Factors that influence moving costs from Philadelphia to Modesto
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Modesto
Moving from Philadelphia to Modesto means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Philadelphia than in Modesto, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Philadelphia compares to Modesto so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Philadelphia | Modesto | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,695 | $1,800 |
Average home value | $216,914 | $442,362 |
Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $67,011 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,541 | $2,312 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,190 | $5,946 |
Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 8.0% |
Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.88% |
State income tax | 3.07% | 13.3% |
- Rent prices in Modesto are 6% higher than in Philadelphia, which means youโll have less money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Philadelphia.
Home prices in Modesto are 103.9% higher than in Philadelphia. - Income in Modesto is 5.3% lower than in Philadelphia, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Modesto include Save Mart Supermarkets, Sutter Central Valley Hospitals, and E. & J. Gallo Winery.
- The cost of living for a single person in Modesto is 9.0% lower than in Philadelphia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Modesto is 3.9% lower than in Philadelphia.
- The unemployment rate in Modesto is 24.53% lower than in Philadelphia.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Modesto, since the cityโs sales taxes in Modesto are 11.00% higher than in Philadelphia.
- State income taxes in Modesto are 333.22% higher than in Philadelphia.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,729.63 in Modesto to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Modesto
Modesto | Philadelphia | |
---|---|---|
Population | 218,464 | 1,603,797 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 9 |
Walkability score | 48 | 75 |
Bike friendliness score | 48 | 67 |
Crime Index | 65.76 | 66.09 |
Safety Index | 34.24 | 33.91 |
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
- Modesto's population is about 86% less than Philadelphia.
- Modesto's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Philadelphia's higher score of 9.
- Modesto is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Philadelphia's 75 out of 100.
- Modesto has a bike-friendliness score 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67 out of 100.
- Modesto and Philadelphia have a similar crime rate.
- Modesto and Philadelphia are considered to be equally safe.
- Air quality in Modesto is moderate, and in Philadelphia it's good.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia vs. Modesto move
- Weather: Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโsome areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a โT Numberโ issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving company\โs license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You wonโt need a moving permit in California, though it\โs smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toModesto Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.Opt for Released Value Protection โ a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Modesto
Now that youโve chosen "City of Great Neighbors" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Modesto to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Modesto
- College Area
- McHenry Village
- Northwest Modesto
- Airport
Best neighborhoods for families
- Del Rio
- Dutch Hollow
- La Loma
- Village One
- Sherwood Forest
Things to do in Modesto
Now that you've made the move to California, itโs the perfect time to explore Modesto. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Modesto, such as the Great Valley Museum, McHenry Museum, and Mistlin Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Tuolumne River Trail โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Modesto Nuts (California League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Philadelphia to Modesto?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Philadelphia to Modesto. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Philadelphia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Modesto?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Philadelphia to Modesto, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Philadelphia to Modesto take?
The 2,860-mile journey from Philadelphia, PA to Modesto, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Philadelphia offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Modesto.