Chicago, IL to Modesto, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Modesto typically costs $3,600–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,113 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Modesto
Moving from Chicago, IL to Modesto, CA typically costs $3,600–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,113-mile move from Chicago 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
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $4,918 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $5,307 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $10,757 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 30, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 09, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 04, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 02, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 22, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 01, 2025
Key factors that influence moving costs from Chicago to Modesto
Your total cost will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,800, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $12,800.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,300–$3,800) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Modesto movers by type
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Modesto
If you want to simplify your interstate move from Chicago to Modesto, 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.
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 IL→CA movers
At moveBuddha, our specialists conducted a thorough evaluation of 100 Illinois moving companies, identifying the leading ones by examining client satisfaction, reviews, and value.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Errors happen in moving. The best companies acknowledge them quickly and take real steps to resolve any problems for their customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): Within the moving field, the company has earned respect and regularly engages in conferences and trade groups.
- Online reputation (15%): The organization ensures its website is reliable and actively addresses online customer inquiries in a professional manner.
- Service options (10%): Top movers provide versatile offerings including packing, storage, special-item handling, and the option for faster delivery when needed.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Modesto
Many movers find Modesto easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 37% less for singles and 36% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,312 for one person in Modesto versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $5,946 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 13.3% |
- If you're heading to Modesto from Chicago, you'll find that rent is roughly 12% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 50% greater in Modesto than in Chicago.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 6% lower in Modesto compared to Chicago.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Modesto. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 37% lower than in Chicago.
- Choosing to move to Modesto can significantly lower your family's regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 36% less than in Chicago.
- Modesto enjoys an unemployment rate that's roughly 11% lower compared to Chicago, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
- Sales taxes drop 13% in Modesto compared to Chicago, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
- Income taxes are 169% higher in California than in Illinois, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Chicago and Modesto:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Modesto, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chicago than in Modesto.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Modesto.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Modesto.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Modesto.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Modesto.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Modesto
| Chicago | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 48 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto's population is about 92% less than Chicago.
- Modesto's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Modesto is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 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 Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Modesto's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 65.76 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Modesto and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 34.24 and 33.87.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Modesto 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: 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: California 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 Modesto. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Modesto
Now that you've decided to make the move to City of Great Neighbors, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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
Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what Modesto has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Modesto, such as the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Tuolumne River Trail — 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 Modesto Nuts (California League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Modesto?
The best time to move from Chicago to Modesto is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Modesto?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Chicago to Modesto, 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 Chicago to Modesto take?
Moving from Chicago, IL to Modesto, CA covers 2,113 miles and usually takes six to 17 days. Need to move faster? Some Chicago movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Modesto.
Which movers in Chicago give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Chicago?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 54 movers in Chicago advertise piano moving expertise. 40 movers in Chicago provide antique moving services. State totals show 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,296 and 1,463.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
