Best Austin to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the live music capital of the world, Austin, to Seattle, the evergreen city known for its coffee and rain, marks an exciting new chapter in your life. You're leaving behind the Texan sun for the Pacific Northwest's misty allure, trading brisket for seafood, and saying goodbye to one vibrant culture to embrace another. Acknowledging the distance and intricacies of such a move, it's crucial to entrust this journey to reliable and trusted professional movers, ensuring this significant transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased algorithm to help you find the best movers, making it easier for you to embark on this new adventure with confidence.
Best Austin to Seattle Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Austin guide.
5 Best Austin to Seattle Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and StorageAbout 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 >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
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 >>
Services
- Out of state moving services
- Packing services
- Office moving services
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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.
Austin vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Preparing to move from Austin, TX to Seattle, WA and trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home? This guide will streamline your search by comparing popular neighborhoods in Austin with their Seattle counterparts. We've created a match-up to compare the local neighborhoods between Austin, TX & Seattle, WA , focusing on similarities in vibe, amenities, and community feel to help you transition smoothly.
| Austin | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Congress | Capitol Hill | Vibrant nightlife and independent businesses |
| Zilker | Green Lake | Active outdoor lifestyle with central park and lake |
| Travis Heights | Queen Anne | Historic homes with a tight-knit community feel |
| Hyde Park | Ballard | Blend of historic charm and modern amenities |
| Barton Hills | Wallingford | Quiet, family-friendly with proximity to nature |
| East Austin | Fremont | Eclectic, artsy, and ever-changing |
| Tarrytown | Madison Park | Upscale, serene, with waterfront access |
| Westlake | Laurelhurst | Affluent, picturesque with excellent schools |
| Clarksville | Phinney Ridge | Cozy, friendly neighborhood with local businesses |
| Mueller | Columbia City | Diverse, community-oriented with a mix of old and new |
If you adore the outdoor-centric lifestyle of Zilker, with its sprawling green spaces like Zilker Metropolitan Park, you'll find a similar affinity for Green Lake in Seattle, which boasts a beloved park and the city's most popular lake for running, paddling, and dog-walking. The creative and ever-changing vibe of East Austin, filled with street art, vibrant murals, and unique eateries such as Launderette, aligns with Fremont’s artistic spirit, home to the famous Fremont Troll and the Fremont Sunday Market. Barton Hills’ residents who cherish proximity to outdoor activities and a family-friendly atmosphere will appreciate Wallingford’s tranquil residential streets, access to Lake Union, and the Gas Works Park for outdoor concerts and picnics. The seamless blend of living, working, and playing in Mueller finds its match in Columbia City, where community events and local businesses thrive amid historic landmarks.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Austin to Seattle
Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision with many factors to consider. This comparison aims to reflect the honest pros and cons of relocating from Austin, TX to Seattle, WA, providing clarity on what you may gain and what you might have to adapt to in your new home.
Austin, TX- Hot summers
- Less rainfall
- More affordable living
- Tex-Mex cuisine
- Live music scene
Seattle, WA- Milder climate
- Lush environment
- Higher wages
- Diverse food scene
- Vibrant arts culture
Seattle, WA- Frequent rain
- Less BBQ variety
- Higher living costs
- Fewer sunny days
- Less outdoor music
Austin, TX- Milder winters
- Barbecue cuisine
- Tech job hub
- Lively festivals
- Outdoor lifestyle
Moving from Austin to Seattle, you'll swap the scorching Texas heat for Seattle's gentler, rainier climate. This means trading sun-baked days at Barton Springs Pool for serene afternoons at Green Lake Park or the lush expanse of Discovery Park. While you might miss Austin's renowned barbecue joints like Franklin Barbecue, Seattle's culinary scene will delight you with its fresh seafood, endless Pike Place Market discoveries, and innovative dining experiences at places like The Walrus and the Carpenter. Though Austin's vibrant live music may be unparalleled, Seattle's commitment to the arts, from the historic canopies of Pike Place to the cutting-edge exhibitions at the Museum of Pop Culture, ensures your cultural appetites will be well-served in this Pacific Northwest gem.
Austin vs. Seattle Food Guide
Food plays a crucial role in understanding local culture and the lifestyle of an area. Through this comparison, we aim to provide insights into what moving from Austin, TX, to Seattle, WA, might taste like. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Austin, TX & Seattle, WA , allowing you to dive deeper into the culinary scenes of your old and new homes.
| Austin | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Brisket | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegan Sushi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Austin, the heart of Texas BBQ beats strong, with brisket and BBQ ribs reigning supreme. Seeking out the best brisket often leads locals and visitors alike to iconic spots like Franklin Barbecue. On the other hand, Seattle's cuisine is deeply influenced by its proximity to the ocean, making salmon and Dungeness crab favorite dishes among locals. Vegan options are plentiful and innovative in both cities, with Austin offering vegan BBQ that defies traditional expectations and Seattle serving up vegan sushi that's as creative as it is delicious. Whether you find yourself hunting down the best tacos on Austin's streets or diving into the diverse seafood options at Pike Place Market in Seattle, you'll find both cities offer vibrant food scenes that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
Austin vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Discovering your new favorite eatery can be a pivotal step in feeling at home in a new city. Through this restaurant comparison between Austin and Seattle , we aim to make your transition smoother by mapping out equivalent dining experiences in both cities. Whether you're craving the familiarity of Austin's diverse culinary scene or eager to explore Seattle's offerings, this guide will help you find your next go-to spot.
| Austin | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin Barbecue | Jack’s BBQ | Authentic Texas-style barbecue |
| Uchi | Sushi Kappo Tamura | High-quality, sustainable sushi dining experience |
| Odd Duck | Tilth | Innovative, local, and seasonal New American cuisine |
| Torchy's Tacos | Tacos Chukis | Delivers a delicious, no-fuss taco experience |
| Home Slice Pizza | Delancey | Wood-fired pizzas with meticulous attention to ingredient quality |
| Matt's El Rancho | El Camino | Vibrant atmosphere with authentic Mexican flavors |
| Barley Swine | The Walrus and the Carpenter | Inventive small plates focusing on fresh, local ingredients |
| Salt Lick BBQ | Pecos Pit | Slow-cooked barbecue with a Seattle twist |
| Kerbey Lane Café | Portage Bay Café | Focused on organic, sustainable, locally-sourced breakfast and brunch |
| Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ | Asadero | Renowned for Mexican cuisine with a focus on quality meats |
While the culinary scenes of Austin and Seattle differ, both cities boast unique dining experiences that cater to a variety of palates. For BBQ enthusiasts, the transition from Franklin Barbecue’s legendary brisket to Jack’s BBQ in Seattle means you won't have to forsake your love for slow-cooked meats, thanks to their dedication to authentic Texas-style barbecue. Seafood and sushi aficionados moving from the Texan central lands to the Pacific Northwest coast will find Sushi Kappo Tamura's emphasis on sustainability and quality a delightful parallel to Uchi's innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. And for those who relish the simple yet satisfying experience of biting into a meticulously crafted taco or pizza, the equivalents of Torchy's Tacos and Home Slice Pizza in Seattle - Tacos Chukis and Delancey, respectively – offer a testament to the universal comfort found in well-prepared, beloved dishes.
Ready to start your move?
Austin vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a pivotal role when moving, ensuring a smooth transition is crucial. In this comparison, we dive into how Austin, TX, and Seattle, WA differ in housing, reflecting on costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Austin | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Traditional Texan | Contemporary and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Energy-efficient, Spacious backyards | Views, Green spaces |
In comparing Austin and Seattle, it's evident that both cities offer unique living experiences influenced by their geography and culture. Austin's real estate market is bursting with modern and traditional Texan homes, catering to a preference for spacious, energy-efficient designs. Seattle, on the other hand, is known for its contemporary and craftsman-style homes, many of which boast stunning views and green spaces, a nod to the city's rich natural landscapes. Cost-wise, Seattle demands a higher price for both buying and renting, reflective of its robust urban lifestyle and amenities. However, Austin is catching up, with its growing popularity and economic opportunities. Both cities score well on walkability and bikeability, promoting a healthier, eco-friendly lifestyle. Austin and Seattle cater to those seeking an active urban lifestyle, but with their distinct charms and challenges.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Austin vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires adaptation, especially when the climates differ significantly. This comparison is designed to help you understand how the weather in Austin, TX compares with Seattle, WA. Let's dive into the specifics so you can prepare for your new environment.
Austin, TX
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Austin, TX
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Austin | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Austin to Seattle, one of the most noticeable differences will be the decrease in sunshine and warmer temperatures you might be accustomed to. Seattle's cooler, more temperate climate offers mild summers and chilly winters, a stark contrast to Austin's hot summers and mild winters. The higher humidity and frequent rain in Seattle contribute to its lush, green landscapes, which can be a significant change if you're used to Austin's drier conditions. Additionally, Seattle's lower UV index means fewer sunny days but also less risk of sunburn, a small but notable difference in daily life. Prepare for more rainy days and the beautiful greenery that comes with it in Seattle.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Austin to Seattle
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living and financial climate in Austin contrasts with Seattle can unveil critical insights. This comparison sheds light on what you might expect in terms of income, taxation, and overall economic comfort, providing a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Austin | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,542 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.5 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.81% | 0.99% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Technology, Aerospace, Maritime |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While both Austin and Seattle boast dynamic economies with a heavy emphasis on the tech sector, the overall financial climate presents striking differences. For instance, Seattle's average household income sits significantly higher than Austin's, reflecting its high cost of living index. Despite both Texas and Washington having a 0% state income tax, the difference in property and sales tax indicates varying implications for homeownership and consumer expenses. Unique industry strengths—Austin in education and health services, and Seattle in aerospace and maritime—highlight diverse job opportunities. Understanding these nuances ensures you're financially prepared for your move.
Austin vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Austin, TX to Seattle, WA, understanding the community you're transitioning into is crucial. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Austin & Seattle for a smoother cultural acclimation.
| Austin | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive with a focus on environmental and social issues | Highly progressive, with strong advocacy for sustainability and social justice |
| Religion | Mixed, with a notable presence of Christian and non-religious individuals | Primarily non-religious, but diverse religious communities exist |
Both Austin and Seattle share a liberal/democratic leaning in their political makeup, making them similar in general political philosophy. However, you might find Seattle to be even more progressive, especially on matters related to environmental sustainability and social justice. Despite these similarities, the religious landscape varies slightly. Austin presents a blend of Christian and non-religious residents, reflective of its broader Texas roots. In contrast, Seattle hosts a majority of non-religious individuals alongside a myriad of diverse religious communities. Establishments such as the Seattle University cater to the spiritual and educational needs of the city's Catholic community, highlighting the city's inclusive nature despite its largely secular outlook.
Austin vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison is focused on helping you understand the differences between driving/transiting in Austin & Seattle, so you can better prepare for your daily commute.
| Comparison | Austin | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with challenges | Yes, easier than Austin |
While both cities face their unique traffic and public transit challenges, Seattle offers slightly more resources for those looking to use public transportation or live without a car. With Seattle's higher rating in public transit availability, you may find it easier to navigate the city using the King County Metro or the Sound Transit options. However, it's important to note that both cities have notable traffic congestion, with Seattle being slightly more congested according to most metrics. Understanding the intricacies of each city's transport options and planning accordingly can significantly enhance your commuting experience.
