($1,201) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Modesto, CA

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Modesto

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Modesto will cost between $1,201 and $5,000. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Chicago to Chicago will range from $3,443 to $6,993, and a large move from Chicago to Modesto will cost from $6,087 to $10,584.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Modesto

If you’re moving from Chicago to Modesto, expect to pay between $1,201 and $3,004 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,031 up to $4,451. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,873 and $6,073. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Modesto

Renting a moving truck from Chicago to Modesto is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,181 and $2,233. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,252 and $2,877. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,662 up to $3,222 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

• If you’re heading to Modesto from Chicago, you’ll find that rent is roughly 12% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
• Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 50% greater in Modesto than in Chicago.
• Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 6% lower in Modesto compared to Chicago.
• Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Modesto. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 37% lower than in Chicago.
• Choosing to move to Modesto can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 36% less than in Chicago.
• Modesto enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 11% lower compared to Chicago, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
• Sales taxes drop 13% in Modesto compared to Chicago, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
• Income taxes are 169% higher in California than in Illinois, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

• Modesto’s population is about 92% less than Chicago.
• Modesto’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Modesto is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 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 Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Modesto’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 65.76 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Modesto and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 34.24 and 33.87.
• Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: California doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
• Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Modesto. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

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

Once you’re settled into your new home in California, it’s time to get out and discover what Modesto has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

• Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Modesto, such as the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tuolumne River Trail — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
• Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.