic sausages in a laid-back atmosphere

ColtivareOsteria Mozza

Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, garden-to-table ingredients, akin to Coltivare's style

Ninfa's on NavigationEl Compadre

Traditional Mexican food with a festive atmosphere, reminiscent of the lively experience at Ninfa's

While Los Angeles offers a diverse and expansive dining scene, newcomers from Houston will find comfort in establishments like SUGARFISH and Guelaguetza, which provide familiar tastes and atmospheres to those left behind in Houston. The transition from Truth BBQ to Bludso's Bar & Que is almost seamless, with both places providing a deep dive into the precision and passion behind their respective barbecue traditions. Meanwhile, the spirit of Coltivare lives on in LA at Osteria Mozza, where the emphasis on garden-fresh ingredients and innovative Italian dishes continues to delight those who appreciate farm-to-table dining. These comparisons not only introduce you to Los Angeles' culinary landscape but also ensure the flavors of Houston are never too far from heart or palate.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

When planning a move, it's essential to weigh the real estate options thoroughly. Understanding how the Houston vs. Los Angeles housing market compares can illuminate crucial facets of your decision-making process. Below, we've showcased pivotal factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects to offer a well-rounded comparison.

Houston and Los Angeles offer distinct living experiences shaped by their housing markets. In Houston, the preference for ranch-style homes with spacious yards reflects a more suburban lifestyle, favored for its open floor plans and affordability. Contrastingly, Los Angeles prides itself on a quintessential urban lifestyle, where properties often boast outdoor living spaces and breathtaking views, highlighting the city's natural beauty and vibrant culture. Walkability and bikeability are significantly higher in Los Angeles, making it easier to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods without relying solely on a vehicle. This comparison underlines the diverse possibilities awaiting you, whether you're drawn to Houston's more laid-back, spacious living or Los Angeles's dynamic urban environment.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.

2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.

3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

Moving from one city to another introduces a plethora of changes, with the weather being a significant consideration. Understanding how the weather in Houston compares to Los Angeles is essential for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight the distinct climatic differences to help you adjust to your new environment.

Summer icon
94°F/75°F

Houston, TX

84°F/66°F

Los Angeles, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
65°F/45°F

Houston, TX

68°F/48°F

Los Angeles, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Houston, TX

15"

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Houston, TX

0"

Los Angeles, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities offer relatively warm climates, moving from Houston to Los Angeles will bring about a notable decrease in humidity and an increase in sunny days, making the Los Angeles climate more comfortable for many. However, this comfort comes with its own set of challenges. Being prepared for Los Angeles’ higher UV index is crucial, despite it being slightly lower than Houston's. Additionally, replacing hurricanes and flooding concerns with earthquakes and wildfires adjustments is necessary for emergency preparedness. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate more easily to your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

Moving from one city to another significantly impacts your finances. It's crucial to compare areas like cost of living, taxes, and income when relocating from Houston to Los Angeles to gauge how your monetary situation will change. This guide helps illustrate these crucial financial differences.

While the average household incomes in Houston and Los Angeles are comparable, the cost of living in Los Angeles is significantly higher, especially due to the housing market. The state income tax in California can reach up to 13.3%, a stark contrast to Texas's 0%, affecting your net income. Additionally, sectors like entertainment and technology dominate Los Angeles, offering different career opportunities compared to Houston's energy and manufacturing focus. Moreover, the palpable affluence in Los Angeles coexists with high poverty and homelessness rates, highlighting the city's economic disparities. These factors are essential to consider when planning your move to grasp the financial adjustments needed.

Political & Religious Comparison between Houston, TX and Los Angeles, CA

Moving from one city to another involves more than a change of scenery; it’s also an introduction to a new community. This comparison, focusing on Houston & Los Angeles, offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the resident populations in both cities, ensuring you’re well-informed about the communities you’re entering or leaving.

HoustonLos Angeles

Political Make-up

Moderately LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Diverse with Competitive ElectionsPrimarily Democratic, Progressive Politics

Religion

Diverse with a strong Evangelical PresenceDiverse, with significant Catholic and Jewish communities

When moving from Houston to Los Angeles, you're transitioning from a city with a relatively moderate liberal stance to one that is more decidedly liberal, especially in local governance and social policies. While both cities boast a rich tapestry of religious diversity, Los Angeles has a significant number of Catholic and Jewish communities, contrasting with Houston's notable Evangelical Christian presence. Understanding these nuances can help you anticipate the social and political climate of your new home, making the adjustment smoother and more informed.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Houston to Los Angeles

Understanding the differences in driving/transiting in Houston, TX vs Los Angeles, CA is crucial for anyone planning to make the move. This comparison will help you get a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic will look like.

HoustonLos Angeles
2730

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

79

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

56

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible but difficult

Can you get by without a car?

In both Houston and Los Angeles, personal vehicles are a significant part of everyday life due to the sprawling nature of these cities. However, Los Angeles offers a slightly better public transit system, including buses and the Metro, which might not cover all areas but could be a viable option for those looking to avoid the city's notorious traffic congestion. The slight edge in public transit in LA compared to Houston’s METRO system means that while getting by without a car is tough in both cities, it's a tad more feasible in Los Angeles. Nevertheless, planning your commute and considering alternatives like carpooling or telecommuting can vastly improve your experience in either city.

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