Best Boston to Modesto Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Boston to Modesto and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,171 mile move from Massachusetts to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 57 Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston 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.

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Best Boston to Modesto Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Stairhopper Movers9.669.62Authorized For HHGContact
2Centaur Moving9.609.79Authorized For HHGContact
3Intelligent labor & Moving9.519.55Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4All-Star Movers & Storage9.299.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Accurate Piano MOvers9.039.54Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Boston to Modesto

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,171 miles from Boston, MA to Modesto, CA will cost on average $4,478 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Modesto move is roughly $10,836. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$3,000300 ft³10.00
1 Bedroom$4,478450 ft³9.95
2 Bedrooms$7,426750 ft³9.90
3 Bedrooms$10,8361100 ft³9.85
4 Bedrooms$15,6811600 ft³9.80
5+ Bedrooms$17,5511800 ft³9.75
*Please note: These Massachusetts to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Massachusetts & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Modesto to Boston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Boston to Modesto Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo

Intelligent labor & Moving

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

18 Beck Rd

Arlington, MA, 2476

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All-Star Movers & Storage Logo

All-Star Movers & Storage

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 1,155+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2971368 / 10247

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved59,102 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Accurate Piano MOvers Logo

Accurate Piano MOvers

Exceptional9.03/10
based on 647+ data points

Estrella Ave

Stockton, CA, 95206

About Accurate Piano MOvers

Accurate Piano Movers has more than 20 years of experience with protecting pianos. Moving your piano by yourself is dangerous, stressful,...

Services

  • Local Piano Movers
  • Long Distance Piano Movers
  • Piano Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2773343 / 1410785

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Boston vs. Modesto Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help familiarize you with Modesto, CA, using Boston, MA neighborhoods as a baseline. By comparing popular neighborhoods from both cities, you can get a sense of where you might feel most at home in your new city.

BostonModestoHow They're Similar
Back BayLa LomaHistoric homes, aesthetic appeal
Beacon HillCollege AreaCharming streets, historic vibes
North EndDowntown ModestoRich in culture and culinary scene
South EndRose AvenueDiverse, artistic community
FenwaySylvan MeadowsYouthful energy, near education institutions
CharlestownWood ColonyStrong sense of community, historic
Jamaica PlainBriggsmore EastGreen spaces, family-friendly
Seaport DistrictVillage OneModern, upscale living
South BostonRiverbankVibrant local scene, close to water
West EndCoffee Road AreaMixed-use, evolving neighborhood

Exploring the similarities between neighborhoods in Boston and Modesto, the nostalgic charm of Beacon Hill is mirrored in Modesto's College Area with its quaint streets lined with historic homes, while the dynamic and youthful energy of Fenway finds a counterpart in Sylvan Meadows, known for its proximity to educational institutions and vibrant community life. Culinary enthusiasts moving from the North End will appreciate Downtown Modesto's eclectic food scene, featuring spots like Concetta for a farm-to-table dining experience. Meanwhile, the artistic and inclusive atmosphere of South End is akin to Rose Avenue in Modesto, where diverse cultural expressions and community gatherings flourish. For those seeking green spaces and a family-oriented environment, Jamaica Plain's verdant areas reflect in Briggsmore East, offering peace and outdoor activities for all ages.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Modesto

Moving across the country from Boston, MA to Modesto, CA presents a unique set of changes, both beneficial and challenging. This comparison aims to paint an honest reflection of the pros and cons associated with this relocation, helping you weigh your decision with a clear view of what each city offers.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • High cost of living
  • Harsh winters
  • Dense traffic
  • Smaller green spaces
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Less traffic
  • Larger parks
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Lesser historical sites
  • Car-dependent
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer higher education options
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Vibrant history
  • Extensive public transit
  • Cultural diversity
  • Top-tier universities

When considering a move from Boston to Modesto, it's worth diving deeper into what each city offers beyond just the basic pros and cons. Boston's charm lies in its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, with places like the Boston Common and the Institute of Contemporary Art offering engaging experiences. On the other hand, Modesto welcomes newcomers with its relaxed pace of life and friendly neighborhoods, such as the Rose Avenue Historic District, which embraces the city's architectural heritage. The Modesto Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department also ensures there's never a shortage of outdoor activities. Modesto's dining scene may not match Boston's scale, but establishments like Condit Station give it a unique local flavor that can't be found elsewhere.

Boston vs. Modesto Food Guide

When relocating, it's essential to immerse in the local culture, and food plays a significant role in that experience. Hence, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Modesto to help you navigate the culinary scene in your new home.

BostonModesto
Most iconic local food itemClam ChowderAlmonds
Most popular meat dishLobster RollTri-tip steak
Most popular street food itemFenway FrankTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegan Burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Dewz
  • Camp 4 Wine Cafe
  • Concetta
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Boston, the historic backdrop adds an extra layer of charm to dining out, especially at places like Legal Sea Foods and Union Oyster House, which have become landmarks in their own right. The Bostonian love for seafood is evident in their devotion to dishes like Clam Chowder and Lobster Roll. Meanwhile, Modesto brings its strength from the fields, being in the heart of the Central Valley, which is abundant with almonds, among other crops. This agricultural bounty influences Modesto’s food scene, with local restaurants like Dewz showcasing the region's produce. Additionally, Modesto's warmer climate contributes to its vibrant food truck scene, offering a variety of foods, with tacos being a local street food favorite.

Boston vs. Modesto Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to help those moving from Boston, MA to Modesto, CA find new favorite eateries by using their current hometown as a guide. Dive into this culinary guide to ease your transition and discover where your next delightful meal awaits.

BostonModestoWhat You'll Love
OstraDewzUpscale dining with a focus on seafood and sophistication
Neptune OysterMikes GrillhouseKnown for fresh oysters and seafood-centric dishes
ToroGalletto RistoranteAuthentic Spanish cuisine with a Californian twist
CoppaRivets American GrillCasual dining, Italian-American cuisine, and pizzas
UniBauhausOffers inventive and modern sushi, echoing Uni’s innovative approach
Craigie On MainConcettaFarm-to-table concept with a focus on modern American cuisine
GiuliaSkewers Kabob HouseExceptional Mediterranean dishes with a focus on freshness and authenticity
Tatte Bakery & CafeQueen Bean Coffee HouseCozy spot for baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee
SarmaPapachino'sMediterranean and Greek cuisine with a creative twist
Row 34Surla'sExceptional seafood offerings with a creative, modern flare

Among the culinary gems listed, Toro and Galletto Ristorante stand out for their authentic Spanish dishes infused with local Californian ingredients, bringing a taste of Boston's international dining scene to the heart of Modesto. Likewise, the innovative sushi and Japanese cuisine at Uni find a creative counterpart in Bauhaus, where inventive sushi rolls and modern Japanese dishes speak to the adventurous palates of both cities. For those seeking the comfort of homemade pasta and Mediterranean flavors, Giulia's spirit thrives at Skewers Kabob House, offering dishes steeped in freshness and authenticity. Each of these establishments not only mirrors the quality and ambiance of Boston’s favorites but also introduces locals to distinctive culinary experiences wrapped in the warmth and hospitality Modesto is known for.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Modesto Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing housing characteristics between your current city and your potential new home provides valuable insights. In this compare and contrast, we've highlighted 'Housing' aspects between Boston, MA and Modesto, CA to aid in your decision-making process.

ComparisonBostonModesto
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, BrownstoneMid-century Modern, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to public transit, Historic charmSpacious lots, Outdoor living

Diving deeper into the housing landscape, Boston's real estate market is known for its historic charm and proximity to public transit, making it a bustling urban environment. This is reflected in its high walkability and urban lifestyle scores. On the other hand, Modesto offers a quieter, more suburban feel with an emphasis on spacious lots and outdoor living. The city's mid-century modern and ranch-style homes provide a contrast to Boston's Victorian and brownstone architecture. Despite lower walkability scores, Modesto's more affordable living and emphasis on open spaces might be more appealing to those looking for a relaxed lifestyle.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Modesto, CA

1. La Loma: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and proximity to Elk Park, La Loma is perfect for your daily dog walks and relaxation in a pet-friendly community.

2. Village One: This newer, family-oriented neighborhood features spacious parks and walking trails such as Sylvan Park, making it ideal for pets to play and explore safely.

3. College Area: Close to the vibrancy of downtown Modesto and the scenic Virginia Corridor Trailway, the College Area offers energetic surroundings and multiple open spaces for your pets to enjoy.

Boston vs. Modesto Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Boston, MA to Modesto, CA, understanding the weather comparison between these two cities is crucial. This guide highlights how your daily life and seasonal activities might change, emphasizing the weather variations to help you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

94°F / 64°F

Modesto, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

55°F / 38°F

Modesto, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8"

Boston, MA

12.99"

Modesto, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Boston, MA

0"

Modesto, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonModesto
Air QualityModerateUnhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersNor'easters, BlizzardsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Switching from Boston's variable climate to Modesto's Mediterranean-like weather introduces you to warmer summers and milder winters, significantly increasing your days of sunshine. While Boston offers a snowy winter aesthetic, Modesto opens up year-round outdoor activities thanks to its dry summers and minimal rain. Modesto's higher annual UV index and distinct seasonal allergies, affected by its specific air quality and fauna, are important adjustments. Understanding these differences ensures you’re better prepared for your new home in Modesto.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Modesto

When relocating, understanding the financial differences between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight Boston, MA and Modesto, CA in terms of money and finance, providing a clearer picture of what changes you might expect. Whether it's tax rates or the cost of living, being informed will help you prepare for your move.

ComparisonBostonModesto
Avg. Household Income$79,283$70,469
Cost of Living Index132.5136.4
State Income Tax59.3
Avg. Property Tax1.220.77
Avg. Sales Tax6.257.25
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, TechnologyAgriculture, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowHigher than average
HomelessnessVisibleSignificant

Moving from Boston to Modesto will present a mix of financial changes. The average household income in Boston is significantly higher, which correlates with its higher cost of living index. Despite California's higher state income tax, Modesto's property and sales taxes are lower compared to Boston, somewhat offsetting the income disparity. The dominant industries also shift from Boston's tech and education-focused economy to Modesto's agriculture-centric market. This transition may impact your career opportunities and living standards, thus necessitating a thorough exploration of Modesto's job market ahead of your move.

Boston vs. Modesto Political & Religious Comparison

As you plan your move from Boston, MA to Modesto, CA, it's beneficial to understand the communities you'll be transitioning between. This comparison offers a brief overview of the political and religious makeup between Boston & Modesto , providing insights into the character and values of each city's residents.

BostonModesto
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticModerately Conservative
Local PoliticsProgressive policiesCommunity-focused initiatives
ReligionMix of Catholic and ProtestantDiverse, with a notable Evangelical presence

In Boston, you're likely familiar with the city's strong liberal leanings, where Democratic candidates and progressive policies often dominate the political landscape. In contrast, Modesto presents a more moderate conservative environment where politics tend to reflect community-focused initiatives. Additionally, religious landscape shifts as you move; Boston's religious makeup is predominantly Catholic and Protestant, reflecting its historical roots, while Modesto offers a more diverse religious scene, including a significant Evangelical community. This comparative insight helps you grasp the subtle yet significant cultural shifts awaiting you.

Boston vs. Modesto Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Preparing for a move? Understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Modesto can significantly ease your transition. This guide aims to provide a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like.

ComparisonBostonModesto
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

In Boston, thanks to a well-established public transportation system including the MBTA, comprising subways, buses, and commuter rails, it's feasible to navigate the city without owning a car. This connectivity plays a vital role in mitigating traffic congestion, although it still presents challenges during rush hours with an average commute time of about 30 minutes. On the other hand, Modesto's landscape is quite different. With an average commute time slightly lower than Boston's, the reliance on personal vehicles is significantly higher due to the limited availability of public transit. This means that, unlike in Boston, living in Modesto usually requires having access to a car to efficiently manage daily commutes. Transitioning between these two distinct settings, you'll notice a shift not only in how you plan your commutes but also in the overall pace and infrastructure of daily life.

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