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($1,211) Cost to Move From Modesto, CA to Houston, TX

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,858 miles from Modesto to Houston typically costs between $1,100 and $7,178. The trip is expected to last from five–16 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Modesto to Houston

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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Modesto to Houston

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Modesto to Houston much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Modesto, there are 12 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Houston.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Modesto to Houston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,858-mile move from Modesto to Houston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,398 – $5,386
  • Moving Container $1,482 – $2,776
  • Rental Truck $1,113 – $1,958
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,165 – $7,178
  • Moving Container $1,936 – $4,007
  • Rental Truck $1,100 – $2,452
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,141 – $10,020
  • Moving Container $2,673 – $5,500
  • Rental Truck $1,432 – $2,851
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Oakdale, CA Meadows Place, TX
3 Bedrooms
Oct 08, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Franklin, CA Dickinson, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 27, 2025
North American Van Lines
Patterson, CA Dayton, TX
4 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
United Van Lines
Livingston, CA Baytown, TX
3 Bedrooms
Sep 12, 2025
PODS
Manteca, CA Holiday Lakes, TX
Studio apartment
Sep 09, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Airport, CA Pleak, TX
2 Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
American Van Lines
Lathrop, CA Roman Forest, TX
2 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Ripon, CA Galena Park, TX
4 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
Roadway Moving
Hughson, CA Pasadena, TX
4 Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Gustine, CA Spring, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 03, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Houston, TX to Modesto, CA guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Modesto to Houston move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Modesto that offers long-distance services to Houston can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 14 top local movers in Modesto who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Modesto to Houston.

  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
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
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
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
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
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

How much does it cost to move from Modesto to Houston?

In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,211 – $4,843 $1,086 – $2,684 $1,070 – $1,999
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,165 – $7,178 $1,936 – $4,007 $1,100 – $2,452
4+ bedrooms $6,141 – $10,020 $2,673 – $5,500 $1,432 – $2,851
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,858-mile move from Modesto to Houston, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Modesto to Houston

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Houston from Modesto, you can expect prices to land between $1,211 and $4,843. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,165 to $7,178 for the trip from Modesto to Houston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,141 and $10,020.

Cost of moving containers from Modesto to Houston

Moving containers from Modesto to Houston will cost you $1,086 to $2,684 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,936 to $4,007. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,673 to $5,500. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Modesto to Houston

Renting a moving truck from Modesto to Houston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,070 and $1,999 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,100 to $2,452. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,432 to $2,851.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Modesto to Houston move

The cost of Modesto movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,566 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,480 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Modesto.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,070 to $2,632, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Modesto to Houston

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Houston runs about 20% higher for singles and 20% higher for families than Modesto.

Singles spend around $2,770 in Modesto versus $2,312 in Modesto; families pay $7,157 compared with $5,946.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Modesto Houston
Average 1 BR rent $1,446 $1,658
Average 3 BR rent $2,467 $3,195
Average home value $442,362 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $67,011 $69,833
Cost of living (single) $2,312 $2,770
Cost of living (family of four) $5,946 $7,157
Unemployment rate 8.0% 4.1%
Sales tax 8.88% 8.25%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • When relocating from Modesto to Houston, expect to find rent about 14% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 40% more affordable in Houston compared to Modesto.
  • In terms of average income, Houston and Modesto are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Houston, as living costs for a single person are 20% higher than in Modesto. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Houston, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Houston is 20% higher than in Modesto.
  • The unemployment rate in Houston is about 49% lower than in Modesto. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes are 7% less in Houston relative to Modesto. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Modesto and Houston:

Living Expense Modesto Houston
Basic utilities $229.35 $200.52
Cell phone plan $62.91 $60.77
Dozen eggs $5.67 $4.11
Loaf of bread $3.61 $3.05
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $80.00
Gym membership $41.33 $38.29
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Houston.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Houston.
  • Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Houston.
  • Bread is more expensive in Modesto than in Houston.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Houston.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Modesto than in Houston.

How life is different in Modesto vs. Houston

Modesto Houston
Population 218,464 2,301,572
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 48 47
Bike friendliness score 48 49
Crime index 65.76 63.5
Safety index 34.24 36.5
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Houston’s population is about 954% greater than Modesto.
  • Houston’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Modesto, making them very similar.
  • Houston and Modesto are similarly walkable.
  • Both Houston and Modesto have similar bike-friendliness scores (48 vs 49), meaning Houston is about as safe for cyclists as Modesto. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Houston and Modesto have a similar crime rate with scores of 63.5 and 65.76, respectively.
  • Houston is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 36.5 vs Modesto’s 34.24.
  • Air quality in Houston is Good, and in Modesto it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Modesto to Houston move

  • 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Texas’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Texas does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Houston. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Houston

Planning your move to HOU? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Houston.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Greenway/Upper Kirby
  • Montrose
  • Museum District

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Clear Lake City
  • Friendswood
  • Kingwood
  • Memorial
  • Sugar Land

Things to do in Houston

After settling into your new Texas home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Houston has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Houston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Children’s Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, and Houston Museum of Natural Science.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Houston Texans (NFL)Houston Astros (MLBHouston Dash (NWSL)Houston Dynamo FC (MLS)Houston Rockets (NBA)Houston SaberCats (MLR) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Modesto to Houston?

Planning your move from Modesto to Houston? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Modesto.

When is the cheapest time to move from Modesto to Houston?

Because most people are moving from Modesto to Houston in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Modesto to Houston take?

The 1,858-mile journey from Modesto, CA to Houston, , typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in Modesto offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Houston.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Modesto?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Modesto, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 5 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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