Modesto, CA to Austin, TX Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Modesto to Austin typically costs $3,400–$7,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,687 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Modesto to Austin
Moving from Modesto, CA to Austin, TX typically costs $3,400–$7,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,687-mile move from Modesto to Austin, 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
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,954 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $7,138 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $5,673 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 18, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 16, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 09, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 09, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 05, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 28, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Modesto to Austin
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 Austin might be as low as $2,700, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,900.
- 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 $1,100 to $3,000 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Austin, TX to Modesto, CA guide.
Best Modesto to Austin movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Modesto to Austin
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Modesto to Austin, 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→TX 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 Austin
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Austin runs about 45% higher for singles and 31% higher for families than Modesto.
Singles spend around $3,345 in Austin versus $2,312 in Modesto; families pay $7,815 compared with $5,946.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Modesto | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,446 | $2,208 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,467 | $3,827 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $508,841 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $68,258 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,312 | $3,345 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,946 | $7,815 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 3.5% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
- Switching from Modesto to Austin won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 15% higher in Austin than in Modesto.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Austin and Modesto, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Austin, as the cost of living for a single person in Austin is 45% greater than in Modesto. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Austin, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 31% more than it is in Modesto.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 56% lower than Modesto, Austin boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 7% lower in Austin than Modesto, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Modesto and Austin, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Modesto | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $181.48 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $61.16 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.67 | $4.35 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.61 | $3.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $41.33 | $62.38 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Austin.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Austin.
- Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Austin.
- Bread is more expensive in Modesto than in Austin.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Austin.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Modesto than in Austin.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Austin.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Austin
| Modesto | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 974,447 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 42 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 54 |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 42.91 |
| Safety index | 34.24 | 59.87 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Austin's population is about 346% greater than Modesto.
- Austin's public transportation score is within about 5% of Modesto, making them very similar.
- Austin is less walkable than Modesto with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Modesto's 48 out of 100.
- With a score of 54 out of 100, Austin is more bike-friendly than Modesto, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Austin's crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 42.91 compared to Modesto's 65.76. This means that Austin neighborhoods are safer than 42.91% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
- Austin is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 59.87 vs Modesto's 34.24.
- Air quality in Austin is Good, and in Modesto it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Modesto to Austin 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: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Texas, 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 Austin 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. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Austin
Ready to relocate to ATX? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Austin.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cherrywood
- North University
- Old West Austin
- South Lamar
- Zilker
Best neighborhoods for families
- Rollingwood
- West Lake
- Brushy Creek
- Cedar Park
- Shady Hollow
Things to do in Austin
Now that you've made the move to Texas, it's the perfect time to explore Austin. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Austin include museums and art centers like the Texas Memorial Museum, George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Thinkery, and Blanton Museum of Art.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Pease Park, Butler Metro Park, Zilker Park, and Sculpture Falls, 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 Round Rock ExpressAustin SpursTexas StarsAustin OutlawsAustin HunsAustin GilgronisAustin Bold FCAustin FC game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Austin?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Modesto to Austin. 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 Austin?
With many people choosing to move from Modesto to Austin 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 Austin take?
Covering 1,687 miles, the move from Modesto, CA to Austin, TX typically takes four to 15 days. Some Modesto movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Austin can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Modesto can handle specialty items for my move to Austin?
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.
