Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

San Jose to Modesto, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Image of a moving truck
  • On the San Jose to Modesto route (about 81 miles), pricing generally falls between $1,155 and $3,367. A smaller move will cost around $108.
  • For a standard move with professional movers from San Jose to Modesto, you’ll typically see $1,155 and $3,367.*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and one–two day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
  • The mover we recommend most for San Jose to Modesto is Safeway Moving.
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Best movers from San Jose to Modesto

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.9
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.8
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
4.2
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.8
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from San Jose to Modesto

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 81-mile move from San Jose to Modesto, CA, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Mar 16, 2026. moveBuddha maintains a monthly-updated database of thousands of vetted prices from moving companies across the U.S., reflecting seasonal fluctuations and evolving market trends. Final costs depend on factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. It’s wise to request quotes from several movers for a precise estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $634 - $2,919
  • Moving Container $635 - $1,134
  • Rental Truck $98 - $141
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,155 - $3,367
  • Moving Container $844 - $1,519
  • Rental Truck $108 - $171
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,531 - $4,118
  • Moving Container $1,100 - $1,892
  • Rental Truck $121 - $181
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
San Jose, CA Waterford, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Feb 14, 2026
Mayflower Transit
Milpitas, CA Bret Harte, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Feb 12, 2026
Colonial Van Lines
Saratoga, CA Lathrop, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Jan 21, 2026
Allied Van Lines
Sunnyvale, CA Escalon, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 09, 2026
BLVD Moving
Los Gatos, CA Rouse, CA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Jan 07, 2026
Budget Truck Rental
Los Altos, CA Ripon, CA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 01, 2026
AB Moving
Stanford, CA West Modesto, CA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 01, 2026
Roadway Moving
Santa Clara, CA Hughson, CA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Dec 18, 2025
PODS
Menlo Park, CA Cowan, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 11, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
North Fair Oaks, CA Manteca, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto to San Jose guide.

Local moving companies in San Jose

Utilizing one of the 372 local moving companies in California for your San Jose to Modesto move can offer a balanced mix of convenience, expertise, and efficiency. These movers are familiar with the area, provide tailored services, and can handle everything from packing to transportation, making your move s moother and less stressful.

  1. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Southwest Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Pure Moving Company: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Trek Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
85% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves, careful teams, and upbeat attitudes define the feedback for Vector Moving and Storage, based on 71 customer submissions. A strong 84.5% of clients praised their efficient work, respectfulness, and how gently possessions were handled. Customers frequently mentioned quick process times, professional approach, and feeling highly confident in their choice, noting the staff’s courtesy and attention to property. Despite many stress-free experiences, 15.5% of feedback flagged recurring problems: broken items during transit, delays, larger-than-promised bills, and unresolved complaints were cited as major setbacks. While most moving companies struggle to match Vector’s ratio of glowing to problematic feedback, issues like damage, surprise add-ons, or timing should be weighed against their reputation for speed and professionalism.
Get a Quote (844) 468-6683

Company Info

angle down arrow
angle down arrow

State license #: 0191802

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3152229

Services Offered

angle down icon
angle down icon
  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day is made easy by Southwest Moving, with the vast majority of the 343 customer responses—over 93%—praising their efficient service and careful handling of belongings. Many people mention professional, polite crews who work quickly, wrap furniture well, and show up right on schedule. Friendly staff and clear communication are evident at each step, resulting in stress-free, pleasant moves. Yet, about 5% of feedback highlights serious problems, especially related to damage to items, unexpected fees for packing materials, or unprofessional customer service following complaints. While most customers report fast, trustworthy moves at fair prices, those few dissatisfied clients cite unresolved claims, insurance issues, or feeling misled by pricing. Unlike most moving companies, Southwest attracts consistently positive input for its reliability and friendly approach, though complaints about damaged goods and responses to claims indicate room for improvement. For those wanting efficient staff and careful, friendly service, Southwest stands out, but it’s important to confirm all charges and expectations beforehand.
Get a Quote (408) 412-3269

Company Info

angle down arrow
angle down arrow

State license #: 0191389

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 1922488

Services Offered

angle down icon
angle down icon
  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
100% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Pure Moving Company earns rave feedback for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling. Out of 209 reviews, 99.5% praise staff for quick processes, respectful care of items, effective communication, and top-notch attitude. Customers highlight friendliness, reliability, and meticulous packing—often noting stress-free moves, even under challenging circumstances. Only one review stands out for its dissatisfaction, citing excessive duration, a rushed finish, higher costs, and misplaced items. Compared to many movers, Pure Moving Company sets itself apart with consistency, fast responses, transparent pricing, and genuinely attentive teams, making it a top choice for reliable, quality moving services.
Get a Quote (888) 572-4486

Company Info

angle down arrow
angle down arrow

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Pros Movers , Pure Movers

Services Offered

angle down icon
angle down icon
  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word of mouth meets reliability at All Reasons Moving & Storage. Out of 306 customer inputs, 90.5% were favorable, underscoring exceptional service. Clients repeatedly cite the team's professionalism, careful handling, quick and efficient moves, positive staff attitudes, and reliable communication as stand-out features. Customers appreciate on-time arrivals, accuracy in cost estimates, and meticulous treatment of their property—qualities that set the company above most competitors. Negative feedback accounts for 8.2% of responses, mainly describing damaged items, surprise fees, or rare poor staff interactions. Most concerns focus on breakage during moves or storage and disputes about extra charges. Neutral comments, at 1.3%, describe higher-than-expected costs or minor miscommunication but rarely mention major setbacks. All Reasons earns strong trust for its emphasis on permanent, well-trained crews rather than temporary day labor—a rare trait. Compared to typical moving companies, customer input shows they provide a notably stress-free moving experience.
Get a Quote (408) 240-0244

Company Info

angle down arrow
angle down arrow

State license #: 0189789

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 70719

Alternate Names: All Reasons Moving and Storage

Services Offered

angle down icon
angle down icon
  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (800) 298-0044

Company Info

angle down arrow
angle down arrow

State license #: 0191956

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3256910

Alternate Names: Trek Solutions LLC , Trek Movers Inc

Services Offered

angle down icon
angle down icon
  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from San Jose to Modesto

See the table below for typical moving costs from San Jose to Modesto. Prices are broken out by home size and moving service so you can compare options at a glance.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $575 - $2,527 $448 - $1,092 $96 - $139
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,155 - $3,367 $844 - $1,519 $108 - $171
4+ bedrooms $1,531 - $4,118 $1,100 - $1,892 $121 - $181
*These cost ranges are estimates for a 81-mile move from San Jose to Modesto, using pricing compiled by moveBuddha as of Mar 16, 2026. We source thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to account for seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your price can vary with volume, selected services, parking/access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to dial in precise pricing.

Cost to hire movers from San Jose to Modesto

Moving a studio or one-bedroom from San Jose to Modesto typically costs from $575 to $2,527. A two- to three-bedroom relocation from San Jose to Modesto is commonly priced between $1,155 and $3,367. For larger households moving from San Jose to Modesto, expect $1,531 to $4,118.

Cost of moving containers from San Jose to Modesto

Using containers to move from San Jose to Modesto? Plan on $448–$1,092 for a smaller load, $844–$1,519 for a two- or three-bedroom home, and $1,100–$1,892 for four bedrooms or more. Learn more about PODS cost.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your California move easier and more affordable.

Cost of renting a moving truck from San Jose to Modesto

A moving rental truck from San Jose to Modesto is usually the most affordable route, but you’ll handle all the driving and heavy lifting yourself.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $96 to $139. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $108 to $171, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Jose to Modesto costs around $121 to $181.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from San Jose to Modesto

Cost of living: San Jose vs. Modesto

When weighing the cost of living in San Jose versus Modesto, there's more to consider than just housing costs. Let’s dive into important financial factors like rent, home prices, average income, daily expenses, and job market trends, so you can see how life in Modesto really compares to San Jose.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Jose Modesto
Average rent cost $3,095 $1,800
Average home cost $1,453,657 $442,362
Average income (per capita) $83,421 $67,011
Cost of living (single person) $3,674 $2,312
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,354 $5,946
Unemployment rate 6.6% 8.0%
Average Sales Tax 9.38% 8.88%
  • Rent in Modesto is around 42% less expensive than in San Jose, leaving you with extra cash for saving, investing, or having fun.
  • Home prices in Modesto are 70% lower than in San Jose. That means you’ll have an easier time getting into the housing market, scoring a more affordable mortgage, and having extra cash left over for what matters most.
  • Income in Modesto is 20% lower than in San Jose, so you might face tighter budget constraints, especially if local wages don’t keep pace with living costs.
  • Living in Modesto is 37% cheaper for one person compared to San Jose. That means more money left in your pocket—to save, spend, or invest however you like.
  • If you’re moving to Modesto, you’ll find that the cost of living is 29% lower than in San Jose. That means your family can save money and potentially enjoy a better quality of life after the move.
  • Unemployment in Modesto is 21% higher than in San Jose. This means landing a job could be tougher and job security less certain—especially if you're making the move without a job already secured.
  • Sales taxes are the same in Modesto and San Jose, meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.

To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in San Jose, you’d need about $1,890 in Modesto.

How life is different in San Jose vs. Modesto

Before you move, take a look at how life compares in San Jose and Modesto. From weather and population to cost of living, politics, and safety, these factors can all impact your daily life. Use this side-by-side comparison to find out which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.

San Jose Modesto
Population 971,233 218,464
Political leaning Democratic 73-25 Democratic 49.8-48.3
Summer high 82ºF 94ºF
Winter low 42ºF 39ºF
Annual rain 17" 13"
Annual snow 0" 0"
Crime index 47.73 65.76
  • The population of Modesto is approximately 78% lower than the population of San Jose. Moving to a smaller city usually means more peace, space, and affordability, but also fewer big-city conveniences.
  • In the most recent presidential race, both San Jose and Modesto leaned Democratic.
  • Modesto regularly records highs near 94°F, compared to San Jose at 82°F. Relocating here means more intense summers and greater focus on cooling and comfort.
  • In the coldest months, both San Jose and Modesto face similar winter lows—San Jose drops to 42°F, while Modesto falls to 39°F.
  • Both San Jose and Modesto receive similar amounts of rain annually—San Jose gets about 17 inches, while Modesto sees around 13 inches each year.
  • Both San Jose and Modesto receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • Modesto reports a higher crime index than San Jose, with scores of 65.76 and 47.73, respectively.

Things to do in Modesto

Looking for adventure, vibrant culture, or exciting live sports? San Jose has it all.

Museums in Modesto

  • Great Valley Museum
  • McHenry Museum
  • Mistlin Gallery

Parks in Modesto

  • Tuolumne River Trail

Sports teams in Modesto

  • Modesto Nuts (California League)

Universities in Modesto

  • Modesto Junior College
  • Community Business College

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from San Jose to Modesto?

If you’re planning to hire a moving company to get your belongings from San Jose to Modesto, here’s what you can expect: Moving just a few items or a small bedroom typically costs between $575 and $2,527. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices generally range from $1,155 up to $3,367. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay anywhere from $1,531 to $4,118 for the whole move.

How much are moving container companies from San Jose to Modesto?

Moving containers from San Jose to Modesto will cost you $448 to $1,092 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $844 to $1,519. A larger home will cost $1,100 to $1,892.

How much is a moving truck from San Jose to Modesto?

If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is typically your most budget-friendly choice. Just keep in mind, you’ll be handling all the driving and heavy lifting yourself. We’ve factored estimated fuel costs into these price estimates, so you know what to expect.

Renting a truck to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $96 to $139. If you’re moving a bigger place, expect to pay between $108 and $171. For a four-bedroom home or larger going from San Jose to Modesto, costs usually fall between $121 and $181.

How far in advance should I book San Jose-to-Modesto movers?

To make your move from San Jose to Modesto as easy as possible, try locking in your movers at least two months ahead of time. If you’re planning to move during the busy summer season, aim for three months in advance. Booking early gives you a better shot at your ideal moving date and can land you better rates. Some companies even offer early-bird discounts when you reserve ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Modesto?

For the best deals on your move to Modesto, aim for a date between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush not only saves you money, but also helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.

triangle triangle