Best San Francisco to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,395 mile move from California to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 San Francisco 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 OCD 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco to Detroit Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Detroit
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,395 miles from San Francisco, CA to Detroit, MI will cost on average $3,818 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Detroit move is roughly $9,223. 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 | $2,560 | 300 ft³ | 8.53 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,818 | 450 ft³ | 8.48 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,326 | 750 ft³ | 8.43 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,223 | 1100 ft³ | 8.38 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,335 | 1600 ft³ | 8.33 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,912 | 1800 ft³ | 8.28 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Detroit Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This guide is designed to help you find your footing by comparing popular neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA & Detroit, MI . By identifying similar neighborhoods between the two cities, you can start to visualize your new life and find the perfect place to call home.
| San Francisco | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Indian Village | Historic homes, community feel |
| Mission District | Corktown | Vibrant food scene, arts and culture |
| Haight-Ashbury | Midtown | Diverse, artistic, and bohemian vibes |
| SoMa | Downtown | Urban center, thriving nightlife |
| Nob Hill | Boston-Edison | Stately homes, historic charm |
| Pacific Heights | Palmer Woods | Luxury, grandeur, and exclusivity |
| North Beach | Greektown | Lively nightlife, cultural festivals |
| Castro | Woodbridge | Inclusive, community-oriented |
| Russian Hill | Sherwood Forest | Beautiful landscapes, friendly atmosphere |
| Financial District | New Center | Business hub, modern developments |
Whether you're drawn to the eclectic vibes of Haight-Ashbury or the upscale feel of Nob Hill, Detroit has neighborhoods that share similar characteristics. Midtown Detroit mirrors the diverse and artistic spirit of Haight-Ashbury, offering residents a range of cultural experiences, from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra to the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit. Similarly, the historical charm and stately homes of Boston-Edison can give former Nob Hill residents a sense of familiarity, with its grand boulevards and architectural treasures like the Henry Ford House. If you're moving from the Marina District, Indian Village's historic homes and tight-knit community could be your perfect match, where events like the Indian Village Home and Garden Tour showcase the area's rich history and beautiful residences. Choosing to settle in an area with a comparable atmosphere to your old neighborhood can help make your transition to Detroit a little easier and a lot more exciting.
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 San Francisco to Detroit
Moving from one city to another is a major decision that involves weighing various factors to make the best choice. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Detroit, MI to help you make an informed decision. By looking at the pros and cons, you'll get a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Crowded spaces
- Chilly summers
- Steep hills
- Limited parking
Detroit, MI- More affordable
- Spacious living
- Warm summers
- Flat terrain
- Ample parking
Detroit, MI- Smaller tech scene
- Rebuilding culture
- Lacks ocean
- Colder winters
- Less diverse cuisine
San Francisco, CA- Tech hub
- Cultured city
- Ocean access
- Mild climate
- Global cuisine
When you move from San Francisco to Detroit, you'll notice a drastic reduction in living costs, which allows for a more spacious living environment at a fraction of the price. Detroit's warm summers and flat terrain make it a pleasant city for those who enjoy outdoor activities without the hindrance of steep hills or the necessity for layers even in July. While Detroit is revitalizing its cultural and tech scenes, areas like Midtown and Downtown are burgeoning with new restaurants, such as Slows Bar BQ and creative spaces, without the overwhelming crowds of San Francisco's SOMA or Mission districts. The Detroit Riverwalk and Belle Isle Park offer serene escapes within the city, offering a contrast to the bustling streets and bustling tech-heavy atmosphere of San Francisco. Despite the lack of ocean access, Detroit's proximity to the Great Lakes and its rich history, beginning to bloom with innovation and community-driven resurgence, present a unique blend of opportunities for new residents.
San Francisco vs. Detroit Food Guide
Food is an essential slice of local culture and lifestyle. As you prepare for your move, understanding the culinary scene can greatly enhance your acclimatization. This is why we are presenting a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Detroit , providing a flavor of what awaits in your new home.
| San Francisco | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Coney Island Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Clam Chowder | Detroit-style Pizza |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Greek Gyro |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Seitan Kebabs |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Francisco, the vibrant food scene is evidenced by its diverse offerings, from the traditional sourdough bread to innovative vegan options like jackfruit tacos. Neighborhoods like the Mission District are renowned for their culinary variety, particularly the famous Mission Burrito. On the other hand, Detroit boasts a rich food culture centered around comfort foods, with its iconic Coney Island hot dogs and rich, square Detroit-style pizza. Places like American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island offer a deep dive into the city's beloved traditions, providing a unique flavor of Detroit's community spirit and historical roots.
San Francisco vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, finding those go-to restaurants where you can feel at home is crucial. This comparison of top San Francisco restaurants to their Detroit equivalents will guide you in discovering your next favorite spots, leveraging your love for the flavors of San Francisco as you move to Detroit.
| San Francisco | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Gary Danko | Iridescence | Elegant dining experience with a focus on fine ingredients |
| Nopa | Lady of the House | Seasonal, farm-to-table approach with a cosy atmosphere |
| Tartine Bakery | Avalon International Breads | Renowned for artisanal breads and pastries |
| La Taqueria | Taqueria El Rey | Authentic tacos and a laid-back vibe |
| The Slanted Door | Flowers of Vietnam | Modern takes on traditional dishes, emphasizing freshness |
| Zuni Café | Selden Standard | Offers a constantly evolving menu with local, seasonal ingredients |
| Benu | Takoi | Asian fusion with an innovative menu in a stylish setting |
| Foreign Cinema | Movies at Monroe | Dining and film presentation, unique experience |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Voyager | Fresh seafood selections in an intimate setting |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Reilly Craft Creamery | Handcrafted ice cream using local ingredients |
Moving to a new city doesn't mean you have to leave behind the flavors you love. For instance, Iridescence in Detroit mirrors the elegance and sophisticated dining experience of Gary Danko in San Francisco, with meticulous attention to both ambiance and ingredients. Similarly, if you've cherished the cozy and sustainable dining experience at Nopa, Lady of the House stands ready in Detroit to offer you a similar environment with a focus on seasonal and local farm-to-table dishes. Meanwhile, for those who relish fresh seafood, Voyager offers an intimate atmosphere akin to Swan Oyster Depot, showcasing quality, fresh selections that promise to satisfy seafood aficionados. These comparisons are proof that Detroit holds its own as a culinary destination, ready to welcome you with open arms and flavorful dishes.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role in the moving process, requiring a clear understanding of how one city stacks up against another. This comparison aims to shed light on the real estate market, highlighting the differences and similarities between San Francisco and Detroit , ensuring you make an informed decision on your next big move.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Historic and Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Bay views, rooftop decks | Large lots, historic details |
While the median home price and rent in San Francisco might seem staggering, especially when compared to Detroit, the high cost is often justified by the city's vibrant urban lifestyle, its high walkability and bikeability scores, and the prevalent Victorian and modern architecture that characterizes many of its neighborhoods. In contrast, Detroit, with its significantly lower cost of living, offers a unique blend of historic and colonial architecture, larger lots, and an increasing urban lifestyle score. This makes Detroit an attractive option for those looking for affordability without sacrificing a sense of community and accessibility to urban amenities.
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.
San Francisco vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can bring significant changes, including adjustments to the weather. Understanding how the climate varies between your current and future home is crucial for preparation. This guide focuses on the weather comparison between San Francisco and Detroit , highlighting key differences that may affect your daily life and activities.
San Francisco, CA
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, wildfires | Winter storms, tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Relocating from San Francisco to Detroit presents distinct weather contrasts, notably in temperature fluctuations and seasonal changes. In Detroit, you'll experience a true winter with snow, something largely absent in San Francisco. This not only affects daily comfort but also requires adjustments in wardrobe and home maintenance, including preparing for snow removal. Additionally, the higher humidity and distinct seasonal allergies in Detroit could impact your health and daily comfort. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more smoothly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Detroit
When planning a move from San Francisco, CA to Detroit, MI, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic factors between San Francisco and Detroit, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (top rate) | 4.25 (flat rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 2.3 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Automotive, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Comparing these two cities reveals deep contrasts, particularly in average household incomes and costs of living. San Francisco's high affluence level is mirrored in its significant average household income and steep cost of living index, whereas Detroit presents a more affordable living environment but with challenges such as higher poverty rates. Interestingly, both cities have a diverse range of leading industries, signaling dynamic job markets. However, an aspect needing attention when moving from San Francisco to Detroit might be the stark difference in state income and property taxes, potentially affecting your financial planning.
San Francisco vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
If you're considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Detroit, MI, understanding the different cultures and communities is crucial. This comparison will offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in each city, helping you better anticipate the environment you're moving into.
| San Francisco | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on tech, environmental issues | Focus on economic revitalization, city services |
| Religion | Diverse, with a notable number of non-religious residents | Primarily Christian, with a mix of other faiths |
While both San Francisco and Detroit lean liberal politically, the focal points of their local politics differ significantly. San Francisco's politics often revolve around technology and environmental initiatives, reflecting its status as a tech hub and its residents' strong environmental consciousness. In contrast, Detroit's political landscape is heavily influenced by efforts towards economic revitalization and improving city services, a testament to its ongoing recovery from economic challenges. Religion in San Francisco is marked by a high degree of diversity, including a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious. Detroit, while also home to diverse religious beliefs, has a stronger Christian majority. This contrast underscores the unique cultural and social fabrics that define each city.
San Francisco vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When relocating from San Francisco, CA, to Detroit, MI, understanding the differences in daily commutes and transportation options is crucial. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Detroit aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In San Francisco, the availability of public transit is remarkable, scoring a 9 out of 10, with options like the BART, MUNI, and ferries making it feasible to live without a car. On the contrary, Detroit's public transportation is comparatively more limited, making car ownership more of a necessity for daily commute. While San Francisco faces higher traffic congestion, impacting the average commute time, Detroit offers a smoother driving experience with lower congestion levels. Adapting to these differences will be essential for a comfortable transition.
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