Missoula, MT to Modesto, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Missoula to Modesto typically costs $3,300–$7,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 963 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
|
|
|
 rating
4.2 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Cost to move from Missoula to Modesto
Moving from Missoula, MT to Modesto, CA typically costs $3,300–$7,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 963-mile move from Missoula 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
|
2-3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,987 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 14, 2026
Key factors that influence moving costs from Missoula to Modesto
Your total cost will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,700, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $11,100.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Missoula, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($700–$1,900) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA to Missoula, MT guide.
Best Missoula to Modesto movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Missoula to Modesto
If you want to simplify your interstate move from Missoula to Modesto, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.
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 MT→CA movers
At moveBuddha, our specialists conducted a thorough evaluation of 12 Montana moving companies, identifying the leading ones by examining client satisfaction, reviews, and value.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Errors happen in moving. The best companies acknowledge them quickly and take real steps to resolve any problems for their customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): Within the moving field, the company has earned respect and regularly engages in conferences and trade groups.
- Online reputation (15%): The organization ensures its website is reliable and actively addresses online customer inquiries in a professional manner.
- Service options (10%): Top movers provide versatile offerings including packing, storage, special-item handling, and the option for faster delivery when needed.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Missoula to Modesto
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Modesto runs about 15% higher for singles and 2% higher for families than Missoula.
Singles spend around $2,312 in Modesto versus $2,011 in Missoula; families pay $5,946 compared with $5,832.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Missoula | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,542 | $1,446 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,983 | $2,467 |
| Average home value | $544,475 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,180 | $67,011 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,011 | $2,312 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,832 | $5,946 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.4% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 8.88% |
| State income tax | 6.75% | 13.3% |
- Rent is estimated to be 36% higher in Modesto compared to Missoula; it's essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 19% less in Modesto than in Missoula.
- Here's some promising news: the average income is around 13% higher in Modesto than in Missoula, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Modesto, since the cost of living for a single person in Modesto is 15% higher than in Missoula. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Modesto and Missoula, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
- In Modesto, the unemployment rate is approximately 82% higher than in Missoula, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Modesto has a sales tax, while Missoula does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes are 97% higher in California than in Montana, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Missoula and Modesto:
| Living Expense | Missoula | Modesto |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $132.00 | $229.35 |
| Cell phone plan | $59.67 | $62.91 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.50 | $5.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.91 | $3.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $63.33 | $41.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Missoula than in Modesto, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Missoula than in Modesto.
- Eggs are less expensive in Missoula than in Modesto.
- Bread costs less in Missoula than in Modesto.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Missoula than in Modesto.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Missoula than in Modesto.
- Gym memberships cost more in Missoula than in Modesto.
How life is different in Missoula vs. Modesto
| Missoula | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 77,757 | 218,464 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 60 | 48 |
| Crime index | 33.27 | 65.76 |
| Safety index | 66.73 | 34.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Modesto's population is about 181% greater than Missoula.
- Modesto's public transportation score is within about 5% of Missoula, making them very similar.
- Modesto is more walkable than Missoula with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Missoula's 45 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 Missoula, which has a score of 60.
- Modesto's crime rate is higher than Missoula with a score of 65.76 compared to Missoula's 33.27. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Missoula neighborhoods are safer than 33.27%.
- Modesto is considered to be less safe than Missoula with a score of 34.24 vs Missoula's 66.73.
- Air quality in Modesto is Moderate, and in Missoula it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Missoula to Modesto move
- 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.
Where to live in Modesto
Now that you've decided to make the move to City of Great Neighbors, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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
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.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Missoula to Modesto?
The best time to move from Missoula to Modesto is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Missoula.
When is the cheapest time to move from Missoula to Modesto?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Missoula to Modesto, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Missoula to Modesto take?
Moving from Missoula, MT to Modesto, CA covers 963 miles and usually takes two to seven days. Need to move faster? Some Missoula movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Modesto.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Missoula?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 3 movers in Missoula advertise piano moving expertise. State totals show 8 piano movers and 2 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,296 and 1,463.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
