Best Detroit to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,464 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Detroit to Santa Rosa 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 Santa Rosa. 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 Santa Rosa Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
2Celis Movers9.379.32Authorized For HHGContact
3Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.468.22Authorized For 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 Santa Rosa

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,464 miles from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $3,877 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Santa Rosa move is roughly $9,366. 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$2,599300 ft³8.66
1 Bedroom$3,877450 ft³8.61
2 Bedrooms$6,423750 ft³8.56
3 Bedrooms$9,3661100 ft³8.51
4 Bedrooms$13,5431600 ft³8.46
5+ Bedrooms$15,1461800 ft³8.41
*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 Santa Rosa to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Santa Rosa Movers

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Celis Movers Logo

Celis Movers

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,982+ data points

601 Petaluma Blvd N C

Petaluma, CA, 94952

About Celis Movers

Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Nationwide moving services
  • Strategic warehousing locations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2594954 / 921948

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved95,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
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. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, it's helpful to find a slice of familiarity in your new city. With this in mind, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Here, we focus on comparing local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Santa Rosa, CA to find the most similar community vibes, amenities, and lifestyles.

DetroitSanta RosaHow They're Similar
MidtownRailroad SquareArtistic and bustling
CorktownWest EndHistoric with a vibrant community
Indian VillageMontgomery VillageHistoric homes, shopping district
WoodbridgeBennett ValleyFamily-friendly, green spaces
Palmer WoodsFountaingroveUpscale, with scenic views
Boston EdisonProctor TerraceEarly 20th century charm
RiverfrontStony PointWaterfront living, nature paths
Sherwood ForestHidden ValleyQuiet, with mature trees
Brush ParkRidgway Historic DistrictUrban renewal, historic
Lafayette ParkJuilliard ParkModernist architecture, community-focused

Diving deeper, if you’re drawn to the artistic flair and community-centered atmosphere of Detroit's Midtown, you will find Railroad Square in Santa Rosa a perfect blend of art, local cuisine, and engaging community events. Much like Corktown’s vibrant scene and historic charm, West End in Santa Rosa offers a quaint backdrop filled with historic buildings and a close-knit community that celebrates local culture through events. For those who appreciate the upscale tranquility and architectural grandeur of Palmer Woods, Fountaingrove presents an equally impressive neighborhood featuring luxurious homes and breathtaking landscapes in Santa Rosa, including exclusive access to Fountaingrove Club’s golf and athletic facilities. These comparisons offer just a glimpse into the seamless transition available for Detroit residents looking to find a new home in Santa Rosa, where the essence of your favorite neighborhood can be rediscovered amidst California’s scenic beauty and diverse communities.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa

Moving from one city to another is a journey filled with changes. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA . Through contrasting charts, we evaluate the unique aspects of each locale, enabling you to weigh the pros and cons in a comprehensive manner.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher crime rates
  • Colder winters
  • Declining industries
  • Less green space
  • Economic challenges
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder climate
  • Thriving wine industry
  • More parks and trails
  • Booming economy
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer cultural landmarks
  • Lesser sports presence
  • Few industrial positions
  • Less water access
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Affordable housing
  • Rich music heritage
  • Strong sports culture
  • Vibrant auto industry
  • Vast water access

Relocating to Santa Rosa, CA, introduces you to a world-renowned wine country, featuring esteemed establishments like the Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens and the picturesque Sonoma County vineyards. This bucolic landscape offers numerous outdoor activities, with Sonoma County Parks providing an expansive network of trails for hiking and biking. Meanwhile, Detroit's rich music history is palpable in iconic venues like the Motown Museum, celebrating the city's storied past. While Santa Rosa’s cost of living might be higher, its economy, bolstered by agriculture and tourism, offers diverse job opportunities, contrasting Detroit’s reliance on the auto industry. Each city presents a unique lifestyle, influenced by their cultural, economic, and environmental attributes.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial when relocating, as food plays an integral role in the local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Santa Rosa to help you get acquainted with what awaits your palate in your new home.

DetroitSanta Rosa
Most iconic local food itemConey DogWine Country Cuisine
Most popular meat dishDetroit-style PizzaGrass-fed Beef Burgers
Most popular street food itemGyrosTacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan KebabsQuinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Buddy's Pizza
  • St. Francis Winery & Vineyards
  • Russian River Brewing Company
  • Willi's Wine Bar
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In comparing the food scenes of Detroit and Santa Rosa, it's evident that each city offers a unique dining experience reflective of its culture and local resources. Detroit, known for its hearty and comforting cuisine such as the Coney Dog and Detroit-style Pizza, satisfies cravings for traditional, flavor-packed meals. Exploring neighborhoods like Midtown Detroit, you'll find a melting pot of culinary offerings, from classic diners to innovative vegan spots. Santa Rosa, nestled in the heart of wine country, offers a different vibe, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and wine pairings. Restaurants and food trucks here cater to a health-conscious crowd, with plenty of options for vegan and vegetarian diners. Neighborhoods like Downtown Santa Rosa are culinary hotspots, where you can indulge in everything from upscale dining at Willi's Wine Bar to casual eats at local food trucks serving farm-to-table fare.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison

Finding the right local eatery can turn a new city into a cozy home. This restaurant comparison between Detroit and Santa Rosa will guide you towards your next favorite dining spot. Whether you're craving something high-end, casual, or iconically local, our comparison aims to make your transition as delicious as possible.

DetroitSanta RosaWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardJohn Ash & Co.Both offer a fine dining experience with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Slows Bar BQSonoma County BBQCaptures the essence of slow-cooked barbecue with a Northern California twist.
Supino PizzeriaWild Goat BistroOffers artisanal pizzas with unique toppings, echoing Supino's quality and creativity.
Avalon International BreadsVillage BakeryBoth bakeries are cherished in their communities for delicious, freshly-baked goods.
Taqueria Lupita'sEl CoquiBoth are go-to spots for authentic, flavorful Latin cuisine in their respective cities.
Rose's Fine FoodDierk's Parkside CafeKnown for homey vibes and delectable comfort food, perfect for any meal.
Buddy's PizzaRosso Pizzeria & Wine BarWhile known for their pizza, they also blend a touch of Italian flair, similar to Buddy's iconic Detroit-style pies.
Al-AmeerEast West CafeOffers a diverse menu with Middle Eastern favorites, capturing the heart of Al-Ameer's offerings.
Rose's Fine FoodDierk's Parkside CafeEchoes Rose's commitment to quality, local ingredients and friendly service.
Grey Ghost DetroitStark’s Steak & SeafoodBoth establishments are celebrated for their exceptional meat dishes and refined atmosphere.

When you move from Detroit to Santa Rosa, you'll find that your culinary cravings can be satisfied with ease. At John Ash & Co., you'll encounter an exquisite dining experience reminiscent of Selden Standard, where the emphasis on farm-to-table ingredients stands out. For BBQ enthusiasts missing Slows Bar BQ's mouth-watering dishes, Sonoma County BBQ provides that familiar comfort with a local twist. Pizza lovers who cherished Supino Pizzeria's unique flavors will find a welcoming alternative in Wild Goat Bistro's artisanal offerings. This careful selection of Santa Rosa restaurants mirrors the diverse and vibrant food scene of Detroit, ensuring that no matter where you dine, you'll feel right at home.

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Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects when planning a move. It's crucial to understand how the real estate markets of Detroit, MI, and Santa Rosa, CA, compare. This comparison will delve into various aspects of housing to ensure you make an informed decision.

ComparisonDetroitSanta Rosa
Typical Architecture StyleHistoric Brick HomesModern and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to DowntownWinery Proximity, Views

Moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa will showcase a significant change in housing costs, with Santa Rosa presenting a steeper market, both regarding median home prices and monthly rent. While Detroit offers historical charm with its characteristic brick homes, Santa Rosa is more inclined towards modern architecture with craftsman influences, appealing to those who favor contemporary living spaces. The lifestyle in Santa Rosa also leans towards a more urban feel, underscored by its higher walkability and bikeability scores, which might be attractive for those looking for an active, outdoorsy lifestyle amidst California's famed vineyards.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA

1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.

2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.

3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This comparison will shed light on the key climatic differences between your current and future homes, ensuring you're well-prepared for the transition.

Summer icon
83°F / 63°F

Detroit, MI

82°F / 52°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 19°F

Detroit, MI

60°F / 41°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
33"

Detroit, MI

36"

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
34"

Detroit, MI

0"

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDetroitSanta Rosa
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa, you'll find yourself enjoying more sunny days and milder winters, a pleasant change for those accustomed to harsh, snowy winters. The stark difference in the number of sunny days highlights Santa Rosa's more temperate climate. However, be mindful of the change in natural disaster risks; while leaving behind the snowstorms and occasional tornadoes of Detroit, you'll need to prepare for the possibility of earthquakes and wildfires in California. Additionally, the higher average UV index in Santa Rosa calls for a more diligent sunscreen routine to protect against stronger sun exposure.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. How does the cost of living and the economic landscape in Detroit compare to Santa Rosa? This comparison aims to unveil crucial financial differences and similarities that could impact your decision and adaptation process.

ComparisonDetroitSanta Rosa
Avg. Household Income$36,140$86,459
Cost of Living Index99.4136.4
State Income Tax4.259.3
Avg. Property Tax2.30.79
Avg. Sales Tax68.25
Top 3 IndustriesAutomotive, Technology, HealthcareWine, Technology, Healthcare
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessNotableModerate

The financial landscape of Detroit and Santa Rosa reveals profound disparities, critical for anyone considering a relocation. While Detroit's average household income is notably lower, it’s also paired with a significantly lower cost of living index, meaning your dollar may stretch further here than in Santa Rosa. However, Santa Rosa boasts a higher affluence level, potentially offering a higher quality of life for those who can afford it. The stark contrast in state income tax and property tax rates between the two cities further highlights the financial adjustments required when moving from Michigan to California. Lastly, despite both cities having robust healthcare and technology sectors, Santa Rosa's renowned wine industry adds a unique economic dimension you might find appealing.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can significantly shift your daily experience, especially when considering the local community's political and religious composition. This quick guide offers a comparison of the politics between Detroit & Santa Rosa, providing a snapshot of what to expect in your new neighborhood.

DetroitSanta Rosa
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on urban development, crime reductionEmphasis on environmental issues, housing
ReligionDiverse; strong African American churchesVaried; significant Catholic and non-denominational Christian presence

In both Detroit and Santa Rosa, you'll find communities that lean Democratic, but the local political concerns and priorities can vary significantly. Detroit has a strong focus on urban development and crime reduction, reflecting its urban landscape and challenges. In contrast, Santa Rosa's politics often center around environmental conservation and housing issues, indicative of California's broader political and social concerns. On the religious front, Detroit’s religious makeup is incredibly diverse, with strong African American church communities. Meanwhile, Santa Rosa offers a variety of religious congregations, including a significant presence of Catholic and non-denominational Christian communities. Understanding these differences can assist in smoother acclimatization to your new home.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Santa Rosa is essential for planning your daily commute and traffic navigations. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when making the move from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA.

ComparisonDetroitSanta Rosa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, but challenging

In Detroit, the average commute time is slightly longer and the city experiences a higher level of traffic congestion compared to Santa Rosa. However, the availability of public transit in Santa Rosa is considered to be more accessible, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car, though it still presents its challenges. Santa Rosa's less congested roads offer a smoother commute, yet relying solely on public transport can limit access to certain areas. Overall, transitioning from Detroit's traffic dynamics to Santa Rosa's may require some adjustments, particularly in planning daily travel routes and considering the feasibility of commuting without a personal vehicle.

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