Best Detroit to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,504 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Detroit to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | 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 San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,504 miles from Detroit, MI to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,911 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to San Jose move is roughly $9,449. 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 | $2,622 | 300 ft³ | 8.74 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,911 | 450 ft³ | 8.69 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,480 | 750 ft³ | 8.64 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,449 | 1100 ft³ | 8.59 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,664 | 1600 ft³ | 8.54 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,282 | 1800 ft³ | 8.49 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with local neighborhoods can ease the transition. In this guide, we compare the most popular neighborhoods in Detroit, MI with their closest counterparts in San Jose, CA, helping you find a new home that feels just right. This comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & San Jose, CA is aimed at making your move smoother.
| Detroit | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Downtown San Jose | Vibrant arts and culture scene |
| Corktown | Willow Glen | Historic homes with a strong sense of community |
| Eastern Market | Japantown | Rich history and bustling market scene |
| Woodbridge | The Alameda | Historic charm with a mix of urban and suburban feel |
| Indian Village | Rose Garden | Beautiful historic homes and gardens |
| Palmer Woods | Almaden Valley | Upscale, with sprawling estates and natural scenery |
| Boston-Edison | Willow Glen | Again matches for its charming historic homes |
| Brush Park | Shasta Hanchett Park | Architectural diversity with cultural depth |
| Lafayette Park | Evergreen | Modernist architecture, spacious parks |
| Rossville | Berryessa | Family-friendly with a balanced urban-rural mix |
For those moving from Detroit's Woodbridge, with its unique blend of historic homes and community-focused living, you'll find The Alameda in San Jose quite appealing, offering a similar mix as well as notable spots like The Alameda ArtWorks. If the bustling market and rich cultural history of Eastern Market captivated you, San Jose's Japantown with its authentic eateries like Kubota and cultural festivals will feel like home. Meanwhile, Detroit’s scenic Indian Village, known for its grand historic residences, finds its counterpart in San Jose’s Rose Garden area, where strolling through the Municipal Rose Garden becomes a visual treat akin to admiring Indian Village's architectural beauty.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to San Jose
Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that entails weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Detroit, MI to San Jose, CA relocation, highlighting the good and the bad to help you visualize what your life might look like after the move. Let's delve into the pros and cons through insightful charts for a clearer outlook on your decision.
Detroit, MI- Lower job opportunities
- Colder winters
- Lower living standards
- Higher crime rates
San Jose, CA- Higher job opportunities
- Mild climate
- Higher living standards
- Lower crime rates
San Jose, CA- Expensive housing
- Less cultural diversity
- Higher living costs
Detroit, MI- Affordable housing
- Rich music culture
- Vibrant city life
Moving from Detroit to San Jose will immerse you in a vastly different lifestyle and climate. San Jose's mild climate eliminates the harsh Michigan winters, offering year-round outdoor activities in places like the Alum Rock Park or the iconic Winchester Mystery House. While the cost of living is significantly higher in San Jose, the economic opportunities, especially in the tech industry, are unparalleled. Meanwhile, Detroit's revered music scene and more affordable housing market could be missed. Restaurants reflecting San Jose’s diverse culinary landscape, like San Pedro Square Market, offer a taste of local and international flavors, ensuring that there's always something new to try in your new city.
Detroit vs. San Jose Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & San Jose to provide an insight into the food culture of both areas. Understanding local cuisine is essential as food is a significant aspect of local culture and living experience.
| Detroit | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Detroit-style Pizza | Phở |
| Most popular meat dish | Coney Dog | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegetable Phở |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In your move from Detroit to San Jose, you'll discover a vibrant change in local culinary offerings, where the beloved Detroit-style pizza and Coney Dogs give way to San Jose's rich Vietnamese cuisine and Mexican flavors, like Phở and Carne Asada. San Jose's Santana Row and downtown areas are bustling hubs for foodies, hosting an array of food trucks and vegan options that echo the city's diverse palate and health-conscious lifestyle. Local favorites such as Falafel's Drive-In, with its classic Mediterranean offerings, and the high-end dining of Manresa, showcasing local California cuisine, highlight the city's varied food scene. Embracing San Jose's culinary diversity will surely be an exciting part of your new adventure.
Detroit vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering new favorite dining spots can be just as important as unpacking. This comparison aims to ease the transition from Detroit, MI to San Jose, CA by matching top restaurants from your current locale with those in your new city, ensuring you feel at home with every meal. Here's a guide to finding your next favorite eateries, using your beloved Detroit spots as a compass.
| Detroit | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Adega | Michelin-starred dining, emphasizing contemporary interpretations of Portuguese cuisine, akin to the inventive seasonal dishes at Selden Standard. |
| Supino Pizzeria | A Slice of New York | Authentic New York-style pizza, mirroring Supino's dedication to quality ingredients and thin crusts. |
| Rose's Fine Food and Wine | Luna Mexican Kitchen | Both focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients for a unique twist on traditional dishes, echoing Rose’s dedication to quality. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Smoking Pig BBQ | Famed for slow-cooked meats and hearty sides, a spot that rivals the beloved flavors of Slows Bar BQ. |
| Dime Store | Scrambl'z | Known for its vast brunch menu, it offers a similar quirky and wholesome dining experience as the Dime Store. |
| Iridescence | Plumed Horse | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on exquisite presentation and innovative dishes. |
| Parc | Orchard City Kitchen | Offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere with a diverse menu, reminiscent of Parc’s approach to American cuisine. |
| Katoi | SP2 Communal Bar + Restaurant | Similar lively atmosphere and creative cocktails, offering a social dining experience akin to Katoi. |
| Astoria Pastry Shop | Peters' Bakery | Known for its array of baked goods, including the famous Burnt Almond cake, comparable to Astoria’s wide selection of pastries. |
| Wright & Company | The Table | Both are known for their small plates and craft cocktails, creating a perfect setting for social gatherings. |
Exploring San Jose's restaurant scene offers the exciting prospect of finding establishments that reflect the same culinary soul and enthusiasm as Detroit's favorites. At Adega, you'll discover a nod to Selden Standard's innovative approach but through the lens of Portuguese cuisine, elevating dining to an art form. Similarly, A Slice of New York brings a piece of the Big Apple to the West Coast with its dedication to authentic flavors and thin crusts, reminiscent of Supino Pizzeria's offerings. Whether it's the smoky allure of slow-cooked meats at Smoking Pig BBQ or the creative brunch dishes at Scrambl'z, each San Jose counterpart echoes a piece of Detroit's rich culinary landscape, ensuring you'll never be far from feeling right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience, making it crucial to understand how Detroit and San Jose differ in this regard. This comparison highlights key aspects such as housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle, providing a clearer picture to help with your move.
| Comparison | Detroit | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Brick Homes | Modern & Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large Lots, Historic Detail | Energy Efficiency, Tech Upgrades |
When moving from Detroit to San Jose, you'll encounter not just a stark difference in housing costs but a shift in lifestyle. San Jose's higher median home prices reflect its booming tech industry and proximity to Silicon Valley, contributing to a vibrant urban lifestyle rating of 8/10. In contrast, Detroit, with its historic architecture, offers more affordable housing but a less urban-centric lifestyle. The walkability and bikeability scores in San Jose also suggest a slightly more active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle compared to Detroit, aligning with its modern and energy-efficient homes.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Detroit vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather varies from Detroit, MI to San Jose, CA is crucial if you're planning a move. This comparison will guide you on what to expect weather-wise in your new city. The purpose of these charts is to compare the weather between Detroit and San Jose, helping you prepare for the differences.
Detroit, MI
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing the climates of Detroit and San Jose, several key differences stand out. San Jose enjoys more days of sunshine per year and milder winters, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities and less need for heavy winter gear. However, San Jose's higher average UV index means you'll need to be more vigilant about sun protection. The shift from dealing with snowstorms in Detroit to preparing for earthquakes and wildfires in San Jose could also require adjustments in your emergency planning. Furthermore, with less annual rainfall and a significant reduction in humidity, San Jose offers a much drier climate, which might influence your daily comfort and lifestyle choices.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to San Jose
When moving from one area to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial differences you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight the key money and finance contrasts between Detroit, MI and San Jose, CA , providing a clearer understanding of what to expect in your new location.
| Comparison | Detroit | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 3.64 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Technology, Healthcare | Technology, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Moving from Detroit to San Jose involves a substantial financial adjustment, with significant differences in the average household income and the cost of living. While Detroit presents a more affordable lifestyle with a lower cost of living index and property taxes, San Jose offers a higher average household income but comes with a hefty cost of living that ranks well above the national average. This sharp contrast is essential to consider for housing affordability, taxation, and overall discretionary spending. Additionally, despite the higher affluence in San Jose, both cities face significant challenges with homelessness, indicating that high income doesn't necessarily equate to fewer social issues.
Detroit vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from Detroit to San Jose, it's insightful to compare the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison of the politics between Detroit & San Jose and the religious landscapes offers a quick glance at the makeup of their populations, helping you understand the social fabric of your new home.
| Detroit | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Largely Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic recovery, urban development | Emphasis on tech industry growth, housing crisis |
| Religion | Christian predominant, diverse religious presence | High religious diversity, significant Asian religious influences |
Living in Detroit, you might be accustomed to a community that leans heavily Democratic, with local politics geared towards urban development and economic revival. San Jose shares a Democratic disposition but shifts focus towards sustaining the tech industry boom and addressing the housing shortage critical to the region. Interestingly, while both cities boast religious diversity, San Jose stands out for its considerable Asian religious influences, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. This diverse social and political climate could offer you fresh perspectives and new communal engagements.
Detroit vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to San Jose, CA requires adjusting to new daily commutes and traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & San Jose helps you better understand what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Detroit | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Challenging |
In Detroit, while the average commute time might be shorter, the city’s reliance on automobiles makes it difficult for residents to get by without a car. The public transit options are limited compared to San Jose, where the average commute time is slightly longer but the availability of public transit scores higher. Although it's still challenging to live in San Jose without a car, initiatives such as the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offer more comprehensive bus and light rail options to navigate the city. This difference highlights the importance of exploring local transportation services in San Jose to ease your daily commute.
Additional Resources
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Popular Detroit to California Routes
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