($1,192) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Modesto, CA

1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Modesto

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Modesto typically costs between $1,192 and $4,739. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,036 and $7,148 when moving from Des Moines to Modesto. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Des Moines to Modesto, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,854 up to $10,206.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Modesto

If you’re relocating from Des Moines to Modesto, you’ll typically spend between $1,116 and $2,543 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,932 up to $3,953. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,744 and $5,101. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Modesto

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Des Moines to Modesto 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 $1,054 and $2,028. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,174 to $2,437. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,480 and $2,780.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 57% higher in Modesto than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
• A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 130% higher in Modesto than in Des Moines.
• Exciting news here, the average income is about 15% higher in Modesto than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
• Anticipate increased living expenses in Modesto, as the cost of living for a single person in Modesto is 22% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
• As you plan your move to Modesto, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 36% more than it is in Des Moines.
• The unemployment rate in Modesto exceeds that of Des Moines by about 36%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes in Modesto exceed those in Des Moines by 27%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
• Income taxes are 202% higher in California than in Iowa. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• Modesto’s population is about 69% less than Des Moines.
• Modesto’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Des Moines, making them very similar.
• Modesto is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
• With a score of 48 out of 100, Modesto is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
• Modesto’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 65.76 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
• Modesto is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 34.24 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
• Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

• 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, 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 Modesto 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. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

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

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

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Modesto include museums and art centers like the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Tuolumne River Trail, 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 Modesto Nuts (California League) game.