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($488) Movers From Modesto to San Jose, CA

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Estimated cost & time: When moving from Modesto to San Jose, you’ll cover 81 miles. On average, for professional movers, the cost should fall between $999 and $2,823, and take one–two days. The price depends on distance, date, home size, and could be less costly if you go the DIY route vs. professional help.
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Best movers from Modesto to San Jose

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from Modesto to San Jose

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 81-mile move from Modesto to San Jose, CA, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha maintains a monthly-updated database of thousands of vetted prices from moving companies across the U.S., reflecting seasonal fluctuations and evolving market trends. Final costs depend on factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. It’s wise to request quotes from several movers for a precise estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $527 – $2,625
  • Moving Container $538 – $1,010
  • Rental Truck $82 – $128
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $999 – $2,823
  • Moving Container $767 – $1,438
  • Rental Truck $93 – $152
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,338 – $3,561
  • Moving Container $999 – $1,720
  • Rental Truck $105 – $164
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
Ripon, CA Union City, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 14, 2025
Roadway Moving
Bret Harte, CA Palo Alto, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cowan, CA Menlo Park, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hilmar-Irwin, CA Alum Rock, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 15, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Manteca, CA Los Altos, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 11, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Escalon, CA North Fair Oaks, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 26, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
West Modesto, CA Morgan Hill, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
BLVD Moving
Riverbank, CA Sunnyvale, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Modesto, CA Mountain View, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 06, 2025
United Van Lines
Salida, CA East Palo Alto, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 01, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Jose to Modesto guide.

Local moving companies in Modesto

Utilizing one of the 355 local moving companies in California for your Modesto to San Jose move can offer a balanced mix of convenience, expertise, and efficiency. These movers are familiar with the area, provide tailored services, and can handle everything from packing to transportation, making your move s moother and less stressful.

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Pete’s Moving Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Casey Moving Systems: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Brewer Moving LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  5. Big Island Movers: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.2% of all reviews were positive
13.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Pete’s Moving Services is celebrated by most customers for professional, courteous staff, efficient processes, and careful handling of items. 86% of the 471 customer reviews rated the experience as positive. Clients describe the moving teams as prompt, hardworking, communicative, and friendly—qualities that many say set Pete’s apart from competitors. The moving crews consistently receive praise for caring for belongings and making stressful moves much easier. On the downside, 13% of feedback cited damaged items, delays in arrival, and issues with packing quality. Some clients experienced broken furniture or items lost due to inadequate packing or rushed jobs. While the majority reported transparent pricing and smooth scheduling, a few were dissatisfied with handling of claims or timely delivery. Compared with other companies, Pete’s stands out for reliability and personable service, but occasional lapses in careful packing or scheduling can impact the experience.
Get a Quote (209) 442-4949

Company Info

State license #: 0191440

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 3314910

Alternate Names: Petes Moving Services LLC , Pete’s Moving Services LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.6% of all reviews were positive
25.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving customers trust Casey Moving Systems for their organized team, respectful movers, and great communication throughout the process. The company earns high marks for professional staff, careful packing, and efficiency—traits not always common among moving companies. Many highlighted on-time moves and items arriving undamaged. Casey’s quick scheduling and fair, clear pricing set it apart from competitors known for hidden fees. On the negative side, some customers reported damaged or lost items, delays in delivery, and poor complaint resolution, especially when insurance or claims were involved. Nevertheless, most feedback praised their consistent reliability and stress-free service. Out of sixty-three reviews analyzed, nearly three-quarters were positive, showing a strong record compared to many others in the industry.
Get a Quote (209) 531-9010

Company Info

State license #: 0115405

Years in Business: 23

DOT #: 153088

Alternate Names: Casey Records Management , Dawson Van & Storage , United Van Lines

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.5% of all reviews were positive
15.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently strong input paints Brewer Moving LLC as a standout choice for professional moving assistance. After assessing 40 reviews, 83% praised the crew’s professionalism, careful handling of belongings, prompt communication, swift service, and reasonable pricing. Many reported stress-free moves, highlighting friendly, respectful staff and genuine care for property—qualities that help this mover stand apart from less attentive competitors. A handful of customers described frustrating experiences, with concerns about damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, and lack of timely responses. Isolated cases of communication problems suggest some room for improvement. Brewer Moving LLC attracts glowing recommendations for its reliable, efficient service and courteous team, consistently winning positive feedback from most clients.
Get a Quote (209) 923-3827

Company Info

State license #: 0192036

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3329727

Alternate Names: Brewer Moving, LLC , J B Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.4% of all reviews were positive
13.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Reliable, caring movers stand out—Big Island Movers earned high marks in 59 pieces of customer feedback, with 86% praising efficiency, professionalism, and careful attention to belongings. Customers repeatedly commend fast service, polite staff, and helpful movers. Moves happen on time, with property protected against damage, and details clearly communicated. A small number of customers flagged problems, mostly involving unprofessional behavior, unclear communication, or surprising charges—issues not seen in most moving companies with similarly high ratings. Feedback highlights a team that works quickly, respects both people and property, and makes stressful moves easier. Few reported negative contacts, but those voiced frustration with rudeness or miscommunication. For people seeking experienced, efficient movers who treat possessions right, Big Island Movers shows stronger consistency than many local competitors.
Get a Quote (209) 606-0089

Company Info

State license #: 0190630

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 3278221

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from Modesto to San Jose

See the table below for typical moving costs from Modesto to San Jose. Prices are broken out by home size and moving service so you can compare options at a glance.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $488 – $2,102 $384 – $935 $85 – $125
2 – 3 bedrooms $999 – $2,823 $767 – $1,438 $93 – $152
4+ bedrooms $1,338 – $3,561 $999 – $1,720 $105 – $164
*These cost ranges are estimates for a 81-mile move from Modesto to San Jose, using pricing compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to account for seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your price can vary with volume, selected services, parking/access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to dial in precise pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Modesto to San Jose

Moving a studio or one-bedroom from Modesto to San Jose typically costs from $488 to $2,102. A two- to three-bedroom relocation from Modesto to San Jose is commonly priced between $999 and $2,823. For larger households moving from Modesto to San Jose, expect $1,338 to $3,561.

Cost of moving containers from Modesto to San Jose

Using containers to move from Modesto to San Jose? Plan on $384–$935 for a smaller load, $767–$1,438 for a two- or three-bedroom home, and $999–$1,720 for four bedrooms or more. Learn more about PODS cost.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your California move easier and more affordable.

Cost of renting a moving truck from Modesto to San Jose

A moving rental truck from Modesto to San Jose is usually the most affordable route, but you’ll handle all the driving and heavy lifting yourself.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $85 to $125. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $93 to $152, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Modesto to San Jose costs around $105 to $164.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from Modesto to San Jose

Cost of living: Modesto vs. San Jose

When weighing the cost of living in Modesto versus San Jose, there’s more to consider than just housing costs. Let’s dive into important financial factors like rent, home prices, average income, daily expenses, and job market trends, so you can see how life in San Jose really compares to Modesto.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Modesto San Jose
Average rent cost $1,800 $3,095
Average home cost $442,362 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $67,011 $83,421
Cost of living (single person) $2,312 $3,674
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,946 $8,354
Unemployment rate 8.0% 6.6%
Average Sales Tax 8.88% 9.38%
  • Rent prices in San Jose are 72% higher than in Modesto. Be prepared to spend more on housing, which might mean less room in your budget for savings or other expenses.
  • Home prices in San Jose are 229% higher than in Modesto. This means buying a home may be tougher, with a bigger down payment and possibly higher monthly mortgage costs.
  • Salaries here are, on average, 24% higher than in Modesto. If your earnings line up with local rates, you could experience a noticeable jump in your financial well-being.
  • Living costs for one person are 59% higher in San Jose compared to Modesto, so you’ll likely need to adjust your budget to handle the added expenses.
  • The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 40% higher than in Modesto. This means household expenses like housing, childcare, and healthcare will likely cost more, which could make San Jose less affordable if you have dependents or other family members to care for.
  • Unemployment in San Jose is 18% lower than in Modesto. That means you’re headed towards a healthier job market, more career opportunities, and better economic stability in your new home.
  • Sales taxes are 6% higher in San Jose than in Modesto. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.

To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in Modesto, you’d need about $4,770 in San Jose.

How life is different in Modesto vs. San Jose

Before you move, take a look at how life compares in Modesto and San Jose. From weather and population to cost of living, politics, and safety, these factors can all impact your daily life. Use this side-by-side comparison to find out which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.

Modesto San Jose
Population 218,464 971,233
Political leaning Democratic 49.8-48.3 Democratic 73-25
Summer high 94ºF 82ºF
Winter low 39ºF 42ºF
Annual rain 13″ 17″
Annual snow 0″ 0″
Crime index 65.76 47.73
  • San Jose is about 345% larger than Modesto. Moving to a bigger city means more people, new opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene, but you’ll also face higher living costs and a faster pace. Whether that sounds exciting or overwhelming comes down to what you want in your next home.
  • In the most recent presidential race, both Modesto and San Jose leaned Democratic.
  • Summer temperatures in San Jose usually peak at 82°F, compared to Modesto at 94°F. Moving to a cooler city means breezier summers and less stress from relentless heat.
  • In the coldest months, both Modesto and San Jose face similar winter lows—Modesto drops to 39°F, while San Jose falls to 42°F.
  • Both Modesto and San Jose receive similar amounts of rain annually—Modesto gets about 13 inches, while San Jose sees around 17 inches each year.
  • Both Modesto and San Jose receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • San Jose offers more peace of mind than Modesto, with a lower crime index of 47.73 versus 65.76.

Things to do in San Jose

Looking for adventure, vibrant culture, or exciting live sports? Modesto has it all.

Museums in San Jose

  • Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Children’s Discovery Museum
  • The Tech Interactive
  • San Jose Museum of Art
  • New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum

Parks in San Jose

  • Almaden Quicksilver County Park
  • Alum Rock Park
  • Emma Prusch Farm Park
  • Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park
  • Joseph D. Grant County Park

Sports teams in San Jose

  • San Jose Barracuda (AHL)
  • San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)
  • San Jose Giants (California League)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)

Universities in San Jose

  • San Jose State University
  • San Jose City College
  • Evergreen Valley College
  • International Technological University
  • WestMed College

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Modesto to San Jose?

If you’re planning to hire a moving company to get your belongings from Modesto to San Jose, here’s what you can expect: Moving just a few items or a small bedroom typically costs between $488 and $2,102. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices generally range from $999 up to $2,823. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay anywhere from $1,338 to $3,561 for the whole move.

How much are moving container companies from Modesto to San Jose?

Moving containers from Modesto to San Jose will cost you $384 to $935 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $767 to $1,438. A larger home will cost $999 to $1,720.

How much is a moving truck from Modesto to San Jose?

If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is typically your most budget-friendly choice. Just keep in mind, you’ll be handling all the driving and heavy lifting yourself. We’ve factored estimated fuel costs into these price estimates, so you know what to expect.

Renting a truck to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $85 to $125. If you’re moving a bigger place, expect to pay between $93 and $152. For a four-bedroom home or larger going from Modesto to San Jose, costs usually fall between $105 and $164.

How far in advance should I book Modesto-to-San Jose movers?

To make your move from Modesto to San Jose as easy as possible, try locking in your movers at least two months ahead of time. If you’re planning to move during the busy summer season, aim for three months in advance. Booking early gives you a better shot at your ideal moving date and can land you better rates. Some companies even offer early-bird discounts when you reserve ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Jose?

For the best deals on your move to San Jose, aim for a date between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush not only saves you money, but also helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.

Learn more about your move to San Jose

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