Best Grand Rapids to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,189 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 Grand Rapids to Los Angeles 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 Best California 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 Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | MASS Movers | 9.02 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Powell Relocation Group | 8.88 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,189 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $3,643 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Los Angeles move is roughly $8,794. 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 | $2,443 | 300 ft³ | 8.14 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,643 | 450 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,034 | 750 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,794 | 1100 ft³ | 7.99 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,712 | 1600 ft³ | 7.94 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,211 | 1800 ft³ | 7.89 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |
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) |
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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Making the move from Grand Rapids, MI to Los Angeles, CA can be daunting, especially when navigating the diverse neighborhoods each city offers. To ease this transition, we’ve identified key locales in both cities to help you find your new community. By comparing neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Los Angeles, CA , we aim to find a slice of familiarity in your new urban canvas while embracing the unique nuances that make each area special.
| Grand Rapids | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Eastown | Los Feliz | Vibrant, artsy community with boutique shopping |
| Heritage Hill | Hancock Park | Historic homes, quiet streets |
| Midtown | Atwater Village | Hip, up-and-coming with local eateries |
| Gaslight Village | Larchmont Village | Cozy, pedestrian-friendly shopping area |
| Fulton Heights | Highland Park | Diverse, community-oriented with historic homes |
| Heartside District | Arts District | Creative, with galleries and lofts |
| Creston | Studio City | Family-friendly, lots of local amenities |
| Ottawa Hills | Encino | Suburban feel, upscale living |
| Roosevelt Park | Boyle Heights | Culturally rich, vibrant community life |
| Bridgewater Place | Downtown LA | Urban living, high-rise apartments |
For those who love the artsy and vibrant atmosphere of Eastown in Grand Rapids, you'll find Los Feliz to be a delightful L.A. counterpart, where indie movie theaters like Vista Theatre and eateries such as Alcove Cafe & Bakery dominate the scene. Similarly, if you appreciate the historic charm and quiet streets of Heritage Hill, Hancock Park's elegant estates and lush greenery offer an upscale Los Angeles alternative. For a taste of local Grand Rapids community life similar to Fulton Heights, Highland Park presents an eclectic mix of vintage shops, such as Highland Park Bowl, alongside modern restaurants, creating a unique neighborhood blend that reflects the best of both cities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Los Angeles, CA offers a unique opportunity to weigh the potential benefits against the drawbacks of such a relocation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this move. Through exploring how daily life, opportunities, and environments differ between these two cities, we hope to offer valuable insights for anyone considering this transition.
Grand Rapids, MI- Colder climate
- Smaller job market
- Less diversity
- Fewer cultural venues
- Quaint dining options
Los Angeles, CA- Sunny weather
- Bigger job market
- More diversity
- Rich cultural scene
- World-renowned cuisine
Los Angeles, CA- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Can feel isolated
- Urban landscape
Grand Rapids, MI- Laid-back lifestyle
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Community feel
- Abundant nature
Moving from the cozy, community-oriented atmosphere of Grand Rapids to the bustling, vibrant lifestyle of Los Angeles presents both challenges and opportunities. You'll trade the snowy winters and quiet streets for the sunny beaches and dynamic neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Embrace the chance to explore the rich cultural tapestry, from the iconic Los Angeles County Museum of Art to the trendy eateries in Silver Lake. While the cost of living and traffic in Los Angeles present hurdles, the city's diverse community and vast array of entertainment, dining, and outdoor activities offer a rewarding lifestyle. The transition might be significant, but the potential for personal and professional growth in Los Angeles is immense.
Grand Rapids vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Los Angeles is crucial as food significantly contributes to the local culture and lifestyle. By exploring the culinary scenes of both cities, you'll be better prepared for what awaits in your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Michigan-style hot dogs | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Beer Braised Beef | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Chili | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Los Angeles, the diversity of the food scene will amaze you; every neighborhood offers something unique. For example, in Downtown LA, Grand Central Market serves as a food haven with vendors like La Tostadería offering fresh seafood. Meanwhile, Echo Park is home to vegan delights such as the acclaimed Guisados for plant-based eaters craving traditional flavors in a vegan format. Furthermore, the food truck scene in LA is unrivaled, providing a myriad of options from Korean BBQ to organic smoothies, reflecting the city's vast palette and health-conscious mindset.
Grand Rapids vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the importance of food in making a place feel like home, this guide aims to compare top restaurants in Grand Rapids with equivalent spots in Los Angeles , helping you find your new culinary loves. These comparisons are tailored to mirror the diverse dining experiences from high-end to casual, ensuring you'll feel right at home in your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Grove | Providence | High-end dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
| Butcher's Union | Republique | Known for meat-centric dishes and a dynamic atmosphere |
| Marcona on Lyon | Bottega Louie | European-inspired bistro with a wide range of offerings |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Osteria Mamma | Comforting home-style Italian meals |
| Two Scotts Barbecue | Bludso's BBQ | Authentic BBQ joint with a loyal following |
| Stella's Lounge | The Varnish | Expertly crafted cocktails and chill vibes |
| Madcap Coffee | Intelligentsia Coffee | A pioneer in the third-wave coffee movement |
| Cherry Deli & Catering | Gjusta | Deli-style service with an eclectic mix of baked goods and sandwiches |
| San Chez a Tapas Bistro | Bäco Mercat | Offers a unique take on small plates and a global culinary journey |
| The Electric Cheetah | Sqirl | Innovative dishes that cater to a health-conscious audience |
Dining in Los Angeles is an adventurous culinary journey where every bite tells a story about its diverse culture and food scene, echoing the rich offerings back in Grand Rapids. If you cherished the farm-to-table experience at Grove, you'll find Providence's seasonally inspired plates equally enchanting. For those who enjoyed the cozy, family-like atmosphere of Amore Trattoria Italiana, Osteria Mamma's rustic Italian fare will make you feel right at home. And when it comes to coffee aficionados transitioning from Madcap Coffee, Intelligentsia Coffee bars in Los Angeles offer an equally enthusiastic commitment to quality and craft in their brews. The seamless blend of familiar comforts and new flavors in Los Angeles ensures you'll always have a taste of home, no matter where you dine.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation journey, so understanding how Grand Rapids and Los Angeles compare in terms of housing will aid in making an informed decision. This comparison takes into account various factors like cost, architecture, walkability, and more to paint a comprehensive picture of what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Modern and Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Family-friendly | Ocean views, Proximity to amenities |
In terms of housing, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rents between Grand Rapids and Los Angeles underscores the significant cost of living adjustment one might need to consider when moving. In Grand Rapids, the more affordable housing market aligns with its charming Prairie and Craftsman-style homes often listed with large yards, catering to a family-friendly atmosphere. On the other hand, Los Angeles, with its higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, offers Modern and Spanish Colonial architecture, with listings frequently boasting ocean views and proximity to urban amenities. This difference not only affects affordability but also influences the lifestyle and daily experiences in each city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Grand Rapids vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
Moving between cities is a significant change, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the climate shifts can help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison aims to highlight the climatic differences between Grand Rapids, MI, and Los Angeles, CA, essential for anticipating lifestyle adjustments.
Grand Rapids, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Winter storms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles, you'll notice a dramatic shift in weather. Los Angeles boasts significantly more sunny days and milder winters, creating an opportunity for year-round outdoor activities. However, this climate comes with its own challenges, such as higher UV indexes and potential for wildfires. Understanding these differences helps in adapting to your new home, from choosing appropriate clothing to preparing your home for the local weather conditions and natural disaster risks.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might shift. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance between Grand Rapids and Los Angeles , giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and the overall economic landscape. Understanding these differences will assist in making an informed decision and preparing accordingly.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 13.3 (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Health Care, Manufacturing, Education | Entertainment, Aerospace, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
When diving deeper into the financial aspects of moving from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles, a few factors stand out. The jump in the cost of living index from 90 in Grand Rapids to 173 in Los Angeles highlights the much higher expenses you will face, particularly in terms of housing and daily living costs. Despite a seemingly higher average household income in Los Angeles, the state income tax reaches up to 13.3%, significantly more than Michigan's flat rate of 4.25%. This disparity emphasizes the need for careful financial planning and consideration of how the economic environment in Los Angeles will impact your budget and lifestyle. The difference in principal industries also suggests a potential shift in job opportunities, which could be a critical factor in your move.
Grand Rapids vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Los Angeles aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in these two cities. This section helps you to understand the cultural context of your new home in contrast to what you're used to.
| Grand Rapids | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Greater emphasis on local businesses and economic development | Strong focus on environmental policies and social issues |
| Religion | Strong presence of Christian Reformed and Catholic communities | Diverse religious landscape with significant numbers of Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist communities |
While moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Los Angeles, CA, you'll notice a stark contrast in both the political and religious landscapes. Grand Rapids has a more conservative leaning, with a significant focus on local businesses and a strong presence of Christian communities. In contrast, Los Angeles boasts a liberal stance, emphasizing environmental policies and social issues, reflecting its diverse population. The religious makeup in Los Angeles is notably varied, housing significant Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist communities among others. This diversity in thought and belief systems shapes the unique cultural fabric of Los Angeles, offering a broad spectrum of perspectives and communities to engage with.
Grand Rapids vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Los Angeles, CA, one significant aspect to examine is the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Los Angeles. This overview aims to give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible but difficult |
In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is notably shorter, and traffic congestion is less intense than in Los Angeles. This is largely due to Grand Rapids being a smaller city with less dense urban development. The availability of public transit in both cities is somewhat moderate, although Los Angeles offers slightly better options with its extensive network of buses and rail lines, including the Metro. However, navigating L.A. without a car can still be challenging due to the vast distances between different parts of the city. Conversely, Grand Rapids' less extensive public transit system makes it harder to rely on as your sole means of transportation, echoing the city's more car-dependent layout.
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