($1,348) Cost to Move From Columbus, OH to Modesto, CA

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Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Modesto

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Columbus to Modesto, you can expect to spend between $1,348 and $5,259. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,894 to $7,742 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Columbus to Modesto typically runs between $6,899 and $11,977.

Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Modesto

When moving from Columbus to Modesto, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,210 and $3,195. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,353 to $4,742. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,236 up to $6,501. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Ohio.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Modesto

Renting a moving truck in Columbus is usually your cheapest option to get to Modesto. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,326 and $2,669. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,392 and $2,962. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,759 and $3,707.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• As you consider relocating to Modesto, note that rent can be roughly 25% more expensive than it is in Columbus; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 85% higher in Modesto than in Columbus.
• The average income in Modesto and Columbus is quite similar, within about 5%, so your finances should remain fairly stable.
• Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Modesto, where the cost of living for a single person is 17% less than in Columbus.
• Moving to Modesto could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 18% less than in Columbus.
• The unemployment rate in Modesto is 40% higher compared to Columbus, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
• Sales taxes are 18% higher in Modesto than in Columbus. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
• Income taxes are 280% higher in California compared to Ohio. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

• Modesto’s population is about 76% less than Columbus.
• Modesto’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Columbus, making them very similar.
• Modesto is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Columbus’s 41 out of 100.
• Both Modesto and Columbus have similar bike-friendliness scores (48 vs 48), meaning Modesto is about as safe for cyclists as Columbus. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Modesto’s crime rate is higher than Columbus with a score of 65.76 compared to Columbus’s 49.65. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
• Modesto is considered to be less safe than Columbus with a score of 34.24 vs Columbus’s 50.35.
• Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Columbus it’s Good.

• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Modesto smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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 getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what Modesto is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Modesto offers cultural landmarks like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tuolumne River Trail — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.