Best Chicago to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 284 mile move from Illinois to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 47 Chicago 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago 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 Chicago to Detroit Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | 8.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Detroit
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 284 miles from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,023 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Detroit move is roughly $4,834. 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 | $1,363 | 300 ft³ | 4.54 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,023 | 450 ft³ | 4.49 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,334 | 750 ft³ | 4.44 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,834 | 1100 ft³ | 4.39 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,952 | 1600 ft³ | 4.34 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,731 | 1800 ft³ | 4.29 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Detroit Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
Professional Movers.com
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 266582 / 178368 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 714,000 (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) |
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.
Chicago vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local landscape. To ease this transition, this guide aims to help you find your footing by comparing popular neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Detroit, MI . By identifying neighborhoods in Detroit that share similar vibes, amenities, and communities with your favorites in Chicago, you'll feel right at home in no time.
| Chicago | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Midtown Detroit | Vibrant arts scene |
| Wicker Park | Corktown | Hip, artistic hub |
| The Loop | Downtown Detroit | Bustling business district |
| Gold Coast | Brush Park | Historic, luxurious homes |
| Logan Square | Woodbridge | Eclectic, historic homes |
| Hyde Park | Indian Village | Diverse, rich history |
| River North | New Center | Trendy restaurants, art deco |
| Old Town | Lafayette Park | Planned community, green spaces |
| Lakeview | Eastern Market | Lively markets, community-focused |
| Andersonville | West Village | Quaint shops, charming homes |
In the heart of Midtown Detroit, art aficionados and culture seekers who adored Lincoln Park will find themselves enveloped in a similar vibrant arts scene, with institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit. For those attuned to the hip, buzzing atmosphere of Wicker Park, Corktown offers an artistic hub with a rich history, best exemplified by spots like the Michigan Central Station. If you're moving from Chicago's Gold Coast, Brush Park's historic and luxurious homes parallel the upscale residential vibe. Additionally, the community-focused spirit of Lakeview is mirrored in Eastern Market, where weekends are bustling with local farmers and artisans. These Detroit neighborhoods not only echo the architectural beauty and cultural richness of their Chicago counterparts but also boast unique restaurants and public spaces that contribute to a vibrant community life.
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 Chicago to Detroit
Moving cities is a significant decision; it's about weighing the advantages against the drawbacks. With this comparison, we aim to provide an honest reflection of Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI relocation. Understanding both the positives and negatives can help in making an informed choice, whether it's the difference in living costs, lifestyle, or climate. Let's delve into the specifics with our detailed charts.
Chicago, IL- Higher living costs
- Heavier traffic
- Harsher winters
- Lower job growth
Detroit, MI- More affordable housing
- Less congested roads
- Milder winters
- Emerging job market
Detroit, MI- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less variety in dining
- Reliant on cars
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Richer cultural scene
- More diverse cuisine
- Better public transport
Moving from Chicago to Detroit brings a blend of changes, particularly in lifestyle and cost of living. Chicago, known for its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene, offers a myriad of dining experiences stretching from the upscale eateries of the Magnificent Mile to the cozy diners of Wicker Park. On the flip side, Detroit, while quieter in comparison, is burgeoning with its own unique charm. Areas like Midtown and Corktown are sprouting with new restaurants and cafes, offering a more intimate and community-focused vibe. The emerging job market in Detroit, aided by the resurgence of the automotive industry and the influx of tech startups, presents new opportunities not as readily available in the saturated markets of Chicago. Furthermore, the affordability of housing in Detroit means more space for less, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle that could be out of reach for many in Chicago.
Chicago vs. Detroit Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Detroit, emphasizing the importance of food as a vital component of local culture and everyday life. By exploring the culinary scenes of these cities, you'll be better prepared for what awaits in your new home.
| Chicago | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish pizza | Coney Island hot dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian beef | Detroit-style rib tips |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dog | Gyro |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan wings | Jackfruit BBQ sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the vibrant food scene is epitomized by the beloved deep-dish pizza, a must-try for anyone visiting or moving to the city. Head to neighborhoods like the Loop or Lincoln Park to experience this culinary delight from reputed establishments such as Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. On the other hand, Detroit offers a unique culinary experience with its iconic Coney Island hot dog, particularly at American Coney Island, located in the bustling downtown area. Detroit's food scene is notable for blending traditional American dishes with a unique local twist, evident in its offering of Detroit-style rib tips and the innovative use of jackfruit in vegan BBQ sandwiches. Both cities cater to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences, making them exciting places to explore for any food enthusiast.
Chicago vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your next favorite dining spot. This restaurant comparison leverages Chicago's top eateries to introduce you to your new culinary loves in Detroit, making the transition feel like a gastronomic adventure. Whether you crave high-end dining, street food delights, or that iconic dish that defines a city, this guide aims to match your old favorites with new ones.
| Chicago | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Marais | Fine dining with an innovative menu |
| Portillo's | Lafayette Coney Island | Iconic, casual dining with a local twist |
| Girl & The Goat | Grey Ghost Detroit | Creative, meat-centric dishes in a lively setting |
| Pequod's Pizza | Supino Pizzeria | Deep-dish and thin-crust options beloved by locals |
| The Purple Pig | Selden Standard | Small plates with a focus on seasonality and craft cocktails |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | London Chop House | Upscale seafood and steak in a historic setting |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Taqueria Lupita's | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a home-style vibe |
| Au Cheval | Slows Bar BQ | Renowned for burgers and BBQ, a hearty and casual experience |
| Giordano's | Buddy's Pizza | Famous for Detroit-style pizza, a must-try for newcomers |
| Roister | Takoi | An eclectic mix of dishes with a focus on modern Asian cuisine |
Moving from Chicago to Detroit doesn't mean leaving behind your culinary favorites; it's an opportunity to discover new ones. For example, while Alinea in Chicago offers an unparalleled fine dining experience, Marais in Detroit brings its own unique flair with a menu that surprises and delights in equal measure. Fans of the iconic, casual dining experience of Portillo's will find comfort in the nostalgia of Lafayette Coney Island's coney dogs. And for those who relish the deep-dish pizzas of Pequod's, Supino Pizzeria stands out in Detroit, serving both traditional deep-dish pizzas and exquisite thin-crust variations, ensuring that every pizza craving is well catered to with a touch of local flavor. Embrace these new dining experiences as you make Detroit your home, and find joy in the flavors that make the city unique.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI offer unique housing options, reflecting their diverse cultures and economies. This comparison aims to highlight key differences and similarities to help inform your decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Chicago School, Greystone | Arts and Crafts, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transit | Renovated properties, large yards |
While both cities offer distinctive living experiences, Chicago's higher median home prices reflect its broader urban appeal and denser population. However, Detroit presents a unique opportunity for homebuyers, offering significantly lower prices and a chance to invest in a city undergoing revitalization. Many homes in Detroit boast large yards and have been recently renovated, appealing to those looking for space or a project. Chicago's architecture is renowned for its historical and skyscraper-filled skyline, implying a more traditional urban lifestyle, compared to Detroit's spread-out bungalow and arts and crafts style homes that cater to those seeking a blend of urban and suburban qualities.
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.
Chicago vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for your adaptation. This guide compares Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI weather to give you a clear perspective on what to expect. Reviewing these differences will help you prepare for your new environment.
Chicago, IL
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Floods | Snowstorms, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Chicago and Detroit share similar weather patterns, there are notable differences to consider when moving. Detroit experiences slightly cooler summer nights and a bit more snow in winter, emphasizing the need for warm clothing and snow removal equipment. The nearly identical average annual UV index means skin protection is equally important in both cities. Interestingly, Detroit boasts slightly better air quality, a plus for those sensitive to pollution. Understanding these subtle nuances ensures a smoother transition to your new home in Detroit.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Detroit
When deciding to relocate, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be impacted. This guide provides a comparison between moving from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI regarding money and finance issues. If you're contemplating such a move, this comparison will illuminate the differences in economic environments you should prepare for.
| Comparison | Chicago | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 3.64 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Automotive, Technology, Health Services |
| Affluence | More affluent | Less affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
Moving from Chicago to Detroit, you'll find significant differences in economic conditions. Despite a much lower cost of living in Detroit, the average household income also significantly decreases. This contrast in income levels and cost of living is crucial for budget planning in your new home. Moreover, differences in sales and property tax rates could impact your long-term financial planning. Industry strengths vary notably between the two cities, suggesting employment opportunities may also differ significantly in type and availability. Understanding these financial and economic indicators can be vital for making an informed decision about your move.
Chicago vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Chicago, Illinois to Detroit, Michigan? This quick comparison aims to provide you with a snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Chicago & Detroit as well as the religious backdrop of the two cities. Understanding these dynamics can help you feel more at home in your new city.
| Chicago | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic majority | Democratic majority |
| Local Politics | Liberal, with active community engagement | Liberal, strong union influence |
| Religion | Mixed, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities | Mixed, with a notable presence of Christian and Islamic communities |
Both Chicago and Detroit share a strong Democratic leaning in their political landscapes, which reflects in their local politics being liberal. However, Detroit distinguishes itself with a significant union influence, affecting local political actions and policies. Religious makeup in both cities is quite mixed, providing a vibrant community life with a range of places to worship and engage in community activities. Chicago has a noted presence of Catholic and Protestant communities, whereas Detroit is known for its Christian diversity along with a significant Islamic community, hosting institutions like the Islamic Center of Detroit. These elements contribute to the cultural fabric and community engagement of your new home.
Chicago vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When moving from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI, understanding the differences between the traffic and transportation options in these two cities is crucial for anticipating your daily commute and traffic interactions. This comparison aims to offer insights into what your daily commute might look like.
| Comparison | Chicago | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging, but not impossible |
In Chicago, the robust public transit system includes the L trains and a wide network of buses, making it relatively easier to get by without a car, especially if you live and work within the city limits. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides widespread access across the city. On the other hand, Detroit's public transportation, primarily consisting of buses with a growing QLINE streetcar system, is improving but still lags behind. The city's layout and the Motor City's historical reliance on automobiles mean having a car may be more of a necessity for a broader range of activities. Nevertheless, both cities have their unique challenges and conveniences when it comes to commuting, with Chicago facing higher traffic congestion levels yet offering better public transit options compared to Detroit.
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