Best overall value
Local moving companies in Modesto
- Grace Moving Company: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Casey Moving Systems: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Pete's Moving Services: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- MidCal Moving and Storage Company: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Pack it up Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Grace Moving Company
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 2806730
Years in Business: 26
800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA 95351 USGrace 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2806730
- State license #: 0189642
Casey Moving Systems
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 153088
Years in Business: 23
2209 Fairview Drive, Ceres, CA 95307 USMoving 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 153088
- State license #: 0115405
Alternative Business Names
- Casey Records Management
- Dawson Van & Storage
- United Van Lines
Pete's Moving Services
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 3314910
Years in Business: 12
5662 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368 USPete'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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3314910
- State license #: 0191440
Alternative Business Names
- Petes Moving Services LLC
- Pete's Moving Services LLC
MidCal Moving and Storage Company
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2778166
Years in Business: 169
607 N. Carlton Ave Ste B, Stockton, CA 95203 USMidCal Moving and Storage Company earns high marks for their professional and courteous teams. Among 107 reviews, 85% reflect strong satisfaction thanks to careful handling, efficient service, prompt communication, and reliable arrival times. Movers go out of their way to ensure items arrive safely and on time, with multiple users mentioning damage-free deliveries, organized packing, and transparent processes—a rarity in the industry. Staff stand out for their politeness, skill, and ability to ease moving stress. On the downside, a small number of critical reviews mention significant issues with property damage, missing items, and difficult communication during claims. Some customers reported that lost or broken valuables were inadequately compensated, and occasionally felt ignored after payment. Compared to many competitors, MidCal is recognized for excellent service and reliability, though customers should review insurance options to minimize risk during complicated jobs.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2778166
- State license #: 0190750
Alternative Business Names
- Bekins
- D & S Simoni Inc.
Local Associations
Pack it up Movers
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 3054559
Years in Business: 7
1510 Ellerd Dr, Turlock, CA 95380 USMoving made easy and professional: Out of 287 feedback entries, 96% praised Pack it up Movers, making them one of the highest-rated in the industry. Customers consistently highlighted the professionalism and courtesy of the team, along with careful handling of belongings and fast, efficient service. Input repeatedly cited prompt communication and reasonable rates as standout features. Positive remarks often noted that moves were completed ahead of schedule and with items arriving undamaged. On the other hand, a few highlighted issues such as item damage, communication lapses, or sudden extra charges. Compared to other moving services, Pack it up Movers receives notably higher praise for careful handling, but like some competitors, isolated complaints about damage still occur. Most customers recommend them for moves big or small, valuing professionalism and peace of mind.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3054559
- State license #: 0191672
Key factors that impact the cost of your Modesto to Portland move
The cost of Modesto movers will depend on:
- Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Modesto to Portland (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,427, while larger moves may reach $8,125 for a four-bedroom home.
- Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it’s the busiest time of year for movers in Modesto.
- DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $605 to $1,552, but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.
What to know before moving from Modesto to Portland
Moving from Modesto to Portland comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Portland is generally more expensive than Modesto, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Modesto | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,800 | $1,530 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $522,596 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $85,876 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,312 | $2,572 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,946 | $6,077 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 6.9% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 9.9% |
- Rent prices in Portland are 15% lower than in Modesto, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Modesto.
Home prices in Portland are 18.1% higher than in Modesto. - Income in Portland is 28.2% higher than in Modesto, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Portland include KinderCare Learning Centers, Daimler Trucks North America, and Precision Castparts.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Portland, since the cost of living for a single person in Portland is 11.2% higher than in Modesto. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If you’re moving your family to Portland, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Portland is 2.2% higher than in Modesto.
- The unemployment rate in Portland is 13.75% lower than in Modesto.
- You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Portland, since the city’s sales taxes in Portland are 100.00% lower than in Modesto.
- One perk of moving to Portland is paying less in state income taxes, which are 25.56% lower than in Modesto.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,337.37 in Portland to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Modesto.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Portland
| Portland | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 652,503 | 218,464 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 81 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 92 | 48 |
| Crime Index | 57.37 | 65.76 |
| Safety Index | 42.63 | 34.24 |
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
- The population of Portland is about 199% greater than Modesto, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
- Portland offers better access to buses and trains than Modesto, based on public transportation ratings. Portland has a transit score of 8 out of 10 compared to 5 in Modesto. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
- Living in Portland means you’ll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Modesto. Portland is considered more walkable than Modesto, with a score of 81 out of 100 versus 48 out of 100 in Modesto. A city’s walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
- If cycling is your thing, Portland is considered more bike-friendly than Modesto in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Portland has a bike-friendliness score of 92 out of 100, while Modesto is rated as 48 out of 100.
- Portland has a lower crime rate than Modesto based on scores of 57.37 and Modesto's 65.76, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
- You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Portland than in Modesto, based on Portland’s safety index of 42.63 versus 34.24 for Modesto. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
- You can breathe easy knowing that Portland has better air quality than in Modesto. Portland has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Modesto. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.
Other things to consider for your Modesto vs. Portland move
- Weather: Portland has cool and rainy winters and warm and dry summers. Portland also has overcast, wet, and changing weather conditions in fall, winter, and spring, Be sure to check your weather app to avoid rainy days,
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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: Moving companies headquartered in Oregon must possess an up-to-date USDOT Number as well as a license issued by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a Oregon moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Oregon does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Portland. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.Released Value Protection is a cost-effective choice as it comes at no extra cost. Movers provide this option without additional charges, but the coverage it offers is minimal. With Released Value Protection, the mover's liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Portland
Now that you've decided to make the move to "Bridgetown", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Portland.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Northwest
- Buckman
- Goose Hollow
- Pearl
Best neighborhoods for families
- Forest Park
- Hillsdale
- Irvington
- Sellwood-Moreland
- Southwest Hills
Things to do in Portland
Once you’re settled into your new home in Oregon, it’s time to get out and discover what Portland has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: Portland features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Portland Art Museum, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Maritime Museum, and World Forestry Center - Discovery Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Washington Park, Forest Park, Hoyt Arboretum, and Mount Tabor Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Portland Trailblazers (NBA), Portland Timbers (MLS), or Portland Thorns (NWSL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Portland?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Modesto to Portland are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Modesto are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Modesto to Portland?
With many people choosing to move from Modesto to Portland 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 Modesto to Portland take?
Moving from Modesto, CA to Portland, OR covers 654 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Modesto movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Portland.
