Local Move

Moving from Modesto, CA to San Francisco, CA

78 miles · 1h 36m drive · Estimated cost $1,133–$1,925 for a 2-bedroom move

78 miles

1h 36m drive

Cost Index: 0.96 → 1.42

Cost Estimate: Modesto to San Francisco

Average costs for a 2-bedroom move. Use the calculator below for a custom quote.

Full Service

Movers handle everything

$1,525

Range: $1,133 – $1,925

Professional packing & unpacking
Loading, transport & unloading
Basic valuation coverage

Partial Service

You pack, movers move

$1,057

Range: $805 – $1,317

You pack your own boxes
Movers load, transport & unload
Save 20–35% vs. full service

DIY Move

Rent a truck, do it yourself

$385

Range: $205 – $574

Truck rental + gas + equipment
No labor costs — you do the lifting
Full control over your schedule

Custom Moving Calculator

Adjust home size, move type, and extras to get a personalized estimate for your Modesto to San Francisco move.

Home Size

Move Month

Cheapest Moderate Expensive

Estimated Moving Cost

Modesto, CA → San Francisco, CA · 78 miles

Low

$1,133

Estimated

$1,525

High

$1,925

🟢 Off-peak pricing · March

Where Does Your Money Go?

Full-service cost breakdown for a 2-bedroom local move from Modesto to San Francisco.

Total$1,525

Labor(34.8%)

$450 – $610

Transportation(36.8%)

$401 – $721

Packing(22.2%)

$225 – $450

Insurance(2.8%)

$22 – $71

Tips(3.5%)

$36 – $73

Best Time to Move

Moving costs from Modesto to San Francisco vary significantly by season.

January is the cheapest month (save up to 15%), while July is the most expensive (+30%).

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

CheapestModerateExpensive

Origin

Modesto

California

Destination

San Francisco

California

Cost of Living Index

142

Average Rent (1BR)

$1,250

$3,200

Average Rent (2BR)

$1,500

$4,100

You'll spend ~165% more on housing

Average rent in San Francisco is $3,650/mo vs $1,375/mo in Modesto

Top Neighborhoods

San Francisco

Mission District
Noe Valley
Hayes Valley
Marina
Sunset District

Local Moving Tips

Expert advice for your 78-mile move from Modesto to San Francisco.

Consider a DIY move

At under 100 miles, renting a truck for your Modesto to San Francisco move can save you 50–70% compared to full-service movers.

Move mid-week

Tuesday through Thursday moves are typically 15–25% cheaper than weekend moves, with better availability.

Declutter before you pack

Sell or donate items you no longer need. Less stuff means fewer boxes, a smaller truck, and a lower bill.

Get at least 3 quotes

Local moving company rates can vary dramatically. Always compare at least three in-home or video estimates.

Reserve your elevator

If you live in an apartment building, book the service elevator in advance to avoid delays and extra hourly charges.

Finding Local Movers

For local moves under 100 miles, we recommend searching for movers in the Modesto area. Local companies often provide better rates and more personalized service than national carriers for short-distance moves. Always get at least 3 in-home estimates and verify licensing through the FMCSA.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to move from Modesto to San Francisco?

The average cost for a 2-bedroom full-service move from Modesto, CA to San Francisco, CA ranges from $1,133 to $1,925, with a typical cost around $1,525. A DIY move with a rental truck averages $385. Actual costs depend on home size, time of year, and additional services.

How long does the drive from Modesto to San Francisco take?

The distance from Modesto to San Francisco is approximately 78 miles. The estimated driving time is 1h 36m, though actual drive time may vary based on the route, traffic, and road conditions. Professional movers may take 1 day to deliver your belongings.

What's the cheapest month to move from Modesto to San Francisco?

January is typically the cheapest month to move, with rates up to 15% below average. The most expensive month is July, when rates increase by about 30%. Moving mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) also helps reduce costs by 10–20%.

Should I hire movers or do it myself?

For a 78-mile move, a DIY move can save you significantly — rental trucks are affordable for short distances, and you can recruit friends to help. Compare your DIY cost of ~$385 vs. full-service at ~$1,525 to decide.

How far is Modesto from San Francisco?

Modesto, CA is approximately 78 miles from San Francisco, CA. This is classified as a local move and the drive takes roughly 1h 36m.

What size moving truck do I need for a move from Modesto to San Francisco?

For a 2-bedroom home, a 15–17 foot truck is usually sufficient. For 3-bedroom homes, plan on a 20–22 foot truck. For 4+ bedrooms, you will likely need a 26-foot truck or may need to consider two trips. When in doubt, size up — packing a too-small truck wastes time and risks damage.