Best Detroit to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,528 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Detroit to Salinas 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 Mod Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Salinas. 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 Detroit to Salinas Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Mod Movers8.818.1Authorized For HHG
2Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.488.22Authorized For HHG
3Balance Detroit8.467.79Authorized For Property, HHG
4Poulos Moving Systems8.378.48Authorized For HHG
5High Quality Moving Company8.248.5Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Detroit to Salinas?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,528 miles from Detroit, MI to Salinas, CA will cost on average $3,931 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Salinas move is roughly $9,499. 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$2,636300 ft³$8.79
1 Bedroom$3,931450 ft³$8.74
2 Bedrooms$6,514750 ft³$8.69
3 Bedrooms$9,4991100 ft³$8.64
4 Bedrooms$13,7371600 ft³$8.59
5+ Bedrooms$15,3641800 ft³$8.54
*Please note: These Michigan to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & 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 MI to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Salinas Movers

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

Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.81/10
based on 960+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.46/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.37/10
based on 464+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.24/10
based on 757+ data points

32401 W 8 Mile Rd

Livonia, MI, 48152

About High Quality Moving Company

High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
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.

Detroit vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison

To help you get familiar with an unfamiliar city, this guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Salinas, CA . By leveraging your knowledge of Detroit's neighborhoods, you'll discover similar areas in Salinas to ease your transition.

DetroitSalinasHow They're Similar
CorktownOld Town SalinasHistoric charm, cultural hotspots
MidtownDowntown SalinasVibrant arts, central location
Indian VillageMaple ParkPrestigious homes, tree-lined streets
Brush ParkNorth SalinasRevitalized area, urban development
Rosedale ParkCreekbridgeQuiet, residential appeal
Palmer WoodsSan Benancio CanyonExpansive estates, natural beauty
West VillageMontecito EstatesQuaint atmosphere, community feel
WoodbridgeLas Palmas RanchFamily-friendly, suburban vibes
The VillagesSanta RitaAffordable, diverse neighborhood
MexicantownChinatown SalinasRich cultural, culinary experiences

Diving into the vibrant arts scene of Detroit's Midtown, you'll find a similar creative buzz in Downtown Salinas with its eclectic mix of galleries and proximity to historic architecture. If the historic allure of Corktown with its lively bars and eateries speaks to you, Old Town Salinas offers a parallel with its quaint shops and historical sites. Those enchanted by the prestigious homes and tree-lined charm of Indian Village will find the prestigious Maple Park equally enticing, surrounded by the beauty of its manicured landscapes. If you enjoy the revitalized spirit of Brush Park, North Salinas, with its ongoing urban developments and community-driven initiatives, may be just what you're looking for.

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Things to Do in Salinas

  • Explore Pinnacles National Park.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
  • Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
  • Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
  • Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
  • Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
  • Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Salinas

Moving between cities is a complex process, requiring a consideration of both the benefits and drawbacks. The forthcoming charts provide an honest reflection highlighting the transition from Detroit, MI to Salinas, CA by balancing the good against the bad and vice versa. Whether it's the cost of living, climate, or cultural opportunities, this comparison aims to inform your decision comprehensively.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher crime rate
  • Harsh winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Economic challenges
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Lower crime rate
  • Mild climate
  • More cultural diversity
  • Strong agricultural economy
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less entertainment options
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Less job variety
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Affordable housing
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Historical landmarks
  • Strong automotive industry

While moving from Detroit to Salinas presents its set of challenges such as adjusting to higher living costs, it also offers a myriad of opportunities. You'll find yourself immersed in a more culturally diverse community and enjoying a mild climate throughout the year. Salinas, with its strong agricultural base, provides a fresh perspective on economic stability. Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Salinas, you can discover local gems like Pajaro Street Bar and Grill for dining, and take leisurely walks in parks such as Natividad Creek Park. Moreover, the city's proximity to natural wonders, like the Monterey Bay, enhances its appeal for those who love the outdoors. Transitioning from Detroit’s historic automotive backdrop to Salinas’s thriving agricultural community signifies not just a change in scenery but a lifestyle transformation worth considering.

Detroit vs. Salinas Food Guide

Understanding the essence of local cuisine is crucial when moving, as food plays a significant role in the culture and lifestyle of an area. In this guide, we'll be making a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Salinas to provide you with a clear picture of what to expect in your new home. This will aid in easing the transition and enriching your culinary experiences in a new city.

Detroit
Salinas
Most iconic local food item
Coney Dog
Artichoke
Most popular meat dish
Detroit-style Pizza (with pepperoni)
Tri-tip
Most popular street food item
Shawarma
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan barbecue
Artichoke tamales
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • American Coney Island
  • Supino Pizzeria
  • Gianni's Pizza
  • The Steinbeck House
  • First Awakenings
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In exploring the vibrant food scenes of Detroit and Salinas, you'll encounter unique culinary treasures that reflect the local culture and population's preferences. Detroit boasts a strong, diverse food scene with iconic dishes like the Coney Dog and a notable Middle Eastern influence apparent in popular street food such as Shawarma. Places like Slows Bar BQ and Supino Pizzeria offer a taste of the city's heart through their menus. Salinas, often referred to as the "Salad Bowl of the World," offers fresh, vegetable-centric options like Artichoke tamales, catering to health-conscious and vegan diners. Its proximity to agriculture-rich lands ensures that places like Gianni's Pizza and First Awakenings feature fresh, local ingredients, embodying the farm-to-table ethos that defines much of Salinas's food scene.

Detroit vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison

Deciding where to dine is a cornerstone in making anywhere feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Detroit to their Salinas equivalents will guide you to your next favorite dining spot, using familiar tastes from your current hometown as the beacon.

DetroitSalinasWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardGiorgio's RestaurantKnown for their upscale dining experience and creative dishes.
Slows Bar BQEagle RestaurantOffers mouthwatering barbecue with a friendly, casual vibe.
Rose's Fine FoodFirst AwakeningsA spot beloved for its hearty, home-cooked breakfasts and lunches.
Gold Cash GoldPatriaOffers eclectic, farm-to-table meals in a rustic yet elegant setting.
Supino PizzeriaMidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza CompanyKnown for their wood-fired pizzas that showcase traditional and gourmet toppings.
Grey Ghost DetroitThe Grower's PubOffers innovative cuisine with a focus on steaks and seafood in a classy atmosphere.
Lady of the HouseThe Monarch PubKnown for their innovative cuisine and commitment to locally sourced ingredients.
Detroit Vegan SoulHaute EnchiladaOffers a rich variety of vegan options in a cozy and artistic setting.
Maru Sushi & GrillOtter's DenRenowned for their fresh, creative sushi rolls and lively ambiance.
Avalon International BreadsBread Box BakeryCelebrated for their handcrafted breads, pastries, and a sense of community.

As you settle into your new home in Salinas, finding places that resonate with the culinary experiences you cherished in Detroit will be essential. For instance, the laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere at The Monarch Pub in Salinas mirrors the charm and inventive menu found at Lady of the House in Detroit, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate locally sourced, creative meals. Meanwhile, for the barbecue enthusiasts who frequented Slows Bar BQ, Eagle Restaurant in Salinas promises to deliver that smoky, comforting goodness you’ve come to love. And if the soul-nourishing vegan dishes at Detroit Vegan Soul captured your heart, Haute Enchilada's array of vegan options in an artistic ambiance will certainly fill that void. These carefully handpicked Salinas restaurants aim to keep your palette excited while offering a taste of the familiar.

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Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate in your current and future cities is crucial. This guide focuses on the key differences in housing between Detroit, MI, and Salinas, CA, providing a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.

Detroit
Salinas
Typical Architecture Style
Historic, Brick Colonials
Ranch, Mediterranean
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Close to downtown, Spacious yards
Proximity to agriculture, Scenic views

The market contrasts between Detroit and Salinas reflect not just the cost of living but lifestyle preferences as well. In Detroit, the allure of historic brick colonials comes with a significantly lower median home price, making it accessible for many. Salinas, with its higher cost of living, offers a Mediterranean climate and architectural style that's hard to find elsewhere. The proximity to agriculture and scenic views mentioned in Salinas real estate listings highlight the city's unique charm. Despite similar bikeability scores, the urban lifestyle score reflects Detroit's more vibrant city life compared to Salinas's quieter, more rural appeal.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA

1. South Salinas: You'll find plenty of parks and open spaces, ideal for walking your dog and enjoying the outdoors together.

2. Creekbridge: This area boasts numerous greenbelts and walking paths perfect for exercising your pets while taking in the scenic views.

3. Monte Bella: Known for its pet-friendly amenities, this neighborhood offers convenient access to parks and pet services, making life easier for pet owners.

Detroit vs. Salinas Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another brings many changes, the weather being a significant one. Understanding how the weather in Detroit, MI versus Salinas, CA will differ is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight these differences to better prepare you for your new home.

Detroit
Salinas
Days of Sunshine per Year
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☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Earthquakes
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 63°F
75°F / 55°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 22°F
62°F / 43°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

33.5
15
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

42.7
0


Moving from Detroit to Salinas, you'll notice significant changes in weather patterns. Salinas boasts more sunny days per year and milder winters, making it an attractive destination for those tired of cold, snowy winters. The difference in natural disasters is also notable, with Detroit experiencing snowstorms and tornadoes, whereas Salinas’ primary concern is earthquakes. Additionally, Salinas enjoys better air quality and less annual precipitation, which may result in different allergy triggers predominantly being pollen and dust compared to Detroit’s mix of pollen and mold.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Salinas

When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're stepping into. This guide compares Detroit, MI and Salinas, CA in key financial aspects to give you a clearer idea of what awaits in terms of living costs and economic conditions.

Detroit
Salinas
Avg. Household Income
$36,140
$80,154
Cost of Living Index
99.4
136.4
State Income Tax
4.25
13.3 (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax
2.3
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
6
9.25
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Technology, Healthcare
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Education
Affluence
Lower
Higher
Poverty
Marked
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Concerning

Upon examining the chart, a striking disparity in cost of living and average household income between Detroit and Salinas becomes evident. While Salinas enjoys a considerably higher average income, it also grapples with a significantly elevated cost of living, reflected in its cost of living index. This disparity highlights the nuanced economic landscape one might navigate when moving between these cities. Furthermore, the stark contrast in state income and sales tax rates underscores the varied fiscal environment awaiting newcomers, affecting everything from day-to-day spending to annual tax obligations. Understanding these financial nuances is key to successfully acclimating to your new city.

Detroit vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between Detroit & Salinas. It's designed to offer insights that can help in transitioning from one community to another by highlighting differences and similarities.

Detroit
Salinas
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Mostly Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on urban development and economic revitalization
Emphasis on agricultural policies and community services
Religion
Diverse religious landscape with a strong presence of Christian denominations
Primarily Catholic, influenced by Hispanic heritage

In moving from Detroit to Salinas, you'll find both cities share a Democratic political leaning, which may ease the transition for you on a political level. However, the focus of local politics shifts significantly. Detroit's emphasis on urban redevelopment and bringing back economic vibrancy stands in contrast to Salinas's focus on agriculture and supporting its farming communities, reflecting the city's role as a key player in the nation's agriculture sector. The religious landscape also shifts, moving from a broad diversity in Detroit to a concentration on Catholicism in Salinas, much of it tied to the city’s strong Hispanic community. Understanding these nuances can help you adapt more quickly to your new home.

Detroit vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Relocating from Detroit, MI to Salinas, CA involves understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Salinas will help you better grasp what to expect on the roads and when planning your trips.

Detroit
Salinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25.5
23.6
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Very Challenging

In Detroit, you might find the traffic congestion somewhat manageable with an average commute time of about 25.5 minutes, but relying solely on public transit can be difficult; the city rates a 5 out of 10 in terms of availability. In contrast, Salinas offers slightly shorter average commute times at 23.6 minutes and less traffic congestion. However, the city scores lower in terms of public transit availability, making it more challenging to get around without a car. These factors are critical to consider when planning your daily commutes and understanding how to navigate your new city efficiently.

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