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($1,279) Cost to Move From Modesto, CA to Chapel Hill, NC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,744 miles from Modesto to Chapel Hill is generally between $1,575 and $7,503. 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 Modesto to Chapel Hill

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 Modesto to Chapel Hill

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Modesto to Chapel Hill, 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 Modesto, you have a choice of 12 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Chapel Hill 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 Modesto to Chapel Hill

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,744-mile move from Modesto to Chapel Hill 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 $2,558 – $5,688
  • Moving Container $1,960 – $3,809
  • Rental Truck $1,499 – $2,875
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,766 – $7,503
  • Moving Container $2,567 – $5,152
  • Rental Truck $1,575 – $3,562
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,011 – $11,864
  • Moving Container $3,202 – $6,745
  • Rental Truck $2,113 – $4,116
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.
Allied Van Lines
West Modesto, CA Apex, NC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Mountain House, CA Yanceyville, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lodi, CA Mebane, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 17, 2025
Roadway Moving
Waterford, CA Siler City, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 12, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Atwater, CA Ossipee, NC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Cowan, CA Franklinton, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
BLVD Moving
Discovery Bay, CA Green Level, NC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
PODS
Angels, CA Youngsville, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 20, 2025
American Van Lines
University of California-Merced, CA Franklinville, NC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
United Van Lines
Newman, CA Sanford, NC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chapel Hill, NC to Modesto, CA guide.

Top local movers for Modesto to Chapel Hill moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Modesto that also provides long-distance services to Chapel Hill can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 14 local movers in Modesto who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

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

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Casey Moving Systems: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Pete’s Moving Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Big Island Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Brewer Moving LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.6% of all reviews were positive
25.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving customers trust Casey Moving Systems for their organized team, respectful movers, and great communication throughout the process. The company earns high marks for professional staff, careful packing, and efficiency—traits not always common among moving companies. Many highlighted on-time moves and items arriving undamaged. Casey’s quick scheduling and fair, clear pricing set it apart from competitors known for hidden fees. On the negative side, some customers reported damaged or lost items, delays in delivery, and poor complaint resolution, especially when insurance or claims were involved. Nevertheless, most feedback praised their consistent reliability and stress-free service. Out of sixty-three reviews analyzed, nearly three-quarters were positive, showing a strong record compared to many others in the industry.
Get a Quote (209) 531-9010

Company Info

State license #: 0115405

Years in Business: 23

DOT #: 153088

Alternate Names: Casey Records Management , Dawson Van & Storage , United Van Lines

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
86.2% of all reviews were positive
13.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Pete’s Moving Services is celebrated by most customers for professional, courteous staff, efficient processes, and careful handling of items. 86% of the 471 customer reviews rated the experience as positive. Clients describe the moving teams as prompt, hardworking, communicative, and friendly—qualities that many say set Pete’s apart from competitors. The moving crews consistently receive praise for caring for belongings and making stressful moves much easier. On the downside, 13% of feedback cited damaged items, delays in arrival, and issues with packing quality. Some clients experienced broken furniture or items lost due to inadequate packing or rushed jobs. While the majority reported transparent pricing and smooth scheduling, a few were dissatisfied with handling of claims or timely delivery. Compared with other companies, Pete’s stands out for reliability and personable service, but occasional lapses in careful packing or scheduling can impact the experience.
Get a Quote (209) 442-4949

Company Info

State license #: 0191440

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 3314910

Alternate Names: Petes Moving Services LLC , Pete’s Moving Services LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.4% of all reviews were positive
13.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Reliable, caring movers stand out—Big Island Movers earned high marks in 59 pieces of customer feedback, with 86% praising efficiency, professionalism, and careful attention to belongings. Customers repeatedly commend fast service, polite staff, and helpful movers. Moves happen on time, with property protected against damage, and details clearly communicated. A small number of customers flagged problems, mostly involving unprofessional behavior, unclear communication, or surprising charges—issues not seen in most moving companies with similarly high ratings. Feedback highlights a team that works quickly, respects both people and property, and makes stressful moves easier. Few reported negative contacts, but those voiced frustration with rudeness or miscommunication. For people seeking experienced, efficient movers who treat possessions right, Big Island Movers shows stronger consistency than many local competitors.
Get a Quote (209) 606-0089

Company Info

State license #: 0190630

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 3278221

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.5% of all reviews were positive
15.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently strong input paints Brewer Moving LLC as a standout choice for professional moving assistance. After assessing 40 reviews, 83% praised the crew’s professionalism, careful handling of belongings, prompt communication, swift service, and reasonable pricing. Many reported stress-free moves, highlighting friendly, respectful staff and genuine care for property—qualities that help this mover stand apart from less attentive competitors. A handful of customers described frustrating experiences, with concerns about damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, and lack of timely responses. Isolated cases of communication problems suggest some room for improvement. Brewer Moving LLC attracts glowing recommendations for its reliable, efficient service and courteous team, consistently winning positive feedback from most clients.
Get a Quote (209) 923-3827

Company Info

State license #: 0192036

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3329727

Alternate Names: Brewer Moving, LLC , J B Moving

Services Offered

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

How much does it cost to move from Modesto to Chapel Hill?

Movers in California generally charge an average of $128 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 $1,279 – $5,654 $1,308 – $3,363 $1,514 – $3,049
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,766 – $7,503 $2,567 – $5,152 $1,575 – $3,562
4+ bedrooms $7,011 – $11,864 $3,202 – $6,745 $2,113 – $4,116
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,744-mile move from Modesto to Chapel Hill, 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 Modesto to Chapel Hill

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Modesto to Chapel Hill typically costs between $1,279 and $5,654. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,766 and $7,503 when moving from Modesto to Chapel Hill. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Modesto to Chapel Hill, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,011 up to $11,864.

Cost of moving containers from Modesto to Chapel Hill

If you’re relocating from Modesto to Chapel Hill, you’ll typically spend between $1,308 and $3,363 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,567 up to $5,152. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,202 and $6,745. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Modesto to Chapel Hill

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Modesto to Chapel Hill 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 $1,514 and $3,049. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,575 to $3,562. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,113 and $4,116.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Modesto to Chapel Hill

The cost of Modesto movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Modesto to Chapel Hill might be as low as $2,712, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,087.
  • 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 $1,514 to $3,910 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Modesto to Chapel Hill

Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Modesto – roughly 3% less for singles and 19% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $2,312 in Modesto. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $5,946.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Modesto Chapel Hill
Average 1 BR rent $1,446 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $2,467 $3,433
Average home value $442,362 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $67,011 $65,621
Cost of living (single) $2,312 $2,248
Cost of living (family of four) $5,946 $4,790
Unemployment rate 8.0% 3.2%
Sales tax 8.88% 7.5%
State income tax 13.3% 4.5%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 8% higher in Chapel Hill than in Modesto, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 34% higher in Chapel Hill than in Modesto.
  • Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Chapel Hill and Modesto, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Chapel Hill and Modesto, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
  • Relocating to Chapel Hill could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 19% lower than in Modesto.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 60% lower than Modesto, Chapel Hill boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes are 16% lower in Chapel Hill than Modesto, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 66% lower in North Carolina 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 Chapel Hill, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Modesto Chapel Hill
Basic utilities $229.35 $156.99
Cell phone plan $62.91 $55.25
Dozen eggs $5.67 $4.53
Loaf of bread $3.61 $4.04
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $80.00
Gym membership $41.33 $42.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Chapel Hill.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Chapel Hill.
  • Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Chapel Hill.
  • Bread costs less in Modesto than in Chapel Hill.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Chapel Hill.

How life is different in Modesto vs. Chapel Hill

Modesto Chapel Hill
Population 218,464 63,764
Transportation score 5 6
Walkability score 48 34
Bike friendliness score 48 50
Crime index 65.76 26.42
Safety index 34.24 73.58
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Chapel Hill’s population is about 71% less than Modesto.
  • Chapel Hill’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Modesto’s score of 5.
  • Chapel Hill is less walkable than Modesto with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Modesto’s 48 out of 100.
  • Both Chapel Hill and Modesto have similar bike-friendliness scores (48 vs 50), meaning Chapel Hill is about as safe for cyclists as Modesto. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Chapel Hill’s crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 26.42 compared to Modesto’s 65.76. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
  • Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 73.58 vs Modesto’s 34.24.
  • Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Modesto it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Modesto to Chapel Hill 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a North Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in North Carolina, 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 Chapel Hill 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 Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Ready to relocate to Southern Part of Heaven? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meadowmont
  • The Oaks
  • Winmore
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Southern Village
  • Briar Chapel
  • Dunhill
  • Governor’s Club
  • Westfall
  • Claremont/Claremont South

Things to do in Chapel Hill

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chapel Hill include museums and art centers like the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, and Kidzu Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park, 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 UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Modesto to Chapel Hill?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Modesto to Chapel Hill. 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 Chapel Hill?

With many people choosing to move from Modesto to Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill take?

Covering 2,744 miles, the move from Modesto, CA to Chapel Hill, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Modesto movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chapel Hill can help bridge the gap.

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

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 297 piano movers and 227 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.

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