Best Washington DC to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Washington DC to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 524 mile move from DC to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Detroit Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.43 | 9.39 | Active | 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 Washington DC to Detroit
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 524 miles from Washington DC, DC to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,227 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Detroit move is roughly $5,333. 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 | $1,500 | 300 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,227 | 450 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,674 | 750 ft³ | 4.90 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,333 | 1100 ft³ | 4.85 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,678 | 1600 ft³ | 4.80 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,547 | 1800 ft³ | 4.75 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Detroit Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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.
Washington DC vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be a daunting experience, especially when you're not familiar with your new home’s lay of the land. To ease this transition, we’ve created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Detroit, MI . This guide aims to help you find a slice of familiarity in Detroit by matching its neighborhoods with those you might already know and love in Washington DC.
| Washington DC | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Midtown | Vibrant arts scene and nightlife |
| Georgetown | Indian Village | Historic homes with a strong sense of community |
| Capitol Hill | Corktown | Historic architecture with a lively dining scene |
| Logan Circle | Woodbridge | Historic, artistic, and close-knit community |
| Adams Morgan | Hamtramck | Diverse culture and global cuisine |
| Shaw | Eastern Market | Rich in history with a bustling market scene |
| Navy Yard | Riverwalk District | Revitalized waterfront living |
| NoMa | New Center | Growing arts scene and modern living spaces |
| Columbia Heights | Mexicantown | Vibrant community life and cultural festivals |
| Petworth | Rosedale Park | Quiet, residential with strong community bonds |
Each neighborhood in our guide offers a unique glimpse into the city's character, whether it’s through the vibrant night market in Eastern Market, Detroit, reminiscent of the rich history and bustling scene in Shaw, Washington DC, or the historic homes in Indian Village, Detroit that echo the charm and sense of community found in Georgetown, Washington DC. For those who love the waterfront lifestyle that Navy Yard offers, Detroit’s Riverwalk District provides an evolving waterfront with ample green spaces, riverside dining, and access to sports and entertainment venues. Moreover, the comparison between Dupont Circle and Midtown, Detroit showcases similar vibes with their vibrant arts scene, eclectic nightlife, and diverse dining options, ensuring you'll find the familiar mixed with the excitement of discovering new favorites.
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 Washington DC to Detroit
Moving from one city to another involves a balance of comparisons, weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide a clear perspective on moving from Washington DC, to Detroit, MI, by illustrating both the pros and cons of such a relocation. Through our comparison charts, we aim for an honest reflection of what this change entails, helping you make an informed decision.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Political intensity
- Smaller green spaces
Detroit, MI- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Rich automotive history
- Larger city parks
Detroit, MI- Lower job market
- Harsher winters
- Less public transit
- Fewer landmarks
Washington DC, DC- Diverse cultural scene
- Strong job market
- Robust public transit
- Numerous historical landmarks
Relocating from Washington D.C. to Detroit unveils a mix of lifestyle changes and new opportunities. While Detroit presents a respite from D.C.'s intense political atmosphere and congested roads, it offers its own unique charm with a thriving automotive culture celebrated at The Henry Ford Museum and the annual North American International Auto Show. Additionally, Detroit's housing market is significantly more accessible, making neighborhoods like Midtown and the Detroit Riverfront attractive for newcomers seeking spacious homes and vibrant community life. However, prepare for colder winters and explore local initiatives to improve the job market. Nonetheless, Detroit's parks such as Belle Isle offer vast green spaces for relaxation and recreation, far surpassing the smaller, albeit historical, parks in D.C. Each city has its ethos; embracing Detroit’s might just surprise you with its resilience and warmth.
Washington DC vs. Detroit Food Guide
When relocating, understanding the local culture is crucial, and food plays a major role in this aspect. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Detroit to help you get acquainted with the culinary scenes of both cities before your move.
| Washington DC | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Coney Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Wings | Detroit-Style Pizza |
| Most popular street food item | Jumbo Slice Pizza | Greek Gyros |
| Most popular vegan food | Plant-based Bowls | Vegan Coney |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Washington DC, iconic dishes like the Half-Smoke can be found at spots like Ben's Chili Bowl, a veritable institution in the city. On the other hand, Detroit's love for the Coney Dog is unmatched, with establishments like American Coney Island serving this local favorite for generations. The Detroit food scene is known for its hearty meat dishes, especially the Detroit-Style Pizza, best enjoyed at places such as Supino Pizzeria. In contrast, DC has a thriving vegan scene, with numerous food trucks and restaurants offering plant-based alternatives that don’t skimp on flavor. Exploring these cuisines will allow you to dive deep into the heart and soul of your new city, discovering neighborhoods through their most beloved dishes.
Washington DC vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be challenging, but discovering local culinary delights can make anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Detroit aims to ease your transition by guiding you to your new favorite eateries, mirroring the gastronomic experiences you cherished back home. Whether you seek high-end dining, casual brunch spots, or iconic foodie havens, this guide serves as a beacon for your culinary journey in Detroit.
| Washington DC | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Rasika | Roast | Exceptional modern American takes, reminiscent of Rasika’s Indian fusion. |
| Zaytinya | Selden Standard | Offering a focus on small plates and seasonal ingredients, akin to Zaytinya's approach. |
| Le Diplomate | Bistro 82 | A French culinary experience echoing the ambiance and menu of Le Diplomate. |
| Rose’s Luxury | Lady of the House | Highlights creativity in dishes, similar to Rose’s eclectic style. |
| Founding Farmers | Folk Detroit | Both serve hearty, farm-to-table American fare grounded in tradition. |
| Bad Saint | Katoi | Sharing a penchant for daring flavors and unique, intimate dining experiences. |
| Fiola Mare | Maru Sushi | A fine dining locale with a focus on seafood, comparable in elegance and taste. |
| Ben’s Chili Bowl | Lafayette Coney Island | Both iconic in their respective cities for serving classic, crave-worthy bites. |
| 1789 Restaurant | Detroit Foundation Hotel’s Apparatus Room | Both combine historic charm with contemporary American cuisine. |
| Little Serow | Takoi | Offers a stellar take on Southeast Asian dishes, akin to Little Serow's flavor profile. |
While the thought of leaving favorite restaurants behind might be daunting, Detroit's dining scene won't disappoint. For instance, the contemporary American flair found at Roast mirrors the diverse and refined palate of Washington DC's Rasika, making for a seamless transition. On the other hand, if you cherished the innovative, farm-to-table approach of Founding Farmers, then Folk Detroit awaits with open arms, ready to dish out hearty meals that feel both familiar and new. Similarly, the intimate and edgy vibe of Takoi in Detroit captures the innovative essence and flavorful punch of Little Serow, offering a comforting reminder that Detroit can cater to any and all of your food cravings, much like DC.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Deciding to move involves numerous considerations, but none as critical as the figures shaping your new home. Understanding how real estate in Washington DC and Detroit compares lays the groundwork for a smoother transition. This comparison emphasizes housing costs, styles, and the living experience in each city.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Row houses, Federal | Art Deco, Historic |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to metro, Historic charm | Renovated, Affordable |
When you sift through the real estate landscape of both cities, Washington DC's highlighted features such as its proximity to the metro and its historic charm are indicative of an urban environment prizing connectivity and heritage. Meanwhile, Detroit's real estate leans heavily on affordability and renovation, symbolizing a city in transformation, readily opening doors to newcomers. With its celebrated Art Deco buildings and significant historic homes, Detroit offers cultural richness to explore. On the other hand, Washington DC's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect a city planned for ease of movement, amplifying its urban lifestyle rating. Both cities present distinct living experiences shaped by their unique architectural styles and community dynamics, making your choice heavily dependent on what kind of lifestyle you wish to embrace.
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.
Washington DC vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, comprehending the climatic differences is crucial. Moving from Washington DC to Detroit means you'll experience not just a change in scenery but also a shift in weather patterns. Understanding these variations can help you prepare better for your new home.
Washington DC, DC
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Washington DC and Detroit enjoy four distinct seasons, the extent and intensity of each season vary significantly between the two cities. Detroit experiences colder winters with more snowfall, which is an important consideration if you're not accustomed to driving in snowy conditions. The summers in DC are warmer and more humid, potentially impacting those sensitive to heat or with certain medical conditions. Additionally, the difference in annual sunshine days and humidity can affect your daily lifestyle and outdoor activities, from planning picnics to managing seasonal allergies. Understanding these weather variations is key to making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Detroit
When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living and financial landscape between Washington DC and Detroit will impact your budget is crucial. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of money and finance.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0 to 8.95 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 2.29 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.00 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Manufacturing, Health Care, Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Washington DC to Detroit, you'll find a stark contrast in the financial landscape. Notably, the average household income in Detroit is significantly lower, which parallels the city's higher poverty rate. However, the lower cost of living index in Detroit means your dollars can stretch further, making everyday expenses more manageable. While both cities have a 6.00% average sales tax, property taxes are considerably higher in Detroit, which could influence your decision if you're looking to buy a home. Understanding these financial aspects can help you prepare for your move and manage your finances effectively in your new city.
Washington DC vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
If you're considering a move from Washington DC to Detroit, it's valuable to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you'll be living amongst. This comparison aims to illuminate the varying perspectives and community values that may differ from what you're accustomed to in Washington DC.
| Washington DC | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Mostly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focused on federal government impact, local governance | Industrial and economic revitalization concerns |
| Religion | High diversity of religious beliefs | Primarily Christian, with a significant Muslim community |
Moving from Washington DC to Detroit, you'll notice both cities share a Democratic political leaning, though the local political focus shifts from national governance in DC to economic revitalization in Detroit. Religion plays an integral role in the community life of both cities; however, Detroit boasts a notable presence of Muslim residents alongside its predominantly Christian population. This unique blend offers a rich tapestry of cultural and religious practices right at your new doorstep. Understanding these differences will aid in a smoother transition and help you appreciate the diverse perspectives and community dynamics in Detroit.
Washington DC vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Detroit means adapting to new daily commutes and navigating the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Washington, DC & Detroit will help set your expectations and facilitate a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29.3 | 24.5 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, with ease | Difficult, but not impossible |
In Washington DC, the extensive public transportation network, ranked high at 9 out of 10, means you can navigate the city with relative ease without owning a car. The Metro, buses, and bike-share programs make it convenient. However, in Detroit, while there is public transit available, the system's coverage and frequency (scoring 6 out of 10) make it more challenging to rely on public transportation alone. Detroit is more car-dependent, reflected in a lower traffic congestion rating. Each city presents a unique blend of commute times, traffic, and transit options which you'll need to navigate in your daily life.
Additional Resources
Washington DC Moving Services
Popular Washington DC to Michigan Routes
Popular Moving Resources
