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($1,344) Cost to Move From Ann Arbor, MI to Modesto, CA

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,338 miles from Ann Arbor to Modesto has an average cost ranging from $1,410 to $7,920. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly seven–18 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor to Modesto

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Ann Arbor to Modesto. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 26 interstate moving companies in Ann Arbor. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Modesto.

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 Ann Arbor to Modesto

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,338-mile move from Ann Arbor to Modesto using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,549 – $6,017
  • Moving Container $1,629 – $3,147
  • Rental Truck $1,316 – $2,595
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,539 – $7,920
  • Moving Container $2,287 – $4,463
  • Rental Truck $1,410 – $3,058
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,855 – $12,488
  • Moving Container $3,113 – $6,552
  • Rental Truck $1,852 – $3,566
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.
Roadway Moving
Ferndale, MI Taft Mosswood, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 12, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Orchard Lake Village, MI University of California-Merced, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Lincoln Park, MI Garden Acres, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 20, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Luna Pier, MI West Modesto, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 11, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Vineyard Lake, MI Escalon, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 24, 2025
PODS
Linden, MI Diablo Grande, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 21, 2025
BLVD Moving
Estral Beach, MI Parklawn, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Farmington Hills, MI Merced, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
North American Van Lines
Huntington Woods, MI Oakdale, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 05, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Fenton, MI Patterson, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 05, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA to Ann Arbor, MI guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Ann Arbor to Modesto moves

Organizing a move from Ann Arbor to Modesto can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 32 local movers in Ann Arbor known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Ann Arbor to Modesto.

  1. Handle With Care Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Men on the Move: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Handle With Care Moving’s exceptional efficiency, careful handling of belongings, and courteous, hard-working team. Feedback often highlights polite staff, excellent communication, and rapid, damage-free moves that stand out from other moving companies. Most clients appreciate straightforward estimates, transparent pricing, and how the company keeps moves stress-free. Negative feedback, though rare, centers on occasional item damage, challenges in resolving complaints, and unexpected charges or discrepancies in estimates. Handle With Care outpaces competitors in reliability and professionalism, making it one of the most trusted choices for moves in and out of Ann Arbor. Over 92% of the 249 reviews express strong satisfaction.
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
9.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers are raving about how smoothly Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage handles moving day. Nearly 90% of the 348 reviews are positive, standing out with efficiency, careful handling of belongings, professionalism, fair pricing, and excellent communication. Many mention a courteous and capable moving crew, stress-free organization, and no hidden fees. People appreciate how quickly and gently items are moved, even under challenging conditions such as snowstorms or tight schedules. Some say this company is better—friendlier, faster, and more affordable—compared to other movers they’ve hired before. Negative feedback makes up less than 10% of reviews, with most complaints centered on occasional damaged items, delayed arrivals without updates, and moves costing more than originally estimated. While infrequent, a few customers describe frustrations about reaching support or compensation for damages. Overall, the strong pattern of positive input shows that Campus Concepts consistently delivers reliable, efficient, and well-priced moving services that outshine many other local options.
Get a Quote (734) 545-5617

Company Info

State license #: 36269

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2582190

Alternate Names: Wondermove

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Corrigan Moving Systems for delivering reliable service, with 92% of input being positive among 25 feedback entries. Professional, polite staff and their careful handling of belongings stand out, along with efficient moving, clear communication, and rapid job completion. Many customers praise the team’s organization, responsive office staff, and ability to reduce stress during moves. Negative input points primarily to damaged or poorly handled items, especially on long-distance moves, along with claims about rude crew behavior and slow claims processing. Corrigan typically outshines other movers for its consistency and dependable teams, but these rare complaints show that insurance and furniture care on certain moves can require more attention.
Get a Quote (734) 973-9393

Company Info

State license #: 117864

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Corrigan Moving Systems , Midland Moving & Storage Company , Corrigan United Moving & Storage Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.5% of all reviews were positive
12.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback highlights the professionalism and reliability of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, with 256 reviews analyzed and over 85% reporting a positive experience. Customers often describe courteous, efficient staff, careful handling of belongings, and quick moving processes. Several note good communication and up-front transparency, setting this company above many local competitors. A smaller share of input, about 12%, details frustrations such as damaged items, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected charges, and occasional unclear pricing. Neutral feedback (2%) mentions issues with packing quality and unforeseen costs, though staff remain friendly. Overall, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives praise for their dependable, friendly service and speed, but a few recurring complaints about damages and pricing accuracy suggest that some moves may not meet expectations on protection or price. Most reviewers say the moving team’s professionalism and care stand out in the industry.
Get a Quote (734) 418-0575

Company Info

State license #: 33371

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day with Men on the Move feels less stressful for most clients. Out of 111 feedback entries, 87% report positive experiences. Customers consistently mention fast service, careful treatment of furniture, courteous staff, reliable pricing, and clear communication. Compared to similar movers, Men on the Move earns strong praise for both value and professionalism. Some input notes serious concerns: a handful voice frustration over damaged items, unexpectedly high charges, or unprofessional behavior. While rare, these problems stand out in the feedback and highlight areas where attention is still needed. Most find the team efficient and trustworthy, but there’s a small risk of costly or careless mistakes that rivals don’t always make.
Get a Quote (734) 913-9966

Company Info

Years in Business: 29

DOT #: 760250

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Ann Arbor to Modesto?

On average, moving companies in Michigan charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,344 – $5,310 $1,237 – $3,257 $1,277 – $2,418
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,539 – $7,920 $2,287 – $4,463 $1,410 – $3,058
4+ bedrooms $6,855 – $12,488 $3,113 – $6,552 $1,852 – $3,566
*Estimated cost ranges for a 2,338-mile move from Ann Arbor to Modesto are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Ann Arbor to Modesto

When planning a move to Modesto from Ann Arbor, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,344 and $5,310. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,539 and $7,920 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,855 to $12,488.

Cost of moving containers from Ann Arbor to Modesto

When you’re heading from Ann Arbor to Modesto, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,237 and $3,257. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,287 and $4,463. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,113 to $6,552. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ann Arbor to Modesto

A moving rental truck from Ann Arbor to Modesto is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,277 to $2,418. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,410 to $3,058, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Ann Arbor to Modesto costs around $1,852 to $3,566.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Ann Arbor to Modesto

The cost of Ann Arbor movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Ann Arbor to Modesto may only cost $2,829, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $11,088.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Ann Arbor.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,277–$3,155), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Modesto

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Modesto runs about 6% higher for singles and 11% higher for families than Ann Arbor.

Singles spend around $2,312 in Ann Arbor versus $2,176 in Ann Arbor; families pay $5,946 compared with $5,344.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Ann Arbor Modesto
Average 1 BR rent $1,831 $1,446
Average 3 BR rent $3,763 $2,467
Average home value $474,909 $442,362
Average income (per capita) $66,964 $67,011
Cost of living (single) $2,176 $2,312
Cost of living (family of four) $5,344 $5,946
Unemployment rate 3.5% 8.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.88%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 20% less expensive in Modesto than in Ann Arbor, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 7% cheaper in Modesto than in Ann Arbor.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Modesto and Ann Arbor are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Modesto, with the cost of living for a single person being 6% more than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Modesto, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 11% higher than in Ann Arbor.
  • Modesto has a higher unemployment rate than Ann Arbor by about 129%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes in Modesto surpass those in Ann Arbor by 48%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 213% more in California than in Michigan. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Ann Arbor versus Modesto:

Living Expense Ann Arbor Modesto
Basic utilities $158.05 $229.35
Cell phone plan $48.64 $62.91
Dozen eggs $2.70 $5.67
Loaf of bread $3.60 $3.61
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $80.00
Gym membership $44.00 $41.33
  • Basic utilities cost less in Ann Arbor than in Modesto, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Modesto.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Ann Arbor than in Modesto.
  • Bread costs less in Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor than in Modesto.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Ann Arbor than in Modesto.

How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Modesto

Ann Arbor Modesto
Population 123,851 218,464
Transportation score 7 5
Walkability score 52 48
Bike friendliness score 71 48
Crime index 31.0 65.76
Safety index 79.18 34.24
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Modesto’s population is about 76% greater than Ann Arbor.
  • Modesto’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Ann Arbor’s score of 7.
  • Modesto is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor’s 52 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 Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71.
  • Modesto’s crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 65.76 compared to Ann Arbor’s 31.0. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
  • Modesto is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 34.24 vs Ann Arbor’s 79.18.
  • Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Ann Arbor it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor to Modesto move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Ann Arbor and Modesto are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Modesto. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Modesto

With your sights set on City of Great Neighbors, these are some of the most popular 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

With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Modesto. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Modesto is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tuolumne River Trail — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to Modesto?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Ann Arbor to Modesto. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Ann Arbor.

When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Modesto?

Want to save on your move from Ann Arbor to Modesto? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Ann Arbor to Modesto take?

The 2,338-mile move from Ann Arbor, MI, to Modesto, , takes seven to 18 days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Modesto.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Ann Arbor?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 20 movers in Ann Arbor provide piano moving services. 7 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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