Wilmington, DE to Modesto, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Wilmington to Modesto typically costs $4,100–$8,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,849 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Wilmington to Modesto
Moving from Wilmington, DE to Modesto, CA typically costs $4,100–$8,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,849-mile move from Wilmington to Modesto, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $3,879 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $2,946 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,566 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 07, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 26, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 26, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 25, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 14, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 23, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 19, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 08, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 30, 2025
Factors that affect moving costs from Wilmington to Modesto
Your total cost will depend on:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Wilmington to Modesto may only cost $2,700, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $12,800.
- The season you're moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Wilmington.
- Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,700–$5,300), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA to Wilmington, DE guide.
Best Wilmington to Modesto movers by type
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Best professional movers from Wilmington to Modesto
Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Wilmington to Modesto. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best DE→CA movers
moveBuddha's dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 10 Delaware moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
- Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Wilmington to Modesto
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Modesto runs about -35% higher for singles and 37% higher for families than Wilmington.
Singles spend around $2,312 in Modesto versus $3,533 in Wilmington; families pay $5,946 compared with $4,350.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Wilmington | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,933 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,200 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $307,799 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,354 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,533 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,350 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 6.6% | 13.3% |
- Your budget won't be hit too hard when you move to Modesto from Wilmington with rent being about the same in each state.
- Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 44% steeper in Modesto compared to Wilmington.
- Here's some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 36% greater in Modesto than in Wilmington, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
- Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Modesto. The cost of living for a single person there is 35% below that of Wilmington.
- When considering a family move to Modesto, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 37% higher than in Wilmington.
- Modesto has a lower unemployment rate than Wilmington by about 22%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Modesto has a sales tax, while Wilmington does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes are 102% more in California than in Delaware. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.
Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Wilmington versus Modesto:
| Living Expense | Wilmington | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $126.92 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $44.10 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.05 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.56 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $72.50 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $33.50 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Wilmington than in Modesto, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Wilmington than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Wilmington than in Modesto.
- Bread costs less in Wilmington than in Modesto.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Wilmington than in Modesto.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Wilmington than in Modesto.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Wilmington than in Modesto.
How life is different in Wilmington vs. Modesto
| Wilmington | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 70,898 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 74 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 48 |
| Crime index | 67.32 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 32.68 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto's population is about 208% greater than Wilmington.
- Modesto's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Wilmington's score of 6.
- Modesto is less walkable than Wilmington with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Wilmington's 74 out of 100.
- Modesto has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Wilmington, which has a score of 52.
- Modesto and Wilmington have a similar crime rate with scores of 65.76 and 67.32, respectively.
- Modesto and Wilmington have a similar safety level, with scores of 34.24 and 32.68.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Wilmington it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Wilmington to Modesto move
- HOA rules: Plan time to look into your HOA or community rules and regulations before moving day arrives, to avoid any delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
- Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Modesto. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Modesto
With your sights set on City of Great Neighbors, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Modesto.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Modesto
- College Area
- McHenry Village
- Northwest Modesto
- Airport
Best neighborhoods for families
- Del Rio
- Dutch Hollow
- La Loma
- Village One
- Sherwood Forest
Things to do in Modesto
With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Modesto. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you'll never run out of things to do:
- Arts and culture: Modesto is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Tuolumne River Trail — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Wilmington to Modesto?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Wilmington to Modesto. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Wilmington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Wilmington to Modesto?
Want to save on your move from Wilmington to Modesto? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.
How long does a move from Wilmington to Modesto take?
The 2,849-mile move from Wilmington, DE, to Modesto, CA, takes seven to 21 days. Some Wilmington movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Modesto.
What kinds of discounts do Wilmington movers offer?
Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In Wilmington, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. 3 movers offer special pricing for military members. 2 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.
Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.
Need help moving a piano or antiques in Wilmington?
These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 49 movers in Wilmington provide piano moving services. 39 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 8 piano movers and 4 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,296 and 1,463.
Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.
