Best San Jose to Modesto Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from San Jose to Modesto and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 79 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 106 San Jose 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 $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose 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 Jose to Modesto Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.77 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Pure Moving Company | 9.65 | 9.41 |
| 3 | California Loyal Movers | 9.65 | 9.6 |
| 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 Jose to Modesto?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 79 miles from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA will cost on average $1,848 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Modesto move is roughly $4,408. 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 | $1,247 | 300 ft³ | $4.16 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,848 | 450 ft³ | $4.11 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,043 | 750 ft³ | $4.06 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,408 | 1100 ft³ | $4.01 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,332 | 1600 ft³ | $3.96 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,034 | 1800 ft³ | $3.91 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Modesto to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose 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) |
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
California Loyal Movers
999 Commercial St # 206
Palo Alto, CA, 94303
About California Loyal Movers
Located in Palo Alto, California Loyal Movers has a proven track record of helping people and businesses in the Bay Area...
Services
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Loading and unloading services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2020505 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2018) |
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 Jose vs. Modesto Neighborhood Comparison
If you're considering a move, this comparison will help you familiarize yourself with the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Modesto, CA . By using San Jose as a baseline, we'll identify the most similar neighborhoods in Modesto, making your transition a smooth one.
| San Jose | Modesto | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | College Area | Quaint downtown with vintage appeal |
| Downtown | Downtown Modesto | Lively nightlife and arts scene |
| Almaden Valley | North Modesto | Suburban feel with parks and trails |
| Japantown | La Loma | Cultural heritage and historic charm |
| Rose Garden | Sylvan Meadows | Beautiful homes and greenery |
| Berryessa | Salida | Family-friendly with local conveniences |
| ErrorEnded | Staniford Place | Quiet and family-oriented |
| Evergreen | East Modesto | Diverse community with nearby amenities |
| Cambrian Park | Modesto Junior College Area | Vibrant student life and activities |
| West San Jose | Riverview | Shopping and dining opportunities |
In San Jose, the charm of Willow Glen can be found in Modesto's College Area, where tree-lined streets and unique boutique stores offer a similar vintage appeal. If you're fond of Japantown's cultural vibe and historical richness, La Loma in Modesto provides a delightful blend of tradition and character, perfect for those seeking community events and historic landmarks. The lively atmosphere of San Jose's Downtown, bustling with nightlife and a diverse arts scene, finds its counterpart in Downtown Modesto, where you can explore the Gallo Center for the Arts or enjoy dining at local favorites. Meanwhile, if Rose Garden's lush surroundings and classic homes draw you in, Sylvan Meadows in Modesto offers equally stunning residential landscapes alongside lush green spaces.
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 Jose to Modesto
Moving between cities is a significant decision, often accompanied by the struggle to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to highlight the contrast between living in San Jose, CA, and relocating to Modesto, CA , providing an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. By examining the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether this move aligns with your personal and professional goals.
San Jose, CA- High living costs
- Traffic congestion
- Competitive job market
- Noisy urban environment
Modesto, CA- More affordable
- Less traffic
- Lower job competition
- Quieter living spaces
Modesto, CA- Fewer tech jobs
- Less diversity
- Lower average salaries
- Fewer upscale options
San Jose, CA- Diverse tech job opportunities
- Cultural diversity
- Higher salaries
- Luxury amenities
San Jose, known for its bustling tech scene and cultural diversity, offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring the high-end shops at Santana Row to enjoying the latest exhibitions at the San Jose Museum of Art. Conversely, moving to Modesto brings a shift towards a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. Modesto’s charm lies in its community-focused atmosphere, evident in the welcoming spaces like Graceada Park and the vibrant local fare found at restaurants within the revitalized downtown area. While you might find fewer luxury amenities, the quality of life in Modesto is enhanced by the presence of less traffic, more affordable housing, and an array of local, family-owned businesses worth exploring, such as the beloved Dewz Restaurant.
San Jose vs. Modesto Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in experiencing local culture and understanding the lifestyle in a new city. In order to assist you better, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Modesto . This will give you a clearer picture of what to expect from the food scenes in these places.
- Falafel's Drive-In
- Original Joe's San Jose
- Di Salvo's
- Dewz Restaurant
- Concetta
- Skewers Kabob House
In San Jose, the Vietnamese influence is palpable, with the city being well known for its Phở and other Southeast Asian cuisines, found in bustling neighborhoods like Little Saigon. Whereas, when you land in Modesto, the heart of agricultural abundance, you'll notice a decidedly American culinary influence with a touch of Mediterranean flair—illustrated by popular dishes like Almond Chicken. Modesto's local food scene thrives on the farm-to-table approach, supported by restaurants such as Dewz Restaurant, which showcases the region's produce and meat. Despite San Jose's higher rankings in foodie culture and vegan options, Modesto offers a cozy and growing food scene that celebrates local flavors and ingredients.
San Jose vs. Modesto Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can turn a new city into home. With this comparison, you're guided from familiar flavors of San Jose's top restaurants to Modesto's culinary gems, making the transition as delicious as it is exciting.
| San Jose | Modesto | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Foret Restaurant | Galletto Ristorante | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on fine ingredients. |
| Original Joe's San Jose | Surla's | Offers a similar classic American dining experience with a touch of local flavor. |
| Manresa | Camp 4 Wine Café | Intimate setting with a seasonal menu that focuses on local produce, mirroring Manresa’s ethos. |
| Falafel Drive-In | Sam's Mediterranean Cuisine | Casual spot known for its authentic tastes and similar menu items like falafel and shawarma. |
| Henry's Hi-Life | Bauer's 66 1/2 Skillet & Grill | Known for hearty American classics, a close match to the BBQ and steakhouse feel of Henry’s. |
| Orenchi Ramen | Ramen 101 | Both specialize in authentic Japanese ramen with a focus on rich, flavorful broths and fresh ingredients. |
| Dio Deka | Papachino's | Mediterranean flair with a menu that spans a range of Greek and Italian dishes reminiscent of Dio Deka’s offerings. |
| Plumed Horse | Dewz Restaurant | Upscale dining that emphasizes premium ingredients, wine pairings, and an innovative menu. |
| Aqui Cal-Mex | Rancho Fresco Mexican Grill | Both are popular for their California-inspired Mexican dishes, offering fresh, flavorful options. |
| Steins Beer Garden | Commonwealth | Craft brews and modern American eats offer a similar laid-back yet refined beer garden experience. |
When exploring Modesto's dining scene, you'll find eateries like Galletto Ristorante that resonate with the upscale ambiance and gastronomical creativity found at La Foret Restaurant in San Jose. If it's a casual, yet iconic dining experience you're after, Sam's Mediterranean Cuisine in Modesto answers the call much like Falafel Drive-In does in San Jose. For those special nights out, Dewz Restaurant's approach to fine dining with meticulous attention to wine pairings and a diverse, innovative menu can offer a sense of familiarity and comfort akin to what one would expect at Plumed Horse. Each of these Modesto locations not only brings a taste of San Jose through its culinary offerings but also fosters a sense of community and belonging essential for feeling at home in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Modesto Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, diving into the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing the housing aspects between San Jose and Modesto offers insight into costs, architecture, and lifestyle implications crucial for making an informed decision.
While San Jose’s real estate market is significantly higher priced, both in terms of median home price and monthly rent, the city compensates with a more urban lifestyle, higher walkability, and bikeability scores. The architectural styles in San Jose lean towards Modern and Spanish influences, reflective of its innovative spirit and historical roots. On the other hand, Modesto offers a more suburban feel with its Mid-Century and Ranch style homes, larger yard spaces, and a focus on family-friendly environments. This comparison underlines not just the cost differences, but the lifestyle adjustments you might expect when moving from San Jose to Modesto.
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 Jose vs. Modesto Weather Considerations
If you're considering moving from San Jose, CA, to Modesto, CA, it's essential to know how the weather compares between these two cities. Understanding the differences will help you prepare for your new environment and ensure a smooth transition. This guide aims to highlight the key weather aspects of San Jose and Modesto to help you adjust accordingly.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When moving from San Jose to Modesto, you'll notice a significant difference in summer temperatures, with Modesto being notably hotter. This might affect your choice of housing, energy bills, and lifestyle, encouraging more indoor activities or the need for better home cooling systems. Modesto also enjoys slightly more days of sunshine, which is great for outdoor enthusiasts, but keep in mind it comes with increased exposure to UV and higher average humidity levels. Both cities share the risk of earthquakes, but Modesto has the added risk of flooding. Considering all these factors will help you better prepare for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Modesto
When relocating, understanding the financial changes between your current city and your new one is crucial. This comparison between San Jose and Modesto outlines critical money and finance differences to anticipate. Exploring variables like income, taxes, and cost of living can better prepare you for the economic climate of your new home.
Moving from San Jose to Modesto, you’ll find a drastic change in the cost of living; it’s nearly half in Modesto. Though both cities share the same state income tax rate, Modesto boasts lower property and sales taxes. This reduction in living and tax expenses can be appealing but consider the average household income significantly decreases. The economic landscape shifts from the high affluence of San Jose's tech-driven market to Modesto's agriculture-based economy, impacting job opportunities and living standards. Understanding these financial variables is essential for a smooth transition.
San Jose vs. Modesto Political & Religious Comparison
In contemplating a move from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA , it's beneficial for you to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. This comparison will help you grasp the communal atmosphere you're moving into, highlighting the differences and similarities between your current and future neighborhoods.
When moving from San Jose to Modesto, you will notice a shift in political climates, from a predominantly liberal ambiance to a more conservative environment. This is evident through local politics, where San Jose's policies often lean towards progressive causes such as LGBTQ+ rights and climate change initiatives. In contrast, Modesto focuses on issues directly impacting its agricultural backbone, like water rights. Religion plays a vibrant role in both communities, with San Jose showcasing a splendid diversity including Buddhist, Hindu, and various sects of Christianity, contrasting with Modesto's stronger Christian dominance. These distinctions contribute to the unique character and sense of community in both cities.
San Jose vs. Modesto Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from San Jose, CA, to Modesto, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences between the two cities, especially regarding the daily commute and traffic. This comparison between San Jose & Modesto aims to provide a clear snapshot of what driving and using public transit might look like in each location.
In San Jose, while the average commute time is higher and traffic congestion can be quite challenging, the availability and quality of public transportation are noticeably better compared to Modesto. This means that, with some planning and effort, getting around San Jose without a personal vehicle could be feasible, especially if you live and work in areas well-serviced by public transit. On the other hand, Modesto's lower traffic congestion and shorter commute times come at the cost of less available and less effective public transportation, making it more challenging to rely solely on public transit for your daily needs. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your new city's commuting realities.
Additional Resources
San Jose Moving Services
Popular San Jose to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
