Moving from Fontana to Modesto, CA
Fact Checked by:
Quick answer: Moving from Fontana to Modesto costs between $413 to $8,397 depending on your home's size and if you hire a moving company or move yourself, based on data from our moving cost calculator.
Most moves on this 357-mile route within California take 1 to 4 days from packing to delivery.
Compare moving options from Fontana to Modesto
The 4 most common types of movers when moving from Fontana to Modesto are full-service movers, labor-only movers, moving containers, and rental trucks.
- Full-service movers handle everything from packing in Fontana to driving and unloading in Modesto, but cost the most
- Labor-only services work well if you only want a crew for the heavy lifting
- Moving containers balance price and effort, but you handle loading or hire labor separately
- Rental trucks are the cheapest if you're comfortable driving 357 miles and require your full effort or hiring labor
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Main downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | Safeway Moving | $2,192 - $6,021 | Movers handle loading, driving, and unloading | Highest price of all options |
| Moving container | PODS | $1,291 - $2,491 | Pack and load on your own schedule | You handle all loading and unloading |
| Rental truck | Budget Truck Rental | $462 - $851 | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load, and unload everything yourself |
| Labor-only | Trek Movers | $110/hr | Need a loading crew and already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
How much does it cost to move from Fontana to Modesto?
It costs between $413 to $8,397 to move from Fontana to Modesto. The prices below break down your 357-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
- Full service movers: $1,299 - $8,397
- Moving containers: $1,116 - $3,303
- Rental trucks: $413 - $1,029
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,299 - $4,304 | $1,116 - $1,790 | $413 - $732 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,192 - $6,021 | $1,291 - $2,491 | $462 - $851 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,443 - $8,397 | $1,781 - $3,303 | $562 - $1,029 |
Extra costs to budget for
Most quotes won't include these line items by default — confirm each one with your mover or rental company before booking.
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Packing service | $357 - $2,975+ | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $110/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Storage | About $100/month | Moving containers |
| Shuttle fee | $238 - $952 | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $60 - $238 | Rental trucks |
| Added protection | 1% - 2% of declared value | All move types |
Best movers from Fontana to Modesto
At 357 miles, your Fontana to Modesto move sits in a range where both national and local companies can handle it well, but they serve different needs. We've listed our top pick from each category below.
Best movers for larger homes and complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our top-rated full-service pick for larger moves from Fontana to Modesto. With 14 years in the moving industry and service throughout California, they're a strong fit for intrastate moves of 357 miles.
Best movers for smaller homes and apartment moves
Flex Moving & Storage is the best mover for smaller homes and apartments from Fontana to Modesto. They've been in business since 2002 (24 years of experience) and 88.2% of their 51 verified reviews are positive.
More California moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Modesto to Fontana guide.
Considerations when moving from Fontana to Modesto
Cost of living: Fontana vs. Modesto
The cost of living in Fontana vs. Modesto goes beyond rent prices. You also need to think about housing costs, average salaries, daily expenses, and job trends to see how living in Modesto stacks up against Fontana.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Fontana | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $3,000 | $1,800 |
| Average home cost | $554,802 | $415,024 |
| Average income (per capita) | $98,187 | $77,899 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,972 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,875 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.6% | 8.0% |
| Average Sales Tax | 7.75% | 8.88% |
- Rent in Modesto is roughly 40% less expensive than in Fontana. That leaves you with extra cash for savings, entertainment, or anything else you want to spend money on.
- Home prices in Modesto are 25% lower than in Fontana, which may make it easier to enter the housing market and get a more affordable mortgage, freeing up your budget for other priorities.
- Income in Modesto is 21% lower than in Fontana. You may need to keep a closer eye on your budget, particularly if salaries don’t match the cost of living.
- Cost of living for a single person in Modesto is 22% lower than in Fontana. That means you’ll probably have more room in your budget for saving, spending, or investing.
- The living costs for a family of four are 14% lower in Modesto than in Fontana. That means your money stretches further, giving you extra room in your budget and the opportunity to enjoy an even better quality of life after your move.
- The unemployment rate in Modesto and Fontana are the same, which indicates a similar job market and employment outlook as your current hometown.
- In Modesto, sales taxes are 15% higher than in Fontana. That means everyday buys — from groceries to gadgets — could end up costing you more.
If you usually spend $3,000 a month living in Fontana, expect to budget around $2,340 to maintain the same lifestyle in Modesto.
How life is different in Fontana vs. Modesto
As you plan your move, comparing life in Fontana vs. Modesto is essential to making an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and needs. Factors like population size, climate, political leaning, cost of living, and safety can significantly impact your experience in a new place. Below is a side-by-side breakdown of key differences between Fontana and Modesto to help you evaluate which city may be a better fit.
| Fontana | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 212,704 | 218,464 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Democratic 49.8-48.3 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 94ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 39ºF |
| Annual rain | 14" | 13" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 31.65 | 65.76 |
Modesto sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Moving between Fontana and Modesto usually feels pretty seamless since both cities have similar populations. But don’t be fooled—while the headcount is about the same, what sets them apart is the culture, local economy, city layout, and cost of living. Those are the differences you’ll actually notice.
- The last presidential election saw both Fontana and Modesto siding with the Democratic party.
- Summer highs in Modesto and Fontana are nearly identical, with averages around 94°F. Moving won’t bring much climate adjustment.
- During the coldest months, both Fontana and Modesto experience similar chilly lows, with temperatures near 43°F and 39°F.
- You won’t have to adjust to new weather conditions when you move from Fontana to Modesto. Both spots see about the same amount of rain each year: 14 inches in Fontana and 13 inches in Modesto.
- Both Fontana and Modesto receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
- Crime rates are higher in Modesto, with an index of 65.76, compared to Fontana at 31.65.
Things to do in Modesto
Looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or live sports? Modesto has something for everyone.
Museums in Modesto
- Great Valley Museum
- McHenry Museum
- Mistlin Gallery
Parks in Modesto
- Tuolumne River Trail
Sports teams in Modesto
- Modesto Nuts (California League)
Universities in Modesto
- Modesto Junior College
- Community Business College
FAQ
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Fontana to Modesto?
Moving your furniture from Fontana to Modesto with a professional moving company usually ranges from $1,163 to $3,582. If you're packing up a two- or three-bedroom home, prices typically land between $2,192 and $6,021. Planning to move four bedrooms or more? Expect to pay anywhere from $3,443 to $8,397 for the same distance.
How much are moving container companies from Fontana to Modesto?
If you’re moving from Fontana to Modesto and considering moving containers, here’s a quick breakdown of what you might spend: For a studio or one-bedroom, costs typically range from $720 to $1,759. Two- and three-bedroom homes usually fall between $1,291 and $2,491. If you’re moving from a four- or five-bedroom home, expect prices to range from $1,781 to $3,303.
How much is a moving truck from Fontana to Modesto?
Want to save some cash? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest bet. Just remember, you’ll be in charge of both the driving and the heavy lifting. To give you an accurate estimate, we’ve included average fuel costs in our pricing so you’re not caught off guard.
Renting a truck for a studio or one-bedroom move will typically set you back between $409 and $710. If you're moving a larger apartment, you can expect costs to range from $462 to $851. For four-bedroom homes or bigger making the trip from Fontana to Modesto, rental prices generally fall between $562 and $1,029.
How far in advance should I book Fontana-to-Modesto movers?
Ideally, you should book your move from Fontana to Modesto at least two months in advance. If you’re moving during the busy summer months, it’s best to book your movers at least three months ahead. The sooner you reserve your Fontana-to-Modesto movers, the better the chance you’ll get affordable rates and secure the exact moving date you need. Some movers even offer early-bird discounts for advance reservations.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Modesto?
If you want to save money on your move to Modesto, aim for early October through late April. This window falls outside the hectic peak season (May to September), when most people relocate and prices soar. By steering clear of the busy summer months, you’ll take advantage of lower demand and lower rates.
