Best Ontario to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Ontario to Detroit Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Antonio’s Moving Services LLC9.079.2Authorized For HHGContact
2Merit Moving Systems, Inc.9.048.65Authorized For HHGContact
3Gentlemen's Moving Company8.949.07Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHGContact
5Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,509300 ft³8.36
1 Bedroom$3,741450 ft³8.31
2 Bedrooms$6,198750 ft³8.26
3 Bedrooms$9,0361100 ft³8.21
4 Bedrooms$13,0631600 ft³8.16
5+ Bedrooms$14,6061800 ft³8.11
*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.
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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 Logo

Antonio’s Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 489+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3853814 / 1542735

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved14,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Merit Moving Systems, Inc. Logo

Merit Moving Systems, Inc.

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 975+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1839600 / 934680

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved216,100 (2020)
View Full Review
2
Gentlemen's Moving Company Logo

Gentlemen's Moving Company

Superb8.94/10
based on 3,006+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2399435 / 825232

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved102,479 (2023)
View Full Review
3
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
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
4
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 69+ 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
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.

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.

OntarioDetroitHow They're Similar
CreeksidePalmer WoodsLush, historic homes
Archibald RanchSherwood ForestFamily-friendly, historic charm
EdisonMidtownCultural hub, arts and entertainment
North OntarioIndian VillageArchitectural beauty, strong community
ArmstrongCorktownVibrant, emerging dining scene
South OntarioWoodbridgeDiverse, community-centric
Euclid AvenueBoston-EdisonHistoric, spacious homes
New Model ColonyBrush ParkDynamic, mixed-use development
GranadaLafayette ParkPeaceful, modernist residential area
Mountain VillageRosedale ParkWell-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.

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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

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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.

CONs
PROs
Ontario, CA iconOntario, CA
  • Higher living cost
  • Less job opportunities
  • More traffic
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Affordable housing
  • Thriving job market
  • Easier commutes
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Colder winters
  • Potential pollution
  • Fewer outdoor options
Ontario, CA iconOntario, CA
  • 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.

OntarioDetroit
Most iconic local food itemButter TartConey Dog
Most popular meat dishPeameal Bacon SandwichDetroit-style Pizza
Most popular street food itemPoutineGyros
Most popular vegan foodMaple Roasted Root VegetablesVegan Coney
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • St. Lawrence Market
    • The Black Hoof
    • Patois
    • American Coney Island
    • Slows Bar BQ
    • Selden Standard
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.

OntarioDetroitWhat You'll Love
The Keg Steakhouse + BarLondon Chop HouseBoth offer an upscale steakhouse experience with a focus on quality cuts and refined ambiance.
Mandarin RestaurantMing's KitchenSimilar for its expansive menu of Chinese cuisine, celebrated for both authenticity and variety.
Casa Mia RistoranteOttava ViaOffers a comparable cozy Italian dining experience, known for handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
Bobby's HideawayDime StoreA match for its all-day breakfast and classic diner vibe, serving hearty, comfort food.
The WORKS Gourmet Burger BistroDetroit Burger BarBoth specialize in inventive burger creations, catering to both traditional and adventurous palates.
Pho Mi 89Pho LuckyKnown for authentic Vietnamese dishes, particularly their pho, offering a comforting taste of home.
Union ChickenYardbirdEqual in their focus on quality poultry dishes, from fried chicken to savory chicken sandwiches.
Spoon and ForkThang Long Thai & VietnameseBoth provide a mix of Thai and Vietnamese flavors, perfect for when you crave Southeast Asian cuisine.
Marconi PizzaSupino PizzeriaComparable dedication to authentic, thin-crust pizza, celebrated for using fresh, local ingredients.
El SombreroTaqueria El ReyOffers 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.

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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.

ComparisonOntarioDetroit
Typical Architecture StyleContemporaryHistoric and Post-War
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen concept, Granite countertopsRenovated 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.

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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.

Summer icon
94/64

Ontario, CA

83/63

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68/43

Ontario, CA

35/22

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Ontario, CA

33

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Ontario, CA

33

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonOntarioDetroit
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, 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.

ComparisonOntarioDetroit
Avg. Household Income$73,872$36,140
Cost of Living Index136.499.4
State Income Tax5.05 to 13.16%4.25%
Avg. Property Tax0.98%2.44%
Avg. Sales Tax13%6%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Real Estate, Professional ServicesAutomotive, Technology, Health Services
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowHigh

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.

OntarioDetroit
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate, with a focus on business and community growthProgressive, with strong union influence and advocacy for social justice
ReligionDiverse, Christian majority with notable Catholic and Protestant communitiesPredominantly 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.

ComparisonOntarioDetroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2426
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with some planningChallenging

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.

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