($1,451) Cost to Move From Boston, MA to Modesto, CA

1. Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. Michael’s Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
3. Poseidon Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
5. Flash Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Boston to Modesto

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Boston to Modesto, you can expect to spend between $1,451 and $5,765. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,038 to $8,108 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Boston to Modesto typically runs between $7,912 and $12,693.

Cost of moving containers from Boston to Modesto

When moving from Boston to Modesto, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,495 and $3,694. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,728 to $5,609. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,697 up to $7,520. 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 Massachusetts.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Boston to Modesto

Renting a moving truck in Boston 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 $1,617 and $3,297. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,751 and $3,585. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,237 and $4,403.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 47% lower in Modesto than in Boston, giving you more disposable income monthly.
• Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 40% lower in Modesto than in Boston.
• It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 25% less in Modesto than in Boston.
• Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Modesto, where the cost of living for a single person is 52% less than in Boston.
• 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 47% less than in Boston.
• The unemployment rate in Modesto is 29% higher compared to Boston, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
• Sales taxes are 42% higher in Modesto than in Boston. 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 48% higher in California compared to Massachusetts. 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 68% less than Boston.
• Modesto’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Boston’s score of 9.
• Modesto is less walkable than Boston with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Boston’s 98 out of 100.
• Modesto has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Boston, which has a score of 86.
• Modesto’s crime rate is higher than Boston with a score of 65.76 compared to Boston’s 39.88. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88%.
• Modesto is considered to be less safe than Boston with a score of 34.24 vs Boston’s 60.12.
• Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Boston 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.