Modesto, CA to Des Moines, IA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Modesto to Des Moines typically costs $3,400–$7,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,787 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Modesto to Des Moines
Moving from Modesto, CA to Des Moines, IA typically costs $3,400–$7,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,787-mile move from Modesto to Des Moines, 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
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $2,045 for a 5+ bedroom using a rental truck.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $2,341 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- PODS recently quoted $2,620 for a 2 bedroom using a moving container.
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 17, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 16, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 07, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 17, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Modesto to Des Moines
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 Des Moines might be as low as $2,700, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,200.
- 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 $1,200 to $3,200 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Modesto, CA guide.
Best Modesto to Des Moines movers by type
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Best professional movers from Modesto to Des Moines
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Modesto to Des Moines, 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→IA 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 Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Modesto - roughly 18% less for singles and 26% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,312 in Modesto. For a family of four, it's $4,380 compared with $5,946.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Modesto | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,446 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,467 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,312 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,946 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.4% |
- Good news! When moving to Des Moines from Modesto, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 36% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 57% cheaper in Des Moines, 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 13% lower in Des Moines than in Modesto.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person is 18% less compared to Modesto.
- Relocating to Des Moines could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 26% lower than in Modesto.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 26% lower than Modesto, Des Moines boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 21% lower in Des Moines than Modesto, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 67% lower in Iowa 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 Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Modesto | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.67 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.61 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $41.33 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Des Moines.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Modesto than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Modesto than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Des Moines
| Modesto | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 39 |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 34.24 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 220% greater than Modesto.
- Des Moines's public transportation score is within about 5% of Modesto, making them very similar.
- Des Moines is less walkable than Modesto with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Modesto's 48 out of 100.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Modesto, which has a score of 48.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 5.0 compared to Modesto's 65.76. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 57.8 vs Modesto's 34.24.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Modesto it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Modesto to Des Moines 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 moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Iowa, 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 Des Moines 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 cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Des Moines
Ready to relocate to Hartford of the West? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Des Moines.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Sherman Hill
- Downtown
- East Village
- North of Grand
- Woodland Heights
- Arbor Peaks
- Chautauqua Park
- Beaverdale
- Westwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Linden Heights
- Waterbury
- Waveland Park
- Westwood
- Salisbury Oaks
- Meredith
- Beaverdale
Things to do in Des Moines
Now that you've made the move to Iowa, it's the perfect time to explore Des Moines. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, 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 Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Des Moines?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Modesto to Des Moines. 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 Des Moines?
With many people choosing to move from Modesto to Des Moines 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 Des Moines take?
Covering 1,787 miles, the move from Modesto, CA to Des Moines, IA typically takes five to 16 days. Some Modesto movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Modesto can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?
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.
