($1,261) Cost to Move From Houston, TX to Modesto, CA

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Cost to hire movers from Houston to Modesto

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Modesto from Houston, you can expect prices to land between $1,261 and $4,650. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,133 to $7,178 for the trip from Houston to Modesto. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,784 and $10,960.

Cost of moving containers from Houston to Modesto

Moving containers from Houston to Modesto will cost you $1,097 to $2,711 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,053 to $4,208. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,540 to $5,446. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Houston to Modesto

Renting a moving truck from Houston to Modesto typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,102 and $2,164 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,158 to $2,378. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,534 to $3,091.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to Modesto? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 16% higher than in Houston, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Modesto are about 68% higher than those in Houston.
• In terms of average income, Modesto and Houston are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
• You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Modesto, as the cost of living for a single person is 17% lower compared to Houston.
• A move to Modesto can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 17% less than what it costs in Houston.
• Modesto shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Houston by around 95%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
• Sales taxes in Modesto are 8% more than in Houston, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• California has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• Modesto’s population is about 91% less than Houston.
• Modesto’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Houston, making them very similar.
• Modesto and Houston are similarly walkable.
• Both Modesto and Houston have similar bike-friendliness scores (49 vs 48), meaning Modesto is about as safe for cyclists as Houston. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Modesto and Houston have a similar crime rate with scores of 65.76 and 63.5, respectively.
• Modesto is considered to be less safe than Houston with a score of 34.24 vs Houston’s 36.5.
• Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Houston it’s Good.

• 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: California 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 Modesto. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

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

After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Modesto has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Modesto features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tuolumne River Trail — 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 Modesto Nuts (California League) game.