Top-rated local movers that handle Tucson to Modesto moves
When planning a move from Tucson to Modesto, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 13 local movers in Tucson who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.
Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Tucson to Modesto.
- E-Z Move: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Abba & Sons Moving LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Daniel’s Moving and Storage, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 1966983
Alternate Names: Tucson Moving Systems, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 35
DOT #: 667348
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1921793
Alternate Names: Abba and Sons Moving, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 47
DOT #: 1293335
Alternate Names: Atlas Van Lines, 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
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Black Wolf Moving Arizona, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Tucson to Modesto?
Movers in Arizona charge $154 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,125 – $3,836 | $790 – $1,735 | $527 – $983 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,304 – $5,584 | $1,327 – $2,663 | $605 – $1,228 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,020 – $7,896 | $1,799 – $3,473 | $772 – $1,549 |
Cost to hire movers from Tucson to Modesto
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tucson to Modesto, you can expect to spend between $1,125 and $3,836. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,304 to $5,584 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Tucson to Modesto typically runs between $4,020 and $7,896.
Cost of moving containers from Tucson to Modesto
When moving from Tucson to Modesto, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $790 and $1,735. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,327 to $2,663. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,799 up to $3,473. 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 Arizona.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tucson to Modesto
Renting a moving truck in Tucson 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 $527 and $983. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $605 and $1,228. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $772 and $1,549.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors that impact moving costs from Tucson to Modesto
The cost of Tucson movers will depend on:
- The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,922, but larger homes can run up to $6,376.
- Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Tucson.
- Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($527–$1,285) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.
What to know before moving from Tucson to Modesto
Overall, Tucson and Modesto land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $2,312 in Modesto and $2,390 in Tucson, while families in Modesto see $5,946 versus $6,043 in Modesto.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Tucson | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,265 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,177 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $327,203 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $61,749 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,390 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,043 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.7% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 13.3% |
- As you consider relocating to Modesto, note that rent can be roughly 39% more expensive than it is in Tucson; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 35% higher in Modesto than in Tucson.
- Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 9% higher in Modesto compared to Tucson, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
- Since the cost of living for a single person is within 5% of the same in both Modesto and Tucson, you shouldn’t see much difference.
- You’ll find the cost of living for a family to be nearly equivalent in Modesto and Tucson, with only a minor variance of about 5%, so you’ll likely see minimal difference in daily expenses.
- The unemployment rate in Modesto is 8% higher compared to Tucson, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
- Sales taxes are similar in Modesto and Tucson (within about 5%), meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
- Income taxes are 432% higher in California compared to Arizona. 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.
The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Tucson with Modesto:
| Living Expense | Tucson | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $271.98 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $70.53 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.22 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.33 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $35.28 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Tucson than in Modesto.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Tucson than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Tucson than in Modesto.
- Bread costs less in Tucson than in Modesto.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Tucson than in Modesto.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Tucson than in Modesto.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Tucson than in Modesto.
How life is different in Tucson vs. Modesto
| Tucson | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 542,629 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 43 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 48 |
| Crime index | 54.43 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 45.57 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto’s population is about 60% less than Tucson.
- Modesto’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Tucson, making them very similar.
- Modesto is more walkable than Tucson with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Tucson’s 43 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 Tucson, which has a score of 66.
- Modesto’s crime rate is higher than Tucson with a score of 65.76 compared to Tucson’s 54.43. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tucson neighborhoods are safer than 54.43%.
- Modesto is considered to be less safe than Tucson with a score of 34.24 vs Tucson’s 45.57.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Tucson it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Tucson to Modesto move
- 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.
Where to live in Modesto
Now that you’ve chosen City of Great Neighbors as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Modesto to check out.
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.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tucson to Modesto?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Tucson to Modesto are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Tucson are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tucson to Modesto?
Because spring and fall moves from Tucson to Modesto are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Tucson to Modesto take?
A move of 793 miles from Tucson, AZ to Modesto, generally takes two to seven days. Movers in Tucson sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Modesto is a good fallback if you need extra time.
Which movers in Tucson offer piano or antique moving?
Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 11 movers in Tucson have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 9 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across AZ, there are 72 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.
Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.
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