Best San Francisco to Modesto Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Modesto and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 90 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 114 San Francisco to Modesto moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sweet Lemon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Modesto. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best San Francisco to Modesto Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.77 | 9.67 |
| 2 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 |
| 3 | Pure Moving Company | 9.65 | 9.41 |
| 4 | Zachery's Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.7 |
| 5 | All-Star Movers & Storage | 9.30 | 9.27 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Modesto?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 90 miles from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA will cost on average $1,858 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Modesto move is roughly $4,431. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,254 | 300 ft³ | $4.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,858 | 450 ft³ | $4.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,059 | 750 ft³ | $4.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,431 | 1100 ft³ | $4.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,365 | 1600 ft³ | $3.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,071 | 1800 ft³ | $3.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Modesto to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Modesto Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sweet Lemon Moving Services
403 Elwood Ave
Oakland, CA, 94610
About Sweet Lemon Moving Services
As a full-service moving company, Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been performing moves in Oakland and the wider Bay Area since...
Services
- Local Moves
- Interstate Moves
- Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3277021 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2021) |
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving Company
401 Terry A Francois Blvd # 110
San Francisco, CA, 94158
About Pure Moving Company
With four locations in two states, Pure Moving Company has been offering professional and full-service moves in San Francisco since 2000....
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Zachery's Moving Company
Stockton, CA, 95209
About Zachery's Moving Company
Zachery grew up moving his family from home to home throughout his life, and he did the majority of the work...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
All-Star Movers & Storage
2256 N MacArthur Dr
Tracy, CA, 95376
About All-Star Movers & Storage
Based in Manteca, locally-owned and operated All-Star Movers & Storage has over two decades of moving experience under its belt. Serving...
Services
- Residential movers
- Commercial movers
- In-state moves and local moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2971368 / 10247 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 59,102 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
San Francisco vs. Modesto Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, comparing neighborhoods offers valuable insight to help you transition smoothly. This guide will compare neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA and Modesto, CA , making it easier for you to familiarize yourself with your new city.
| San Francisco | Modesto | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Heights | Del Rio | Known for upscale homes and scenic views |
| Mission District | La Loma | Artsy vibe with diverse food options |
| Castro District | College Area | Known for LGBTQ+ friendly spaces |
| Nob Hill | Rose Lane | Known for historical charm and elegance |
| SoMa | Downtown Modesto | Urban lifestyle with eateries and nightlife |
| Haight-Ashbury | Historic Boulevard | Infamous for counterculture and eclectic shops |
| North Beach | Thalbrooke | Vibrant atmosphere with cafes and art scenes |
| Sunset District | Village One | Residential feel, family-friendly parks |
| Marina District | Riverbank | Waterside activities and young professionals |
| Richmond District | Bret Harte | Diverse eateries and cultural spots |
Exploring these neighborhoods offers an opportunity to find a new home that resonates with the qualities you love. For instance, if you revel in the historic charm of Nob Hill with landmarks like Grace Cathedral and swanky bars, you'll find Rose Lane in Modesto appealing, with its vintage homes and artistic scene. The vibrant nightlife and innovative dining in SoMa are mirrored by Downtown Modesto's growing array of trendy bars and eateries, making it thrilling for urban adventurers. If you're fond of the family-friendly environment and expansive parks in the Sunset District, Village One offers similar spaces where you can enjoy afternoons in the park with your kids. Each comparable neighborhood highlights contributing factors to a seamless transition into Modesto living, aligning familiar aspects with refreshing experiences.
Things to Do in Modesto
Watch a show at Gallo Center for the Arts- Stroll through Graceada Park
- Explore McHenry Museum
- Taste local wines
- Shop at Modesto Certified Farmers Market
- Hike in Dry Creek Trail
- Enjoy Funworks! amusement park
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Modesto
Moving from one city to another is a significant life event that comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA , helping you weigh your options carefully.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Congested traffic
- Dense population
- Limited parking
- Noisy urban environment
Modesto, CA- More affordable housing
- Less traffic congestion
- Smaller community feel
- Easier parking
- Quieter suburban setting
Modesto, CA- Less cultural events
- Fewer restaurant choices
- Fewer job opportunities in tech
- No ocean nearby
- Limited public transport
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant cultural scene
- Diverse cuisine options
- Abundance of tech jobs
- Scenic ocean views
- Extensive public transport
While San Francisco boasts a dynamic cultural scene with neighborhoods like the Mission District known for its vibrant street art, and a variety of high-quality restaurants such as Zuni Café, Modesto offers its own charm with a close-knit community vibe and more affordable lifestyle. Modesto is home to lovely parks like the Graceada Park, which hosts numerous community events throughout the year. While you may find fewer big tech employers, Modesto's growing economy presents opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. As for dining, while the options are more limited, there are still great finds like Concetta, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious farm-to-table meals.
San Francisco vs. Modesto Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Modesto. Understanding the culinary landscape of where you're moving can greatly impact your lifestyle and enjoyment. Here, we delve into the food scene of both cities to help you get a taste of your new home.
- The Boulevardier
- Zuni Café
- Tartine Bakery
- Concetta
- Dewz Restaurant
- Camp 4 Wine Café
In the bustling streets of San Francisco, you can't miss the opportunity to savor the famous Sourdough Bread, a staple that perfectly captures the city's culinary spirit. The Mission District particularly stands out with its array of street food, including the iconic Mission Burrito. Meanwhile, Modesto's love for almonds showcases in various forms, from savory dishes to almond milk smoothies highlighting the local agriculture. Iconic restaurants like Concetta in Modesto offer a unique taste of the city's culinary diversity, ensuring you find comfort in both traditional and modern dishes. Transitioning to Modesto, your palate will be introduced to a new array of flavors deeply rooted in the city's rich agricultural heritage.
San Francisco vs. Modesto Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a mix of emotions, but finding comfort in new restaurants that remind you of home can ease the transition. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Modesto is designed to help you discover your next go-to spots for dining, using familiar favorites as a guide.
| San Francisco | Modesto | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Concetta | Known for farm-to-table dining reminiscent of Zuni's approach. |
| Nopa | Camp 4 Wine Café | Both feature a rustic atmosphere and a focus on local cuisine. |
| La Taqueria | Taqueria Mis Compadres | Casual, with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors similar to La Taqueria. |
| State Bird Provisions | Commonwealth Modesto | Offers a creative menu that changes with available local ingredients. |
| The Slanted Door | Bauhaus | Modern takes on traditional dishes, parallel to The Slanted Door's approach. |
| Gary Danko | DEWZ Restaurant | Offers high-end dining and a wine list that echoes Gary Danko's sophistication. |
| Tartine Bakery | Beckles Candies & Gifts | While known for sweets, it's the go-to for high-quality, baked treats similar to Tartine. |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Crab Catcher | Seafood-centric, offering a similar fresh, raw bar experience. |
| R&G Lounge | Imperial Garden | Comparable for its authentic Cantonese dishes and seafood selections. |
| Benu | Surla's | Fusion cuisine that merges different culinary traditions, akin to Benu's offerings. |
Discovering a new favorite dining spot is one of the great joys of moving. For example, those missing the innovative dishes from State Bird Provisions might find comfort in Commonwealth Modesto's menu, which reflects a similar philosophy of seasonal and local sourcing. Meanwhile, fans of Tartine Bakery's artisan breads and pastries will be pleasantly surprised by Beckles Candies & Gifts' quality baked goods. And for those who are all about the ambiance and sophisticated dining experience like Gary Danko's, DEWZ Restaurant in Modesto offers a comparable atmosphere, complete with a curated wine list. It's about finding those spots that resonate with your palette and make your new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Modesto Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, comparing the real estate landscape between your current and future home is essential. Understanding how San Francisco and Modesto align in terms of housing costs , architecture , urban lifestyle , and more can significantly impact your moving decisions. Let's delve into these pivotal aspects.
Shifting from San Francisco’s densely populated and architecturally iconic neighborhoods to Modesto’s spacious, family-oriented communities offers a change of pace. The stark difference in median home prices, showing San Francisco at a whopping $1,300,000 versus Modesto’s more attainable $360,000, clearly illustrates the financial relief many seek with this move. While San Francisco scores high in walkability and bikeability, offering easy access to amenities and workspaces without a car, Modesto presents a quieter, more spread-out environment, making driving more common. Moreover, the prominence of Mid-Century Modern and Ranch-style homes in Modesto contrasts with San Francisco’s Victorian and modern architectural marvels, offering newcomers a suburban retreat with larger lots and more personal space.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Modesto, CA
1. La Loma : This charming neighborhood offers spacious sidewalks and parks, making it perfect for walking your pets.
2. College Area : With its array of dog-friendly cafes and proximity to Davis Community Park, you'll have plenty of places to enjoy with your furry friend.
3. Vintage Faire : Known for its generous green spaces and pet-friendly apartment complexes, you'll find this area welcoming and convenient for pet owners.
San Francisco vs. Modesto Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your daily life might change due to weather differences between San Francisco and Modesto. This comparison will help you anticipate what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from San Francisco to Modesto means preparing for much warmer summers and slightly cooler winters. Despite having a similar number of sunny days, Modesto's summer highs are significantly higher, requiring different considerations for clothing and cooling your home. The change in annual rainfall is also notable, with Modesto experiencing almost half of what San Francisco does. This can affect everything from the type of outdoor activities you can enjoy, to how you might landscape your yard. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your lifestyle and expectations as you make Modesto your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Modesto
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the new cost of living in Modesto compares to San Francisco is crucial for your financial well-being. This detailed comparison will highlight key monetary aspects such as income, taxes, and housing, setting the stage for a smoother transition.
Moving from San Francisco to Modesto, you'll notice a significant adjustment in living expenses. While the average household income in San Francisco is considerably higher, Modesto offers a cost of living that is less than half that of San Francisco, a pivotal factor for anyone budget-conscious. Despite the state income tax rate being uniform across California, the average sales and property taxes somewhat differ between the two locations. The industries thriving in each region also portend different economic atmospheres and employment opportunities, from the tech and finance hubs in San Francisco to Modesto's agricultural heartland. Understanding these financial nuances prepares you for a more informed relocation.
San Francisco vs. Modesto Political & Religious Comparison
Embracing a new chapter of your life involves not just moving your belongings from one place to another, but also understanding the fabric of the communities you're transitioning between. This quick overview aims to provide a comparison of the politics and religious sentiment between San Francisco & Modesto , offering a glimpse into the socio-cultural backdrop of both cities.
When moving from San Francisco to Modesto, you might notice significant differences in the everyday conversations, local governance, and community events that reflect each city's unique political and religious climate. San Francisco's liberal and progressive stance brightly contrasts with Modesto's more conservative and centrist views, affecting local policy decisions from social issues to economic strategies. Moreover, San Francisco's cosmopolitan nature includes a broad spectrum of faiths and many residents who identify as non-religious, while Modesto harbors a stronger religious community, predominantly Christian, which might influence local culture and events. Understanding these dynamics can help ease your transition and foster a sense of belonging in your new home.
San Francisco vs. Modesto Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another comes with its set of challenges, especially when it comes to adapting to new daily commutes and understanding traffic patterns. This comparison aims to give you a clear sense of what driving and transiting are like in San Francisco & Modesto , helping you navigate your move smoothly.
In San Francisco, the robust public transit system, which scores a 9 out of 10, allows for a relatively easy life without a car. The city’s average commute time stands at 34 minutes, and with a traffic congestion rating of 8, it's clear that navigating the city’s roads requires patience during rush hours. On the other hand, Modesto offers a different commuting landscape. Its lower traffic congestion score of 4 out of 10 and shorter average commute time of 26 minutes make driving in the city comparatively less stressful. However, with the availability of public transit scored at just 5 out of 10, a car becomes almost a necessity for daily life in Modesto, contrasting sharply with San Francisco’s more transit-friendly approach.
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