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($1,230) Cost to Move From Harrisburg, PA to Modesto, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,755 miles from Harrisburg to Modesto is generally between $1,554 and $7,745. The trip duration should be approximately seven–21 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Harrisburg to Modesto

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 Harrisburg to Modesto

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Harrisburg to Modesto, 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.

In Harrisburg, you have a choice of 13 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Modesto smoothly and with confidence.

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 Harrisburg to Modesto

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,755-mile move from Harrisburg to Modesto using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,459 – $5,536
  • Moving Container $1,800 – $3,504
  • Rental Truck $1,526 – $2,958
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,820 – $7,745
  • Moving Container $2,408 – $5,235
  • Rental Truck $1,554 – $3,661
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,979 – $11,308
  • Moving Container $3,492 – $7,209
  • Rental Truck $2,006 – $4,322
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.
North American Van Lines
Millerstown, PA Franklin, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Newburg, PA Ceres, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 17, 2025
American Van Lines
Akron, PA Newman, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 16, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Royalton, PA University of California-Merced, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Mifflintown, PA Garden Acres, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 13, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lebanon, PA West Modesto, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
United Van Lines
McClure, PA Livingston, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 31, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Lebanon South, PA Manteca, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
Roadway Moving
Freeburg, PA Oakdale, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Dallastown, PA Airport, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

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

Top local movers for Harrisburg to Modesto moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Harrisburg that also provides long-distance services to Modesto can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 18 local movers in Harrisburg who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Harrisburg to Modesto.

  1. Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Spirit Moving Company LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. The Armstrong Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Keystone Moving and Junk Removal: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Maya’s Movers LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. means working with a team known for efficiency, professionalism, and careful service. Out of 259 reviews, 92.7% report positive experiences, making this company a standout in the moving industry. Customers consistently mention the staff’s courtesy, professionalism, and attention to detail. Moves are often completed quickly and without issue, and communication from the office to the moving crew earns praise for keeping customers informed and at ease. On the flip side, a few clients have faced issues like damaged items, inaccurate quotes, and communication breakdowns. Complaints about property damage and unexpected costs are more frequent than with similar services. Despite some negative feedback, the vast majority of input highlights reliability, speed, and a crew that takes extra care with belongings.
Get a Quote (717) 774-7838

Company Info

State license #: 702302

Years in Business: 127

DOT #: 10676

Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co. , M.F. Rockey Moving Company , Penn Hershey Transfer , Harrisburg Transfer Company , George W. Weaver

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Spirit Moving Company stands out for its professionalism, attentive handling, and courteous team, according to 98 customer feedback reports. Approximately 92% of customers delivered glowing input, often praising the movers’ professionalism, careful approach, efficiency, and timely completion of moves. Many also describe the staff as friendly and the booking process as seamless. Repeat customers and strong word-of-mouth recommendations highlight a reputation many local companies do not achieve. On the negative side, about 8% experienced issues such as damage to property or belongings, missed appointments, and unresolved incidents like missing items. These negative experiences mostly relate to claims of careless handling, lack of reliability, and problems reaching or receiving response from management. Compared to the moving industry norm, Spirit Moving Company receives a notably higher share of positive mentions for professionalism and genuine care. While instances of poor outcomes exist, the majority found Spirit Moving Company dependable and highly recommend their service.
Get a Quote (717) 978-3050

Company Info

State license #: 8921736

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3214709

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
90.7% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team’s professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong’s pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.9% of all reviews were positive
1.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Five-star service shines through in nearly every piece of customer feedback for Keystone Moving and Junk Removal. Out of 190 reviews, 98.9% express satisfaction, with the team earning praise for professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, friendly attitudes, quick moving times, and fair pricing. Customers frequently describe Keystone’s staff as courteous and respectful, with movers arriving promptly and communicating clearly throughout the process. Input emphasizes both speed and careful attention to belongings, with repeated reports of moves completed ahead of schedule and without damage. Many note the affordability compared to competitors. A few isolated complaints highlight issues with deposit refunds and pricing estimates, contrasting sharply with the consistent satisfaction elsewhere. Compared to typical moving companies—which often struggle to maintain reliability and care—Keystone stands out for delivering a pleasant, seamless moving experience nearly every time.
Get a Quote (717) 712-5094

Company Info

State license #: 8920233

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3011826

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.1% of all reviews were positive
2.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Maya’s Movers LLC stands out for its consistently high customer satisfaction, with feedback from 103 reviews showing 97% positivity. Customers frequently mention the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, the speed and efficiency of the moving process, careful handling of items, and a friendly team, all contributing to straightforward and stress-free experiences. Numerous people mention efficient service and a quick moving process that handles even challenging logistics with ease. Negative feedback is minimal, with isolated complaints focused on a lack of communication, particularly during the estimate process, and infrequent issues with responsiveness. Compared to most moving companies, Maya’s Movers is noted for outstanding staff demeanor and consistent, careful work, while retaining room for improvement in initial communication with prospective customers.
Get a Quote (717) 825-4738

Company Info

State license #: 8921045

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3128183

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

Movers in Pennsylvania generally charge an average of $143 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,230 – $5,293 $1,385 – $3,486 $1,450 – $2,988
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,820 – $7,745 $2,408 – $5,235 $1,554 – $3,661
4+ bedrooms $6,979 – $11,308 $3,492 – $7,209 $2,006 – $4,322
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,755-mile move from Harrisburg to Modesto, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Harrisburg to Modesto

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Harrisburg to Modesto typically costs between $1,230 and $5,293. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,820 and $7,745 when moving from Harrisburg to Modesto. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Harrisburg to Modesto, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,979 up to $11,308.

Cost of moving containers from Harrisburg to Modesto

If you’re relocating from Harrisburg to Modesto, you’ll typically spend between $1,385 and $3,486 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,408 up to $5,235. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,492 and $7,209. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Pennsylvania.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Harrisburg to Modesto

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Harrisburg to Modesto move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,450 and $2,988. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,554 to $3,661. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,006 and $4,322.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Harrisburg to Modesto

The cost of Harrisburg movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Harrisburg to Modesto might be as low as $2,715, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,672.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Harrisburg.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,450 to $3,749 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Harrisburg to Modesto

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Modesto runs about 25% higher for singles and 65% higher for families than Harrisburg.

Singles spend around $2,312 in Harrisburg versus $1,849 in Harrisburg; families pay $5,946 compared with $3,612.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Harrisburg Modesto
Average 1 BR rent $1,550 $1,446
Average 3 BR rent $1,946 $2,467
Average home value $230,038 $442,362
Average income (per capita) $73,256 $67,011
Cost of living (single) $1,849 $2,312
Cost of living (family of four) $3,612 $5,946
Unemployment rate 13.4% 8.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.88%
State income tax 3.07% 13.3%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 50% higher in Modesto than in Harrisburg, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 92% higher in Modesto than in Harrisburg.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 9% lower in Modesto than in Harrisburg.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Modesto, as the cost of living for a single person in Modesto is 25% greater than in Harrisburg. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Modesto, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 65% more than it is in Harrisburg.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 40% lower than Harrisburg, Modesto boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Modesto exceed those in Harrisburg by 48%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 333% higher in California than in Pennsylvania. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Harrisburg and Modesto, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Harrisburg Modesto
Basic utilities $160.00 $229.35
Cell phone plan $59.67 $62.91
Dozen eggs $4.26 $5.67
Loaf of bread $3.72 $3.61
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $65.00 $80.00
Gym membership $27.50 $41.33
  • Basic utilities cost less in Harrisburg than in Modesto, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Harrisburg than in Modesto.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Harrisburg than in Modesto.
  • Bread is more expensive in Harrisburg than in Modesto.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Harrisburg than in Modesto.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Harrisburg than in Modesto.

How life is different in Harrisburg vs. Modesto

Harrisburg Modesto
Population 50,099 218,464
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 68 48
Bike friendliness score 57 48
Crime index 64.18 65.76
Safety index 35.82 34.24
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Modesto’s population is about 336% greater than Harrisburg.
  • Modesto’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Harrisburg’s score of 6.
  • Modesto is less walkable than Harrisburg with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Harrisburg’s 68 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 Harrisburg, which has a score of 57.
  • Modesto and Harrisburg have a similar crime rate with scores of 65.76 and 64.18, respectively.
  • Modesto and Harrisburg have a similar safety level, with scores of 34.24 and 35.82.
  • Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Harrisburg it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Harrisburg to Modesto 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, 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 Modesto 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. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Modesto

Ready to relocate to City of Great Neighbors? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Modesto. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Modesto include museums and art centers like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Tuolumne River Trail, 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 Modesto Nuts (California League) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Harrisburg to Modesto. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Harrisburg.

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

With many people choosing to move from Harrisburg to Modesto 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 Harrisburg to Modesto take?

Covering 2,755 miles, the move from Harrisburg, PA to Modesto, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Harrisburg movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Modesto can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Harrisburg can handle specialty items for my move to Modesto?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Harrisburg, 14 movers can handle pianos. 9 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of PA, there are 77 piano movers and 55 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

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