Tempe, AZ to Modesto, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Tempe to Modesto typically costs $2,400–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 691 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Tempe to Modesto
Moving from Tempe, AZ to Modesto, CA typically costs $2,400–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 691-mile move from Tempe to Modesto, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $697 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a rental truck.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $3,290 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $5,036 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 11, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 07, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 06, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 25, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 23, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 18, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 09, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Tempe to Modesto move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,800 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,900 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Tempe.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $600 to $1,500, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA to Tempe, AZ guide.
Best Tempe to Modesto movers by type
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Tempe to Modesto
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Tempe to Modesto much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best AZ→CA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 99 Arizona movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Tempe to Modesto
Many movers find Modesto easier on the wallet than Tempe - roughly 57% less for singles and 13% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,312 for one person in Modesto versus $5,433 in Tempe. For a family of four, it's $5,946 compared with $6,810.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Tempe | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $471,494 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,080 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,433 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,810 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.1% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 13.3% |
- Moving to Modesto from Tempe won't change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 6% more affordable in Modesto compared to Tempe.
- In terms of average income, Modesto and Tempe are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Modesto, as the cost of living for a single person is 57% lower compared to Tempe.
- A move to Modesto can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 13% less than what it costs in Tempe.
- Modesto shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Tempe by around 48%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Modesto are 10% more than in Tempe, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in California are 432% above those in Arizona. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Tempe and Modesto:
| Living Expense | Tempe | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $256.54 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $70.53 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.75 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.17 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tempe than in Modesto.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tempe than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Tempe than in Modesto.
- Bread is more expensive in Tempe than in Modesto.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Tempe than in Modesto.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tempe than in Modesto.
How life is different in Tempe vs. Modesto
| Tempe | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 180,587 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 54 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 75 | 48 |
| Crime index | 42.36 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 57.64 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto's population is about 21% greater than Tempe.
- Modesto's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Tempe's score of 8.
- Modesto is less walkable than Tempe with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Tempe's 54 out of 100.
- Modesto has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Tempe, which has a score of 75.
- Modesto's crime rate is higher than Tempe with a score of 65.76 compared to Tempe's 42.36. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36%.
- Modesto is considered to be less safe than Tempe with a score of 34.24 vs Tempe's 57.64.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Tempe it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Tempe to Modesto move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Modesto. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Modesto
Planning your move to City of Great Neighbors? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Modesto.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Modesto
- College Area
- McHenry Village
- Northwest Modesto
- Airport
Best neighborhoods for families
- Del Rio
- Dutch Hollow
- La Loma
- Village One
- Sherwood Forest
Things to do in Modesto
After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Modesto has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Modesto features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Tuolumne River Trail — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tempe to Modesto?
Planning your move from Tempe to Modesto? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Tempe.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tempe to Modesto?
Because most people are moving from Tempe to Modesto in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Tempe to Modesto take?
The 691-mile journey from Tempe, AZ to Modesto, CA, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Tempe offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Modesto.
Are there special savings available from movers in Tempe?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 2 have discounts for military personnel. 5 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Tempe?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Tempe, 54 movers can manage piano relocations. 37 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Arizona has 73 piano movers and 49 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
