Best Detroit to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,294 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 48 Detroit to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Detroit compared to Los Angeles. 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 Detroit to Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | 8.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.44 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,294 miles from Detroit, MI to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $3,732 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Los Angeles move is roughly $9,013. 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 | $2,503 | 300 ft³ | 8.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,732 | 450 ft³ | 8.29 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,183 | 750 ft³ | 8.24 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,013 | 1100 ft³ | 8.19 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,029 | 1600 ft³ | 8.14 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,568 | 1800 ft³ | 8.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can often feel like stepping into another world. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that leverages your familiarity with Detroit, MI, to help you find your feet in Los Angeles, CA. This section provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Los Angeles, CA, pinpointing counterparts that share a similar vibe, culture, or demographic, making the City of Angels feel a little more like home.
| Detroit | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Silver Lake | Artsy with a vibrant indie scene |
| Downtown | Downtown LA | Urban core, diverse attractions |
| Corktown | Los Feliz | Historic, hipster-friendly community |
| Woodbridge | Atwater Village | Similar blend of historic homes and local arts |
| Mexicantown | Boyle Heights | Rich in cultural heritage, vibrant food scene |
| Eastern Market | Fairfax | Bustling market scene, community-centric |
| Riverfront | Venice | Prominent waterfronts, lively boardwalk |
| Palmer Woods | Beverly Hills | Upscale, historic estates |
| Boston-Edison | Hancock Park | Elegant homes, historic neighborhoods |
| Indian Village | Westwood | Affluent, with a rich history and architecture |
Moving from Detroit's bustling Midtown, famous for its artistic and indie culture, to Silver Lake in Los Angeles, you'll find a seamless transition with its eclectic vibe and thriving arts scene. Silver Lake boasts renowned venues like The Satellite for live music enthusiasts and indie film screenings at The Los Feliz 3, mirroring Detroit's Majestic Theatre and the Detroit Film Theatre. Similarly, relocating from the historic Corktown in Detroit, known for its vibrant food scene and tight-knit community, to Los Feliz in LA, you'll be greeted with a comparable atmosphere where you can enjoy a blend of contemporary dining and classic cinemas like the Vista Theatre. Both neighborhoods pride themselves on fostering strong community bonds and offering a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks, ensuring you feel right at home amidst the urban sprawl of Los Angeles.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Los Angeles
Moving from one city to another comes with its unique set of considerations. This comparison aims for an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Los Angeles, CA. Through these charts, you'll gain insight into what you're leaving behind and what awaits you, helping to prepare for the transition.
Detroit, MI- Harsh winters
- Lower job growth
- Economic challenges
- Limited cultural scenes
Los Angeles, CA- Milder climate
- Strong job market
- Vibrant economy
- Diverse cultural experiences
Los Angeles, CA- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Less personal
- Focus on the new
Detroit, MI- Affordable living
- Compact city
- Community feel
- Richer history
Moving from Detroit to Los Angeles presents numerous changes, notably in climate and economic opportunity. Detroit's historic charm and tight-knit communities contrast with LA's bustling, expansive landscape. In Los Angeles, places like Griffith Park and the arts district offer outdoor and cultural experiences unparalleled in most cities. Dining at renowned establishments such as Pizzeria Mozza or exploring the latest exhibits at The Broad Museum speaks to the vibrant lifestyle available. However, it's essential to prepare for the higher cost of living, from housing to everyday expenses, and the significant traffic you'll navigate daily. Balancing these factors will be key to making the most of what Los Angeles has to offer.
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
Whether you're savoring a meal in your hometown or exploring the flavors of a new city, food plays a crucial role in experiencing local culture. In this guide, we'll embark on a flavorful journey that compares the local cuisine between Detroit & Los Angeles , equipping you with essential knowledge about the culinary landscapes of both cities, to help you navigate your new food scene with ease.
| Detroit | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Detroit-style Pizza | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Coney Dog | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you arrive in Los Angeles, you'll quickly discover a city passionate about its diverse culinary landscape. Here, the food scene is as varied as its population. For instance, fish tacos, a classic LA street food, can be found in neighborhoods like Venice Beach and Silver Lake, offering a fresh, local taste of the sea. If you're a vegan, you'll feel right at home in LA. The city's vegan scene is booming, with restaurants such as Ramen Hood in the Grand Central Market serving up delicious vegan ramen that even meat-lovers praise. As for dining experiences that define the city, don't miss out on dining at n/naka for an exquisite taste of authentic Japanese cuisine, or grab a legendary hot dog at Pink's. No matter where you find yourself in Los Angeles, you're never far from a meal that's both memorable and satisfying.
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery is essential in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help guide you from Detroit to Los Angeles, assisting in discovering the culinary parallels. Whether high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic dishes, we've got you covered.
| Detroit | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Republique | Both offer seasonal, farm-to-table dishes in a chic, inviting setting. |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Pink's Hot Dogs | Both are iconic to their cities for classic, beloved hot dogs. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Bludso's Bar & Que | Offering authentic, smoky barbecue flavors reminiscent of Slows. |
| Supino Pizzeria | Pizzana | Both celebrated for their gourmet, artisanal pizza creations. |
| Roast | Bestia | Known for their innovative approach to meat dishes and upscale dining experience. |
| Dime Store | Eggslut | Both are favorites for unique, flavorful breakfast and brunch options. |
| Takoi | Night + Market | Offering a modern take on Southeast Asian cuisine, they share a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | SUGARFISH | Both are known for their focus on quality of ingredients and traditional sushi offerings. |
| Iridescence | Perch | High above the city, both offer stunning views with a memorable dining experience. |
| Astoria Pastry Shop | Porto's Bakery | Both provide a wide range of pastries and sweets, beloved by locals. |
Experience the flavor of Detroit with a Los Angeles twist by visiting these comparable dining establishments. For instance, those missing the upscale but homey farm-to-table experience of Selden Standard will find solace in Republique's similarly inviting atmosphere and fresh dishes. Meanwhile, barbecue enthusiasts will appreciate Bludso's Bar & Que for a taste reminiscent of Slows Bar BQ's smoky delights. On a sweet note, Porto's Bakery mirrors Astoria Pastry Shop's wide assortment of beloved pastries, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking comfort in flavors. These comparisons show that while cities change, the universal language of delicious food remains the same.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor in moving, essential for understanding how Detroit, MI and Los Angeles, CA compare. This comparison will illuminate differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle facets to aid your relocation decision-making process.
| Comparison | Detroit | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Early American, Brick bungalows | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious layouts, Historic details | Outdoor living spaces, Views |
When comparing Detroit and Los Angeles, the stark contrast in housing market dynamics is evident. In Detroit, you can find affordable homes that boast spacious layouts and historic architectural details, apt for those appreciating early American and brick bungalow styles. In contrast, Los Angeles offers a more urban lifestyle, with its real estate market highlighting outdoor living spaces and breathtaking views, a testament to its higher walkability and bikeability scores. This difference not only reflects in the typical architecture styles—spanning from Spanish Revival to Modern in Los Angeles—but also in the cost of living, with significantly higher home prices and rents in Los Angeles. These factors are crucial when considering the lifestyle and budget that match your preference for your new home.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison highlights how the climate in Detroit, MI, and Los Angeles, CA will affect your daily life and what you can expect in terms of conditions. From sunshine days to natural disasters, get ready for a climate change.
Detroit, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Switching from Detroit's variable weather to Los Angeles's mild and consistently warmer climate comes with significant changes. While you'll be saying goodbye to Detroit's harsh winters and significant snowfall, prepare to embrace more sunny days in Los Angeles. However, keep in mind that this comes with the challenge of being more vigilant during wildfire season and being prepared for earthquakes. The considerable reduced annual rainfall in Los Angeles compared to Detroit could also impact your daily lifestyle and outdoor activities differently. Adapting to these climate differences will be a crucial part of making your new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Los Angeles
When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to grasp how your finances might shift. Our comparison focuses on moving from Detroit, MI to Los Angeles, CA , particularly considering the disparities in cost of living, taxes, and economic environment . Such insights can prepare you for the economic realities awaiting in your new home.
| Comparison | Detroit | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 0.793 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Entertainment, Technology, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Moving from Detroit to Los Angeles, you'll likely encounter a stark contrast in the cost of living, notably in housing and day-to-day expenses, with LA being notably more expensive. However, this increase is somewhat offset by higher average household incomes in Los Angeles. Taxes also vary significantly, including higher state income and sales taxes in California, which can eat into your budget. The economic landscape shifts too, with Detroit's historic reliance on the automotive industry contrasting with Los Angeles's diverse economy that spans entertainment, technology, and manufacturing. Understanding these differences will help you navigate the financial transition effectively.
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
This quick guide provides a snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Detroit & Los Angeles to help you understand the political and religious landscape of the city you're moving from and to. This at-a-glance overview will assist in setting expectations for your big move.
| Detroit | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic recovery, crime reduction | Emphasis on environmental issues, homelessness |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a substantial Muslim community | Diverse: Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism |
In Detroit, the political scene is predominantly Democratic, with city policies often focusing on initiatives aimed at economic revitalization and reducing crime. The religious makeup is primarily Christian, alongside a significant Muslim population, reflective of its diverse community. Transitioning to Los Angeles, you'll find a similarly strong Democratic leaning, but with local political discussions tending more towards environmental sustainability and tackling homelessness. Los Angeles's religious landscape is notably more varied, encompassing a wide range of beliefs from Christianity to Buddhism, making it a melting pot of religious thought. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of the city, offering newcomers a broad spectrum of communities and ideas to engage with.
Detroit vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Los Angeles, CA means adapting to new daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Los Angeles is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Detroit | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but challenging |
In Detroit, you'll find a less crowded commute with an average time of around 25 minutes, but the city scores lower in terms of public transit availability, making it challenging to live there without owning a car. On the other hand, Los Angeles welcomes you with its notorious traffic congestion, ranking high on the scale with longer commute times. However, L.A. has a somewhat better public transportation system, making it theoretically possible to get around without a car, though still challenging due to the vast spread of the city and the hubs of activities.
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