Best Grand Rapids to Tampa Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,271 mile move from Michigan to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Grand Rapids to Tampa 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 Let's Get Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids compared to Tampa. 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 Tampa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Let's Get Moving | 9.13 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, 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 Tampa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,271 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Tampa, FL will cost on average $2,862 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Tampa move is roughly $6,886. 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 | $1,923 | 300 ft³ | 6.41 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,862 | 450 ft³ | 6.36 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,733 | 750 ft³ | 6.31 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,886 | 1100 ft³ | 6.26 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,936 | 1600 ft³ | 6.21 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,088 | 1800 ft³ | 6.16 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Tampa Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Let's Get Moving
6599 Haines Rd N
St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2270761 / 775415 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
2549 Seven Springs Blvd
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (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. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move can feel daunting, especially when the familiarity of your local neighborhood makes up a big part of your comfort zone. This guide is designed to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Tampa, FL . We'll match top neighborhoods from Grand Rapids with their closest counterparts in Tampa, aiming to give you a sense of familiarity in your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Tampa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Hyde Park | Historic charm, upscale shopping |
| Heritage Hill | Ybor City | Rich history, vibrant community |
| Midtown | Seminole Heights | Artistic vibe, local eateries |
| Gaslight Village | Davis Islands | Exclusive shops, waterfront views |
| Fulton Heights | Palma Ceia | Quiet streets, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Heartside District | Channelside | Modern amenities, lively nightlife |
| Creston | Carrollwood | Suburban feel, community-focused |
| Belknap Lookout | Temple Terrace | Affordable living, educational institutions |
| Roosevelt Park | West Tampa | Rich cultural heritage, redevelopment areas |
| Cherry Hill | SoHo/Hyde Park Village | Trendy bars, high-end boutiques |
For those moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa and looking for a neighborhood with a strong sense of community and history, Ybor City mirrors the cultural richness of Heritage Hill. Here, you'll find the unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences, similar to Heritage Hill's preserved homes and vibrant streets. In contrast, if the vibrant, artsy atmosphere of Midtown captures your heart, you'll find a kindred spirit in Seminole Heights. This Tampa neighborhood boasts an eclectic mix of local coffee shops, like Foundation Coffee, and must-visit eateries such as Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe, ensuring your weekends are always full of local flavor and creativity. Meanwhile, East Grand Rapids residents seeking comparable upscale living with a historic backdrop will feel right at home in Hyde Park, where quaint streets lined with boutiques like Hyde Park Village meet nights filled with fine dining options.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa
Moving from one city to another is a major decision filled with both challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Tampa, FL. By comparing the pros and cons, we hope to offer a comprehensive view to help you make an informed decision about your big move.
Grand Rapids, MI- Cold winters
- Less diversity
- Smaller city vibe
- Less nightlife
- Lower job market
Tampa, FL- Warmer climate
- Greater cultural diversity
- Larger metropolitan area
- Vibrant nightlife
- Expanding job opportunities
Tampa, FL- More crowded
- Higher cost of living
- Hot summers
- Storm / hurricane risk
- Adaptation to new culture
Grand Rapids, MI- Close-knit community
- Lower cost of living
- Beautiful seasons
- Outdoor activities
- Rich cultural heritage
While the warmer climate and vibrant nightlife of Tampa, FL, provide enticing reasons to move, it's essential to consider the lifestyle changes such a move entails. Tampa's bustling Ybor City district offers an abundance of nightlife options and cultural attractions, setting it apart from Grand Rapids' more subdued entertainment options. Additionally, Tampa's job market, particularly in sectors like technology and healthcare, is thriving, with companies like Amgen and Jabil leading the way. However, adapting to Tampa's hot and humid summers and preparing for the hurricane season are crucial considerations. Meanwhile, Grand Rapids boasts a unique blend of urban and natural attractions, such as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, which offers a tranquility that's harder to find in a larger metro area like Tampa. Deciding between these cities involves weighing these factors carefully to choose the best fit for your lifestyle and career aspirations.
Grand Rapids vs. Tampa Food Guide
Food is a crucial part of local culture and what living in an area feels like. To help you adjust more seamlessly to your new surroundings, let's dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Tampa . This comparison will give you a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Wet Burrito | Cuban Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Deviled Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Empanadas |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Tampa, the Cuban Sandwich reigns supreme, a mouthwatering combination of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. This iconic sandwich represents the city's rich cultural tapestry, perfectly encapsulating its Cuban influences. Head over to Ybor City, Tampa's historic neighborhood, where you can find the Cuban Sandwich at nearly every corner, especially at the Columbia Restaurant, a local institution. Tampa's food scene shines with diverse street foods like Empanadas and Deviled Crab, embodying the city's coastal and multicultural flair. Moreover, Tampa's increasing fitness and health conscientiousness contribute to a rising number of vegan-friendly options such as Jackfruit Tacos, offering a tasty alternative for those looking to enjoy the city's flavors without the meat.
Grand Rapids vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison
Finding a go-to dining spot can transform a new city from just a place to live to somewhere that feels like home. This restaurant comparison between Grand Rapids and Tampa will guide you in discovering your next favorite eatery, using your current favorites as a starting point.
| Grand Rapids | Tampa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| San Chez Bistro | Columbia Restaurant | Historic charm with a similar tapas-style menu. |
| Grove | Bern's Steak House | Upscale dining with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Noble Rice | Creative sushi offerings in a modern setting. |
| The Electric Cheetah | Datz | Eclectic and inventive comfort food menu. |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Osteria Natalina | Authentic Italian cuisine that feels home-cooked. |
| Wolfgang's Restaurant | La Segunda Bakery | A casual spot known for breakfast and comfort food. |
| Two Scotts Barbecue | 4 Rivers Smokehouse | Known for smoked meats and Southern sides. |
| Stella's Lounge | Ferg's Live | Bar scene with great food and entertainment vibes. |
| Butcher's Union | Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria | Though more Italian, offers artisanal dishes with a focus on quality meats. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Eddie V's Prime Seafood | High-end seafood with a sophisticated ambiance. |
When you move from Grand Rapids to Tampa, your culinary journey won't miss a beat. Explore Columbia Restaurant for a tapas experience that rivals the communal dining at San Chez Bistro. For those who cherish fine dining and locally sourced fare, Bern's Steak House in Tampa mirrors Grove's commitment to quality and ambiance. On casual nights when you crave sushi, Noble Rice offers an innovative twist similar to Maru Sushi & Grill. And if it's eclectic comfort food you're after, Datz delivers creativity on a plate akin to The Electric Cheetah's diverse menu. The transition from Grand Rapids to Tampa introduces you to a vibrant food scene, where each meal is an opportunity to create new traditions while reminiscing about your old favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Tampa, FL, it's crucial to understand how these cities stack up in terms of real estate. In this comparison, we'll delve into the housing differences between Grand Rapids and Tampa, examining costs, architectural styles, and more to ensure you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-century Modern, Craftsman | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks, Family-friendly neighborhoods | Waterfront properties, Access to beaches |
In detailed analysis, while Grand Rapids offers a median home price significantly less than Tampa, the latter boasts a higher urban lifestyle rating due to its vibrant city life and access to beaches such as Clearwater Beach. Architectural styles also significantly differ, with Grand Rapids displaying a penchant for Mid-century Modern and Craftsman homes, which contrast sharply with Tampa's preference for Spanish Revival and modern waterfront residences. The walkability and bikeability scores suggest a slight variance in lifestyle choices, indicating that Tampa might offer a slightly more bike-friendly environment, while Grand Rapids leans a bit more towards walkable neighborhoods. Deciding between these cities, you might want to consider how much you value proximity to beaches or prefer a less expensive housing market.
Grand Rapids vs. Tampa Weather Considerations
When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's essential to gauge how the weather in Grand Rapids and Tampa will impact your daily life. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for the shift in climate, from seasonal temperatures to the frequency of sunshine.
Grand Rapids, MI
Tampa, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Tampa, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Tampa, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Tampa, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Rare Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa means adapting to much warmer winters and enjoying longer summers with higher humidity levels. While both cities experience a fair share of natural disasters, Tampa’s proximity to the coast subjects it to hurricanes. The significantly higher number of sunshine days in Tampa offers more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round, in contrast to the considerable snowfall you'd expect in Grand Rapids. This change in weather can also affect what you might pack in terms of clothing and which seasonal allergies you might need to prepare for, indicating a lifestyle adjustment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances will be affected is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and economy between Grand Rapids and Tampa can help you prepare for the financial differences. This comparison will give you a clear idea of what to expect in terms of expenses and income opportunities in your new home.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $63,404 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 92.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 0.97 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education | Finance, Healthcare, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate-High |
| Homelessness | Low-Moderate | Moderate |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa, you'll notice a shift in financial dynamics largely due to differences in state income tax, cost of living, and primary industries. Florida's lack of state income tax can be quite appealing, but this benefit can be offset by Tampa's higher cost of living compared to Grand Rapids. Tampa's economy, buoyed by finance, healthcare, and tourism, presents a vibrant job market, albeit with a slightly lower average household income than that of Grand Rapids. The variance in property and sales taxes between the two cities further illustrates the importance of understanding local tax obligations. These economic factors are essential to consider for a smooth financial transition to your new city.
Grand Rapids vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison
Moving can be more than just a change of scenery; it can also immerse you in a different community vibe, especially when it comes to the comparative study of the politics between Grand Rapids & Tampa and their religious landscapes. This quick glance aims to provide you with a snapshot of what to expect from the residents in each city.
| Grand Rapids | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Moderately active community engagement | Highly active political engagement |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious presence | Christianity predominant, with a notable presence of other faiths |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Tampa, you'll notice a shift in the political landscape from a conservative-leaning atmosphere to one that leans more liberal. This could reflect in the local policies and community initiatives you encounter. Tampa's political engagement is vibrant, with residents actively participating in debates, elections, and local governance, hinting at a community that values political involvement. While both cities have Christianity as the predominant religion, Tampa prides itself on being more visibly diverse in terms of faith, offering a broader spectrum of religious institutions and interfaith activities. This makes for a rich and inclusive community fabric that welcomes new residents with open arms.
Grand Rapids vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Tampa is intended to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving from one city to the other.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, with efforts | Challenging, but doable |
In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Tampa, reflecting less traffic congestion overall. While both cities offer public transportation options, Tampa has a slightly higher availability, making it somewhat more feasible for residents to consider living without a personal vehicle, though this remains challenging in both locations. The key difference lies in the nature and scale of traffic congestion, with Tampa experiencing a slightly higher level. This stems from Tampa's larger metropolitan area and its associated traffic demands, particularly during peak hours. Both cities have efforts in place to improve public transit and make their urban landscapes more accessible to everyone, regardless of whether they own a car.
Additional Resources
Grand Rapids Moving Services
Popular Grand Rapids to Florida Routes
Popular Moving Resources
