Modesto, CA to Jersey City, NJ Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Modesto to Jersey City typically costs $4,800–$9,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,889 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Modesto to Jersey City
Moving from Modesto, CA to Jersey City, NJ typically costs $4,800–$9,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,889-mile move from Modesto to Jersey City, 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
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $2,258 for a 2 bedroom using a rental truck.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $6,361 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $3,804 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 03, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 25, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 18, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 24, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 07, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 02, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Modesto to Jersey City
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 Jersey City might be as low as $3,000, while a four-bedroom could reach $14,000.
- 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 $1,900 to $4,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Jersey City, NJ to Modesto, CA guide.
Best Modesto to Jersey City movers by type
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Best professional movers from Modesto to Jersey City
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Modesto to Jersey City, 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→NJ 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 Jersey City
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Jersey City runs about 90% higher for singles and 66% higher for families than Modesto.
Singles spend around $4,397 in Jersey City versus $2,312 in Modesto; families pay $9,861 compared with $5,946.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Modesto | Jersey City | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,446 | $3,306 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,467 | $5,833 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $589,419 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $75,265 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,312 | $4,397 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,946 | $9,861 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 8.3% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 6.63% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 10.7% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 65% higher in Jersey City than in Modesto, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 33% higher in Jersey City than in Modesto.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 12% higher in Jersey City than in Modesto, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Jersey City, as the cost of living for a single person in Jersey City is 90% greater than in Modesto. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Jersey City, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 66% more than it is in Modesto.
- There's little difference in the unemployment rates of Jersey City and Modesto, within a margin of 5%, so job opportunities should be similar.
- Sales taxes are 25% lower in Jersey City than Modesto, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 20% lower in New Jersey 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 Jersey City, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Modesto | Jersey City |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $118.73 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $41.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.67 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.61 | $3.97 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $41.33 | $80.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Jersey City.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Jersey City.
- Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Jersey City.
- Bread costs less in Modesto than in Jersey City.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Jersey City.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Modesto than in Jersey City.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Jersey City.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Jersey City
| Modesto | Jersey City | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 292,449 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 87 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 64 |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 43.21 |
| Safety index | 34.24 | 56.79 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Moderate |
- Jersey City's population is about 34% greater than Modesto.
- Jersey City's public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Modesto's score of 5.
- Jersey City is more walkable than Modesto with a score of 87 out of 100 vs Modesto's 48 out of 100.
- With a score of 64 out of 100, Jersey City 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.
- Jersey City's crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 43.21 compared to Modesto's 65.76. This means that Jersey City neighborhoods are safer than 43.21% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
- Jersey City is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 56.79 vs Modesto's 34.24.
- Air quality in Jersey City is Moderate, and in Modesto it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Modesto to Jersey City 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 New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies. The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a New Jersey moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in New Jersey, 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 Jersey City 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. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Jersey City
Ready to relocate to J.C.? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Jersey City.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Journal Square
- Mcginley Square
- The Heights
- The Waterfront
- Liberty Park
- Downtown
Best neighborhoods for families
- Greenville
- Mcginley Square
- West Side
- Hackensack Waterfront
- Grove Street
- Downtown
Things to do in Jersey City
Now that you've made the move to New Jersey, it's the perfect time to explore Jersey City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Jersey City include museums and art centers like the Liberty Science Center, Mana Contemporary, 107 Bowers Gallery & ArtSpace, and Novado Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Liberty State Park, Liberty Landing Marina, J. Owen Grundy Park, and Lincoln 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 Saint Peter’s Peacocks (MAAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Jersey City?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Modesto to Jersey City. 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 Jersey City?
With many people choosing to move from Modesto to Jersey City 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 Jersey City take?
Covering 2,889 miles, the move from Modesto, CA to Jersey City, NJ typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Modesto movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Jersey City can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Modesto can handle specialty items for my move to Jersey City?
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.
