Best Grand Rapids to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,401 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Grand Rapids 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 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 | MASS Movers | 9.01 | 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 San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,401 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,823 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to San Jose move is roughly $9,235. 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 | $2,564 | 300 ft³ | 8.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,823 | 450 ft³ | 8.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,334 | 750 ft³ | 8.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,235 | 1100 ft³ | 8.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,353 | 1600 ft³ | 8.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,932 | 1800 ft³ | 8.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids 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) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving across the country can be a daunting process, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a guide comparing local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & San Jose, CA . Whether you're in search of vibrant nightlife, lush parks, or family-friendly communities, this comparison will help you find a new neighborhood in San Jose that mirrors the essence of your current Grand Rapids locale.
| Grand Rapids | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Willow Glen | Family-oriented, with a tight-knit community vibe |
| Heritage Hill | Shasta Hanchett Park | Historic homes, unique architecture |
| Midtown | Downtown San Jose | Urban lifestyle, rich in culture and nightlife |
| Eastown | Soho | Eclectic shopping, diverse dining options |
| Fulton Heights | Almaden Valley | Quiet, residential, with great schools |
| Creston | Berryessa | Growing community, modern amenities |
| Wealthy Street | Santana Row | Upscale shopping, fine dining |
| Belknap Lookout | Communications Hill | Stunning views, newer homes |
| Roosevelt Park | Cambrian Park | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Ottawa Hills | Los Gatos | Affluent, with a strong sense of community |
Exploring neighborhoods like Willow Glen, you'll find a warm community atmosphere reminiscent of East Grand Rapids, along with charming historic homes. Shasta Hanchett Park offers architecture that rivals that of Heritage Hill, boasting streets lined with unique and historic properties. For those drawn to the vibrant, artsy vibe of Eastown, San Jose's Soho is a cultural hotspot providing a plethora of eclectic shops and dining options. Comparatively, if you appreciate the upscale, boutique shopping experience and refined dining options on Wealthy Street, Santana Row is San Jose’s answer, offering a luxurious shopping district nestled within picturesque Mediterranean facades. This detailed exploration will help you pinpoint which San Jose neighborhood could be your new home based on the Grand Rapids locale you love.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to San Jose
Moving across the country is a major decision fraught with both challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to boldly compare the move from Grand Rapids, MI to San Jose, CA, shedding light on the negatives you're leaving behind and the positives waiting for you. By honestly evaluating your relocation, we can help set your expectations for your new life in California.
Grand Rapids, MI- Colder winters
- Less diverse economy
- Smaller city
- Fewer cultural events
San Jose, CA- Mild climate
- Tech job hub
- Larger metro
- Rich cultural scene
San Jose, CA- Higher cost of living
- More crowded
- Urban-centric
- Heavy traffic
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower cost of living
- Community feel
- Accessible nature
- Easy navigation
Moving to San Jose brings you closer to the heart of Silicon Valley, a tech job paradise featuring companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook. Yet, this comes with a spike in living costs compared to Grand Rapids. There, community events like the annual ArtPrize brought locals together, a dynamic less prevalent in the hustle of San Jose. Despite the higher expenses, San Jose compensates with its vibrant cultural scenes, hosting festivals and events in bustling spots such as Santana Row and the historic San Pedro Square Market. The transition from the easy navigation and lower cost of living in Grand Rapids to the tech-centric, culturally rich, but expensive lifestyle in San Jose is significant, but for many, the trade-offs are well worth it.
Grand Rapids vs. San Jose Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & San Jose aims to deepen your understanding of the food scene in both cities. Moving locations can be a significant change, especially when it comes to dining options. Let's dive into the culinary world you're about to explore.
| Grand Rapids | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Wet Burrito | Phở |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Meats | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Banh Mi |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Chili | Tofu Phở |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move from Grand Rapids to San Jose, you'll transition from a city renowned for its comfort foods like wet burritos and smoked meats to one celebrated for its vibrant Vietnamese cuisine and fresh, local produce influenced dishes. San Jose's Little Saigon neighborhood is a must-visit for food lovers, offering authentic Phở and Banh Mi that locals swear by. Additionally, places like Falafel's Drive-In and Original Joe's provide an iconic taste of the city's diverse culinary scene. San Jose's higher health-conscious and foodie scores reflect its abundant fresh produce and innovative vegan options, making it an exciting destination for all food enthusiasts.
Grand Rapids vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Discovering a new favorite eatery can make any city feel like home. This comparison is specially curated to assist you in transitioning your culinary adventures from Grand Rapids to San Jose. Let's make your journey delicious by comparing top restaurants in Grand Rapids to their San Jose counterparts , ensuring you find familiar flavors and ambiance in your new city.
| Grand Rapids | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| San Chez Bistro | La Foret Restaurant | Offering a blend of French and Mediterranean cuisines akin to San Chez's variety. |
| Grove | Plumed Horse | Renowned for its fine dining and farm-to-table philosophy, reminiscent of Grove's approach. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Minato Japanese Restaurant | Known for authentic flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere similar to Maru Sushi. |
| Stella's Lounge | Original Gravity Public House | Offering a wide selection of craft beers and pub fare, much like Stella's vibe. |
| The Chop House | Alexander's Steakhouse | Combines a classic upscale steakhouse experience with an innovative culinary twist like The Chop House. |
| Two Beards Deli | Zanotto's Family Market | Deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches and salads, creating a comparable casual dining feel. |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Paesano Ristorante Italiano | Both are celebrated for their authentic Italian dishes and cozy ambiance. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Hermitage Brewing Company | Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the quality and variety of brews, echoing Founders' reputation. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | The Fish Market San Jose | Offers fresh seafood and a dining experience similar to Leo's, emphasizing quality ingredients. |
| Uncle Cheetah's Soup Shop | Erik's DeliCafé | Known for its comforting soups and sandwiches, providing a casual and welcoming atmosphere akin to Uncle Cheetah's. |
When exploring the bustling streets of San Jose, food aficionados who cherished the dining experiences in Grand Rapids will find solace and excitement in this carefully tailored list. For example, if you've enjoyed the exquisite sushi rolls and ambiance at Maru Sushi & Grill, Minato Japanese Restaurant in San Jose awaits with its authentic flavors and equally inviting atmosphere. Similarly, lovers of the craft beer scene at Founders Brewing Co. will find a new haven at Hermitage Brewing Company, where the dedication to unique and flavorful brews is palpable. These comparisons aim to bridge the culinary journey from Grand Rapids to San Jose, ensuring your palate feels right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the differences in real estate between Grand Rapids, MI, and San Jose, CA, is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle in these cities.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-Century Modern, Colonial | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to schools | Tech-friendly homes, access to parks |
While examining the housing market differences between Grand Rapids and San Jose, a striking contrast in living costs becomes apparent. San Jose's median home price and rent significantly exceed those in Grand Rapids, reflecting the high demand and economic status of California's Bay Area. However, San Jose compensates with its vibrant urban lifestyle, higher walkability, and bikeability scores, making it appealing for those valuing a dynamic city life. The architectural styles also vary, with Grand Rapids offering traditional Mid-Century Modern and Colonial homes, while San Jose showcases its diverse culture through Spanish and Modern designs. These factors combined highlight the unique character and appeal of each city, helping you decide the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two locations. This comparison will help you prepare for the changes in climate and adjust your lifestyle and wardrobe accordingly.
Grand Rapids, MI
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Grand Rapids to San Jose will bring significant changes in weather conditions that you'll likely notice year-round. While the average summer temperatures are similar, winters in San Jose are significantly milder, offering more outdoor activities without the freezing temperatures. San Jose also boasts nearly 100 more days of sunshine annually than Grand Rapids, perfect for those who prefer sunny days over cloudy ones. However, it's important to note that with more sunshine comes a higher average UV index in San Jose, meaning it's crucial to prepare and protect yourself against sun exposure. Adjusting to San Jose's climate may take some time, but understanding these differences will help you make a smoother transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to San Jose
When considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to understand how your finances will be affected. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of the financial differences you might encounter when moving from Grand Rapids, MI to San Jose, CA, covering key aspects such as income, taxes, and living costs.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 0.78 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Education | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lesser |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Significant |
When moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to San Jose, CA, you'll likely notice a dramatic change in your financial landscape. While the average household income in San Jose is almost double that of Grand Rapids, this comes with a significantly higher cost of living index—214 compared to Grand Rapids' 88. This increase is indicative of the expense associated with San Jose's housing market, utilities, and transportation, among other basic necessities. Residents in San Jose also face a higher state income tax, up to 9.3%, alongside a greater sales tax rate. However, the booming technology sector among other lucrative industries suggest opportunities for higher earning potential, somewhat offsetting the cost disparities. This financial portrait underlines the importance of preparing and planning for the economic differences you'll experience when relocating to such a diverse and affluent area as San Jose, CA.
Grand Rapids vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating from one city to another can bring about significant changes, especially when moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to San Jose, CA. This comparison is designed to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences between Grand Rapids & San Jose you might experience in these crucial aspects of community life.
| Grand Rapids | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Republican | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Conservative values in leadership | Progressive politics dominant |
| Religion | Diverse; Christian majority LaGrave Christian Reformed Church | Highly diverse; significant non-religious population |
When moving from Grand Rapids to San Jose, you'll notice a distinct shift in the political landscape, from a community with a mix of political ideologies to one that largely supports Democratic candidates and progressive causes. This is echoed in local politics, where San Jose's leadership and policies reflect a strong commitment to progressive values. Additionally, while religion plays a significant role in both cities, San Jose presents a more diverse range of spiritual beliefs and a notable percentage of residents who identify as non-religious, providing a broad spectrum of communities and perspectives for newcomers to explore.
Grand Rapids vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to San Jose, CA, brings many changes, including adjustments in daily commute times and transportation options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & San Jose is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21.8 | 30.9 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible but challenging |
In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is notably shorter than in San Jose, reflecting less traffic congestion. For those relying on public transportation, San Jose offers slightly better options owing to its comprehensive network, including the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) services, though both cities present challenges in living car-free. Nevertheless, navigating San Jose without a car is more feasible but can still be challenging, indicating a dependence on personal vehicles in both locales.
Additional Resources
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