Moving from Washington to Modesto?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Washington to Modesto Movers

Embarking on the journey from the historical grandeur of Washington DC to the agricultural heart of California in Modesto represents an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the political hustle and iconic monuments of "The Capital City" for the laid-back charm and vineyard vistas of "The Water, Wealth, Contentment, Health" city is no small transition. In navigating this considerable distance, the importance of entrusting your move to professional, reliable movers cannot be overstated, which is why we meticulously rank the best options to ensure your move is as smooth as your aspirations for this new adventure.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Modesto to Washington guide.

5 Best Washington to Modesto Movers

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

#1
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 6,631+ data points

Hyattsville, MD
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT: 2005212 Verify

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in washington dc 2023 bookstore movers image
top ranked movers in washington dc 2022 bookstore movers image
#2
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,108+ data points

Washington DC, DC
Local Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2474176 Verify

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in gaithersburg 2023 mics moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington dc 2022 mics moving image
#3
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo
Exceptional

based on 361+ data points

Alexandria, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT: 3338902 Verify

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in buchanan 2023 ap pro moving llc image
#4
All-Star Movers & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,155+ data points

Tracy, CA
Residential movers, Commercial movers, In-state moves and local moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2971368 Verify

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...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in stockton 2023 all star movers storage image
top 3 ranked movers in stockton 2022 all star movers storage image
#5
All Star Movers & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,858+ data points

Dublin, CA
Residential movers, Commercial movers, In-state moves and local moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2971368 Verify

About All Star Movers & Storage

Established in 1999, All Star Movers & Storage is a locally-owned and operated company serving the Bay Area, Hayward, Central Valley, an...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in fremont 2022 all star movers storage image

Relocating from Washington to Modesto Neighborhood Guide

Moving can feel like navigating uncharted territory. To transform this challenge into an adventure, we've created a guide to help you get acquainted with your new city by drawing parallels between familiar and new locales. Our comparison focuses on Washington DC, DC & Modesto, CA local neighborhoods , highlighting similar communities in both cities. Whether you're seeking bustling city vibes or peaceful residential areas, this guide will help you find a slice of home in Modesto.

WashingtonModesto
Dupont CircleCollege Area

Vibrant, youthful feel

GeorgetownRose Avenue

Historic, upscale living

Capitol HillLa Loma

Historic homes, community vibe

Logan CircleSherwood Forest

Diverse, inclusive community

Columbia HeightsNorth Modesto

Family-friendly, multicultural

Adams MorganEast Modesto

Lively, nightlife-centric

ShawBret Harte

Balances historic charm with modern conveniences

Navy YardModesto Centre Plaza

Urban renewal, waterfront views

U Street CorridorDowntown Modesto

Cultural hotspot, entertainment

NoMaMcHenry Avenue

Growing business district, modern living

Dive deeper into what makes these neighborhoods so unique and comparable. The College Area in Modesto mirrors Dupont Circle's vibrant, youthful atmosphere, making it a hub for students and young professionals alike. If you adore Georgetown's historic, upscale charm, Rose Avenue in Modesto will captivate you with its grand homes and manicured lawns. Those moving from Capitol Hill will find a sense of familiarity in La Loma's historic homes and strong sense of community. Meanwhile, Logan Circle's diversity and inclusiveness are closely mirrored in Sherwood Forest, offering a warm welcome to residents from all walks of life. Finally, if the cultural hotspot and endless entertainment options of U Street Corridor are what you love about DC, Downtown Modesto's thriving arts scene and variety of dining and nightlife options will surely impress. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of these neighborhoods or enjoying local favorites like the Gallo Center for the Arts and various farm-to-table restaurants in Downtown Modesto, you'll discover the charm and unique character that Modesto neighborhoods have to offer.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington to Modesto

Moving from one city to another requires a balanced view of both locations. In our charts below, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects when relocating from Washington DC, DC to Modesto, CA. By comparing both sides, prospective movers can weigh their options carefully and make an informed decision on their next big step.

CONs
PROs
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • High crime rates
  • Humid summers
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic
  • Lower crime rates
  • Mild climate
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Car-dependent
  • Fewer parks
  • More limited dining
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Good public transit
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Diverse dining options

Washington, D.C., offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, replete with iconic sites like the Smithsonian Museums and bustling neighborhoods like Adams Morgan, renowned for its vibrant night scene and restaurant row. On the contrary, Modesto, while quieter, has its own charm with places like the Gallo Center for the Arts providing a sprinkle of cultural enrichment and downtown Modesto offering a range of eateries like the spirited Condor House. Despite the trade-off in terms of a seemingly car-dependent lifestyle, the shift to Modesto offers the prospect of milder climate conditions and a more relaxed pace of life, ideal for those looking to escape the frenetic cadence of a bustling metropolis.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Washington to Modesto

Food is not just about sustenance; it's a profound expression of a region's culture and lifestyle. Understanding the culinary scene is essential when relocating, as it reveals what daily life may taste like in your new home. This guide offers a comprehensive comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Modesto, aimed at giving you a flavorful preview of your impending move.

WashingtonModesto

Most iconic local food item

Half-SmokeAlmonds

Most popular meat dish

Mumbo Sauce WingsTrip-tip Steak

Most popular street food item

Food TrucksTacos

Most popular vegan food

Impossible BurgerAlmond Milk Smoothies

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rose's Luxury
  • Zaytinya
  • Dewz
  • Skewers Kabob House
  • Camp 4 Wine Café

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

86

Abundance of Food Trucks

94

Foodie Scene

96

Vegan Friendly

85

When moving from Washington DC to Modesto, you'll encounter a shift not only in scenery but also in the culinary landscape. Washington DC boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene, highlighted by the presence of food trucks and global cuisines, making it a haven for foodies and vegans alike. For instance, the U Street Corridor is famed for its half-smokes from Ben's Chili Bowl, a taste quintessential to the city. On the other hand, Modesto introduces you to the heart of California's agricultural bounty, where almonds reign supreme, and farm-to-table isn't a trend but a way of life. The city’s standout eatery, Dewz, showcases the region’s richness with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Modesto's more relaxed food scene will entice you with its authenticity and simplicity, making it a delightful new chapter for your culinary journey.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Washington to Modesto

Food plays a pivotal role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from Washington DC to Modesto, helping you find new favorite spots that echo your old haunts. Whether you're craving an upscale dinner or a casual bite, this guide will point you in the direction of Modesto's culinary treasures that closely mirror those of Washington DC.

Le DiplomateConcetta

French-inspired atmosphere with a touch of California innovation

Blue Duck TavernCamp 4 Wine Café

Farm-to-table dining with a cozy ambiance

ZaytinyaBauhaus

Offers a selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus on freshness

RasikaTaste of India

Traditional Indian cuisine with a modern twist

Bad SaintFina

Small, intimate setting with innovative dishes and a focus on Philippine cuisine

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabSkewers Kabob House

Offers seafood and steak options with a diverse menu

2 Amys Neapolitan PizzeriaMichael's Pizza

Authentic Neapolitan pizzas with a focus on quality ingredients

Ben's Chili BowlDoc's Q'in Pit Shop

Iconic BBQ place with a casual, friendly atmosphere

The DabneyFarmhouse

Seasonal dishes with ingredients sourced from local farms

KomiGalletto Ristorante

Elegant dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean and Italian dishes

While Le Diplomate in Washington DC provides a quintessentially French brasserie experience, Concetta in Modesto offers a similar ambiance with a blend of California's fresh, innovative cuisine. Fans of the eclectic Blue Duck Tavern will find Camp 4 Wine Café's farm-to-table approach and intimate setting a comforting alternative. For an exceptional Indian dining experience reminiscent of Rasika's modern twist on traditional flavors, Taste of India in Modesto emerges as a must-visit. Lastly, pizza aficionados who cannot live without 2 Amys' iconic Neapolitan pies will find solace in Michael's Pizza, which prides itself on using quality ingredients to craft authentic and mouthwatering pizzas.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Washington to Modesto

When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial for making an informed decision. Comparing the housing aspects between Washington DC and Modesto, CA will illuminate differences and similarities, helping you to gauge where your next home could be.

Moving from Washington DC to Modesto can significantly impact your cost of living, particularly in housing. Washington DC's real estate market is marked by a high median home price and rent, reflecting its urban lifestyle and appeal, characterized by historic charm and a high walkability score. In contrast, Modesto's housing market offers more affordable options, with their real estate listings frequently highlighting spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods, indicative of its lower urban lifestyle score. The city's predominant ranch and bungalow-style homes contribute to a distinctive architectural aesthetic different from Washington DC's Victorian and Federal styles, offering a fresh perspective on what you might call home.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Washington to Modesto

When planning a move from Washington DC to Modesto, CA, understanding how the weather varies between these two locations is essential. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment by providing insights into seasonal changes, air quality, and how often you'll enjoy sunny days.

Summer icon
87/71

Washington, DC

94/63

Modesto, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/28

Washington, DC

55/38

Modesto, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8

Washington, DC

12.99

Modesto, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4

Washington, DC

0

Modesto, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Washington DC to Modesto, CA, you'll notice a significant change in weather patterns. In Modesto, expect hotter summers but milder winters, and significantly more sunny days throughout the year, a stark contrast to the more humid and variable climate of Washington DC. This shift means you might experience less winter chill but will need to prepare for hotter summers and consider different needs for air conditioning. It's also important to note the difference in natural disaster risks, with Modesto being more prone to earthquakes and wildfires, something not commonly faced in Washington DC. Additionally, with Modesto's lower annual rainfall, the environment can be drier, affecting everything from gardening plans to daily hydration needs.

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


When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. Comparing the economic landscapes of your current and future homes can illuminate differences in living costs, taxes, and job markets. This chart contrasts key financial metrics between Washington DC and Modesto, highlighting the aspects that might affect your wallet the most substantially.


Moving from Washington DC to Modesto brings a significant shift in the cost of living, which is markedly lower in Modesto. However, this decrease is accompanied by a potential reduction in average household income. The difference in state income tax rates is another critical factor, as California's progressive tax system can mean higher taxes for some. The overall affluence in Washington DC is higher, which might reflect in the availability and diversity of professional opportunities, particularly those linked to the government and professional services sectors. In contrast, Modesto's economy leans heavily on agriculture and manufacturing, offering different job opportunities. These financial and economic variances are essential considerations for anyone planning the move, affecting everything from daily expenses to long-term financial planning.

Political & Religious Comparison between Washington, DC and Modesto, CA

When considering a move from Washington DC to Modesto, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you'll be transitioning between. This comparison provides a quick snapshot into the politics and religious landscapes of Washington DC & Modesto , offering insights to help you feel more at home in your new city.

WashingtonModesto

Political Make-up

Strongly DemocraticMore balanced, leans Democratic

Local Politics

Highly engaged, international focusCommunity-focused, agricultural concerns

Religion

Diverse, with no single dominant religionChristianity plays a significant role, with a strong community presence

Moving from Washington DC to Modesto will bring you into a new political and religious environment. While Washington DC's political scene is robust and heavily leans Democratic with an international focus, Modesto offers a more balanced political landscape with a stronger emphasis on local and community issues, reflecting its agricultural roots. Religion in Modesto, particularly Christianity, has a more pronounced community presence compared to the religious diversity of Washington DC. Embracing these differences will enrich your understanding and help smooth your transition into your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Washington to Modesto

This comparison aims to better understand the daily commute and traffic differences between Washington DC & Modesto. Specifically, it'll give you a clearer view of what to expect when navigating the streets and accessing public transportation in these contrasting environments.

WashingtonModesto
34.426.1

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

95

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, easilyNo, challenging

Can you get by without car?

In Washington DC, you might find that your daily commute involves navigating through some of the nation's most notorious traffic bottlenecks. However, the city's excellent public transit system, including the extensive Metro network, makes it entirely feasible to live there without owning a car. On the other end, Modesto presents a less congested traffic scenario, albeit with a more limited public transportation offering. This makes having a car almost a necessity for efficiently getting around. The drastic difference in the availability of public transit between these two cities dramatically influences daily life, from planning your commute to deciding where to live.

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