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($1,199) Cost to Move From Modesto, CA to Chicago, IL

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Estimated cost & time: For a 2,117 mile move from Modesto to Chicago, costs typically range from $1,304 to $7,646. Plan for the travel time to be around six–17 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Modesto to Chicago

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
4.5
  • 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
4.5
  • 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
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Modesto to Chicago

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Modesto to Chicago, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 12 interstate moving companies located in Modesto, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Chicago seamless and enjoyable.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Modesto to Chicago

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,117-mile move from Modesto to Chicago using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,446 – $5,594
  • Moving Container $1,619 – $3,081
  • Rental Truck $1,145 – $2,394
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,583 – $7,646
  • Moving Container $2,178 – $4,537
  • Rental Truck $1,304 – $2,877
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,335 – $11,349
  • Moving Container $2,815 – $6,131
  • Rental Truck $1,613 – $3,256
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.
BLVD Moving
Lodi, CA West Dundee, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
Roadway Moving
Manteca, CA Lansing, IL
4 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Diablo Grande, CA Prospect Heights, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Franklin, CA Bannockburn, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
American Van Lines
Tracy, CA Berkeley, IL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
United Van Lines
Taft Mosswood, CA Hoffman Estates, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 08, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Delhi, CA Willowbrook, IL
4 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
PODS
Escalon, CA Bensenville, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 27, 2025
Safeway Moving
McSwain, CA Oak Brook, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 12, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Hughson, CA Niles, IL
4 Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Modesto, CA guide.

The best local movers for Modesto to Chicago moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Modesto that also handles long-distance moves to Chicago. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 14 local movers in Modesto who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Modesto to Chicago.

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Casey Moving Systems: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Pete’s Moving Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Big Island Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Brewer Moving LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.6% of all reviews were positive
25.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving customers trust Casey Moving Systems for their organized team, respectful movers, and great communication throughout the process. The company earns high marks for professional staff, careful packing, and efficiency—traits not always common among moving companies. Many highlighted on-time moves and items arriving undamaged. Casey’s quick scheduling and fair, clear pricing set it apart from competitors known for hidden fees. On the negative side, some customers reported damaged or lost items, delays in delivery, and poor complaint resolution, especially when insurance or claims were involved. Nevertheless, most feedback praised their consistent reliability and stress-free service. Out of sixty-three reviews analyzed, nearly three-quarters were positive, showing a strong record compared to many others in the industry.
Get a Quote (209) 531-9010

Company Info

State license #: 0115405

Years in Business: 23

DOT #: 153088

Alternate Names: Casey Records Management , Dawson Van & Storage , United Van Lines

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.2% of all reviews were positive
13.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Pete’s Moving Services is celebrated by most customers for professional, courteous staff, efficient processes, and careful handling of items. 86% of the 471 customer reviews rated the experience as positive. Clients describe the moving teams as prompt, hardworking, communicative, and friendly—qualities that many say set Pete’s apart from competitors. The moving crews consistently receive praise for caring for belongings and making stressful moves much easier. On the downside, 13% of feedback cited damaged items, delays in arrival, and issues with packing quality. Some clients experienced broken furniture or items lost due to inadequate packing or rushed jobs. While the majority reported transparent pricing and smooth scheduling, a few were dissatisfied with handling of claims or timely delivery. Compared with other companies, Pete’s stands out for reliability and personable service, but occasional lapses in careful packing or scheduling can impact the experience.
Get a Quote (209) 442-4949

Company Info

State license #: 0191440

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 3314910

Alternate Names: Petes Moving Services LLC , Pete’s Moving Services LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.4% of all reviews were positive
13.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Reliable, caring movers stand out—Big Island Movers earned high marks in 59 pieces of customer feedback, with 86% praising efficiency, professionalism, and careful attention to belongings. Customers repeatedly commend fast service, polite staff, and helpful movers. Moves happen on time, with property protected against damage, and details clearly communicated. A small number of customers flagged problems, mostly involving unprofessional behavior, unclear communication, or surprising charges—issues not seen in most moving companies with similarly high ratings. Feedback highlights a team that works quickly, respects both people and property, and makes stressful moves easier. Few reported negative contacts, but those voiced frustration with rudeness or miscommunication. For people seeking experienced, efficient movers who treat possessions right, Big Island Movers shows stronger consistency than many local competitors.
Get a Quote (209) 606-0089

Company Info

State license #: 0190630

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 3278221

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.5% of all reviews were positive
15.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently strong input paints Brewer Moving LLC as a standout choice for professional moving assistance. After assessing 40 reviews, 83% praised the crew’s professionalism, careful handling of belongings, prompt communication, swift service, and reasonable pricing. Many reported stress-free moves, highlighting friendly, respectful staff and genuine care for property—qualities that help this mover stand apart from less attentive competitors. A handful of customers described frustrating experiences, with concerns about damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, and lack of timely responses. Isolated cases of communication problems suggest some room for improvement. Brewer Moving LLC attracts glowing recommendations for its reliable, efficient service and courteous team, consistently winning positive feedback from most clients.
Get a Quote (209) 923-3827

Company Info

State license #: 0192036

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3329727

Alternate Names: Brewer Moving, LLC , J B Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Modesto to Chicago?

The average hourly rate for movers in California is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,199 – $4,758 $1,213 – $2,946 $1,205 – $2,279
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,583 – $7,646 $2,178 – $4,537 $1,304 – $2,877
4+ bedrooms $6,335 – $11,349 $2,815 – $6,131 $1,613 – $3,256
*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,117-mile move from Modesto to Chicago are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Modesto to Chicago

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Modesto to Chicago will cost between $1,199 and $4,758. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Modesto to Modesto will range from $3,583 to $7,646, and a large move from Modesto to Chicago will cost from $6,335 to $11,349.

Cost of moving containers from Modesto to Chicago

If you’re moving from Modesto to Chicago, expect to pay between $1,213 and $2,946 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,178 up to $4,537. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,815 and $6,131. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Modesto to Chicago

Renting a moving truck from Modesto to Chicago is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,205 and $2,279. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,304 and $2,877. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,613 up to $3,256 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Modesto to Chicago

The cost of Modesto movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,429, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,688.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Modesto, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,205–$3,094) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Modesto to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 58% higher for singles and 56% higher for families than Modesto.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Modesto versus $2,312 in Modesto; families pay $9,266 compared with $5,946.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Modesto Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $1,446 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $2,467 $4,581
Average home value $442,362 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $67,011 $71,566
Cost of living (single) $2,312 $3,648
Cost of living (family of four) $5,946 $9,266
Unemployment rate 8.0% 9.0%
Sales tax 8.88% 10.25%
State income tax 13.3% 4.95%
  • Rent is estimated to be 14% higher in Chicago compared to Modesto; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 33% less in Chicago than in Modesto.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 7% higher in Chicago than in Modesto, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chicago, since the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 58% higher than in Modesto. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Chicago, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 56% greater than in Modesto.
  • In Chicago, the unemployment rate is approximately 13% higher than in Modesto, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 15% in Chicago over Modesto, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 63% less in Illinois than in California. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Modesto and Chicago:

Living Expense Modesto Chicago
Basic utilities $229.35 $191.26
Cell phone plan $62.91 $61.10
Dozen eggs $5.67 $4.52
Loaf of bread $3.61 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $100.00
Gym membership $41.33 $78.31
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Chicago.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Chicago.
  • Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Modesto than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Modesto than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Chicago.

How life is different in Modesto vs. Chicago

Modesto Chicago
Population 218,464 2,746,388
Transportation score 5 9
Walkability score 48 77
Bike friendliness score 48 72
Crime index 65.76 35.19
Safety index 34.24 33.87
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 1157% greater than Modesto.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Modesto’s score of 5.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Modesto with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Modesto’s 48 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Modesto, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 35.19 compared to Modesto’s 65.76. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
  • Chicago and Modesto have a similar safety level, with scores of 33.87 and 34.24.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Modesto it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Modesto to Chicago move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Chicago. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Chicago

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Chi-Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chicago.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lake View
  • Lincoln Park
  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Beverly
  • Edison Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • North Center
  • West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

Once you’re settled into your new home in Illinois, it’s time to get out and discover what Chicago has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chicago, such as the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Modesto to Chicago?

The best time to move from Modesto to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Modesto.

When is the cheapest time to move from Modesto to Chicago?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Modesto to Chicago, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Modesto to Chicago take?

Moving from Modesto, CA to Chicago, covers 2,117 miles and usually takes six to 17 days. Need to move faster? Some Modesto movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Chicago.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Modesto?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 10 movers in Modesto advertise piano moving expertise. 5 movers in Modesto provide antique moving services. State totals show 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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