This article is written to help make moving to Houston and feeling like a local second nature. We love helping families find their new home and get there stress-free.
We give you a local guide with top tips on great eateries, tips before leaving your old home, and tips to settle into the Houston lifestyle. As well we describe the different areas of Houston.
Moving To Houston Is All The Rage, but Let's Prepare
Moving to Houston sounds like a perfect adventure for anyone of any age. Before we delve into our Texan favorites, let’s review the basics so you can get moving!
1. Plan Ahead
Create a personalized and realistic moving timeline that includes when to book affordable movers on Pricing Van Lines, when to start and, more importantly, when to finish packing, and when to notify utilities and services.
2. Research Movers
Look for reputable moving companies. Read reviews, get quotes, and check their licenses and insurance. Pricing Van Lines simplifies this part for you! You want Houston local movers that know all the backroads and will get your there as quickly and stress free as possible.
3. Declutter ASAP
Now is the time to start, trust me. Before you begin to pack, sort through your belongings. Donate or sell items you no longer need to lighten your load and make the move cost less.
Think about the Houston weather to ensure you are packing relevant clothing and items. You can probably let go of that NY winter coat and donate it to someone who needs it more than you will.
4. Pack Like a Pro
Use good boxes and label everything. Pack up your “moving day essentials” bag with items you’ll need immediately, like sheets, a water bottle, important documents, and more.
5. Utilities
To avoid interruptions or inconveniences, arrange for utility services (electricity, water, internet) to be disconnected at your old location and set up in advance at your new home.
6. Change of Address:
Update your address with the post office and tell your bank. Make sure you do this before changing utlities and trying to add them to your name to avoid confusion.
7. Explore
Spend time visiting different areas to get a feel for what you like before settling in. Read on to understand our top spots all around Houston. Find your favoirte ice cream palour and your new homestead cafe so really feel at home.
Local Houston Spots
Get excited for your new Houston top spots. Here are a few of our favorites. Let us know your new spots once you are all settled in!
1. Fav Foods
- Tex-Mex: Try Ninfa’s on Navigation or Chuy’s for simply the best fajitas and enchiladas. As a Mexican speaking, you know you can trust my palette.
- Barbecue: Visit The Brisket House or BBQ Inn for some of the best smoked meats. Get the smoked turkey sandwich for a great meal.
- Seafood: My personal favorite is Pappadeaux’s for fresh seafood. The crab is to die for!
2. Cultural Attractions
- Museum District: Check out the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts. There is a full area that you can enjoy museum hopping at!
- Theatre Area: Catch a show at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts or the Alley Theatre. Have a cultural night on the town.
3. Outdoor Fun
- Buffalo Bayou Park: Perfect for biking, running, or simply just enjoying beautiful views of the skyline.
- Hermann Park: Home to the Houston Zoo, golf course, and beautiful gardens. A perfect spot for a family outing.
4. Shopping
- The Galleria: A massive shopping center with high-end retailers and dining options. Many of the shops here are high end and more expensive than Rice Village area.
- Rice Village: A trendy area with boutiques, cafes, and bars. This is a great spot for the younger crowd.
Neighborhoods Overview
Before you plan your move the most important thing to understand is where you are going. Houston is extremely diverse and each area brings with it it’s own charm. Here are a few local favorites categorized by vibes.
1. Montrose
Known for its artsy vibe, specialty shops, and vibrant nightlife. Great for young professionals and creatives. Many students right out of college decide to begin their professional careers in Houston while iving and enjoying Montrose.
2. The Heights
A historic neighborhood with many bungalows, parks, and a strong sense of community. Ideal for families making their first move to TX.
3. Downtown
The city’s heart with skyscrapers, businesses, and cultural attractions. Perfect for those who love city life and cafe hopping. Many would agree with me when I say that Houston is a very cool city.
4. Katy
A suburb, known for its excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere. Offers a quieter lifestyle with great amenities and schools.
5. West University (West U)
An affluent neighborhood with beautiful homes and parks. Great for families looking for a suburban feel close to the city for that office commute.
6. Galleria/Uptown
A busy area with shopping, dining, and offices. Popular among young professionals and those who enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Uptown has many restuarant options as well as nightlife venues.
Tips for Getting Settled In
- Groups are Your Friend: Consider joining community groups or signing up for gyms or sports classes that will help you to meet other locals.
- Explore the City: Take the time to explore Houston’s great neighborhoods, parks, and cultural events. Take a walk with your dog in different areas of the city to get a feel for where you love.
- Get Involved: Look for volunteer opportunities or local events to make new friends.
- Unpack ASAP: Unpacking your goods from your old home and getting physically set up in your new house will be a game changer for your overall feeling of being at home.
Conclusion
Moving to Houstonis an exciting adventure! With some planning, you’ll find a wonderful and inviting city full of opportunities, culture, and community. Get unpacked, get settled, and head out to the streets of Houston to learn where your new favorite spots are located. Enjoy your new Texan home!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I waste less plastic when moving to keep it sustainable?
Moving tends to require lots of tape, cartons, and bubble wrap, but this doesn’t have to be an environmental nightmare. Where you can, replace bubble wrap with towels and sheets.
Replace tape with ties (but not too much), and see how you can repurpose all these items later on. If you wrap things in your mom’s towels, that’s one less towel you will have to buy for your new place!
How can I make my kids feel at home in the new place?
Get them back to routine as quickly as possible, have them back in after-school activities and meet the friends they love. Try to involve them in the moving process so they too, can feel a sense of accomplishment and can learn to enjoy the changes. Have them help pack up and unpack their new rooms within the first days so they can get excited.
How do I help my cats acclimate to the change in homes?
Cats pick up on our energy more than you would think. If you are stressed, you are likely to stress out your furry friend. Try and make the experience fun for them with lots of comfy spaces and treats.
Associate the move with positive things your pet loves to make the day less hard for them. Ensure to set up their home base as soon as you get into the new home so they can feel they have their corner with food, water, and their bed.
Why would using a packing service be needed?
Professional packers will work at Lightspeed to pack all your items safely and in record time. While you might get stuck sorting through old things, they will have your entire home packed up and bubble-wrapped in no time.
If you are in a rush, stuck at work, have young kids, or are elderly, this option should be seriously considered. It is also a way to thank yourself for all the hard work you put into moving.
What is the worst thing that can happen during a move?
As stated in our red flags, the worst thing would be your mover quitting on you the morning of your move. It happens all the time in the industry. Booking a scammer is the worst thing that can happen.
They can take a huge deposit up front and then just never show up or give a lame excuse and not answer your calls. This can be avoided by only booking a tried and trusted moving vendor from our marketplace and ignoring all the scammers online.
