Best Houston to Tampa Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Houston, TX to Tampa, FL, you're embarking on an exciting journey of change and discovery. Leaving behind the Space City's bustling energy and vast culinary scene for the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife of The Big Guava can feel like trading cowboy boots for flip-flops. It's crucial in this adventure to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers; at Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this transition and are here to ensure your long-distance move is as smooth and worry-free as possible.
Best Houston to Tampa Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to Houston guide.
5 Best Houston to Tampa Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a comprehensive range of se...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (2023) |
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 >>
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
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 >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
About Go Movers
Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and nationwide moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Nationwide moves
- Cheap moves
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.
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.
Houston vs. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, familiarizing yourself with your new city can be a daunting task. To help smooth the transition, we've drawn a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Tampa, FL, identifying areas with similar vibes, amenities, and cultures. This guide serves as a comparative tool, letting you discover your new favorite neighborhood by comparing it with the one you know and love.
| Houston | Tampa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Heights | Seminole Heights | Artsy, vibrant, historic homes |
| Montrose | Hyde Park | Diverse, with a mix of modern and historic properties |
| River Oaks | Bayshore Beautiful | Affluent, with grand homes and scenic views |
| Midtown | SoHo/Hyde Park Village | Lively, with a mixture of dining, shopping, and nightlife |
| West University | Palma Ceia | Family-friendly, with a golf course and good schools |
| The Galleria | Westshore | Premier shopping and business district |
| Rice Military | Channelside | Trendy, with upscale apartments and entertainment |
| East Downtown (EaDo) | Ybor City | Rich in history, with a unique blend of nightlife and culture |
| Clear Lake | Harbour Island | Waterfront living, with access to boating and water sports |
| Cypress | New Tampa | Suburban, with a focus on family living and outdoor activities |
For example, if you adore the historical charm and the artsy ambiance of The Heights in Houston, with its unique blend of boutiques, cafes like Common Bond Cafe, and thriving arts scene, you'll find a similar spirit in Seminole Heights, Tampa. Seminole Heights boasts an eclectic mix of historic homes, innovative restaurants like Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe, and a close-knit community vibe. Meanwhile, River Oaks residents accustomed to upscale living and picturesque streets will appreciate the grandiose homes and the breathtaking Bayshore Boulevard in Bayshore Beautiful, Tampa. Both neighborhoods offer luxurious living with a sense of community and access to high-end amenities and green spaces such as Memorial Park in Houston and Ballast Point Park in Tampa.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Tampa
Moving can be a major life change, especially when it involves relocating from one city to another. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of moving from Houston, TX to Tampa, FL . By examining both the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about whether this relocation is right for you.
Houston, TX- Higher crime rate
- Intense summer heat
- Flat landscape
- Fewer beaches
- Large population
Tampa, FL- Lower crime rate
- Milder summers
- More scenic views
- Access to beaches
- Smaller population
Tampa, FL- Less diverse cuisine
- Competitive job market
- Smaller cultural scene
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer space-related attractions
Houston, TX- Vibrant food scene
- Strong job market
- Cultural diversity
- Lower cost of living
- Space City attractions
When moving from Houston to Tampa, it's not just about leaving behind the gigantic Texan plains for Florida's gulf-coast charm. You're trading the intense summer heat for milder seasons and gaining access to some of the best beaches in the country, like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. Tampa offers scenic views at places like the Bayshore Boulevard for those who love a picturesque jog or a leisurely bike ride. The vibrant Ybor City neighborhood stands out with its unique cultural offerings, from historical sites to contemporary cafes like La Creperia Café. While Houston's food scene is hard to beat in terms of diversity, Tampa holds its own with fresh seafood and Cuban cuisine, best exemplified by the famous Columbia Restaurant in Tampa's historic Ybor City. Both cities offer distinct advantages, but the move to Tampa could be a breath of fresh, salty air for those seeking a change.
Houston vs. Tampa Food Guide
Food is an intrinsic part of experiencing local culture and life in a new area. Understanding what culinary delights await can be pivotal in easing the transition to a new city. In this guide, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & Tampa , ensuring you're well-informed about the gastronomic scene in your future hometown.
| Houston | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tex-Mex | Cuban Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket BBQ | Grouper Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Deviled Crab |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Houston is renowned for its Tex-Mex and brisket BBQ, reflecting its deep-rooted southern and Mexican influences, Tampa prides itself on its seafood, epitomized by the iconic Cuban Sandwich and Grouper Sandwich. Houston's food scene is vibrant, with an abundance of food trucks and a high foodie score, indicating a variety of culinary offerings. Tampa, on the other hand, scores highly in fitness/health conscientiousness and is very vegan friendly, embracing the innovative use of jackfruit in tacos. In Tampa, neighborhoods like Ybor City and SoHo offer a rich tapestry of dining experiences, from the historic Columbia Restaurant to the innovative menu at Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe, illustrating the city's diverse culinary landscape.
Houston vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but finding your next favorite dining spots shouldn't be. This restaurant comparison from Houston, TX to Tampa, FL aims to ease your transition by guiding you to eateries in Tampa that resonate with the flavors of Houston favorites. Whether you're craving upscale dining, casual bites, or something uniquely iconic, our guide has got you covered, making your new city feel like home.
| Houston | Tampa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Uchi | On Swann | Upscale, innovative dishes reminiscent of Uchi's unique take on Japanese cuisine. |
| Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen | Datz | Famous for its big, bold flavors and vast menu offerings much like Kenny & Ziggy's. |
| Truth BBQ | 4 Rivers Smokehouse | Offers a comparable commitment to quality smoked meats and southern sides. |
| The Breakfast Klub | Daily Eats | Serves up a creative and hearty breakfast menu, capturing a similar beloved morning vibe. |
| Hugo's | Tequila's | Delivers authentic Mexican cuisine with a dedication to the rich flavors and traditions as seen at Hugo's. |
| Ninfa's on Navigation | Columbia Restaurant | While primarily Spanish, its historic setting and dedication to flavor echo Ninfa's iconic experience. |
| State of Grace | Bern's Steak House | Known for its exquisite dining experience and extensive wine list, similar to the sophistication of State of Grace. |
| Phoenicia Specialty Foods | Mazzaro's Italian Market | Offers a broad selection of international and gourmet foods, reflecting Phoenicia's diverse offerings. |
| Common Bond Bistro & Bakery | La Segunda Bakery | Both places are cherished for their baked goods, offering a cozy spot for pastries and coffee. |
| Kirby Ice House | The Canopy | While not an icehouse, it offers a vibrant outdoor setting for drinks, somewhat reminiscent of Kirby's social atmosphere. |
For instance, On Swann in Tampa takes a page from Uchi's book with its innovative approach to cuisine, offering a dining experience that is both upscale and inventive, perfect for special occasions or a tantalizing casual eat. Similarly, 4 Rivers Smokehouse in Tampa channels the spirit of Houston's Truth BBQ through its dedication to quality smoked meats, ensuring that barbecue enthusiasts can still enjoy their favorite flavors in their new city. On the sweet side, La Segunda Bakery in Tampa echoes the community vibe of Common Bond Bistro & Bakery in Houston, offering an inviting space to enjoy a coffee and sweet treat that feels like a hug from home. These comparisons not only highlight the quality and diversity of Tampa's dining scene but also bridge the culinary gap between these two vibrant cities.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move from Houston, TX to Tampa, FL, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight key aspects such as the cost of housing, architectural styles, and the urban lifestyle between Houston and Tampa, providing you with a comprehensive insight to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Houston | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Contemporary | Bungalow, Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, Large backyards | Waterfront views, Access to amenities |
In the journey from Houston to Tampa, you'll notice significant changes, especially in the housing market. For one, Tampa's median home price and rent tend to be higher, which reflects its booming real estate market and the higher demand for coastal and waterfront properties. Those moving to Tampa might find themselves enchanted by the prevalent Bungalow and Mediterranean architectural styles, which offer a distinct charm compared to Houston's Ranch and Contemporary homes. Moreover, Tampa slightly edges out in terms of walkability and bikeability, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more urban lifestyle with easier access to amenities and perhaps even a waterfront view highlighted in many real estate listings.
Houston vs. Tampa Weather Considerations
When preparing to relocate, comparing the weather between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison between Houston and Tampa serves to help you understand what weather changes to expect and how they might impact your daily life and preferences.
Houston, TX
Tampa, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Tampa, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Tampa, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
Tampa, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Houston | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Hurricanes, Tropical Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Houston to Tampa, you'll notice a slight difference in summer temperatures and a more significant shift in winter, with Tampa offering milder winter weather. Tampa also boasts a higher number of sunny days per year, which could impact outdoor activity preferences. While both cities face their share of natural disasters, primarily hurricanes, Tampa’s slightly higher UV index indicates a greater need for sun protection. Another point of consideration is air quality; Tampa generally enjoys better air quality than Houston, potentially offering a healthier living environment for those sensitive to pollutants.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Tampa
When planning a move, understanding how the cost of living and financial environment between Houston and Tampa will impact your budget is essential. This comparison aims to highlight key financial differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Houston | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | $63,404 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 92.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.0 | 0.93 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Aerospace, Healthcare | Tourism, Healthcare, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Concerning | Concerning |
| Homelessness | Challenging | Notable |
While both Houston and Tampa benefit from having no state income tax, there are notable differences in their average sales and property taxes. Houston residents face a higher sales tax but also deal with significantly higher property taxes compared to those living in Tampa. This can have a considerable effect on your overall financial situation, particularly if you are planning to purchase property. Additionally, the average household income in Houston is higher, which could be reflective of the city's diverse economy, strongly rooted in energy, aerospace, and healthcare. Tampa, with its focus on tourism, healthcare, and finance, presents different economic opportunities and challenges. Understanding these nuances will help you better plan your finances and lifestyle in your new city.
Houston vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison
Whether you're planning your move from Houston, TX, to Tampa, FL, a quick overview of the political and religious landscape comparing Houston & Tampa will help you understand what to expect from your new neighborhood. This snapshot aims to provide insights into the community you'll be joining.
| Houston | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Diverse political representation | Progressive tendencies in local governance |
| Religion | Highly diverse, with a significant Christian population | Christian majority with growing diversity in faith communities |
Both Houston and Tampa lean Democratic in their political makeup, reflecting a generally progressive stance on various social and economic issues. This similarity might make your transition smoother if you're accustomed to the political atmosphere of Houston. Local politics in Tampa tend towards progressive policies, particularly in environmental and social welfare initiatives, mirroring Houston's diverse political representation that caters to a wide array of community interests. On the religious front, both cities have a Christian majority but are home to a growing diversity of faith communities, offering plenty of options for spiritual engagement or exploration. Whether you're looking to connect with a local church, synagogue, mosque, or other places of worship, you'll find a welcoming environment in both locales.
Houston vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Houston, TX to Tampa, FL? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Houston & Tampa will help you better prepare for what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like in these cities.
| Comparison | Houston | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26.5 | 24.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, but challenging | Difficult |
While Houston offers slightly better public transit options compared to Tampa, both cities generally favor car ownership for ease of mobility. Houston's METRO system provides more comprehensive coverage, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car, despite congestion. On the other hand, Tampa's public transit scores lower, meaning residents often rely on cars, supplemented by alternatives like the TECO Line Streetcar for downtown travel. Transitioning from Houston to Tampa, you might find Tampa’s slightly less congested roads a relief, but the public transit options will not be as robust, highlighting the necessity of having a car in both locations.
Popular Houston, TX to Florida Moving Routes
