($1,259) Cost to Move From Modesto, CA to Columbia, SC

1. Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
2. Casey Moving Systems: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Pete’s Moving Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
4. Big Island Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
5. Brewer Moving LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Modesto to Columbia

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Modesto to Columbia typically costs between $1,259 and $5,191. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,825 and $7,346 when moving from Modesto to Columbia. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Modesto to Columbia, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,192 up to $11,375.

Cost of moving containers from Modesto to Columbia

If you’re relocating from Modesto to Columbia, you’ll typically spend between $1,284 and $3,495 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,398 up to $4,995. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,206 and $7,001. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Modesto to Columbia

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Modesto to Columbia move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,466 and $2,812. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,541 to $3,414. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,907 and $4,066.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Columbia from Modesto, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 20% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• With home prices being nearly 50% cheaper in Columbia, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Columbia and Modesto, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person is 15% less compared to Modesto.
• Relocating to Columbia could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 28% lower than in Modesto.
• With an unemployment rate approximately 35% lower than Modesto, Columbia boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
• Sales taxes are 10% lower in Columbia than Modesto, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
• Income taxes are 47% lower in South Carolina than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

• Columbia’s population is about 37% less than Modesto.
• Columbia’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Modesto, making them very similar.
• Columbia is less walkable than Modesto with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Modesto’s 48 out of 100.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Modesto, which has a score of 48.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 3.0 compared to Modesto’s 65.76. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
• Columbia is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 48.39 vs Modesto’s 34.24.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Modesto it’s Moderate.

• HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
• Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
• State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Cayce
• Seven Oaks
• Forest Acres
• Irmo
• Lexington
• West Columbia
• St. Andrews
• Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

• Irmo
• Forest Acres
• Lexington
• Blythewood
• Seven Oaks
• Chapin
• Cayce
• Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

Now that you’ve made the move to South Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore Columbia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbia include museums and art centers like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
• Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.