Modesto, CA to Denver, CO Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Modesto to Denver typically costs $3,000–$7,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,237 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Modesto to Denver
Moving from Modesto, CA to Denver, CO typically costs $3,000–$7,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,237-mile move from Modesto to Denver, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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2-3 bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $2,796 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $4,247 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,543 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Modesto to Denver move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,500 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,400 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Modesto.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $900 to $2,500, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Denver, CO to Modesto, CA guide.
Best Modesto to Denver movers by type
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Best professional movers from Modesto to Denver
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Modesto to Denver 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
How we chose the best CA→CO movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 372 California 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 Modesto to Denver
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Denver runs about 47% higher for singles and 38% higher for families than Modesto.
Singles spend around $3,392 in Denver versus $2,312 in Modesto; families pay $8,201 compared with $5,946.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Modesto | Denver | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,446 | $2,108 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,467 | $3,529 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $544,237 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $85,853 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,312 | $3,392 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,946 | $8,201 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 7.1% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 9.15% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.49% |
- Planning a move to Denver? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 6% higher than in Modesto, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Denver are about 23% higher than those in Modesto.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 28% higher in Denver compared to Modesto, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Denver, as living costs for a single person are 47% higher than in Modesto. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Denver, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Denver is 38% higher than in Modesto.
- The unemployment rate in Denver is about 11% lower than in Modesto. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Denver and Modesto (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in Colorado are 59% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Modesto and Denver:
| Living Expense | Modesto | Denver |
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| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $173.96 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $72.24 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.67 | $4.94 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.61 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $41.33 | $64.43 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Denver.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Modesto than in Denver.
- Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Denver.
- Bread costs less in Modesto than in Denver.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Denver.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Modesto than in Denver.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Denver.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Denver
| Modesto | Denver | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 715,522 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 95 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 96 |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 47.84 |
| Safety index | 34.24 | 52.16 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Moderate |
- Denver's population is about 228% greater than Modesto.
- Denver's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Modesto's score of 5.
- Denver is more walkable than Modesto with a score of 95 out of 100 vs Modesto's 48 out of 100.
- With a score of 96 out of 100, Denver 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.
- Denver's crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 47.84 compared to Modesto's 65.76. This means that Denver neighborhoods are safer than 47.84% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
- Denver is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 52.16 vs Modesto's 34.24.
- Air quality in Denver is Moderate, and in Modesto it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Modesto to Denver 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: The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Colorado’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Colorado 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 Denver. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover's responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you're hiring or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Denver
Planning your move to The Mile-High City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Denver.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Capitol Hill
- Five Points
- Highland
- LoDo
- Washington Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Berkeley
- Fort Logan
- Hilltop
- Park Hill
- Washington Park
Things to do in Denver
After settling into your new Colorado home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Denver has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Denver features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Denver Art Museum, and Molly Brown House Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Washington Park, Denver Mountain Parks, City Park - Denver, and Cheesman Park — 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 Denver Broncos (NFL)Colorado Rockies (MLB)Colorado Avalance (NHL)Colorado Rapids (MLS)Denver Nuggets (NBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Denver?
Planning your move from Modesto to Denver? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Modesto.
When is the cheapest time to move from Modesto to Denver?
Because most people are moving from Modesto to Denver 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 Modesto to Denver take?
The 1,237-mile journey from Modesto, CA to Denver, CO, typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Modesto offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Denver.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Modesto?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Modesto, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 5 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 298 piano movers and 229 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.