Best Grand Rapids to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 158 mile long distance Michigan move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 103 Grand Rapids to Detroit 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 General Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids compared to Detroit. 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.
Best Grand Rapids to Detroit Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | General Movers | 9.45 | 9.45 |
| 2 | Helper Moving, LLC | 9.29 | 9.53 |
| 3 | James and Shuan Moving Company LLC | 9.19 | 9.25 |
| 4 | Big Lake Movers | 9.10 | 9.6 |
| 5 | H&H Moving Company | 9.08 | 9.47 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Detroit?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 158 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Detroit, MI will cost on average $1,916 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Detroit move is roughly $4,573. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,292 | 300 ft³ | $4.31 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,916 | 450 ft³ | $4.26 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,155 | 750 ft³ | $4.21 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,573 | 1100 ft³ | $4.16 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,571 | 1600 ft³ | $4.11 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,302 | 1800 ft³ | $4.06 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Detroit Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
General Movers
Warren, MI, 48093
About General Movers
General Movers is a trusted local moving and packing company serving Farmington Hills, Bloomfield Hills, and other Southeast Michigan communities. They...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing Solutions
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1946630 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
Helper Moving, LLC
2915 Risley Dr
Lansing, MI, 48917
About Helper Moving, LLC
Helper Moving located in Lansing, Michigan provides answers to all your local moving needs. With its team of professional and experienced...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Loading and Unloading
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2475734 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
James and Shuan Moving Company LLC
Redford Charter
Twp, MI, 48239
About James and Shuan Moving Company LLC
For 15 years, James and Shuan Moving Company has provided professional and efficient moving services in Michigan. This mover knows the...
Services
- Local and In-Home Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Professional Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3218032 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Big Lake Movers
654 Crofton St SE
Grand Rapids, MI, 49507
About Big Lake Movers
Big Lake Movers is a professional full-service residential and commercial moving company serving Western Michigan. Founded a decade ago, the locally-owned...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Apartment Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2544291 / 885785 Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2021) |
H&H Moving Company
This listing has been claimed by H&H Moving Company5475 Clay Ave SW
Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
About H&H Moving Company
Established in 2019, H&H Moving Company was founded by owners with nearly a decade of hands-on experience in the moving industry,...
Services
- Local and long distance moves
- Professional packing services
- Customizable moves to fit every situation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3328141 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2023) |
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.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make your transition smoother, we've created a guide to help you find a slice of Grand Rapids in Detroit. By comparing the top neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Detroit, MI , you can more easily visualize your new surroundings and find a place that feels like home.
| Grand Rapids | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Palmer Woods | Historic, affluent community |
| Heritage Hill | Indian Village | Rich architectural history |
| Midtown | Midtown Detroit | Cultural, educational hub |
| Heartside | Corktown | Trendy, vibrant nightlife |
| Eastown | Woodbridge | Diverse, community-focused |
| Gaslight Village | West Village | Quaint, charming eateries |
| Roosevelt Park | Mexicantown | Cultural richness, authentic cuisine |
| Fulton Heights | Boston-Edison | Historic homes, tight-knit |
| Cherry Hill | Rosedale Park | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Belknap Lookout | Brush Park | Development, luxurious living |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit, you'll find neighborhoods filled with character and charm. For instance, if you're drawn to the historic and lush surroundings of East Grand Rapids, Palmer Woods in Detroit offers a similar stately feel with its luxurious homes and mature trees. Lovers of Heritage Hill's vintage architecture will feel at home in Indian Village, where historic mansions line the streets. For those who enjoy the bustling, creative vibe of Midtown Grand Rapids, Midtown Detroit presents a lively mix of cultural institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and Wayne State University. Corktown mirrors the innovative spirit of Heartside, offering trendy eateries like Slows Bar BQ and Astro Coffee, making it a magnet for foodies and night owls alike.
Things to Do in Detroit
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts- Visit the Belle Isle Park
- Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
- Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
- Discover the Henry Ford Museum
- Experience the Motown Museum
- Try local eats at Eastern Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Detroit, MI presents a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. To aid in this decision, we have crafted side-by-side comparisons to reveal an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Check out these charts to gauge what changes await.
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller job market
- Fewer cultural venues
- Lower population density
- Less diverse cuisine
- Less nightlife
Detroit, MI- Larger job market
- More cultural venues
- Higher population density
- More diverse cuisine
- More vibrant nightlife
Detroit, MI- Noisier city life
- Higher cost of living
- Less intimate community
- Fewer green spaces
- Heavier traffic
Grand Rapids, MI- Quieter city life
- Lower cost of living
- Smaller, close-knit community
- More green spaces
- Easier traffic
In moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit, you're trading the familiarity of smaller community perks for the bustling energy and broader opportunities of a large urban center. Detroit's vibrant cultural scene means access to renowned institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and eclectic dining options such as those found in the energetic Midtown area. While you might miss the tranquil parks and lower living expenses of Grand Rapids, Detroit's diverse neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Corktown to the waterfront allure of the RiverWalk, offer new sights and experiences. And for music lovers, Detroit's rich musical heritage, from Motown to modern indie venues like The Majestic, offers an unrivaled soundtrack to your new life in the city.
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Food Guide
Understanding the local food culture is a vital aspect of getting to know your new home. By comparing the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Detroit , you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you, shaping a significant part of your living experience in these vibrant Michigan cities.
- Founders Brewing Co.
- San Chez Bistro
- The Old Goat
- Slows Bar BQ
- Buddy's Pizza
- Lafayette Coney Island
In Detroit, the city's food scene is a dynamic blend of history, culture, and innovation. Detroit-style pizza, characterized by its thick, square crust and reverse layering of ingredients, is a must-try for any new resident. You'll find the city's best at places like Buddy's Pizza in the bustling neighborhood of Corktown. For those late-night cravings, Lafayette Coney Island beckons with its iconic Coney Dog, a Detroit staple steeped in local history. The city also caters to vegan preferences significantly, with establishments like Detroit Vegan Soul offering creative plant-based dishes. Walking through neighborhoods like Midtown, you'll encounter an eclectic foodie scene that's continuously evolving, reflecting Detroit's resilience and diversity.
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, discovering places where you can enjoy a memorable meal is essential for making it feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Grand Rapids and Detroit will guide you in finding your next favorite dining spots, using familiar names from your current city as reference points.
| Grand Rapids | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| San Chez Bistro | Vicente's Cuban Cuisine | Authentic Cuban dining experience with a vibrant atmosphere. |
| The Chop House | London Chop House | Offers a classic upscale steakhouse experience with a rich history. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Izakaya Katsu | Traditional Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi and an intimate setting. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Atwater Brewery | Known for a wide selection of craft beers and a cozy taproom atmosphere. |
| Rose's on Reeds Lake | Sinbad's Restaurant and Marina | Lakeside dining with scenic views and a seafood-focused menu. |
| Stella's Lounge | HopCat | Eclectic bar food with an extensive craft beer list and a laid-back vibe. |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Ottava Via | Cozy Italian dining with wood-fired pizzas and a charming outdoor courtyard. |
| Harmony Brewing Company | Brew Detroit | Craft brewery offering a wide beer selection and a casual, friendly atmosphere. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Joe Muer Seafood | Upscale dining featuring fresh seafood dishes in a sophisticated setting. |
| The Electric Cheetah | Slows Bar BQ | Known for their artisanal barbecue dishes and a wide array of craft beers. |
For those who cherish authentic dining experiences, transitioning from Grand Rapids to Detroit is an exciting culinary journey. If San Chez Bistro was your go-to spot for a taste of Spain in Grand Rapids, you'll find Vicente's Cuban Cuisine in Detroit a delightful exploration into Cuban flavors and lively dining. Steak lovers will appreciate the seamless transition from the illustrious The Chop House to Detroit's legendary London Chop House, where the tradition of prime steaks and fine wines continues. And for those casual nights out, swapping Founders Brewing Co.'s laid-back brewery vibes for Atwater Brewery's diverse craft beer selection and comfortable taproom atmosphere feels like discovering a home away from home.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate comparison between Grand Rapids and Detroit, MI, highlights key differences to consider when moving. Knowing the nuances of each city's housing market, from cost to walkability, ensures a well-informed decision.
While Detroit offers a significantly lower median home price compared to Grand Rapids, it's important to consider other lifestyle factors detailed in our comparison. Grand Rapids boasts a more bike-friendly environment and generally higher walkability score, making it appealing for those looking for an active lifestyle. On the other hand, Detroit's urban lifestyle score is slightly higher, reflecting its rich cultural scene and better accessibility to downtown amenities. Popular real estate mentions like Detroit's historic neighborhoods and the accessibility to its thriving downtown area contrast with Grand Rapids' focus on nearby parks and local schools, highlighting different lifestyle priorities between the two cities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
1. Corktown : You’ll find plenty of pet-friendly spaces and businesses, making it easy to enjoy outings with your furry friend.
2. Midtown : You and your pet can take advantage of numerous parks and walkable streets, enhancing your daily adventures together.
3. West Village : This neighborhood offers a welcoming community atmosphere with pet-friendly patios and local green spaces for you to explore with your pet.
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one city to another, comparing the climates can offer critical insights into what changes you might expect. This guide focuses on understanding how the weather differences between Grand Rapids and Detroit will impact your daily life, helping you prepare for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit, you'll notice some distinct weather differences. Detroit experiences slightly warmer winters and more sunshine annually. This could imply lesser reliance on heavy winter heating, potentially lowering your seasonal energy costs. Additionally, Detroit's better air quality and lower annual snowfall mean less time spent dealing with winter weather cleanup. Understanding these variations can help you plan for seasonal activities and general living conditions in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit
When contemplating a move from Grand Rapids to Detroit, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be impacted. This comparison will spotlight the differences in cost of living, average incomes, and tax rates between Grand Rapids and Detroit, providing a clearer view of what to expect financially.
When examining the financial implications of moving from Grand Rapids to Detroit, several key factors stand out. Despite a lower cost of living in Detroit, average household incomes are significantly lower, reflecting the city's economic challenges. The disparity in average property tax rates, nearly double in Detroit compared to Grand Rapids, further affects homeowners. However, both cities share the same state income and sales tax rates, providing some financial continuity for movers. Additionally, while both cities boast manufacturing and health care among their top industries, the higher level of poverty and homelessness in Detroit underscores the complexities of its economic landscape.
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
In this section, we provide a quick comparison to help you understand the political and religious makeup between Grand Rapids & Detroit , offering a snapshot of what you can expect from your new city. This comparison aims to give you an at-a-glance look at the characteristics that define the residents of each city.
In comparing Grand Rapids and Detroit, one of the most significant differences appears in their political orientations. Grand Rapids leans conservative, though it presents a mixed political landscape influenced heavily by local business leaders. In contrast, Detroit is known as a democratic stronghold, reflecting the city's long history of labor rights and social reform efforts. On the religious spectrum, both cities have a Christian majority. However, Grand Rapids offers a diverse range of Christian denominations, showcased through various churches and community groups. Meanwhile, Detroit not only has a strong Christian presence but also a vibrant Islamic community, making the city rich in religious diversity and cultural engagement. This blend of political and religious backgrounds contributes to each city's unique character and community life.
Grand Rapids vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Detroit, MI, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison aims to give you a better idea of what your daily commute and traffic experience could be like, making the transition smoother.
In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is notably lower than in Detroit, reflecting less traffic congestion overall. However, Detroit edges out with better public transit options, making it slightly easier to get around without a car, though it remains challenging in both cities. This emphasizes the importance of considering travel and commute alternatives before moving. The contrast in public transit availability highlights Detroit's efforts to enhance its transport systems, including the Detroit People Mover and QLine, aimed at providing residents with more mobility options.
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