($1,464) Movers From Richmond, VA to Modesto, CA

What to know before moving from Richmond to Modesto

Moving from Richmond to Modesto comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Modesto is generally more expensive than Richmond, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Modesto are 13% higher than in Richmond, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Richmond.
  Home prices in Modesto are 26.1% higher than in Richmond.
• Income in Modesto is 12.4% higher than in Richmond, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Modesto include Save Mart Supermarkets, Sutter Central Valley Hospitals, and E. & J. Gallo Winery.
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Modesto, since the cost of living for a single person in Modesto is 1.9% higher than in Richmond. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• If you’re moving your family to Modesto, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Modesto is 11.4% higher than in Richmond.
• The unemployment rate in Modesto is 12.68% higher than in Richmond.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Modesto, since the city’s sales taxes in Modesto are 48.00% higher than in Richmond.
• State income taxes in Modesto are 131.30% higher than in Richmond.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,055.51 in Modesto to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Richmond.

How life is different in Richmond vs. Modesto

• Modesto's population is about the same as Richmond.
• Modesto's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Richmond's higher score of 7.
• Modesto and Richmond are similarily walkable.
• Both Modesto and Richmond have the same bike-friendliness score of 51 out of 100, meaning Modesto is about as safe for cyclists as Richmond. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
• Modesto's crime rate is higher than Richmond with a score of 65.76 compared to Richmond's 48.45. This means that Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Richmond neighborhoods are safer than 48.45%.
• Modesto is considered to be less safe than Richmond with a score of 34.24 vs Richmond's 51.55.
• Air quality in Modesto is moderate, and in Richmond it's good.

Other things to consider for your Richmond vs. Modesto move

• Weather: Modesto has mild winters with moderate rainfall and long, hot, dry summers.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Modesto without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Modesto

With your sights set on "City of Great Neighbors", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Modesto.

Helpful moving resources