Best Grand Rapids to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,322 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Grand Rapids to Fresno 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 MASS Movers), 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 Grand Rapids compared to Fresno. 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 Grand Rapids to Fresno Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MASS Movers | 9.02 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Powell Relocation Group | 8.88 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | All In A Day Moving Services | 8.75 | 8.7 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pete's Moving Services LLC | 8.43 | 8.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Fresno
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,322 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Fresno, CA will cost on average $3,756 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Fresno move is roughly $9,071. 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 | $2,519 | 300 ft³ | 8.40 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,756 | 450 ft³ | 8.35 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,222 | 750 ft³ | 8.30 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,071 | 1100 ft³ | 8.25 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,114 | 1600 ft³ | 8.20 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,663 | 1800 ft³ | 8.15 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Fresno Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |
Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (2023) |
Powell Relocation Group
4937 Starr St SE
Grand Rapids, MI, 49546
About Powell Relocation Group
Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not need to...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Services
- Corporate Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 261884 / 176235 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
| Registered Drivers | 50 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 900,000 (2021) |
All In A Day Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by All In A Day Moving Services1022 W 18th St #4
Merced, CA, 85340
About All In A Day Moving Services
All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving
- Piano moving
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3861667 / 1410881 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
Pete's Moving Services LLC
4807 Greenleaf Ct suite a
Modesto, CA, 95356
About Pete's Moving Services LLC
Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commercial relocations in...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3314910 / 1177987 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2020) |
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to an unfamiliar city can be daunting. To ease the transition, we've compared Grand Rapids, MI & Fresno, CA neighborhoods to help you find areas in Fresno that mirror the community vibe you love. Our guide will assist in making Fresno feel like home by aligning it with your Grand Rapids preferences.
| Grand Rapids | Fresno | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Eastown | Tower District | Culturally rich, artsy vibe |
| Heritage Hill | Old Fig Garden | Historic homes, mature trees |
| Midtown | The Tower District | Diverse community, unique shops |
| Heartside | Downtown Fresno | Growing arts scene, urban |
| Riverside Park | Woodward Park | Ample greenspace, river access |
| Cherry Hill | Sunnyside | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Belknap Lookout | Bluff View | Panoramic views, close-knit community |
| Medical Mile | North Growth Area | Healthcare hub, expansion |
| Creston | Bullard | Family-friendly, local parks |
| Westside | Pinedale | Industrial roots, evolving |
For example, if you're drawn to the historical charm and tree-lined streets of Heritage Hill in Grand Rapids, Old Fig Garden in Fresno will captivate you with its similarly stately homes nestled among towering mature trees. Both neighborhoods boast a palpable sense of history and community. Meanwhile, lovers of the artsy and vibrant lifestyle of Eastown will find a kindred spirit in Fresno's Tower District. This neighborhood is renowned for its cultural richness, hosting numerous art galleries, theaters, and live music venues akin to those back in Grand Rapids. For outdoor enthusiasts accustomed to the vast expanses and recreational activities of Riverside Park, Woodward Park in Fresno offers an expansive space for exploration, including the beautiful Shinzen Japanese Garden, numerous trails, and picnic areas. Whether it's the historic neighborhoods, the bustling arts scene, or the serene parks, transitioning from Grand Rapids to Fresno is an opportunity to rediscover the familiar charms of home in a new cityscape.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Fresno
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison between Grand Rapids, MI and Fresno, CA is designed to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision.
Grand Rapids, MI- Colder winters
- Lesser dining options
- Smaller job market
- Fewer outdoor activities
- Higher crime rates
Fresno, CA- Milder winters
- Broad culinary scene
- Larger job market
- Vast outdoor activities
- Comparatively safer areas
Fresno, CA- Less cultural diversity
- Less communal vibe
- Higher living costs
- Fewer water activities
- Dependent economy
Grand Rapids, MI- Rich cultural landscape
- Community-oriented
- Affordable living
- Abundant water activities
- Strong local economy
While relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Fresno, CA, you'll trade the frosty winters for Fresno's milder climate, a feature especially appreciated by those not fond of shoveling snow. Fresno boasts a vibrant culinary scene with establishments like The Annex Kitchen offering contemporary Italian cuisine that utilizes the rich produce of the San Joaquin Valley. For outdoor enthusiasts, the proximity of Yosemite National Park presents an irresistible appeal with its vast range of activities and breathtaking views. Although Fresno has a higher cost of living, it compensates with a stronger job market and safer neighborhoods, making it a place worth considering for your next move. Popular areas like the Tower District are hubs for entertainment and dining, combining a sense of community with urban conveniences.
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is a window into the culture and lifestyle of a place you're moving into. Here, we will compare the local cuisine between Grand Rapids, MI & Fresno, CA to equip you with insights into the food scene of your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Fresno | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Michigan Pasties | California Raisins |
| Most popular meat dish | Sizzling Steaks | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Grand Rapids, you'll find the city boasts a diverse food scene reflective of its cultural heritage and innovative spirit. Michigan Pasties, a comfort food staple, can often be found at local markets or family restaurants. For craft beer enthusiasts, Founders Brewing Co. is a must-visit. Transitioning to Fresno, the emphasis on fresh, local ingredients is palpable. The city's agricultural abundance shines through dishes like Tri-tip BBQ, an iconic representation of Central California's cuisine. Fresno's strong food truck scene and high vegan-friendliness score indicate a vibrant, evolving food scene. Neighborhoods like the Tower District are especially notable for their culinary variety, from farm-to-table restaurants to casual street food spots.
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot can make a new city feel like home. Specially tailored for those moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Fresno, CA, this restaurant comparison chart will bridge your transition between these two cities by highlighting comparable dining experiences. Whether you are searching for a cozy brunch spot or an elegant dinner venue, this guide aims to assist you in discovering your next go-to eatery.
| Grand Rapids | Fresno | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Grove | The Annex Kitchen | Refined farm-to-table dining |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Sakanaya | Authentic Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi |
| The Green Well | The Lime Lite | Innovative New American fare |
| San Chez Bistro | Max's Bistro & Bar | Eclectic Mediterranean-inspired dishes |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Pismo's Coastal Grill | Fresh seafood options and a lively atmosphere |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. Beer Garden | Craft beers and casual eats |
| Madcap Coffee Company | Collect Coffee Bar | Specialty coffees and a vibrant community feel |
| Butcher's Union | Five Restaurant | Classic Italian dishes with a modern twist |
| Harmony Brewing Company | Sequoia Brewing Company | Local brews and hearty pub fare |
| Electric Cheetah | The Painted Table | Creative and casual dining experiences |
When craving Japanese cuisine, residents moving from Grand Rapids to Fresno will find Sakanaya a welcoming spot that parallels Maru Sushi & Grill with its authenticity and selection of fresh sushi. For those who appreciate a Good craft beer and a relaxed ambiance, Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. Beer Garden offers a Fresno answer to Grand Rapids' Founders Brewing Co., showcasing a variety of local brews along with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day. Moreover, The Annex Kitchen in Fresno captures the spirit of farm-to-table dining comparable to Grove, offering dishes that are not only soul-satisfying but also made with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every meal is fresh and of the highest quality.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when you're relocating. Understanding how housing costs, architecture, and lifestyles in Grand Rapids and Fresno compare, can help you make an informed decision. This comparison sheds light on the key differences and similarities.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Craftsman | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to parks, Open floor plans | Large backyards, Proximity to nature |
When comparing housing in Grand Rapids with Fresno, several factors stand out. Grand Rapids boasts a slightly more affordable housing market, making it attractive for first-time homebuyers and renters. Its architecture often highlights the Prairie and Craftsman styles, reflecting the city's rich history and cultural heritage. On the other hand, Fresno offers a blend of Spanish Revival and Modern architecture, appealing to those seeking a mix of traditional charm and contemporary design. Additionally, though both cities present unique urban lifestyles, Grand Rapids slightly edges out with its vibrant downtown area and higher bikeability score, indicating a somewhat more active lifestyle. Lastly, real estate listings in both cities underscore key selling points: Grand Rapids emphasizes proximity to parks and open layouts, while Fresno listings often highlight large backyards and closeness to nature, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Fresno, CA, it's crucial to compare the climate differences. Understanding the weather changes between Grand Rapids and Fresno will help you adjust better to your new surroundings and prepare for any significant variations.
Grand Rapids, MI
Fresno, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Fresno, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Fresno, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Fresno, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Ice Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating from Grand Rapids to Fresno, you'll experience a dramatic shift in weather. Fresno enjoys a significantly higher number of sunny days, lower humidity levels, and much warmer summers. Weather-related challenges also vary, with Fresno facing potential risks such as earthquakes and wildfires, contrasting Grand Rapids' snow and ice storms. The adjustment to Fresno's drier climate means preparing for hotter summers, milder winters, and less rainfall but also dealing with more intense UV exposure and different allergen profiles.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Fresno
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Fresno, CA, it's crucial to compare financial aspects to adapt your budget effectively. This comparison will help you understand the differences in the cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities between Grand Rapids and Fresno , ensuring you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $61,250 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 117.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 13.3 (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education | Agriculture, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Low to Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
For those considering the move from Grand Rapids to Fresno, it's important to note key financial differences. For instance, despite Fresno's lower average household income, the cost of living index is significantly higher than in Grand Rapids. This could impact your budgeting, as daily and monthly expenses may be more than expected. Additionally, California's higher maximum state income tax rate could affect your take-home pay. However, the average property tax in Fresno is considerably lower, potentially making homeownership more attainable for some. Finally, while both cities have robust healthcare and manufacturing industries, Fresno's economy is also significantly supported by agriculture, offering unique employment opportunities not as prevalent in Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Grand Rapids, MI to Fresno, CA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Fresno aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of both cities, helping you get a sense of where you might fit in best.
| Grand Rapids | Fresno | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mixed city governance with a significant progressive shift in recent elections | Diverse city council with a history of both Democratic and Republican leadership |
| Religion | High concentration of Christian Reformed and Catholic communities | Diverse religious landscape, including Christian, Buddhist, and Islamic communities |
Both Grand Rapids and Fresno offer unique lifestyles shaped by their local politics and religious communities. Grand Rapids, with its conservative leanings, has seen a progressive shift in recent years, reflecting a complex and dynamic political landscape. Its religious scene is predominantly Christian, with deep historical roots in the Christian Reformed and Catholic traditions. Fresno, on the other hand, leans more liberal politically, and this is reflected in its diverse city council. The city's religious makeup is notably diverse, welcoming a wide range of faiths including Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of Fresno, offering new residents a tapestry of communities to explore and belong to.
Grand Rapids vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. It's crucial for you to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Fresno to better grasp what your daily commute and life will look like. This comparison aims to make your transition smoother by laying out what you can expect on the roads and with public transit in both cities.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21.8 | 22.3 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With Difficulty | Challenging |
When planning your move, it's important to note that both Grand Rapids and Fresno offer manageable average commute times, with Fresno being slightly higher at 22.3 minutes compared to Grand Rapids' 21.8 minutes. Traffic congestion is relatively low in both cities, making for a smoother commute than in larger urban areas. However, when it comes to public transportation, both cities have room for improvement, though Grand Rapids scores slightly higher. This subtly implies a better developed public transportation infrastructure, which might influence your decision if relying on public transit is a priority. Nevertheless, living without a car in both cities can pose challenges, indicating a dependency on personal vehicles for convenience and mobility.
Additional Resources
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