Top local movers for Detroit to Modesto moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Detroit that also provides long-distance services to Modesto can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 36 local movers in Detroit who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Detroit to Modesto.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 114
DOT #: 511993
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1673815
Alternate Names: Royal Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 20587
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 1660642
Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Modesto?
Movers in Michigan generally charge an average of 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 | $1,307 – $5,184 | $1,240 – $2,986 | $1,394 – $2,567 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,799 – $7,799 | $2,159 – $4,617 | $1,466 – $3,209 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,208 – $12,666 | $2,999 – $6,455 | $1,761 – $3,597 |
Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Modesto
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Modesto typically costs between $1,307 and $5,184. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,799 and $7,799 when moving from Detroit to Modesto. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Detroit to Modesto, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,208 up to $12,666.
Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Modesto
If you’re relocating from Detroit to Modesto, you’ll typically spend between $1,240 and $2,986 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,159 up to $4,617. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,999 and $6,455. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Modesto
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Detroit to Modesto 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 $1,394 and $2,567. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,466 to $3,209. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,761 and $3,597.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Detroit to Modesto
The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Detroit to Modesto might be as low as $2,706, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,790.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Detroit.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,394 to $3,283 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Detroit to Modesto
Many movers find Modesto easier on the wallet than Detroit – roughly 8% less for singles and 11% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,312 for one person in Modesto versus $2,500 in Detroit. For a family of four, it’s $5,946 compared with $6,687.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Detroit | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,325 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,542 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $73,156 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $37,761 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,500 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,687 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.06% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 44% higher in Modesto than in Detroit, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 505% higher in Modesto than in Detroit.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 77% higher in Modesto than in Detroit, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Modesto. The cost of living for a single person is 8% less compared to Detroit.
- Relocating to Modesto could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 11% lower than in Detroit.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 12% lower than Detroit, Modesto boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Modesto exceed those in Detroit by 48%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 213% higher in California than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Detroit and Modesto, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Detroit | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $251.12 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $55.77 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.52 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.94 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $68.50 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $43.00 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Modesto.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Detroit than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Modesto.
- Bread costs less in Detroit than in Modesto.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Detroit than in Modesto.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Modesto.
- Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Modesto.
How life is different in Detroit vs. Modesto
| Detroit | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 639,111 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 48 |
| Crime index | 72.92 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 27.08 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto’s population is about 66% less than Detroit.
- Modesto’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
- Modesto is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 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 Detroit, which has a score of 52.
- Modesto’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 65.76 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
- Modesto is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 34.24 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Detroit it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Detroit to Modesto 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, 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 Modesto 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. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Modesto
Ready to relocate to City of Great Neighbors? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Modesto.
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
Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Modesto. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Modesto include museums and art centers like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Tuolumne River Trail, 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 Modesto Nuts (California League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Detroit to Modesto?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Detroit to Modesto. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Detroit.
When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Modesto?
With many people choosing to move from Detroit to Modesto 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 Detroit to Modesto take?
Covering 2,379 miles, the move from Detroit, MI to Modesto, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Detroit movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Modesto can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Detroit offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers provide military discounts. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Detroit can handle specialty items for my move to Modesto?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Detroit, 22 movers can handle pianos. 8 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 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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