Best Detroit to Ontario Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Ontario and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,258 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Detroit to Ontario 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 Detroit compared to Ontario. 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 Ontario Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Antonio’s Moving Services LLC | 9.03 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Merit Moving Systems, Inc. | 9.03 | 8.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | High Quality Moving Company | 8.23 | 8.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Ontario
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,258 miles from Detroit, MI to Ontario, CA will cost on average $3,701 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Ontario move is roughly $8,938. 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 | $2,483 | 300 ft³ | 8.28 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,701 | 450 ft³ | 8.23 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,132 | 750 ft³ | 8.18 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,938 | 1100 ft³ | 8.13 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,921 | 1600 ft³ | 8.08 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,446 | 1800 ft³ | 8.03 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Ontario to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Ontario Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3853814 / 1542735 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2023) |
Merit Moving Systems, Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1839600 / 934680 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,100 (2020) |
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) |
High Quality Moving Company
32401 W 8 Mile Rd
Livonia, MI, 48152
About High Quality Moving Company
High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3435629 / 1178011 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (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. Ontario Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Ontario, CA , utilizing your current city as a foundation. Discover the Ontario neighborhood that best corresponds with your favorite Detroit counterpart, making your move feel a little more like home.
| Detroit | Ontario | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Downtown Ontario | Vibrant arts and culture scene |
| Corktown | Euclid Avenue | Eclectic mix, historic charm |
| Eastern Market | Granada Court | Bustling market and eateries |
| Riverfront | Creekside | Scenic views, community feel |
| Brush Park | Edison Village | Historic houses, revitalized area |
| Woodbridge | Armstrong | Family-friendly, close-knit community |
| Mexicantown | Encore | Rich cultural diversity, vibrant food scene |
| Indian Village | Archibald Ranch | Historic homes, laid-back atmosphere |
| Palmer Woods | Hawthorne | Exclusive, leafy residential area |
| Belle Isle | Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park | Outdoor activities, lakefront relaxation |
For those enchanted by Detroit's vibrant Midtown, with its rich cultural scene and lively entertainment, Downtown Ontario will feel like a breath of fresh air with its similarly bustling arts landscape and historic architecture. If the historic charm and eclectic vibe of Corktown hold a special place in your heart, Euclid Avenue in Ontario offers a reminiscent mix of old and new, from quaint shops to timeless neighborhood eateries such as Place’s Name. Riverfront lovers in Detroit, admired for its scenic parks and waterfront trails, will find Creekside in Ontario equally captivating with its picturesque creek views and community-centric spaces, a perfect backdrop for serene walks or family picnics. Engage in the local culture and charm that makes each neighborhood unique, creating a seamless transition to your new home.
Things to Do in Ontario
Explore Ontario Museum of History & Art- Attend events at Toyota Arena
- Shop at Ontario Mills
- Enjoy Cucamonga Peak hike
- Visit Graber Olive House
- Play at San Bernardino County Gardens
- Relax at De Anza Park
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Ontario
Moving from one city to another comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to present an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Ontario, CA . By comparing the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for your upcoming move.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Harsh winters
- Economic challenges
- Lower median income
Ontario, CA- Lower crime rate
- Mild winters
- More job opportunities
- Higher median income
Ontario, CA- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer historic sites
- Higher cost of living
- Less community-oriented
Detroit, MI- Richer cultural scene
- Historic architecture
- Affordable housing
- Close-knit communities
Moving from Detroit to Ontario has its perks, especially when considering the warmer climate and numerous job opportunities that await in California. Ontario, CA, is known for its bustling economy, attributing to sectors like logistics due to its strategic location near the Ontario International Airport. It boasts excellent restaurants, such as New York Grill, and attractions like the Ontario Mills for shopping enthusiasts. However, it's essential to note the shift you'll experience from Detroit's deeply rooted cultural and historical significance, illustrated by landmarks such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, to a more modern and less community-oriented environment in Ontario. Despite Ontario's higher cost of living, its benefits, including a safer environment and better weather, make it a compelling option for many.
Detroit vs. Ontario Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit, MI & Ontario, CA to help you understand the diverse food scenes you'll experience. Food is a vibrant part of local culture, reflecting what it's like to live in each area. Through this guide, you'll be better informed about the culinary differences as you prepare for your move.
| Detroit | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | In-N-Out Burger |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the Coney Dog stands out as an iconic food item, beloved by locals and available at various establishments like Lafayette Coney Island. Detroit's love for its unique style of pizza showcases the city's rich culinary diversity. On the other hand, Ontario boasts In-N-Out Burger, a West Coast staple that's a must-try for newcomers. Ontario's robust vegan scene, featuring dishes like the Acai Bowl available at several local cafes, caters to a growing demand for plant-based options. Both cities offer a distinctive foodie experience, from the hearty, meat-packed dishes of Detroit to the fresh, vibrant flavors of Ontario. As you transition to your new home, exploring these food scenes will be an adventure in itself.
Detroit vs. Ontario Restaurant Comparison
Finding your next favorite restaurant is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This comparison chart intends to ease the transition from Detroit, MI to Ontario, CA by pairing top Detroit restaurants with their Ontario equivalents, guiding you towards comparable dining experiences.
| Detroit | Ontario | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | New York Grill | Upscale dining with a creative menu |
| Supino Pizzeria | San Biagio's New York Style Pizza | Authentic NY-style pizza |
| Slows Bar BQ | Joey's BBQ Spot | Classic BBQ with a homely vibe |
| Rose's Fine Food | Flo's Airport Cafe | Traditional American breakfast and diner classics |
| Wright & Company | The Olive Grill | American bistro with a sophisticated touch |
| Dime Store | Brandon's Diner | Comfort food in a cozy setting |
| Grey Ghost Detroit | Pomona Valley Mining Co | Meat-centric fare with a unique ambiance |
| Iridescence | Punch Bowl Social | Elevated pub fare with entertainment options |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Portillo's | Fast-casual with a focus on hot dogs and American classics |
| Takoi | Ontario Thai Restaurant | Authentic Thai cuisine with a modern twist |
When craving comfort food reminiscent of Detroit's iconic eateries, Ontario doesn't disappoint. San Biagio's New York Style Pizza, for instance, brings a slice of Detroit's beloved Supino Pizzeria to the heart of Ontario with its authentic NY-style pizza. For a BBQ fix similar to Slows Bar BQ, head to Joey's BBQ Spot where the ribs and brisket rival Detroit’s finest. And when it comes to unique dining experiences, Pomona Valley Mining Co in Ontario mirrors Grey Ghost Detroit's meat-centric menu, set against a thematic backdrop that makes dining out an adventure. Each Ontario counterpart has been carefully selected to offer a taste of Detroit, ensuring you'll find a new favorite spot to call your own.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Ontario Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, considering the real estate market is crucial. Comparing Detroit, MI to Ontario, CA helps highlight differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle offerings. This guide aims to provide an informative overview to support your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Detroit | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and bungalow | Spanish colonial and modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic features, large lots | Access to amenities, updated kitchens |
Exploring housing in Detroit and Ontario reveals stark contrasts, not only in cost but in lifestyle and architectural preferences. Detroit's median home price is significantly lower, making it an attractive market for buyers seeking affordability and historic charm, often highlighted in listings as featuring large lots with Victorian or bungalow styles. Ontario, while pricier, offers an urban lifestyle rating slightly higher than Detroit's, with real estate listings commonly boasting modern amenities and proximity to community amenities. The slight edge in walkability and bikeability in Ontario reflects its more developed infrastructure aimed at supporting a modern urban lifestyle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Ontario, CA
1. Liberty Village: This neighborhood offers a variety of off-leash areas and pet-friendly cafes, making it a perfect place for you and your furry friend.
2. The Beaches: With its spacious off-leash dog park along the beach and pet-friendly walking paths, The Beaches is an ideal spot for pet owners who love water activities.
3. High Park: Known for its large off-leash area and beautiful walking trails, High Park offers you and your pet plenty of space to explore and play.
Detroit vs. Ontario Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate in Ontario, CA compares to what you're used to in Detroit, MI will help you plan for your relocation. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences between the two cities.
Detroit, MI
Ontario, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Ontario, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Ontario, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Ontario, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Varies (Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups) |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Detroit to Ontario, you'll notice significant changes in weather conditions such as warmer winters and hotter summers in Ontario. Not only does Ontario boast a higher number of sunny days per year, but it also has a much lower humidity level, making the heat more tolerable. However, with this comes a higher UV index, meaning you'll need to be more vigilant about sun protection. Additionally, while Detroit experiences snowstorms and occasional tornadoes, Ontario's climate poses risks of earthquakes and wildfires. These differences are crucial to consider for your daily comfort and safety.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Ontario
When planning a move, understanding how your financial situation will adjust is crucial. This comparison between Detroit, MI and Ontario, CA sheds light on various monetary aspects to consider, helping you make an informed decision on this life change.
| Comparison | Detroit | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $73,872 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 3.64 | 0.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Logistics, Manufacturing, Health Services |
| Affluence | Low | Medium |
| Poverty | High | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Despite Detroit's rich cultural and historical legacy, its financial ecosystem presents challenges, including lower average household income and higher poverty rates. Conversely, Ontario, CA enjoys a more affluent environment but comes with a higher cost of living and state income tax. The significant difference in property tax rates between these cities may influence your decision, especially if you're planning on buying a home. Transitioning from Detroit to Ontario will undeniably impact your budget, but also opens the door to new economic opportunities within Ontario's diverse industrial sectors.
Detroit vs. Ontario Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Detroit & Ontario to offer a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape you might encounter upon moving. Understanding these aspects can help ease your transition and give a sense of the community you’re joining.
| Detroit | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Detroit Government | City of Ontario Government |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christian majority | Diverse, with Christian majority |
In both Detroit and Ontario, you'll find a strong Democratic leaning in political makeup, reflecting similarly progressive viewpoints among residents. While Detroit may exhibit slightly more pronounced Democratic preferences, Ontario also shares a leaning towards Democratic values, albeit with a possibly more varied political landscape. Both cities showcase diversity in religious beliefs, with Christianity being the majority faith. The local governments of Detroit and Ontario play crucial roles in shaping the cities' policies and community initiatives, reflecting the political tendencies of their inhabitants. This shared socio-political environment promises a smoother adaptation for you as you transition from Detroit to Ontario.
Detroit vs. Ontario Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI, to Ontario, CA, requires an understanding of this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Ontario. This guide will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, aiding in a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Detroit | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Somewhat Possible |
In Detroit, the average commute time is notably lower than in Ontario, CA. However, Detroit faces challenges with its public transit options, making it difficult to live without a car. On the other hand, Ontario offers somewhat better public transit services, reflected in its higher availability rating. This indicates that getting around without a car is more feasible in Ontario than in Detroit. Despite the slight increase in traffic congestion in Ontario, the enhanced public transit makes it easier for residents to navigate the city. Understanding these differences can help you plan your daily commutes and determine the necessity of owning a car in your new home.
Additional Resources
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