Best Los Angeles to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Los Angeles to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,340 mile move from California to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 49 Los Angeles to Detroit moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Detroit Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Los Angeles to Detroit Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.469.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Prodigy Moving & Storage9.419.24Authorized For HHGContact
4Professional Movers.com8.548.07Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.478.22Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Detroit

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,340 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI will cost on average $3,771 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Detroit move is roughly $9,108. 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$2,529300 ft³8.43
1 Bedroom$3,771450 ft³8.38
2 Bedrooms$6,248750 ft³8.33
3 Bedrooms$9,1081100 ft³8.28
4 Bedrooms$13,1691600 ft³8.23
5+ Bedrooms$14,7251800 ft³8.18
*Please note: These California to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Michigan. 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 CA to MI mover.
California iconArrow iconMichigan icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Detroit Movers

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

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 1,438+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo

Prodigy Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 11,757+ data points

601 S Figueroa St

Los Angeles, CA, 90017

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Professional Movers.com Logo

Professional Movers.com

Fabulous8.54/10
based on 270+ data points

1001 Woodward Ave Suite 500

Detroit, MI, 48226

About Professional Movers.com

With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in statewide, cross-country,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

266582 / 178368

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved714,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.47/10
based on 379+ 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
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can introduce you to the unfamiliar. To ease the transition, this guide draws parallels between Los Angeles, CA & Detroit, MI neighborhoods , helping you find your new community. By comparing popular locales, we aim to make Detroit feel a little more like home.

Los AngelesDetroitHow They're Similar
Silver LakeMidtownVibrant arts and culture scene
VeniceCorktownEclectic and bohemian vibes
Beverly HillsPalmer WoodsAffluent with grand homes
Santa MonicaGrosse PointeWaterfront living and upscale shops
Downtown LADowntown DetroitUrban core with growing tech hub
HollywoodNew CenterHistoric area with entertainment options
West HollywoodRoyal OakTrendy nightlife and chic dining
MalibuBloomfield HillsExclusive residential areas and natural beauty
Los FelizFerndaleProgressive community with unique shopping
Echo ParkHamtramckDiverse, up-and-coming with a rich history

For instance, if you enjoy the serene and upscale waterfront living of Santa Monica, you are sure to appreciate Grosse Pointe. Grosse Pointe offers similar luxurious amenities, including exclusive boutiques along Kercheval Avenue and lakeside parks like Windmill Pointe Park. Echo Park's mosaic of cultures and vibrant history might remind you of Hamtramck, known for its diverse community and rich cultural festivals like the Hamtramck Labor Day Festival. And for those drawn to the creative pulse of Silver Lake, Midtown Detroit provides a comparable hub of artistic expression, home to institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and historic music venues. Each Detroit neighborhood, like its Los Angeles counterpart, boasts its own unique charm and offerings, making your new city feel like home.

Things To Do background image

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 Los Angeles to Detroit

Moving between cities always comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the journey from Los Angeles, CA, to Detroit, MI, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks. With these charts, we hope to offer insight into how Los Angeles' downsides may turn into upsides in Detroit and vice versa.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High living costs
  • Traffic congestion
  • Competitive job market
  • Earthquake risk
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic
  • Emerging job opportunities
  • No earthquake risk
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Harsh winters
  • No beaches
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less variety
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisine

The transition from Los Angeles to Detroit involves more than just preparing for cold winters over mild climates; it's about embracing a city with a rich history and a revitalized spirit. Detroit offers an array of cultural experiences from the bustling streets of Midtown, brimming with art galleries like the Detroit Institute of Arts, to the historic Eastern Market where local produce and goods are aplenty. While Los Angeles boasts renowned restaurants, Detroit counters with its own unique culinary scene, featuring iconic establishments like Slows Bar BQ. Moreover, Detroit's affordable living costs and emerging job market present a canvas for new beginnings, away from the competitive hustle of Los Angeles. Adapting to Detroit means less time in traffic and more in exploring vibrant neighborhoods and beautiful parks such as Belle Isle. This move might mean saying goodbye to beach days but hello to a community rich in resilience, innovation, and warmth even through its cold winters.

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Food Guide

Food is an essential part of local culture and experiencing what it's like to live in an area. With this comparison, we aim to give you a taste of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Detroit , offering insights into the vibrant food scenes you’re transitioning between. This will help you be better informed about the dining options awaiting you in your new city.

Los AngelesDetroit
Most iconic local food itemTacosConey Dog
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQDetroit-style Pizza
Most popular street food itemFood Trucks offering various cuisinesGyros
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlSeitan Coney Dogs
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Guelaguetza
  • Pizzeria Mozza
  • Bestia
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Supino Pizzeria
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Los Angeles, the food scene is as diverse as its population. The city's love for tacos reflects its rich Mexican heritage, with neighborhoods like Koreatown offering some of the best Korean BBQ outside of Korea. The fitness and health-consciousness of LA is evident in the popularity of dishes like Acai Bowls and the abundance of vegan options. On the other hand, Detroit cherishes its iconic Coney Dogs, a testament to the city's love for hearty, comforting food. The emerging vegan scene, featuring items like Seitan Coney Dogs, signifies a shift towards inclusivity in the culinary landscape. Detroit's Eastern Market area is a focal point for foodies, offering an array of local flavors and ingredients that define the city's culinary identity.

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison

For many, the true essence of a city is captured through its culinary scene. If you’re making the move from Los Angeles to Detroit, this comparison seeks to ease your transition by identifying eateries that share a kindred spirit. Finding comfort in familiar flavors while exploring new dishes can turn any place into home. This restaurant comparison, involving Los Angeles and Detroit, is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots by drawing parallels between two distinct urban foodscapes.

Los AngelesDetroitWhat You'll Love
BestiaSheWolfMilanese inspired with a focus on fresh pasta and contemporary takes
RepubliqueMarrowButcher shop and restaurant combo with a unique dining experience
Broken SpanishOlinModern interpretations of traditional Latin cuisine
GuelaguetzaLa FeriaAuthentic Spanish tapas bar echoing the vibrant flavors of Oaxaca
RossobluOttava ViaKnown for its wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas, similar to Rossoblu's Italian flair
AnimalSelden StandardSmall plates and seasonally driven dishes that reflect a similar innovative spirit
Howlin' RaysYardbird Southern Table & BarThough more widespread, offers a dedication to quality fried chicken and Southern comfort food
n/nakaKatoiThough now known as Takoi, offers a unique take on Asian cuisine with a focus on Thai flavors
Jon & Vinny’sSupino PizzeriaQuality pizzas that could easily remind one of Jon & Vinny's Italian-American comforts
Grand Central MarketEastern MarketWhile more of a market than a single restaurant, it's a hub for foodies seeking a variety of fresh, local fare

While Los Angeles is known for its diverse culinary scene, Detroit's food landscape is equally vibrant and eclectic. SheWolf in Detroit picks up the high-end Italian torch from Los Angeles' Bestia, emphasizing freshly milled pasta and a seasonally rotating menu that echoes the farm-to-table ethos Los Angeles diners treasure. Marrow offers Detroit diners a novel twist much like Republique does in Los Angeles, combining the functionality of a full-service butcher shop with the finesse of fine dining. Guelaguetza and La Feria respectively capture the essence of their cities' affection for authentic, bold flavors from Oaxaca and Spain. These comparisons not only highlight the continuity of culinary excellence from coast to coast but also showcase how Detroit provides a canvas for chefs to create dishes that comfort, inspire, and invigorate in much the same way as Los Angeles.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role when moving cities. Understanding how Los Angeles and Detroit compare in terms of housing can significantly impact your relocation decisions. This comparison aims to highlight cost, architecture, walkability, and other key housing aspects to consider.

ComparisonLos AngelesDetroit
Typical Architecture StyleModern, SpanishHistoric, Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPools, Outdoor SpacesRenovated Interiors, Historic Details

While Los Angeles boasts a warmer climate with its modern and Spanish-inspired homes, complete with pools and ample outdoor spaces, Detroit presents a more affordable housing market. Detroit's landscape is dotted with historic and bungalow-style homes, many of which feature renovated interiors that merge contemporary living with historic charm. Both cities offer unique urban lifestyles; however, Los Angeles edges out slightly higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, reflecting its more densely built environment. Still, Detroit embodies a blend of urban renewal and historical preservation, making it a city with a unique charm of its own.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI

1. Midtown: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Midtown is ideal for you and your pets due to its numerous parks and green spaces, along with pet-friendly cafes and grooming salons.

2. Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly restaurants and the popular Roosevelt Park, perfect for afternoon walks.

3. Woodbridge: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and close-knit community, Woodbridge offers a peaceful environment for pets, including easy access to spacious parks and the Michigan Humane Society for your pet’s needs.

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Weather Considerations

If you're preparing to relocate, comparing the weather between your current and future home is essential. This comparison highlights the weather disparities between Los Angeles and Detroit , shedding light on how your daily life and seasonal activities might change. Understanding these differences will help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.

Summer icon
84°F / 64°F

Los Angeles, CA

83°F / 63°F

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 48°F

Los Angeles, CA

32°F / 18°F

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Los Angeles, CA

33

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Los Angeles, CA

42

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLos AngelesDetroit
Air QualityModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Los Angeles and Detroit enjoy warm summers, the winter season brings a noticeable change, particularly if you're moving from Los Angeles's mild climate to Detroit's snowy winters. Detroit experiences significantly more snowfall, with an average of 42 inches annually compared to Los Angeles, where snow is a rarity. This dramatic difference means you'll need to prepare for snow removal and winter driving. Additionally, the shift in the number of sunny days—284 in Los Angeles to 180 in Detroit—might affect your outdoor activities and mood. Understanding these weather dynamics is crucial for a smooth transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When preparing to move from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This comparison aims to outline the cost of living, tax burdens, and economic conditions you'll encounter, providing a clear picture of what to expect from your new home in Detroit compared to your current life in Los Angeles .

ComparisonLos AngelesDetroit
Avg. Household Income$70,372$36,140
Cost of Living Index136.499.4
State Income Tax9.34.25
Avg. Property Tax0.762.29
Avg. Sales Tax9.56
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Technology, ManufacturingAutomotive, Technology, Healthcare
AffluenceVariedLower-Middle
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessHighSignificant

In comparing the financial landscapes of Los Angeles and Detroit, it's evident that though the average household income is notably higher in Los Angeles, the cost of living in Detroit is considerably lower, making it an attractive option for many. Despite this, the higher poverty and homelessness rates in Detroit underscore challenges the city faces. It's also worth noting the significant difference in state income tax, with Michigan offering a more forgiving rate than California. This, along with the affordable cost of living, could stretch your dollar further in Detroit, despite the lower average income levels. However, the higher property tax rate in Detroit is an important consideration for homeowners. Understanding these nuances will be key to making a successful transition.

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Los Angeles to Detroit, it’s important to grasp how the comparison of the politics between Los Angeles & Detroit might affect you. This quick snapshot aims to provide insights into the political leanings, local politics, and religious landscapes of both cities, giving you a well-rounded view of your potential new home.

Los AngelesDetroit
Political Make-upLiberal/ProgressiveLiberal/Progressive
Local PoliticsDiverse representation, focus on social issuesLong history of Democratic leadership, focus on economic recovery
ReligionMultifaceted, with significant Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Buddhist communities Local ChurchesPrimarily Christian, with a substantial Muslim population Office of Immigrant Affairs

Both Los Angeles and Detroit share a liberal political base, yet they each have unique local governmental focuses that reflect their different community needs - Los Angeles on broad social issues and Detroit more on economic revitalization efforts. Interestingly, the religious landscapes of these cities also offer a glimpse into their cultural diversity. Los Angeles boasts a variety of religious practices, from Catholic to Buddhist communities, promoting a rich, multifaceted religious life. Meanwhile, Detroit's religious community is predominantly Christian, but it is also home to a significant Muslim population, indicating a blend of traditions and beliefs influencing city life. This comparison sheds light on the dynamic cultural and political atmospheres you'll encounter, aiding in a smoother transition to your new home.

Los Angeles vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Los Angeles, CA, to Detroit, MI, requires adjusting to new traffic patterns and transportation options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Detroit will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like in your new city.

ComparisonLos AngelesDetroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3024
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultPossible, but challenging

In Los Angeles, you're facing one of the most congested traffic situations in the country, with an average commute time that reflects the busy roads. However, LA does offer a decent public transit system, making it somewhat feasible to navigate without a car, though still challenging. Detroit, on the other hand, has a noticeably shorter average commute time and less congestion, which can make daily travel less stressful. However, the Motor City's public transit system scores lower than LA's, making a car almost a necessity for efficient navigation in and around the city. Understanding these dynamics can help you prepare for the logistical aspects of your move and day-to-day life in Detroit.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Los Angeles to Detroit Movers Featured Image