Best Detroit to Sunnyvale Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Sunnyvale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,534 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 Detroit to Sunnyvale 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 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 Sunnyvale. 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 Sunnyvale 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 | 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 Sunnyvale
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,534 miles from Detroit, MI to Sunnyvale, CA will cost on average $3,936 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Sunnyvale move is roughly $9,512. 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 | $2,639 | 300 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,936 | 450 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,523 | 750 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,512 | 1100 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,755 | 1600 ft³ | 8.60 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,384 | 1800 ft³ | 8.55 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sunnyvale to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Sunnyvale 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) |
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. Sunnyvale Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but comparing it to what you know can help. In this guide, we'll ease the transition by drawing parallels between the lively neighborhoods of Detroit, MI & Sunnyvale, CA . Whether you're seeking a bustling community or a quiet enclave, understanding the similarities between your old and new neighborhoods can make all the difference.
| Detroit | Sunnyvale | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Downtown Sunnyvale | Vibrant urban center, cultural activities |
| Corktown | Heritage District | Historic charm, community focus |
| Indian Village | Snail | Residential with historic homes, quiet ambiance |
| Woodbridge | Old Orchard | Lush greenery, community vibe |
| Eastern Market | Washington Park | Bustling market scene, local eateries |
| West Village | Birdland | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Riverfront | Lakewood | Waterfront views, recreational activities |
| Boston-Edison | Ponderosa Park | Architecturally distinct, historic significance |
| Palmer Woods | Cherryhill | Peaceful, upscale residential area |
| Rosedale Park | Raynor Park | Community oriented, family-friendly atmosphere |
If you're moving from Detroit's vibrant Midtown to Sunnyvale, you'll find Downtown Sunnyvale's energetic blend of shops, restaurants, and cultural activities comfortably familiar. Fans of the historic neighborhoods like Corktown will appreciate the Heritage District's commitment to preserving its unique charm while fostering a tight-knit community. Similarly, if you've enjoyed the communal, green spaces of Woodbridge, Old Orchard's lush parks and friendly atmosphere will make you feel right at home. For those accustomed to the market scenes and local eateries in Detroit's Eastern Market, Washington Park offers a bustling environment with a multitude of dining options and vibrant farmers' markets. Each Sunnyvale neighborhood has its unique qualities, but they share similar vibes, community-focused living, and rich histories with their Detroit counterparts, ensuring a smoother transition.
Things to Do in Sunnyvale
Explore the Baylands Nature Preserve.- Attend a workshop at Sunnyvale Public Library.
- Shop at Sunnyvale Town Center.
- Enjoy Central Park activities.
- Visit the Computer History Museum.
- Sample local brews at Faultline Brewing Company.
- Catch a show at Sunnyvale Theatre.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Sunnyvale
Moving from one city to another is a significant change that comes with its own set of challenges and benefits. This comparison aims to provide a balanced view of relocating from Detroit, MI to Sunnyvale, CA , highlighting the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. Here's a closer look at what life might look like on the other side.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Harsh winters
- Lower job growth
- Economic instability
Sunnyvale, CA- Safer neighborhoods
- Mild climate
- Strong tech industry
- Economic opportunities
Sunnyvale, CA- High housing costs
- Less diversity
- Competitive job market
- Less familiar environment
Detroit, MI- Lower cost of living
- Rich cultural history
- Traditional industries
- Strong community feel
Relocating to Sunnyvale, CA, situates you at the heart of Silicon Valley, a global technology hub. This move offers you a chance to work with some of the world's leading tech companies, such as Google and Apple, that are just a short drive away. Sunnyvale's plentiful parks, like the expansive Las Palmas Park, provide endless outdoor activities in the mild climate. You'll also enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual spots like Dishdash to upscale restaurants like The Fish Market. Though the cost of living is higher, especially housing, the quality of life, safety, job opportunities, and climate in Sunnyvale make it an attractive proposition for many considering the move.
Detroit vs. Sunnyvale Food Guide
When considering relocation, it's important to indulge in an exploration of local culture through their culinary delights. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit, MI & Sunnyvale, CA , offering a taste of what awaits your palate in your new home. Understanding these differences helps you better appreciate the food scene of your upcoming environment.
| Detroit | Sunnyvale | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Artichoke Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Barbecue Short Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Shawarma | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Coney | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
The food scene in Sunnyvale stands out with its vibrant mix of cuisines, influenced heavily by the diverse cultures in the Silicon Valley area. For a truly unique experience, locals often recommend exploring the array of food trucks, particularly those offering tacos, which reflect the area’s rich Mexican culinary traditions. Should you crave a bit of innovation in your plant-based diet, Sunnyvale doesn't disappoint with its modern takes on traditional dishes, like the ever-popular avocado toast. Among the eateries, DishDash offers a Middle Eastern flair that stands out, providing an unforgettable dining experience that summarizes the city's eclectic taste.
Detroit vs. Sunnyvale Restaurant Comparison
Finding the perfect spot to dine in a new city can feel daunting, but it's crucial for feeling at home. This guide directly compares top restaurants in Detroit to their counterparts in Sunnyvale , aiding you in discovering new favorite eateries using your current hometown favorites as a map.
| Detroit | Sunnyvale | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | DishDash | Middle Eastern cuisine with a focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients. |
| Lady of the House | Daisy's Taqueria | Offers a cozy, upscale dining experience with carefully crafted dishes. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Armadillo Willy's BBQ | Authentic BBQ experience with a diversity of flavors and dishes. |
| Supino Pizzeria | A Slice of New York | Known for authentic, East Coast-style pizzas that transport diners. |
| Rose's Fine Food | Hobee's Restaurant | Homey spot for comfort food and a similar dedication to quality. |
| Antietam | Pouring Heart Cafe | Both offer a unique and artistic dining atmosphere with innovative plates. |
| Katoi | Madras Cafe | Renowned for its authentic and bold flavors, mirroring Katoi's innovative approach. |
| Gold Cash Gold | The Oxford | Provides a similar vibe, focusing on comfort foods with a modern twist. |
| Iridescence | Il Fornaio | Upscale dining that emphasizes fine ingredients and sophisticated dishes. |
| Takoi | Dish n Dash | Offers a creative twist on traditional dishes, reflecting Takoi's innovative spirit. |
When transitioning from Detroit to Sunnyvale, you'll find the culinary landscape offers a diverse palette that can comfort and excite. At places like DishDash and A Slice of New York, you'll experience the attention to detail and authentic flavors that made spots like Selden Standard and Supino Pizzeria staples in your Detroit dining routine. Meanwhile, establishments like Armadillo Willy's BBQ in Sunnyvale will ensure your craving for hearty, flavorful BBQ is met with the same gusto as Slows Bar BQ back in Detroit. Each restaurant has been paired with its Sunnyvale counterpart to ensure you can continue to indulge in high-quality, diverse, and comforting meals that mirror the unique dining experiences you cherished back home.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Sunnyvale Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical factor in relocating. Understanding how the housing markets and lifestyles in Detroit, MI and Sunnyvale, CA compare can greatly influence your decision. This guide aims to provide essential insights into these differences.
| Comparison | Detroit | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Bungalows | Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Renovated interiors, Spacious lots | Close to tech campuses, Sustainable features |
When considering a move from Detroit to Sunnyvale, you'll find significant differences in housing and lifestyle. Sunnyvale's housing market is notably more expensive, reflecting its position in Silicon Valley's high-demand area. The city's architecture is predominantly Mid-Century Modern, appealing to those with a taste for history preserved amidst innovation. Moreover, Sunnyvale offers a more walkable and bikeable environment, attributed to its comprehensive urban planning that emphasizes sustainability and accessibility. Listings frequently highlight proximity to major tech campuses and sustainable home features, underlining the locality's appeal to professionals and environmentally conscious residents alike.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sunnyvale, CA
1. Sunnyvale West: With numerous walking paths and its proximity to Las Palmas Park, a dog-friendly park, it's a neighborhood where your pets can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.
2. Cherryhill: Home to the Serra Park, which offers a spacious off-leash area for dogs, making it a haven for pet owners who love to give their pets freedom to roam and play.
3. Snail: Known for its community vibe and access to pet-friendly amenities, including several pet stores and the close-by Raynor Park, where pets can enjoy walks on leashes amidst green surroundings.
Detroit vs. Sunnyvale Weather Considerations
When moving from one city to another, adjusting to new weather conditions is a critical step. This comparison aims to highlight how the climate in Detroit, MI vastly differs from Sunnyvale, CA , helping you prepare for changes in weather patterns, annual sunshine , and natural disaster predispositions unique to each location.
Detroit, MI
Sunnyvale, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Sunnyvale, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Sunnyvale, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Sunnyvale, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Thunderstorms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Detroit and Sunnyvale enjoy mild summers, Sunnyvale promises warmer winters and significantly more sunny days, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the transition from Detroit’s snowy winters to Sunnyvale's dry season means you won't have to deal with snow but should prepare for California’s earthquake and wildfire risks. Also noteworthy is Sunnyvale's superior air quality, offering a healthier environment. Adaptation to these climatic conditions will be key in making your move as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Sunnyvale
When relocating from Detroit, MI, to Sunnyvale, CA, it's pivotal to gauge the economic landscape you're moving into. This includes understanding Detroit and Sunnyvale in terms of finance and how it will affect your wallet. This comparison aims to shed light on the financial differences and help you adjust your budget accordingly.
| Comparison | Detroit | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $156,059 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 3.0 | 0.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Lower | Very High |
| Poverty | High | Low |
| Homelessness | Visible | Moderate |
While the average household income in Sunnyvale is significantly higher than in Detroit, the cost of living there is also substantially higher. The difference is marked, especially when considering the cost of living index, where Sunnyvale is over four times more expensive than Detroit. This stark contrast is further exemplified by the state income tax rate, which is more than double in California compared to Michigan. However, the average property tax rate in Sunnyvale is markedly lower. These discrepancies highlight the importance of financial planning when moving from Detroit to Sunnyvale. Understanding the economic conditions and industries dominant in each city can help you navigate the transition and make informed decisions about employment and housing.
Detroit vs. Sunnyvale Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Detroit, MI to Sunnyvale, CA, it's valuable to know not just about the climate and job opportunities but also what the typical makeup of the population is like, especially in terms of politics between Detroit & Sunnyvale . This quick comparison aims to give you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of each city.
| Detroit | Sunnyvale | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on urban renewal and economic development | Concentrates on technology sector growth and environmental sustainability |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with significant Muslim and Jewish communities | Religiously diverse with large Asian communities bringing Buddhist and Hindu practices |
While both Detroit and Sunnyvale lean Democratic politically, the issues at the forefront of local politics differ significantly due to their economic landscapes and regional priorities. Detroit, with its rich history in the automobile industry, has been focusing efforts on urban renewal and reviving its economic stature. In contrast, Sunnyvale, nestled in Silicon Valley, prioritizes growth in the technology sector and environmental sustainability, reflecting California's broader environmental policies. The religious landscape in these cities also mirrors their cultural diversity. Detroit's long-established Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities contribute to a multifaceted religious scene. Meanwhile, Sunnyvale's diverse population, including significant Asian communities, introduces a variety of religious practices, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, creating a mosaic of cultural and religious identity.
Detroit vs. Sunnyvale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Sunnyvale, CA requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Sunnyvale will help you grasp what to expect when you switch cities.
| Comparison | Detroit | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes, but it's challenging |
The average commute time in both Detroit and Sunnyvale hovers around 24 to 25 minutes, suggesting a relatively similar experience in terms of time spent traveling to work. However, the level of traffic congestion in Sunnyvale is slightly higher, likely due to its proximity to several major tech hubs which attract vast amounts of daily commuters. Detroit's public transit system scores lower than Sunnyvale's, reflecting the high dependency on personal vehicles in Detroit. While Sunnyvale offers better public transit options, thanks to systems like the Caltrain and VTA buses, living without a car can still pose a challenge due to sprawling business locations. Making a transition from Detroit, where a car is almost a necessity, to Sunnyvale might require some adjustment to more actively utilize public transit options available.
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