Fargo, ND to Modesto, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Fargo to Modesto typically costs $4,400–$9,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,758 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Fargo to Modesto
Moving from Fargo, ND to Modesto, CA typically costs $4,400–$9,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,758-mile move from Fargo to Modesto, 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
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,407 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,478 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $9,565 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 24, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 08, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 26, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 22, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 20, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 18, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 28, 2025
Factors that affect moving costs from Fargo to Modesto
Your total cost will depend on:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Fargo to Modesto may only cost $3,000, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $13,800.
- The season you're moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Fargo.
- Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,100–$3,400), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA to Fargo, ND guide.
Best Fargo to Modesto movers by type
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Local
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Best professional movers from Fargo to Modesto
Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Fargo to Modesto. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.
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 ND→CA movers
moveBuddha's dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 11 North Dakota moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
- Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Fargo to Modesto
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Modesto runs about 48% higher for singles and 80% higher for families than Fargo.
Singles spend around $2,312 in Modesto versus $1,566 in Fargo; families pay $5,946 compared with $3,299.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Fargo | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $963 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,563 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $287,548 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,493 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,566 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,299 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 2.9% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 71% more expensive in Modesto than in Fargo. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
- Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 54% steeper in Modesto compared to Fargo.
- Here's some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 13% greater in Modesto than in Fargo, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
- Prepare for elevated costs in Modesto, with the cost of living for a single person being 48% more than in Fargo. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
- When considering a family move to Modesto, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 80% higher than in Fargo.
- Modesto has a higher unemployment rate than Fargo by about 122%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
- Sales taxes in Modesto surpass those in Fargo by 18%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
- Income taxes are 359% more in California than in North Dakota. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.
Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Fargo versus Modesto:
| Living Expense | Fargo | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $159.44 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.00 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.00 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.25 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $50.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $55.00 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Fargo than in Modesto, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Fargo than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Fargo than in Modesto.
- Bread costs less in Fargo than in Modesto.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Fargo than in Modesto.
- Gym memberships cost more in Fargo than in Modesto.
How life is different in Fargo vs. Modesto
| Fargo | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 125,990 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 49 | 48 |
| Crime index | 8.0 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 56.17 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto's population is about 73% greater than Fargo.
- Modesto's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Fargo's score of 4.
- Modesto is more walkable than Fargo with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Fargo's 45 out of 100.
- Both Modesto and Fargo have similar bike-friendliness scores (49 vs 48), meaning Modesto is about as safe for cyclists as Fargo. 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 Fargo with a score of 65.76 compared to Fargo's 8.0. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
- Modesto is considered to be less safe than Fargo with a score of 34.24 vs Fargo's 56.17.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Fargo it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Fargo to Modesto move
- HOA rules: Plan time to look into your HOA or community rules and regulations before moving day arrives, to avoid any delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
- Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Modesto. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Modesto
With your sights set on City of Great Neighbors, these are some of the most popular 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
With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Modesto. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you'll never run out of things to do:
- Arts and culture: Modesto is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Tuolumne River Trail — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Fargo to Modesto?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Fargo to Modesto. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Fargo.
When is the cheapest time to move from Fargo to Modesto?
Want to save on your move from Fargo to Modesto? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.
How long does a move from Fargo to Modesto take?
The 1,758-mile move from Fargo, ND, to Modesto, CA, takes five to 16 days. Some Fargo movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Modesto.
Need help moving a piano or antiques in Fargo?
These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 5 movers in Fargo provide piano moving services. 2 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 9 piano movers and 4 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,296 and 1,463.
Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.
