Best Ontario to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Ontario to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,305 mile move from California to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Ontario 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 Antonio’s Moving Services LLC), 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 Ontario 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 Ontario to Detroit Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Antonio’s Moving Services LLC | 9.07 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Merit Moving Systems, Inc. | 9.04 | 8.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Gentlemen's Moving Company | 8.94 | 9.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.49 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Balance Detroit | 8.48 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Ontario to Detroit
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,305 miles from Ontario, CA to Detroit, MI will cost on average $3,741 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Ontario to Detroit move is roughly $9,036. 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 | $2,509 | 300 ft³ | 8.36 |
1 Bedroom | $3,741 | 450 ft³ | 8.31 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,198 | 750 ft³ | 8.26 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,036 | 1100 ft³ | 8.21 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,063 | 1600 ft³ | 8.16 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,606 | 1800 ft³ | 8.11 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Ontario guide.
Compare the 5 Best Ontario to Detroit Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
Norco, CA, 92860
About Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
Established in 2014, Antonio's Moving Services LLC is a professional moving company that offers customizable residential and commercial moving services. Based...
Services
- Unloading & Loading
- Packing & Unpacking
- On-site Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3853814 / 1542735 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2023) |

Merit Moving Systems, Inc.
5655 Dolly Ave
Buena Park, CA, 90621
About Merit Moving Systems, Inc.
Since 1958, Merit Moving Systems has been a trusted name in the industry. It is a locally-owned business that has been...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- International moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1839600 / 934680 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Broker |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,100 (2020) |

Gentlemen's Moving Company
8977 Glenoaks Blvd
Sun Valley, CA, 91352
About Gentlemen's Moving Company
Looking to move an entire house, just a few pieces, or even just need an extra pair of hands to help...
Services
- Local Moves
- Cross Country Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2399435 / 825232 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 102,479 (2023) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |

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.
Ontario vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting experience, but comparing neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with Detroit, MI, by using Ontario, CA, as a baseline. We will explore Ontario, CA & Detroit, MI local neighborhoods comparison to find your new favorite spot.
Ontario | Detroit | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Creekside | Palmer Woods | Lush, historic homes |
Archibald Ranch | Sherwood Forest | Family-friendly, historic charm |
Edison | Midtown | Cultural hub, arts and entertainment |
North Ontario | Indian Village | Architectural beauty, strong community |
Armstrong | Corktown | Vibrant, emerging dining scene |
South Ontario | Woodbridge | Diverse, community-centric |
Euclid Avenue | Boston-Edison | Historic, spacious homes |
New Model Colony | Brush Park | Dynamic, mixed-use development |
Granada | Lafayette Park | Peaceful, modernist residential area |
Mountain Village | Rosedale Park | Well-maintained homes, family-friendly |
When moving from Ontario, CA to Detroit, MI, the transition can be made comfortable by understanding the unique offerings of comparable neighborhoods. For example, if you're drawn to Armstrong's quaint charm in Ontario, you'll find Corktown's vibrant dining scene and emerging culinary ventures, such as Mudgie's Deli and Astoria Pastry Shop, equally enchanting. Meanwhile, Edison’s cultural richness and entertainment options find a parallel in Midtown Detroit, where cultural landmarks such as the Detroit Institute of Arts beckon. For those who enjoy the architectural beauty and strong community feel of North Ontario, Detroit’s Indian Village offers a close-knit community with breathtaking historic homes, highlighting Detroit's storied past and bright future. These comparisons aim to make your move to Detroit not just about finding a new place to live, but also discovering a neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences.

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 Ontario to Detroit
Moving cities can be a monumental decision, weighing the benefits against the drawbacks is crucial for a smoother transition. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of moving from Ontario, CA to Detroit, MI, highlighting the good and the bad to help you make an informed choice.
- Higher living cost
- Less job opportunities
- More traffic
- Affordable housing
- Thriving job market
- Easier commutes
- Colder winters
- Potential pollution
- Fewer outdoor options
- Warmer winters
- Better air quality
- Outdoor activities
Moving from Ontario, CA, you might miss the warm winters and extensive outdoor activities. However, Detroit offers its charm with neighborhoods like Midtown brimming with art and culture, showcased in establishments such as the Detroit Institute of Arts and the historical Motown Museum. Detroit's Eastern Market, the largest historic public market district in the United States, provides a unique shopping experience with fresh produce, local art, and vibrant street murals. While the winters may be colder, Detroit's community spirit and affordability alongside a growing job market present compelling reasons for the move.
Ontario vs. Detroit Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Ontario & Detroit to help understand the food scene in these areas. Food is an essential aspect of local culture and living experience. Through this comparison, you'll be better informed about what culinary delights await you in your new home.
Ontario | Detroit | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Butter Tart | Coney Dog |
Most popular meat dish | Peameal Bacon Sandwich | Detroit-style Pizza |
Most popular street food item | Poutine | Gyros |
Most popular vegan food | Maple Roasted Root Vegetables | Vegan Coney |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When considering the food scene in Detroit, the Coney Dog, a hot dog topped with a savory meat sauce and sometimes other toppings like onions and mustard, reigns supreme as the city's most beloved dish. Detroit-style pizza, with its thick crust and caramelized cheese edges, offers a hearty taste of the city as well. For those exploring the vegan scene, Detroit is welcoming with options like Vegan Coney. Iconic spots such as American Coney Island and Slows Bar BQ, found in vibrant neighborhoods like Midtown, showcase the rich culinary diversity and tradition of Detroit. Whether you are indulging in the bustling street food scene or enjoying a fine dining experience, Detroit’s food scene invites exploration and enjoyment.
Ontario vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Ontario and Detroit aims to help you discover your next go-to spots, ensuring a seamless transition to your new favorite eateries.
Ontario | Detroit | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar | London Chop House | Both offer an upscale steakhouse experience with a focus on quality cuts and refined ambiance. |
Mandarin Restaurant | Ming's Kitchen | Similar for its expansive menu of Chinese cuisine, celebrated for both authenticity and variety. |
Casa Mia Ristorante | Ottava Via | Offers a comparable cozy Italian dining experience, known for handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. |
Bobby's Hideaway | Dime Store | A match for its all-day breakfast and classic diner vibe, serving hearty, comfort food. |
The WORKS Gourmet Burger Bistro | Detroit Burger Bar | Both specialize in inventive burger creations, catering to both traditional and adventurous palates. |
Pho Mi 89 | Pho Lucky | Known for authentic Vietnamese dishes, particularly their pho, offering a comforting taste of home. |
Union Chicken | Yardbird | Equal in their focus on quality poultry dishes, from fried chicken to savory chicken sandwiches. |
Spoon and Fork | Thang Long Thai & Vietnamese | Both provide a mix of Thai and Vietnamese flavors, perfect for when you crave Southeast Asian cuisine. |
Marconi Pizza | Supino Pizzeria | Comparable dedication to authentic, thin-crust pizza, celebrated for using fresh, local ingredients. |
El Sombrero | Taqueria El Rey | Offers a blend of traditional and innovative Mexican dishes, mirroring the authentic flavor profile and casual vibe. |
When the craving for hearty, comfort food hits, Detroit's Dime Store serves as a perfect stand-in for Bobby's Hideaway with its all-day breakfast and classic diner offerings, ensuring a familiar and satisfying meal. On the other hand, if you long for the comforting flavors of Southeast Asia, Thang Long Thai & Vietnamese stands ready in Detroit, embodying the same dedication to authentic recipes and fresh ingredients as Spoon and Fork in Ontario. Similarly, for those evenings when only a slice will do, Supino Pizzeria in Detroit mirrors Marconi Pizza's commitment to thin-crust excellence, using quality local produce to create flavors that resonate with pizza aficionados.

Ready to start your move?
Ontario vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial component of relocating, especially when considering Ontario and Detroit. Understanding housing aspects like cost, architecture, and urban lifestyle becomes essential in making an informed decision. This comparison aims to illuminate key differences and similarities.
Comparison | Ontario | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary | Historic and Post-War |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open concept, Granite countertops | Renovated interiors, Historical charm |
Comparing Ontario's and Detroit's housing markets reveal insightful contrasts and similarities. Ontario's real estate is marked by higher prices, due in part to its contemporary architecture and strong urban lifestyle score. The city's homes often highlight modern amenities like open concept layouts and granite countertops. In contrast, Detroit's market is significantly more affordable, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking historical charm and renovated interiors. While both cities offer unique living experiences, your choice might hinge on your lifestyle preferences and budget.

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.
Ontario vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move, understanding the weather differences between Ontario, CA, and Detroit, MI is crucial to adapting comfortably to your new home. This comparison will help you grasp the climate changes you should expect, ensuring you're well-prepared for the seasonal variations in your new locale.
Ontario, CA
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Ontario, CA
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Ontario, CA
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Ontario, CA
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Ontario | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Ontario, CA, to Detroit, MI, introduces significant changes in weather patterns, particularly in terms of winter temperatures and snowfall. While Ontario enjoys mild winters and virtually no snow, Detroit experiences cold winters with an average of 33 inches of snowfall. This drastic change means you'll need to prepare for snow removal and cold-weather driving. Additionally, Detroit has nearly 100 fewer sunshine days per year than Ontario, suggesting a potential adjustment in outdoor activities and possibly even a vitamin D supplement during the darker months. Despite these contrasts, both cities share a love for the outdoors, each offering unique natural beauty and seasons that many find invigorating and enriching.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Ontario to Detroit
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and average income between Ontario and Detroit helps set realistic expectations and budgets. This information is essential for a smooth transition and understanding what awaits in your new home city.
Comparison | Ontario | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $73,872 | $36,140 |
Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 99.4 |
State Income Tax | 5.05 to 13.16% | 4.25% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.98% | 2.44% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 13% | 6% |
Top 3 Industries | Finance, Real Estate, Professional Services | Automotive, Technology, Health Services |
Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
Poverty | Lower | Higher |
Homelessness | Low | High |
Understanding the economic conditions of Ontario and Detroit provides insight into why these cities attract different demographics. Ontario boasts a higher average household income, a robust finance and real estate sector, but faces a higher cost of living reflected in its sales tax. Despite Detroit's lower average income and significant poverty and homelessness levels, its cost of living is more affordable, which might be attractive for some. Detroit's automotive and emerging tech industries provide unique employment opportunities that set it apart from Ontario's economically diverse landscape.
Ontario vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Ontario, CA to Detroit, MI, it's helpful to understand the landscape of your new community at a glance. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the politics between Ontario & Detroit and the religious landscape, ensuring you're well-informed about your potential new neighbors.
Ontario | Detroit | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Moderate, with a focus on business and community growth | Progressive, with strong union influence and advocacy for social justice |
Religion | Diverse, Christian majority with notable Catholic and Protestant communities | Predominantly Christian, with a significant Protestant population and a historic and active African-American church community |
In moving from Ontario, CA to Detroit, MI, you’ll transition from a moderately Democratic context to a city with a strong Democratic leaning. Detroit's local politics are marked by a progressive stance, deeply influenced by union presence and social justice initiatives. This is quite a shift from Ontario's balanced approach towards business and community growth. On the religious front, both cities boast a Christian majority, but Detroit stands out with its vibrant and historic African-American churches, reflecting a deep-rooted community spirit. With these insights, you're better positioned to understand the sociopolitical and religious fabric of your potential new home.
Ontario vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic between Ontario and Detroit helps you prepare for moving from one city to the other. This comparison offers a glimpse into what your days might look like as you navigate the roads or public transit systems in these cities.
Comparison | Ontario | Detroit |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 26 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging |
In Ontario, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Detroit, suggesting a potentially quicker daily travel experience. However, Detroit scores somewhat higher in terms of traffic congestion, indicating that you might face more delays during peak hours. While both cities offer public transit options, Ontario's systems are generally more comprehensive, making it easier for residents to get around without a car. In Detroit, relying solely on public transit could be more challenging, requiring careful planning and possibly more time. This insight is crucial for adjusting your daily commute planning and setting realistic expectations about mobility in your new city.



Additional Resources
Ontario Moving Services
Popular Ontario to Michigan Routes
Popular Moving Resources