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($464) Movers From San Jose to Modesto, CA

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Estimated cost & time: When moving from San Jose to Modesto, you’ll cover 86 miles. On average, for professional movers, the cost should fall between $999 and $2,882, 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 San Jose to Modesto

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 San Jose to Modesto

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 86-mile move from San Jose to Modesto, 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 $517 – $2,400
  • Moving Container $566 – $952
  • Rental Truck $77 – $119
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $999 – $2,882
  • Moving Container $730 – $1,355
  • Rental Truck $94 – $152
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,407 – $3,597
  • Moving Container $923 – $1,720
  • Rental Truck $107 – $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.
Allied Van Lines
Mountain View, CA Bret Harte, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
Safeway Moving
Saratoga, CA Riverbank, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 22, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Cupertino, CA Parklawn, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Campbell, CA Ceres, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 22, 2025
American Van Lines
Santa Clara, CA Hughson, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 21, 2025
PODS
East Palo Alto, CA Lathrop, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 17, 2025
United Van Lines
Menlo Park, CA Waterford, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 15, 2025
North American Van Lines
Los Altos, CA Escalon, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 05, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Stanford, CA Manteca, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 01, 2025
Roadway Moving
Milpitas, CA Monterey Park Tract, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 30, 2025

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

Local moving companies in San Jose

Utilizing one of the 355 local moving companies in California for your San Jose to Modesto 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. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Pure Moving Company: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Southwest Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Ninja Movers, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
15.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves, careful teams, and upbeat attitudes define the feedback for Vector Moving and Storage, based on 71 customer submissions. A strong 84.5% of clients praised their efficient work, respectfulness, and how gently possessions were handled. Customers frequently mentioned quick process times, professional approach, and feeling highly confident in their choice, noting the staff’s courtesy and attention to property. Despite many stress-free experiences, 15.5% of feedback flagged recurring problems: broken items during transit, delays, larger-than-promised bills, and unresolved complaints were cited as major setbacks. While most moving companies struggle to match Vector’s ratio of glowing to problematic feedback, issues like damage, surprise add-ons, or timing should be weighed against their reputation for speed and professionalism.
Get a Quote (844) 468-6683

Company Info

State license #: 0191802

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3152229

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.5% of all reviews were positive
0.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Pure Moving Company earns rave feedback for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling. Out of 209 reviews, 99.5% praise staff for quick processes, respectful care of items, effective communication, and top-notch attitude. Customers highlight friendliness, reliability, and meticulous packing—often noting stress-free moves, even under challenging circumstances. Only one review stands out for its dissatisfaction, citing excessive duration, a rushed finish, higher costs, and misplaced items. Compared to many movers, Pure Moving Company sets itself apart with consistency, fast responses, transparent pricing, and genuinely attentive teams, making it a top choice for reliable, quality moving services.
Get a Quote (888) 572-4486

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Pros Movers , Pure Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.6% of all reviews were positive
5.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day is made easy by Southwest Moving, with the vast majority of the 343 customer responses—over 93%—praising their efficient service and careful handling of belongings. Many people mention professional, polite crews who work quickly, wrap furniture well, and show up right on schedule. Friendly staff and clear communication are evident at each step, resulting in stress-free, pleasant moves. Yet, about 5% of feedback highlights serious problems, especially related to damage to items, unexpected fees for packing materials, or unprofessional customer service following complaints. While most customers report fast, trustworthy moves at fair prices, those few dissatisfied clients cite unresolved claims, insurance issues, or feeling misled by pricing. Unlike most moving companies, Southwest attracts consistently positive input for its reliability and friendly approach, though complaints about damaged goods and responses to claims indicate room for improvement. For those wanting efficient staff and careful, friendly service, Southwest stands out, but it’s important to confirm all charges and expectations beforehand.
Get a Quote (408) 412-3269

Company Info

State license #: 0191389

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 1922488

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
80.2% of all reviews were positive
17.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Ninja Movers’ speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings—80% of 500 reviews were positive. Crews consistently arrive on time, work efficiently, carefully wrap furniture, and provide helpful, polite service, making moving easier and less stressful than with other companies. Many mention clear communication from booking to completion, and several note rates are competitive. Some feedback highlights standout customer support when issues happen. On the downside, complaints focus on items damaged during handling, surprise charges compared to initial quotes, and delivery delays. Compared to similar moving companies, Ninja Movers earns top marks for efficient operations and courteous staff, but may fall short for those expecting flawless results, zero damages, or strictly guaranteed pricing. Most customer input strongly recommends them for local and long-distance moves, but suggests carefully reviewing estimates and policies for extra peace of mind.
Get a Quote (408) 638-6963

Company Info

State license #: 0191848

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2967361

Alternate Names: Ninja Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.3% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
From over 1,000 customer inputs, California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company stands out for its fast, professional, and friendly service. Over 93% of feedback was positive, with many customers praising how brisk and smoothly the crews handled their moves, careful treatment of belongings, and the team’s supportive attitude. Clients routinely mention efficient moves, polite and professional staff, and helpful, responsive movers who treat property with respect. Negative feedback, making up just over 6%, reveals issues some others face in the moving industry: damages to items, surprise charges, and unresponsive communication, especially with claims or concerns. Some also encountered missing property or inconsistent adherence to estimates or policies. Compared to most movers, California Movers receives especially high marks for speed and care but should focus on clearer communication and proper resolution for rare incidents of damages and billing issues.
Get a Quote (415) 481-4343

Company Info

State license #: 192676

Pricing: $159/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2890482

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified

Cost to move from San Jose to Modesto

See the table below for typical moving costs from San Jose to Modesto. 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 $464 – $2,102 $380 – $917 $77 – $128
2 – 3 bedrooms $999 – $2,882 $730 – $1,355 $94 – $152
4+ bedrooms $1,407 – $3,597 $923 – $1,720 $107 – $164
*These cost ranges are estimates for a 86-mile move from San Jose to Modesto, 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 San Jose to Modesto

Moving a studio or one-bedroom from San Jose to Modesto typically costs from $464 to $2,102. A two- to three-bedroom relocation from San Jose to Modesto is commonly priced between $999 and $2,882. For larger households moving from San Jose to Modesto, expect $1,407 to $3,597.

Cost of moving containers from San Jose to Modesto

Using containers to move from San Jose to Modesto? Plan on $380–$917 for a smaller load, $730–$1,355 for a two- or three-bedroom home, and $923–$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 San Jose to Modesto

A moving rental truck from San Jose to Modesto 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 $77 to $128. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $94 to $152, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Jose to Modesto costs around $107 to $164.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from San Jose to Modesto

Cost of living: San Jose vs. Modesto

When weighing the cost of living in San Jose versus Modesto, 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 Modesto really compares to San Jose.

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

San Jose Modesto
Average rent cost $3,095 $1,800
Average home cost $1,453,657 $442,362
Average income (per capita) $83,421 $67,011
Cost of living (single person) $3,674 $2,312
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,354 $5,946
Unemployment rate 6.6% 8.0%
Average Sales Tax 9.38% 8.88%
  • Rent in Modesto is around 42% less expensive than in San Jose, leaving you with extra cash for saving, investing, or having fun.
  • Home prices in Modesto are 70% lower than in San Jose. That means you’ll have an easier time getting into the housing market, scoring a more affordable mortgage, and having extra cash left over for what matters most.
  • Income in Modesto is 20% lower than in San Jose, so you might face tighter budget constraints, especially if local wages don’t keep pace with living costs.
  • Living in Modesto is 37% cheaper for one person compared to San Jose. That means more money left in your pocket—to save, spend, or invest however you like.
  • If you’re moving to Modesto, you’ll find that the cost of living is 29% lower than in San Jose. That means your family can save money and potentially enjoy a better quality of life after the move.
  • Unemployment in Modesto is 21% higher than in San Jose. This means landing a job could be tougher and job security less certain—especially if you’re making the move without a job already secured.
  • Sales taxes are the same in Modesto and San Jose, meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.

To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in San Jose, you’d need about $1,890 in Modesto.

How life is different in San Jose vs. Modesto

Before you move, take a look at how life compares in San Jose and Modesto. 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.

San Jose Modesto
Population 971,233 218,464
Political leaning Democratic 73-25 Democratic 49.8-48.3
Summer high 82ºF 94ºF
Winter low 42ºF 39ºF
Annual rain 17″ 13″
Annual snow 0″ 0″
Crime index 47.73 65.76
  • The population of Modesto is approximately 78% lower than the population of San Jose. Moving to a smaller city usually means more peace, space, and affordability, but also fewer big-city conveniences.
  • In the most recent presidential race, both San Jose and Modesto leaned Democratic.
  • Modesto regularly records highs near 94°F, compared to San Jose at 82°F. Relocating here means more intense summers and greater focus on cooling and comfort.
  • In the coldest months, both San Jose and Modesto face similar winter lows—San Jose drops to 42°F, while Modesto falls to 39°F.
  • Both San Jose and Modesto receive similar amounts of rain annually—San Jose gets about 17 inches, while Modesto sees around 13 inches each year.
  • Both San Jose and Modesto receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • Modesto reports a higher crime index than San Jose, with scores of 65.76 and 47.73, respectively.

Things to do in Modesto

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

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 San Jose to Modesto?

If you’re planning to hire a moving company to get your belongings from San Jose to Modesto, here’s what you can expect: Moving just a few items or a small bedroom typically costs between $464 and $2,102. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices generally range from $999 up to $2,882. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay anywhere from $1,407 to $3,597 for the whole move.

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

Moving containers from San Jose to Modesto will cost you $380 to $917 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $730 to $1,355. A larger home will cost $923 to $1,720.

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

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 $77 to $128. If you’re moving a bigger place, expect to pay between $94 and $152. For a four-bedroom home or larger going from San Jose to Modesto, costs usually fall between $107 and $164.

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

To make your move from San Jose to Modesto 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 Modesto?

For the best deals on your move to Modesto, 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 Modesto

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