Best Houston to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Houston to Seattle Movers

Moving from the energy capital of the world, Houston, to the Emerald City, Seattle, marks an exciting chapter in your life, full of new adventures and opportunities. While you're swapping the Texan sun for the Pacific Northwest's rain, and BBQ for coffee and fresh seafood, remember that the success of such a long journey heavily relies on the movers you choose. That's why we dedicate ourselves to helping you select trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth as the Puget Sound's serene waters.

Texas iconArrow iconWashington icon

Best Houston to Seattle Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Pinpoint Movers8.76A+Authorized For HHGContact
Right Rate Movers of Houston8.68NRActiveContact
Go Movers8.52NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Houston guide.

5 Best Houston to Seattle Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,571+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
1
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Pinpoint Movers Logo
Superb8.76/10
based on 2,347+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3070055 / 944442

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Right Rate Movers of Houston Logo
Fabulous8.68/10
based on 3,973+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2200927 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Go Movers Logo
Fabulous8.52/10
based on 401+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3790949 / 1365663

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting. This comparison will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in one city with the closest similar neighborhood in the other city to make your transition smoother. Use this guide to find the most analogous areas between Houston, TX & Seattle, WA.

HoustonSeattleHow They're Similar
MontroseCapitol HillVibrant arts scene, eclectic bars
River OaksMadison ParkUpscale, historic homes, affluent residents
The HeightsBallardVintage homes, trendy shops and eateries
West University PlaceQueen AnneNear universities, upscale, family-friendly
MidtownBelltownBustling nightlife, young professionals
Downtown HoustonDowntown SeattleMajor business district, high-rise living
GalleriaSouth Lake UnionShopping centers, tech corridor
MemorialMagnoliaFamily-centric, lush parks
Energy CorridorInterbayBusiness hubs, modern living
UptownFirst HillHigh-rise apartments, medical centers

If you love the vibrant arts scene and eclectic bars of Montrose, you'll feel right at home in Seattle's Capitol Hill, which boasts venues like Neumos and a bustling nightlife. For those who enjoy the upscale and historic homes of River Oaks, Madison Park offers a similar atmosphere with lakeside parks like Madison Park Beach. The Heights in Houston, known for its vintage homes and trendy eateries like Lowbrow, finds its Seattle counterpart in Ballard, where you can explore quirky shops and dine at popular spots like San Fermin. If Midtown's bustling nightlife attracts you, Belltown offers a similar vibe, complete with the music venue Earshot Jazz and various lounges. Exploring these neighborhoods will make your move to Seattle feel seamless and familiar.

Things To Do background image

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 Houston to Seattle

Moving from one city to another can be a significant life change, with positives and negatives on each side. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Houston, TX to Seattle, WA. By examining these aspects side-by-side, you can better gauge whether this move aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • High humidity
  • More affordable
  • Less public transit
  • Hotter summers
  • More conservative
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Less humidity
  • Higher cost of living
  • Better public transit
  • Milder summers
  • More progressive
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher living expenses
  • More traffic congestion
  • Less sunshine
  • Smaller food variety
  • Higher taxes
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Lower cost of living
  • Better for driving
  • More sun
  • Diverse food scene
  • No state income tax

Relocating from Houston to Seattle means embracing a whole new lifestyle. Seattle offers a bounty of outdoor opportunities, like hiking in the Mount Rainier National Park or enjoying the waterfront views at Alki Beach Park. The city's food scene, though less diverse, includes gems like the renowned Pike Place Chowder and the bustling Pike Place Market, where fresh, local produce and artisanal goods meet. On the other hand, Houston’s affordability and vibrant dining scene from barbecue to international cuisines will be missed. Each city has its unique charm and challenges, and adapting will be key to making the most of what both have to offer.

Houston vs. Seattle Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & Seattle, spotlighting how crucial food is to understanding local culture and lifestyle. This analysis aims to provide insights for those relocating, ensuring a smooth cultural transition focused around one of life’s greatest pleasures: food.

HoustonSeattle
Most iconic local food itemTexas BBQ BrisketPacific Northwest Salmon
Most popular meat dishFajitasTeriyaki
Most popular street food itemTacosPiroshky
Most popular vegan foodVegan Tex-MexVegan Sushi
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Matt's in the Market
  • Rover's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Houston, the culinary scene is robust and diverse, with an unbeatable selection of Tex-Mex and BBQ to explore. Neighborhoods like Montrose and The Heights are hotspots for food trucks and vibrant culinary experiences. Moving to Seattle, you’ll find a different vibe centered around seafood and innovative vegan options. The Pike Place Market area, in particular, is a haven for foodies, offering everything from traditional Pacific Northwest Salmon at restaurants like Canlis, to global fares such as Teriyaki and Piroshky. Both cities have highly active food scenes, but Seattle leans more towards health and sustainability, evident in its higher ratings for fitness/health conscientiousness and vegan-friendliness.

Houston vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Finding your new favorite restaurant is crucial for feeling at home in a new city. This comparison between Houston and Seattle restaurants aims to help you discover places where the flavors and ambiance remind you of home. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide will point you in the right direction.

HoustonSeattleWhat You'll Love
UchiSushi Kappo TamuraRenowned for innovative sushi and a commitment to sustainable dining, similar to Uchi's approach.
The Breakfast KlubToulouse PetitOffers a memorable breakfast experience with Creole-inspired dishes, echoing The Breakfast Klub's unique breakfast options.
Hugo'sFonda La CatrinaAuthentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on traditional techniques and ingredients, much like Hugo's.
Pappadeaux Seafood KitchenElliott's Oyster HouseBoth are iconic for their seafood offerings, with Elliott's especially known for its oysters and waterfront dining.
Killen's BBQJack's BBQTexas-style barbecue right in Seattle, offering a taste of home for those missing Killen's legendary smoked meats.
Brennan's of HoustonCanlisThough more known for its fine dining, Canlis shares Brennan's commitment to exceptional service and a high-quality dining experience.
CucharaMezcaleria OaxacaBoth spots provide a deep dive into Mexican cuisine with a focus on regional specialties and mezcal collections.
Mala Sichuan BistroChengdu TasteDelivers the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine that fans of Mala Sichuan Bistro would appreciate, renowned for their authenticity.
Niko Niko'sPlaka EstiatorioA vibrant Greek taverna experience, offering a slice of Mediterranean life akin to the casual, family-friendly vibe at Niko Niko's.
El Tiempo CantinaBarrioCombining upscale dining with the relaxed atmosphere of a Mexican cantina, similar to El Tiempo's approach.

Food enthusiasts making the move from Houston to Seattle will find comfort in the knowledge that there are establishments in Seattle that reflect the culinary diversity and quality of Houston's dining scene. Sushi Kappo Tamura and Uchi both emphasize innovative sushi with a sustainable approach, while the transition from The Breakfast Klub to Toulouse Petit will satisfy your craving for unique and flavor-rich breakfasts. BBQ lovers will feel right at home at Jack's BBQ, thanks to their Texas-style barbecue that mirrors the revered taste of Killen's BBQ. Each comparison has been carefully selected to ensure you can continue to enjoy the meals you love with a local twist, making Seattle feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Houston vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, making it crucial to compare how Houston and Seattle fare in this aspect. This comparison will help you understand the differences in housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle between these two cities.

ComparisonHoustonSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleRanch-styleModern and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, private poolsEco-friendly features, proximity to tech hubs

While Houston offers more affordable living with spacious properties featuring ranch-style homes and private amenities, Seattle stands out for its vibrant urban lifestyle and eco-friendly infrastructure. Seattle's higher cost of living is reflected in its modern and Craftsman-style homes that often come with eco-friendly features and are situated closer to major tech hubs. The city's commitment to walkability and bikeability further highlights its appeal to those seeking a dynamic urban environment. Whether you prioritize the affordability and space of Houston or the eco-conscious, bustling life in Seattle, your choice will significantly influence your lifestyle and daily routines.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Houston vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires a deep dive into many aspects, and understanding the weather comparison between Houston and Seattle stands paramount. This guide aims to shed light on the drastic weather differences you can expect, helping you prepare for your new home environment.

Summer icon
94°F / 75°F

Houston, TX

76°F / 57°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62°F / 43°F

Houston, TX

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50

Houston, TX

38

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.1

Houston, TX

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonHoustonSeattle
Air QualityModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodingEarthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Transitioning from Houston to Seattle, you'll notice significant changes beyond just the temperature. Though Houston boasts more sunny days, Seattle's milder summer temperatures offer a refreshing change. The higher annual rainfall in Houston might surprise you, but remember, Seattle's reputation for rain comes from its frequent drizzle, not the volume. Moreover, each city has its challenges with natural disasters, from hurricanes in Houston to earthquakes in Seattle. Preparing for these differences ensures a smoother adjustment to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in your new locale compares to your current situation. This guide aims to contrast key money and finance metrics between Houston and Seattle, assisting you in making an informed decision for your relocation.

ComparisonHoustonSeattle
Avg. Household Income$55,499$110,781
Cost of Living Index92.2121.4
State Income Tax0%0%
Avg. Property Tax2.09%0.99%
Avg. Sales Tax8.25%10.1%
Top 3 IndustriesEnergy, Manufacturing, AeronauticsTechnology, Aerospace, Maritime
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessSignificantSignificant

While both Houston and Seattle boast dynamic economies, the financial implications of living in each city are strikingly distinct. Houston offers a more affordable cost of living with no state income tax, similar to Seattle. However, Seattle's higher average household income and pricier lifestyle reflect its affluence and booming tech-driven economy, contrasting with Houston's energy and manufacturing base. The considerable homelessness rates in both cities highlight a shared urban challenge, underscoring the complexity of economic prosperity and its uneven distribution. Seattle's lower property tax rate, coupled with its significantly higher cost of living index, illustrates the premium paid for living in a city with rich natural beauty and a robust job market in tech and aerospace industries.

Houston vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Houston, TX to Seattle, WA, it's insightful to glance at the political and religious landscape of these cities. This comparison aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you grasp the social atmosphere you're moving into.

HoustonSeattle
Political Make-upModerate to liberal, with a leaning towards Democratic candidates in recent electionsLiberal, strongly leaning towards Democratic candidates
Local PoliticsDiverse with active participation in both local and national issuesHighly engaged in environmental and progressive social issues
ReligionDiverse religious landscape with a significant Christian population. Notable presence of The Founding Church and other establishments.Less religiously affiliated, known for its secular views. Significant Buddhist and non-religious communities.

The shifting from Houston's moderate to liberal tendencies to Seattle's distinctly liberal leanings reflects a notable change in the political atmosphere you may experience. While both cities demonstrate a passion for civic engagement, Seattle's community shows an overwhelming support for progressive social issues and environmental sustainability, distinguishing it from Houston's varied political landscape. The religious aspect also marks a significant shift; moving from Houston's more traditional and diverse religious atmosphere to Seattle's more secular and progressive community offers a glimpse into the cultural differences between these two dynamic cities. Understanding these nuances will help ease your transition and allow you to better integrate into your new community.

Houston vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Houston, TX to Seattle, WA, it is essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic to navigate your new city efficiently. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston & Seattle will provide a clear picture of what to expect.

ComparisonHoustonSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)26.527.7
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultEasier

Though average commute times in Houston and Seattle are comparable, the experiences differ significantly. Houston's reliance on vehicles is evident with public transit scoring low, meaning navigating without a car can be challenging. In contrast, Seattle offers more robust public transit systems, including buses, light rail, and ferries, making it easier to live without a vehicle. Traffic congestion in Seattle is also notably less intense compared to Houston, a factor that can contribute to a more manageable daily commute.

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