Best Detroit to Sacramento Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Sacramento and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,373 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Detroit to Sacramento 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 Rickey's Gold Country Moving), 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 Sacramento. 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.

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Best Detroit to Sacramento Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Rickey's Gold Country Moving9.218.91Authorized For HHGContact
2Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.468.22Authorized For HHGContact
3Workhorse Moving Co.8.468.69Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Balance Detroit8.437.79Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5High Quality Moving Company8.238.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Detroit to Sacramento

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,373 miles from Detroit, MI to Sacramento, CA will cost on average $3,799 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Sacramento move is roughly $9,177. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,548300 ft³8.49
1 Bedroom$3,799450 ft³8.44
2 Bedrooms$6,295750 ft³8.39
3 Bedrooms$9,1771100 ft³8.34
4 Bedrooms$13,2681600 ft³8.29
5+ Bedrooms$14,8371800 ft³8.24
*Please note: These Michigan to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MI to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sacramento to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Sacramento Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Rickey's Gold Country Moving Logo

Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 375+ data points

15887 Rattlesnake Rd

Grass Valley, CA, 95945

About Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3065202 / 1398360

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.46/10
based on 379+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Workhorse Moving Co. Logo

Workhorse Moving Co.

Fabulous8.46/10
based on 297+ data points

West Sacramento, CA, 95691

About Workhorse Moving Co.

Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3369346 / 1080028

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2023)
View Full Review
3
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.43/10
based on 69+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.23/10
based on 838+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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. Sacramento Neighborhood Comparison

Whenever you're moving, getting to know your new surroundings can feel like a challenge. To ease this transition, we've prepared a straightforward comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Sacramento, CA . Using the neighborhoods you already know and love in Detroit as a baseline, we'll introduce you to similar neighborhoods in Sacramento, helping you to visualize your future home environment more clearly.

DetroitSacramentoHow They're Similar
MidtownMidtown SacramentoVibrant arts scene, dining
CorktownEast SacramentoHistoric homes, community feel
DowntownDowntown SacramentoBustling business district, entertainment
Brush ParkCurtis ParkHistoric homes, family-friendly
Eastern MarketOld SacramentoUnique shops, markets
WoodbridgeLand ParkHistoric homes, lush parks
Indian VillageEast SacramentoElegant homes, established neighborhood
GreektownLittle ItalyCultural vibe, dining options
RiverfrontRiver ParkScenic views, outdoor activities
Boston-EdisonElmhurstStately homes, quiet streets

If you're drawn to the dynamic arts and cultural scene of Midtown Detroit, with its theaters and museums such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, you'll find a kindred spirit in Midtown Sacramento. This neighborhood thrives with galleries, live music, and an eclectic dining scene, making it a hub for creatives and foodies alike. For those who appreciate the historic charm and community spirit of Corktown, East Sacramento offers a similar allure, with its picturesque tree-lined streets and historic, elegant homes—perfect for leisurely neighborhood walks or bike rides. Additionally, fans of Detroit's Riverfront will love settling into Sacramento's River Park, where the stunning views of the Sacramento River offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, including visits to riverside parks like Sutter's Landing.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Sacramento

Moving from one city to another offers a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Detroit, MI to Sacramento, CA , illustrating both the challenges and the advantages. Through comparison, you'll gain insight into how this relocation might suit your needs.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher Crime Rate
  • Harsh Winters
  • Economic Challenges
  • Limited Outdoor Activities
  • Lower Walkability
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Lower Crime Rate
  • Mild Winters
  • Stronger Economy
  • Diverse Outdoor Activities
  • Higher Walkability
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Expensive Housing
  • Less Cultural Diversity
  • Longer Commutes
  • Higher State Taxes
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Rich Cultural History
  • Affordable Housing
  • Vibrant Music Scene
  • Strong Community Bonds
  • Emerging Tech Hub

Moving from Detroit to Sacramento opens a new chapter with promising beginnings, especially in outdoor lifestyle and climate. Sacramento’s mild winters, in stark contrast to Detroit’s harsh snowy seasons, invite year-round outdoor activities. Imagine trading in your snow boots for hiking shoes to explore the American River Parkway or taking leisurely walks in Capitol Park. Sacramento is also noted for its farm-to-fork dining scene with establishments like Mulvaney's B&L leading the charge in local cuisine, a change from Detroit's historic, yet more industrially centered, food culture. While Detroit boasts a rich cultural history and more affordable living, Sacramento offers a stronger economy and lower crime rate but comes with the trade-off of higher living costs. Understanding these dynamics can help you better navigate your relocation and settle into a city that while more expensive, offers a vibrant quality of life with ample parks, restaurants, and sights to explore.

Detroit vs. Sacramento Food Guide

Food is an essential element that reflects the local culture and influences the lifestyle of an area. To help you get a better understanding of what culinary experiences await, we will compare the local cuisine between Detroit & Sacramento . This comparison will shine a light on the unique food scenes you're moving from and to, preparing your palate for new flavors.

DetroitSacramento
Most iconic local food itemConey DogFarm-to-Fork Dishes
Most popular meat dishDetroit-style PizzaGrilled Tri-tip Steak
Most popular street food itemShawarmaTacos
Most popular vegan foodImam BayildiJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • American Coney Island
  • Buddy's Pizza
  • The Kitchen
  • Mulvaney's B&L
  • Ella Dining Room & Bar
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Detroit to Sacramento, you'll transition from the robust, hearty flavors of Coney Dogs and Detroit-style Pizza to the fresh, innovative farm-to-fork dishes that embody Sacramento's culinary scene. Sacramento is renowned for its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, highlighted in every menu item from upscale restaurants like The Kitchen to casual dining spots like Mulvaney's B&L. The city's commitment to fresh, seasonal produce translates into a vibrant foodie scene, with an abundance of food trucks and vegan options that reflect the community's health-conscious ethos. In particular, neighborhoods like Midtown and the R Street Corridor are bustling hubs for culinary exploration, offering an eclectic mix of cuisine that caters to all taste preferences.

Detroit vs. Sacramento Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering places that feel like home, especially when it comes to dining. This Detroit to Sacramento restaurant comparison will aid you in finding your next favorite spot to dine, using your beloved Detroit haunts as a pivot. From high-end dining to casual eateries, let's make your culinary transition as seamless as possible.

DetroitSacramentoWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardLocalisA focus on local, seasonal ingredients
Slows Bar BQUrban Roots Brewery & SmokehouseExpertly smoked meats and craft beer
IridescenceThe Kitchen RestaurantHigh-end dining with a focus on the experiential
Rose's Fine FoodMagpie CaféCasual dining with a locavore ethos
Supino PizzeriaOneSpeedArtisan pizzas with a commitment to local ingredients
Dime StoreTower CaféEclectic and international menu, casual vibe
Wright & CompanyMulvaney's B&LFarm-to-table dining in a stylish setting
AntietamGrange Restaurant & BarChic dining with creative American cuisine
Taqueria El ReyChando's TacosAuthentic Mexican street food experience
Belle Isle PizzaHot ItalianDynamic and modern approach to pizza

While Detroit's dining scene is brimming with unique flavors and experiences, Sacramento offers a culinary landscape just as rich and varied. For instance, Selden Standard's focus on local and seasonal fare is mirrored beautifully by Localis, where the menu changes with the seasons to reflect the freshest ingredients available. Similarly, lovers of Slows Bar BQ's mouthwatering meats will find solace in Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse, where smoked meats are paired with an impressive lineup of craft beers. And for those evenings when only the finest dining will do, The Kitchen Restaurant in Sacramento offers an immersive, high-end experience reminiscent of Iridescence. Each restaurant in Sacramento not only matches the culinary caliber found in Detroit but also enhances it with the local flair and ingredients unique to California.

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Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Sacramento Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience, making it crucial to understand how housing in Detroit, MI and Sacramento, CA compare. This comparison will focus on the key aspects of housing to help guide your decision.

ComparisonDetroitSacramento
Typical Architecture StyleHistoric, ColonialModern, Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, historic homesEco-friendly features, proximity to parks

When moving from Detroit to Sacramento, you'll note significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. In Sacramento, the higher median home prices reflect California's overall real estate market, but also come with a more modern and Mediterranean architectural style that offers a fresh aesthetic. Both cities have their unique charm; Detroit boasts spacious yards and historic homes, which is perfect for those who appreciate a touch of history. On the other hand, Sacramento's emphasis on eco-friendly living and proximity to parks highlights its residents' outdoor and environmentally conscious lifestyle. Choosing between the two depends on your preference for historic charm or modern conveniences and how much value you place on walkability and an urban lifestyle.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA

1. Midtown : This area's abundant dog parks, such as Truitt Bark Park, and pet-friendly patios make it a haven for pet owners.

2. East Sacramento : Known for its picturesque streets and close proximity to the spacious McKinley Park, it's perfect for long walks with your furry friend.

3. Land Park : With its expansive green spaces like William Land Park, it's ideal for pets that love outdoor activities and living close to nature.

Detroit vs. Sacramento Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to gauge how the weather will shift. This comparison is designed to help you understand what changes you can expect, preparing you for a smoother transition. Weather variations between Detroit and Sacramento are significant factors that will influence your daily life and activities after the move.

Summer icon
83/63

Detroit, MI

92/58

Sacramento, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/22

Detroit, MI

54/39

Sacramento, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
33.5

Detroit, MI

18.5

Sacramento, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
42.7

Detroit, MI

0

Sacramento, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDetroitSacramento
Air QualityModerateVaries (Moderate to Unhealthy)
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Detroit to Sacramento, you'll notice a substantial shift in weather patterns. Sacramento enjoys over 269 days of sunshine annually, nearly 86 more than Detroit, which significantly impacts outdoor activities and lifestyle. You will experience hotter summers and milder winters without the heavy snowfall characteristic of Detroit's winter season. The change in humidity levels and air quality might also affect your comfort and health, with Sacramento potentially experiencing days of poor air quality due to wildfires. Understanding these differences can help you adapt more quickly to your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Sacramento

When considering the move from Detroit, MI to Sacramento, CA , it's crucial to grasp the financial implications. Understanding how the cost of living, taxation , and average incomes compare in these locations can significantly influence your decision-making and budgeting process.

ComparisonDetroitSacramento
Avg. Household Income$36,140$75,311
Cost of Living Index99.4116.2
State Income Tax4.259.3
Avg. Property Tax3.10.81
Avg. Sales Tax6.08.25
Top 3 IndustriesAutomotive, Technology, HealthcareGovernment, Healthcare, Technology
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyHighLower
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Detroit to Sacramento signifies a substantial shift in both income and cost of living. The average household income in Sacramento is roughly double that of Detroit, which may help mitigate the city's higher cost of living index. However, California's state income tax rate is significantly higher than Michigan's, which could impact your net income. Property taxes in Sacramento are considerably lower, offering some relief for homeowners. Additionally, while both cities boast diverse economies, Sacramento tends to have a higher affluence level, which reflects in its poverty and homelessness rates when compared to Detroit. It’s essential to weigh these factors carefully to ensure a smooth financial transition.

Detroit vs. Sacramento Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves more than just geographical change; it includes transitioning into a new socio-political and religious environment. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the comparison of the politics and religion between Detroit & Sacramento to help you understand the community you're moving into.

DetroitSacramento
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticDemocratic leaning
Local PoliticsFocuses on urban renewal and economic redevelopmentEmphasizes environmental policies and inclusivity
ReligionChristianity predominates, along with diverse other faithsDiverse religious landscape with a significant number of unaffiliated residents

When moving from Detroit to Sacramento, you'll find that both cities share a Democratic political orientation, though Detroit has a strong historical tie to the Democratic Party due to its significant labor union influence and urban demographic. Sacramento also leans Democratic but is known for its emphasis on environmental sustainability and progressive policies. In terms of religion, Detroit has a rich religious diversity with a strong presence of Christianity, reflecting its traditional Midwest values. On the other hand, Sacramento's religious landscape is quite varied, with a notable proportion of residents identifying as unaffiliated, pointing towards a more secular or diverse spiritual community. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the broader community values and social norms in your new home.

Detroit vs. Sacramento Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Detroit, MI to Sacramento, CA? This comparison helps you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Whether you rely on public transportation, drive, or are considering the feasibility of living without a car, exploring the differences between these two cities is crucial for planning your new life.

ComparisonDetroitSacramento
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2526
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultManageable

While the average commute time is fairly similar between Detroit and Sacramento, being just a minute apart, the variances in traffic congestion and public transit availability are noteworthy. Detroit's congestion level is slightly higher, which could be attributed to the limited public transit options making it more challenging to get by without a car. In contrast, Sacramento's public transit system opens up more opportunities, making it more feasible to live without personal transportation. If you're considering a move, think about how these differences in traffic flow and public transit accessibility could impact your daily routine and quality of life.

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