modesto to az

---
title: "Moving from Modesto, CA to Arizona: Costs, Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Planning a Modesto to Arizona move? Real cost estimates, top-rated local movers, and an honest cost-of-living breakdown for this ~830-mile route."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Modesto to Arizona", "Modesto to Arizona movers", "Modesto AZ moving cost", "Modesto moving companies", "California to Arizona moving"]
---

# Moving from Modesto, CA to Arizona

If you're moving from Modesto to Arizona, you're trading [California's](/movers/california) steep income taxes and elevated rents for something considerably more manageable. Rent alone drops by about 27%, and Arizona's 2.5% income tax rate versus California's 13.3% can mean real money back in your pocket every year. For most people making this move, the numbers make sense.

Below I've pulled together actual cost ranges, the Modesto movers worth considering on this route, and what to expect when you land in [Arizona](/movers/arizona).

## Local moving companies in Modesto

Out of 14 Modesto movers capable of handling state-to-state moves, these five rise to the top for a Modesto-to-Arizona relocation.

1. Grace Moving Company — 4.76 / 5
2. Pete's Moving Services — 4.56 / 5
3. Casey Moving Systems — 4.5 / 5
4. Brewer Moving LLC — 4.42 / 5
5. Big Island Movers — 4.38 / 5

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### Grace Moving Company

**800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA 95351**

- **4.7 / 5** — [231 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Grace+Moving+Company+modesto&ei=V_f-YP33HdqntQa7pbG4Ag)
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/grace-moving-modesto)
- [BBB: Grade A](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/modesto/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/grace-moving-company-llc-1156-40000128)
- **92% positive** / 7% negative across 467 reviews
- State license: 0189642 | DOT: 2806730 | 26 years in business

Grace is the clear top pick in Modesto for this route. The review volume is high — 467 across platforms — and 91.6% are positive. What stands out isn't just the rating, but the specifics: customers repeatedly call out on-time crews, careful handling, and final costs that came in at or below the estimate. That last part is genuinely uncommon in this industry. The 7% of negative reviews mostly cite property damage or slow claims responses. For an 830-mile move to Arizona, Grace's track record is hard to argue with.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating | Credit cards accepted

**Phone:** (209) 821-1520

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### Pete's Moving Services

**5662 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368**

- **4.5 / 5** — [831 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Pete%E2%80%99s+Moving+Services+5662+Pirrone+Road)
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/petes-moving-services-salida)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/modesto/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/petes-moving-services-1156-90018960)
- **86% positive** / 13% negative across 471 reviews
- State license: 0191440 | DOT: 3314910 | 12 years in business

Pete's has one of the largest review bases of any Modesto mover — over 1,000 combined on Google and Yelp — and holds an 86% positive rate at that volume, which is solid. Crews get consistent marks for being punctual and communicative. The 13% negative reviews flag occasional packing lapses and delivery timing issues. Pete's also handles international moves, so if your Arizona move involves anything complicated — specialty items, temporary storage, large furniture — they have the capacity for it.

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage | Credit cards accepted

**Phone:** (209) 442-4949

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### Casey Moving Systems

**2209 Fairview Drive, Ceres, CA 95307**

- **4.5 / 5** — [25 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Casey+Moving+Systems+2209+Fairview+Drive+Ceres)
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/casey-moving-systems-ceres-2)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/ceres/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/casey-moving-systems-1156-350088)
- **75% positive** / 25% negative across 63 reviews
- State license: 0115405 | DOT: 153088 | 23 years in business
- Also operates as: Dawson Van & Storage, United Van Lines agent

Casey has a solid operational reputation — organized crews, clear pricing, reliable scheduling — but the 25% negative rate is the highest on this list, and that's worth flagging. Most complaints center on damaged or delayed items and frustrating claims handling. If you go with Casey, ask explicitly how they manage damage claims before you sign anything. The 23-year track record and A+ BBB rating suggest the problems aren't systemic, but they're frequent enough to note.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage | Credit cards accepted

**Phone:** (209) 531-9010

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### Brewer Moving LLC

**1837 Harbor Cove, Modesto, CA 95355**

- **4.4 / 5** — [206 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Brewer+Moving+LLC+1837+Harbor+Cove+Modesto)
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/brewer-moving-modesto-7)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/modesto/profile/moving-companies/brewer-moving-1156-90023263)
- **83% positive** / 15% negative
- State license: 0192036 | DOT: 3329727 | 10 years in business

Brewer is the newest company on this list at 10 years, but the 83% positive rate across a reasonable review sample is consistent with what you'd want to see. Customers highlight professional crews, careful handling, and fair pricing. The negative feedback — about 15% — involves some damaged item reports and the occasional communication breakdown. Worth a quote, especially if the top two are booked out for your move date.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage | Credit cards accepted

**Phone:** (209) 923-3827

---

### Big Island Movers

**122 James Street, Modesto, CA 95354**

- **4.3 / 5** — [97 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=big+island+movers+modesto+ca)
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/big-island-movers-modesto)
- **BBB: Grade A+**
- **86% positive** / 14% negative
- State license: 0190630 | DOT: 3278221 | 14 years in business

Big Island earns good marks for fast, polite crews and consistent delivery. The 86% positive rate is strong, and most complaints involve unexpected charges or communication gaps — not the kind of pattern that suggests structural problems. One important caveat: Big Island's listed services don't include interstate moves. Before booking them for a Modesto-to-Arizona move, confirm directly that they handle this route.

**Services:** Local, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage, safes | Credit cards accepted

**Phone:** (209) 606-0089

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## Local moving services in Modesto, CA

Here's a quick look at specialty services across all 14 Modesto movers that handle interstate moves:

| Service | Movers Offering |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 12 of 14 (86%) |
| Small moves | 2 of 14 (14%) |
| Piano moving | 10 of 14 (71%) |
| Antique handling | 5 of 14 (36%) |
| Art handling | 4 of 14 (29%) |
| Custom crating | 10 of 14 (71%) |
| Fragile-only packing | 3 of 14 (21%) |

## Cost to move from Modesto, CA to Arizona

The Modesto-to-Arizona route runs approximately 830 miles. Costs vary considerably by home size and how much of the work you're willing to take on yourself.

| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,144 – $4,012 | $756 – $1,835 | $575 – $1,034 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,311 – $5,290 | $1,385 – $2,497 | $580 – $1,203 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,687 – $7,314 | $1,790 – $3,365 | $763 – $1,416 |

*Estimates based on an ~830-mile move from Modesto, CA to Arizona, using pricing data as of January 2026. Final quotes will vary based on home size, access and parking conditions, fuel costs, move timing, and any add-on services. Get at least three quotes before committing.*

Use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to run numbers based on your specific home size and move date.

### Cost to hire movers from Modesto to Arizona

For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $1,144 to $4,012 with a full-service mover. A two- to three-bedroom home runs $2,311 to $5,290. A larger home — four bedrooms or more — can land anywhere from $3,687 to $7,314.

That's a wide range, and it reflects real variability: crew size, whether you want packing help, and whether you're moving in July or November all shift the number significantly. For a [long-distance move](/best/long-distance-movers) at this mileage, I'd get quotes from at least three movers — the spread between companies can easily be $1,000 or more.

### Cost of moving containers from Modesto to Arizona

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are worth a serious look here if you want more flexibility than a full-service move provides. You pack at your own pace; the company hauls the container.

- **Studio / 1 bedroom:** $756 – $1,835
- **2–3 bedrooms:** $1,385 – $2,497
- **4+ bedrooms:** $1,790 – $3,365

Containers are typically cheaper than full-service movers, but transit times on this route can run 7–14 days depending on the company. Nail down the delivery window in your contract before you sign.

### Cost of moving truck rentals from Modesto to Arizona

A [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the most affordable option on paper — but remember you're also driving 830 miles yourself. That's a full day of driving, plus the loading and unloading.

- **Studio / 1 bedroom:** $575 – $1,034
- **2–3 bedrooms:** $580 – $1,203
- **4+ bedrooms:** $763 – $1,416

*Fuel costs are included in these estimates.* If you're moving a large household, the savings over a moving container may not justify the physical effort. If you're moving a one-bedroom with a handful of furniture, the math is more convincing.

## Factors influencing moving costs from Modesto to AZ

Three things will move your quote up or down more than anything else:

- **Move size:** More rooms, more stuff — the cost scales accordingly. If you're planning to downsize, do it before you get quotes. Every cubic foot you eliminate is money saved.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak moving season. Companies know it, and prices reflect it. September through April typically brings better availability and lower rates.
- **DIY vs. professional:** A rental truck saves money but demands real effort — physical labor, logistics, and an 830-mile drive. Go in clear-eyed about what you're trading.

## What you should know before moving from Modesto to AZ

For most people leaving Modesto, this move makes financial sense. The cost of living in Arizona is measurably lower across most categories, the job market is stronger, and the tax picture is dramatically different.

### Compare cost of living: Modesto vs. Arizona

| | Modesto, CA | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,800 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $442,362 | $428,711 |
| Per capita income | $67,011 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 116 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |

*Sources — Modesto: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation. Arizona: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

Here's what those numbers actually mean:

- **Rent** is about 27% cheaper in Arizona. That's recurring monthly savings starting day one — roughly $490/month at these averages.
- **Home prices** are nearly identical. Your current mortgage budget translates directly, though you may get more square footage depending on which Arizona city you choose.
- **Income** in Arizona runs about 8% above Modesto's per capita average. More money in, less money out — that combination doesn't come up often.
- **Cost of living** overall is about 8% lower. It compounds.
- **Unemployment** in Arizona sits at 3.6% vs. Modesto's 8.0%. That's a fundamentally different job market.
- **State income tax** is the biggest swing: California's 13.3% top rate vs. Arizona's 2.5%. Depending on your income, this could be thousands of dollars per year.

### How life is different in Modesto, CA vs. Arizona

| | Modesto, CA | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 7,431,344 |
| Political leaning | Democratic (49.8–48.3) | Democrat (56–44) |
| Summer high | 94°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 39°F | 34°F |
| Annual rain | 13″ | 12″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 6″ |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 24.89 |

*Sources — Modesto: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Arizona: Wikipedia, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow.*

A few things worth unpacking:

- **Summer heat is comparable.** Arizona's 99°F average high isn't dramatically different from Modesto's 94°F, and Arizona's dry heat is more bearable than the headline number suggests. Look at humidity data for your specific destination city before drawing conclusions.
- **Winter lows are similar** — mid-30s in both places. Arizona does get about 6 inches of snow annually (Modesto gets none), concentrated in higher-elevation areas like Flagstaff. If you're settling in Phoenix or Tucson, snow is rarely a factor.
- **Crime rate drops sharply.** Arizona's index of 24.89 vs. Modesto's 65.76 is a meaningful difference — and for a lot of people making this move, it's one of the bigger quality-of-life factors.
- Arizona's statewide population dwarfs Modesto's, which means more options for neighborhoods, schools, job markets, and things to do — urban or otherwise.

### Other considerations when moving to Arizona

Beyond booking movers and packing boxes, a few logistics deserve attention before move day:

- **HOA rules:** Arizona has a high concentration of HOA communities. Check whether your new neighborhood has moving restrictions, required time windows, or truck size limits.
- **Elevator reservations:** Moving into a multi-story building? Reserve the elevator before your crew shows up.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Arizona cities require permits for large moving vehicles on public streets. Confirm with your city before move day to avoid delays.
- **State licensing:** Arizona isn't heavily regulated for movers, but companies are subject to Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures rules. Verify your mover is properly licensed before signing.
- **Moving permits:** No statewide permit is required in Arizona, but local parking rules vary. Check with your specific city.
- **Change of address:** Submit your USPS change-of-address at least a week before the move. You can set a forward-start date to ensure nothing slips through.
- **Moving insurance:** The default Released Value Protection most movers offer pays $0.60 per pound per item. On a 25-pound TV, that's $15 in compensation if it's damaged. For anything valuable, ask about Full Value Protection or explore a third-party policy.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to stay organized in the weeks leading up to the move — it's easy for things to fall off when you're coordinating a long-distance relocation.

### Things to do in Arizona

Once you're settled, there's plenty worth exploring.

**Museums**
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park

**Parks**
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park

**Sports teams**
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)

**Universities**
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Modesto to Arizona take?

Generally two to seven days, depending on the service you use and time of year. Full-service movers can often deliver in two to three days on this route; containers typically take longer. Summer moves run on the slower end due to demand. Get your delivery window confirmed in writing before booking — vague timelines lead to real problems.

### How many Modesto movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?

Ten of the 14 Modesto movers capable of interstate moves offer custom crating for delicate or high-value items. Not all crating services are created equal, so if you have artwork, antiques, or fragile electronics, ask specifically about their process before committing.

### What is the best way to ship a car from Modesto to Arizona?

Use a dedicated [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) company rather than hauling your vehicle on a moving truck. Get quotes from two or three carriers, verify their FMCSA licensing, and confirm insurance coverage before you hand over the keys. Our [car shipping calculator](/calculator/car-shipping) gives you a cost estimate to start with.

### Why are people moving from Modesto to Arizona?

Mostly economic: lower taxes, cheaper rent, a stronger job market, and a lower crime rate. Arizona also offers more housing options at similar or lower price points, which matters for people who feel priced out of expanding their space in California.

### Do movers in Modesto, CA accept cash?

Two of the 14 Modesto movers accept cash. That said, cash is uncommon in this industry for good reason — you want a paper trail on a transaction this size. Most movers take a deposit to hold your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm accepted payment methods and the payment schedule before signing anything.

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Compare quotes from multiple Modesto movers before you commit — use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a realistic baseline, then stack it against what companies actually quote you.