Modesto, CA to Lafayette, LA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Modesto to Lafayette typically costs $4,100–$8,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,039 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Modesto to Lafayette
Moving from Modesto, CA to Lafayette, LA typically costs $4,100–$8,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,039-mile move from Modesto to Lafayette, 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
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,529 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $1,255 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a rental truck.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $6,080 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 16, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 27, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 22, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 21, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 16, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 10, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 04, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Modesto to Lafayette
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Modesto to Lafayette might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Modesto.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,300 to $3,700 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lafayette, LA to Modesto, CA guide.
Best Modesto to Lafayette movers by type
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Best professional movers from Modesto to Lafayette
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Modesto to Lafayette, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 CA→LA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Modesto to Lafayette
Many movers find Lafayette easier on the wallet than Modesto - roughly 23% less for singles and 29% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,785 for one person in Lafayette versus $2,312 in Modesto. For a family of four, it's $4,208 compared with $5,946.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Modesto | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,446 | $1,200 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,467 | $1,725 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $214,264 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $59,490 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,312 | $1,785 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,946 | $4,208 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 5.8% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 9.45% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.25% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 57% higher in Lafayette than in Modesto, which may impact your monthly finances.
- With home prices being nearly 52% cheaper in Lafayette, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 11% lower in Lafayette than in Modesto.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Lafayette. The cost of living for a single person is 23% less compared to Modesto.
- Relocating to Lafayette could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 29% lower than in Modesto.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 28% lower than Modesto, Lafayette boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Lafayette exceed those in Modesto by 6%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 68% lower in Louisiana than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Modesto and Lafayette, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Modesto | Lafayette |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $244.46 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $52.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.67 | $4.35 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.61 | $2.99 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $17.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $76.11 |
| Gym membership | $41.33 | $61.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Modesto than in Lafayette, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Lafayette.
- Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Lafayette.
- Bread is more expensive in Modesto than in Lafayette.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Lafayette.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Modesto than in Lafayette.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Lafayette.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Lafayette
| Modesto | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 121,374 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 42 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 47 |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 45.75 |
| Safety index | 34.24 | 54.25 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Lafayette's population is about 44% less than Modesto.
- Lafayette's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Modesto's score of 5.
- Lafayette is less walkable than Modesto with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Modesto's 48 out of 100.
- Both Lafayette and Modesto have similar bike-friendliness scores (48 vs 47), meaning Lafayette is about as safe for cyclists as Modesto. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Lafayette's crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 45.75 compared to Modesto's 65.76. This means that Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
- Lafayette is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 54.25 vs Modesto's 34.24.
- Air quality in Lafayette is Good, and in Modesto it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Modesto to Lafayette move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Louisiana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Louisiana, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lafayette without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lafayette
Ready to relocate to The Hub City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lafayette.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Saint Streets
- Freetown-Port Rico
- Downtown Lafayette
- Scott
- Youngsville
Best neighborhoods for families
- Youngsville
- Erath
- Maurice
- Broussard
- Milton
- Scott
- Cade
Things to do in Lafayette
Now that you've made the move to Louisiana, it's the perfect time to explore Lafayette. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lafayette include museums and art centers like the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children's Museum of Acadiana, and Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Lafayette?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Modesto to Lafayette. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Modesto.
When is the cheapest time to move from Modesto to Lafayette?
With many people choosing to move from Modesto to Lafayette in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Modesto to Lafayette take?
Covering 2,039 miles, the move from Modesto, CA to Lafayette, LA typically takes six to 17 days. Some Modesto movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lafayette can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Modesto can handle specialty items for my move to Lafayette?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Modesto, 10 movers can handle pianos. 5 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
