Best Tacoma to Austin Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Tacoma to Austin Movers

Moving from the misty shores of Tacoma, WA to the vibrant, sun-drenched streets of Austin, TX is an adventure brimming with promise and excitement. You're leaving behind the "City of Destiny" with its lush landscapes and serene bay for "The Live Music Capital of the World," a place teeming with cultural flair and innovative spirit. Recognizing the magnitude of this long-distance move, it's crucial to enlist trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers, vetted through an unbiased ranking algorithm, so you can embark on your new chapter with peace of mind.

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Best Tacoma to Austin Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
MoverTron Moving9.45NRAuthorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Heavenly Moving and Storage9.30A+Authorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.26A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Tacoma guide.

5 Best Tacoma to Austin Moving Companies

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

MoverTron Moving Logo
Exceptional9.45/10
based on 297+ data points

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/7/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4135479 / 1584479

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
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 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
Heavenly Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.30/10
based on 4,606+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Full-service packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3429695 / 1110864

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,542+ data points

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
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 12/17/2024)

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
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.

Tacoma vs. Austin Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not sure where to start looking for a new neighborhood to call home. To help you transition more smoothly, this guide aims to compare local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Austin, TX, highlighting similarities in their vibes, amenities, and cultures. By offering a side-by-side comparison, we aim to help you find a new neighborhood in Austin that feels like home.

TacomaAustinHow They're Similar
Proctor DistrictHyde ParkHistoric homes, local businesses
Stadium DistrictTravis HeightsGorgeous older homes, scenic walkways
North EndCrestviewFamily-friendly, community vibe
Old TownClarksvilleHistoric charm, trendy restaurants
HilltopEast AustinVibrant nightlife, diverse dining
6th AvenueSouth CongressEclectic shopping, vibrant music scene
South TacomaSouth ManchacaAffordable, casual lifestyle
Lincoln DistrictNorth LoopEclectic eateries, vintage shops
Point RustonRainey Street Historic DistrictWaterfront dining, upscale condos
RustonBarton HillsGreen spaces, outdoor activities

If you're moving from the Proctor District in Tacoma, you'll find a similar sense of community and historic charm in Austin's Hyde Park, known for its local businesses like the quaint Hyde Park Theatre. For those who loved the vibrant lifestyle of Hilltop, East Austin offers an eclectic mix of nightlife options and cultural diversity, with popular spots like Lazarus Brewing Co. for craft beer enthusiasts. Fans of waterfront dining in Point Ruston will be delighted by Rainey Street Historic District's unique blend of upscale condos and eateries, such as Emmer & Rye, providing a perfect backdrop for evening outings. Each Austin neighborhood embodies a unique part of the city's spirit, catering to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Austin

Moving from Tacoma, WA to Austin, TX is an exciting venture that requires consideration of both sides of the coin. This comparison aims to shine an honest light on the attributes of relocating, presenting a balanced view of the advantages and challenges that come with such a significant change. By examining the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Less sunny days
  • Higher rainfall
  • Smaller job market
  • Less vibrant nightlife
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • More sunny days
  • Milder winters
  • Larger tech industry
  • Vibrant music scene
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Hotter summers
  • Less greenery
  • Busier city life
  • Pricier real estate
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Beautiful parks
  • Rich marine life
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Diverse culture

When moving from Tacoma to Austin, you exchange the lush, rainy ambiance of the Pacific Northwest for Austin's sunny skies and vibrant urban culture. Austin's acclaimed music scene, highlighted by events such as South by Southwest (SXSW), offers a stark contrast to Tacoma's more laid-back lifestyle. Although Austin's summers can be swelteringly hot, the city's outdoor culture thrives with numerous parks and lakes such as Zilker Metropolitan Park, presenting opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, and enjoying the Texas sun. The tech boom has also invigorated Austin's job market, drawing in a diverse crowd and fostering a booming restaurant and nightlife scene, encapsulated by bustling districts like Rainey Street. Despite the higher cost of living, many find the trade-offs well worth the unique experiences Austin has to offer.

Tacoma vs. Austin Food Guide

Understanding food is essential in grasping the essence of local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Tacoma & Austin to help you get a taste of what your new home has to offer.

TacomaAustin
Most iconic local food itemDungeness CrabBrisket
Most popular meat dishSalmonBBQ Ribs
Most popular street food itemFish TacosTacos
Most popular vegan foodVeggie PhoBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Duke's Chowder House
  • Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
  • WildFin American Grill
  • Franklin Barbecue
  • Launderette
  • Uchi
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In relocating from Tacoma to Austin, you'll dive into a vibrant world where brisket reigns supreme and food trucks are a staple in the culinary landscape. Austin's BBQ scene is iconic, with neighborhoods like South Congress and East Austin housing legendary spots such as Franklin Barbecue. Meanwhile, the city's love for tacos, from breakfast varieties to late-night bites, showcases its rich Mexican influence. Austin's dedication to a health-conscious lifestyle also means an abundance of vegan options, including innovative BBQ jackfruit dishes, ensuring that there's something delightful for every palate.

Tacoma vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison

When you're moving across states, finding your new favorite spot to dine can be just as important as unpacking your last box. This guide offers a restaurant comparison that serves to make Austin feel more like home, using your Tacoma favorites as a stepping stone. This restaurant comparison makes moving from Tacoma to Austin a flavorful journey, helping you discover your go-to eateries in no time.

TacomaAustinWhat You'll Love
Indochine Asian Dining LoungeWu ChowAuthentic Asian dishes with a modern twist.
The TableOlamaieSouthern cuisine with a contemporary approach.
Over the Moon CafeJustine's BrasserieEuropean inspired fare in a romantic setting.
Engine House No. 9Pinthouse PizzaCraft beers and pizzas in a laid-back environment.
WildFin American GrillPerla'sSeafood-centric dishes with a relaxed atmosphere.
Cook's TavernEasy TigerCasual eatery that combines bakery, beer garden, and quality eats.
Marzano Italian RestaurantItalicRustic Italian kitchen offering farm-to-table meals.
MOSAICLoroAsian smokehouse and bar, blending Asian and Texan flavors.
Doyle's Public HouseBangers Sausage House & Beer GardenA wide selection of sausages and extensive beer options.
Metronome CoffeeRadio Coffee & BeerCozy spot for coffee aficionados and night owls alike.

As you transition from Tacoma to Austin, you'll discover a rich tapestry of flavors awaiting. For instance, Wu Chow in Austin offers a memorable dining experience akin to what Indochine Asian Dining Lounge provides in Tacoma, with both places known for their innovative Asian cuisine. Justine's Brasserie in Austin mirrors the romantic and European-inspired ambiance of Over the Moon Cafe, perfect for those intimate evenings out. For a more casual setting that doesn't compromise on taste, Easy Tiger is Austin's answer to Cook's Tavern, where the combination of freshly baked goods, satisfying meals, and an excellent selection of beers creates a welcoming space for any time of day. Exploring these restaurants will not only satiate your cravings but also help stitch together the fabric of your new life in Austin with each flavorful bite.

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Ready to start your move?

Tacoma vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is crucial when relocating, especially when considering a move between cities with distinct vibes and amenities. Understanding how Tacoma, WA, and Austin, TX compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can help streamline your decision. Here's a closer look at the two cities.

ComparisonTacomaAustin
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsmanModern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWater viewsEnergy efficiency

When weighing your options between Tacoma and Austin, consider the lifestyle each city promotes. Austin's higher median home price reflects its booming real estate market and tech industry, making it a sought-after destination for professionals. Conversely, Tacoma provides a more affordable housing market, with Craftsman-style homes adding to the city's historic charm. Austin boasts a stronger urban lifestyle score, attributed to its vibrant nightlife, music scene, and outdoor activities. The city's focus on modern, energy-efficient homes aligns with its progressive, eco-conscious residents. If walkability and bikeability are important to you, Austin's higher scores indicate a more pedestrian-friendly environment, enhancing the quality of urban living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

1. Zilker: This neighborhood is a paradise for your pets, offering the sprawling Zilker Metropolitan Park and the leash-free Barkin Springs, where your furry friends can play and splash to their heart's content.

2. South Congress: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, South Congress is pet-friendly with numerous cafes and shops like Jo's Coffee that welcome pets, making it the perfect neighborhood for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry companions.

3. Travis Heights: With its close proximity to the Stacy Parks and off-leash areas, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a community that values outdoor activities and has access to pet-friendly spaces.

Tacoma vs. Austin Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Tacoma, WA to Austin, TX, understanding how the weather compares between these cities is crucial. This knowledge will help you adjust to your new environment more smoothly, ensuring that unexpected climate changes don't catch you off guard. Let's dive into how Tacoma's and Austin's climates differ .

Summer icon
75°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

95°F / 72°F

Austin, TX

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

62°F / 42°F

Austin, TX

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.5"

Tacoma, WA

34.2"

Austin, TX

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6"

Tacoma, WA

0.4"

Austin, TX

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTacomaAustin
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersVolcanoes, EarthquakesFloods, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

One of the most noticeable differences you'll encounter after moving from Tacoma to Austin is the significant change in temperature and sunshine. Austin enjoys a warmer climate year-round, with much hotter summers and mild winters compared to Tacoma. This means you're likely to spend far more time outdoors enjoying the sun in Austin. However, prepare for the heat with appropriate clothing and sun protection, especially considering Austin's higher average UV index. Additionally, while both cities face natural disasters, the types differ greatly – with Tacoma prone to volcanic activity and earthquakes, and Austin more susceptible to floods and tornadoes. Adapting to Austin’s environment may also include preparing for different allergens, particularly cedar, which is notorious in the area.

Ready to start your move?

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

When deciding to move, it's essential to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape in Tacoma compares with what you'll find in Austin. This comparison gives you a clear picture of what to expect financially as you transition from one city to the other.

ComparisonTacomaAustin
Avg. Household Income$77,141$79,542
Cost of Living Index109.595.5
State Income Tax0%0%
Avg. Property Tax1.19%1.83%
Avg. Sales Tax10.1%8.25%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Retail, ManufacturingTechnology, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNotableLower
HomelessnessConcerningModerate

Moving from Tacoma to Austin, you'll encounter differences in the financial climate. The average household income in Austin is higher, suggesting potentially higher wages but also comes with a slightly higher cost of living index, indicating that your expenses might increase slightly. However, both cities offer the benefit of having no state income tax, providing some financial relief. It's important to note the significant difference in property tax rates, with Austin having a higher percentage, which could influence your decision if you're planning to buy property. Understanding these nuances will help you make an informed decision and prepare for your move financially.

Tacoma vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison

This quick overview offers an insightful comparison of the political and religious makeup of the populations in Tacoma, WA, and Austin, TX . Whether you’re moving for work, family, or simply a change of scenery, understanding the local dynamics can help you feel more connected to your new home.

TacomaAustin
Political Make-upLiberal, with strong Democratic leaningsLiberal, known for its progressive stance within a traditionally conservative state
Local PoliticsFocuses on LGBTQ+ rights, environmental policies, and social equityEmphasizes sustainable urban development, social justice, and tech-driven economy
ReligionLess religious than the national average, diverse religious communitiesVaried, with an active Unitarian community and vibrant interfaith initiatives

In transitioning from Tacoma to Austin, you'll find yourself moving between two cities that, while both liberal, express their political and social values in distinct manners. Tacoma's commitment to environmental policies and social equity finds a counterpart in Austin's focus on sustainable urban planning and a tech-forward economy. Both cities boast diverse religious communities but engage with faith in ways that reflect their individual cultural landscapes. Austin, for instance, showcases its diversity through active interfaith initiatives and communities such as its vibrant Unitarian congregation. This nuanced understanding of each city's social and political fabric not only prepares you for the move but invites you to participate in the unique cultural dialogue of your new home.

Tacoma vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tacoma, WA to Austin, TX? It's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic between these two vibrant cities. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Austin will help you get a sense of what to expect in your new home.

ComparisonTacomaAustin
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2926
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingDifficult, especially in suburbs

In Tacoma, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Austin, indicating that although both cities face their share of traffic, Tacoma might present some additional delays. When it comes to traffic congestion, Austin scores higher, reflecting its rapid growth and the increased pressure on its roadways. While Tacoma provides a decent public transit system, rated somewhat higher than Austin's, residents in both cities find owning a car beneficial to navigate daily needs effectively. Living without a car is feasible in the denser areas of Tacoma and some parts of Austin, though it can be challenging, especially in the more suburban areas where public transit options thin out.

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