Best Detroit to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 708 mile move from Michigan to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 Detroit to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Boston. 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 Boston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | High Quality Moving Company | 8.23 | 8.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 708 miles from Detroit, MI to Boston, MA will cost on average $2,383 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Boston move is roughly $5,716. 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 | $1,604 | 300 ft³ | 5.35 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,383 | 450 ft³ | 5.30 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,935 | 750 ft³ | 5.25 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,716 | 1100 ft³ | 5.20 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,234 | 1600 ft³ | 5.15 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,173 | 1800 ft³ | 5.10 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Boston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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) |
High Quality Moving Company
32401 W 8 Mile Rd
Livonia, MI, 48152
About High Quality Moving Company
High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3435629 / 1178011 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially without knowing the local neighborhoods. This guide aims to ease that transition. By comparing the vibrant, unique communities from Detroit, MI & Boston, MA, this resource will help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home, based on what you loved about your old one.
| Detroit | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Back Bay | Both cultural centers with vibrant arts scenes |
| Corktown | Jamaica Plain | Diverse communities with rich histories and lively food scenes |
| Downtown | Downtown Crossing | Heart of the city, bustling business districts |
| Eastern Market | North End | Historic areas known for food markets and local eateries |
| Woodbridge | Somerville | Creative, eclectic neighborhoods with a strong sense of community |
| Mexicantown | East Boston | Cultural enclaves offering authentic culinary experiences |
| Indian Village | Beacon Hill | Historic homes and beautiful architecture |
| West Village | South End | Charming, trendy areas with vibrant arts communities |
| Riverfront | Charlestown | Waterfront views and rich American history |
| Palmer Woods | Brookline | Upscale living with a mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience |
Detroit's Corktown and Boston's Jamaica Plain share a vibrantly diverse atmosphere, with each neighborhood boasting a collection of unique, locally-owned businesses such as the Astro Coffee in Detroit and Turtle Swamp Brewing in Jamaica Plain that reflect the community's character. Similarly, the historic charm of Detroit's Indian Village, with its meticulously maintained estates, echoes in Boston's Beacon Hill's gas-lit streets and brick sidewalks, offering a sense of timelessness and history. For those who enjoy a bustling, creative environment akin to Detroit's Woodbridge, Somerville's Union Square provides a similarly eclectic mix of arts, culture, and culinary experiences, including the renowned Bow Market that houses a variety of artisan shops and food vendors.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Boston
Moving from one city to another is a big step filled with excitement and uncertainties. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Boston, MA, laying out clear contrasts to help your decision-making. By examining both the pros and cons, you can better understand what awaits in both cities.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Lower job opportunities
- Economic instability
- Harsher winters
Boston, MA- Safer neighborhoods
- Robust job market
- Stronger economy
- Milder winters
Boston, MA- Higher cost of living
- Less musical diversity
- Smaller art community
- Smaller green spaces
Detroit, MI- Affordable Housing
- Rich music culture
- Vibrant art scene
- Spacious parks
When considering moving from Detroit to Boston, several factors come into play. Detroit's rich musical culture, epitomized by the Motown Museum, contrasts with Boston's vibrant history and its own unique cultural offerings like the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Cost of living in Boston is significantly higher than in Detroit, reflecting in housing and general expenses. However, Boston's renowned educational institutions such as MIT and Harvard create a robust job market, especially in tech and academia, unlike Detroit's re-emerging economy. Neighborhoods in Boston, such as Beacon Hill and the North End, offer distinct historical charm and a plethora of dining options like the famous Mike's Pastry, contrasting with Detroit's spacious Belle Isle Park and the burgeoning restaurant scene in Midtown. Both cities boast a rich American history and vibrant cultural scenes, yet offer very different living experiences based on climate, job opportunities, cost of living, and lifestyle.
Detroit vs. Boston Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Boston, highlighting the vibrant food scenes that contribute significantly to the local culture of each city. Understanding these differences will equip you with insight into what culinary delights await you as you transition from one city to the other.
| Detroit | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Detroit-style pizza | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Coney Dog | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Shawarma | Fried Clams |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Tacos | Jackfruit Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Detroit and Boston both offer unique and flavorful local cuisines influenced by their history and cultural demographics. In Detroit, the revitalized Midtown and Downtown areas champion a rising food scene, with an emphasis on modern American and ethnic cuisines, notably Middle Eastern offerings such as shawarma from local favorites like Bucharest Grill. On the other hand, Boston's love for seafood shines through in its iconic dishes such as clam chowder and lobster rolls, with historic neighborhoods like the North End and Seaport District serving as culinary hotspots. Each city's food scene reflects its character and history, promising an exciting culinary exploration for newcomers.
Detroit vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a blend of excitement and uncertainty, especially when considering the culinary landscape of your new city. Food plays a pivotal role in making somewhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison focusing on Detroit to Boston aims to ease the transition by helping you discover your new favorite dining spots, drawing parallels to those you already adore.
| Detroit | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Oleana | Creative Mediterranean-inspired dishes |
| Slows Bar BQ | Sweet Cheeks Q | Southern style BBQ with a Boston twist |
| Iridescence | Top of the Hub | Sky-high dining with city views |
| Supino Pizzeria | Area Four | Wood-fired pizzas with a focus on local ingredients |
| Roses Fine Food | Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Chic spot for breakfast and pastries |
| Rochester Mills Beer Co. | Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall | Loved for their craft beers and pretzels |
| Antietam | L'Espalier | French cuisine in an elegant setting |
| Lafayette Coney Island | James Hook & Co | Local seafood legend |
| Taqueria El Rey | Anna's Taqueria | Authentic Mexican fare |
| Grey Ghost Detroit | The Salty Pig | Charcuterie and craft cocktails |
While Detroit and Boston offer unique dining experiences reflecting their local culture, certain establishments provide a semblance of culinary continuity between the two cities. For instance, if barbecue has been a staple in your Detroit dining routine, Sweet Cheeks Q in Boston will not disappoint, offering a taste of Southern comfort that rivals Slows Bar BQ’s mouthwatering dishes. On the other hand, those who relished the creative Mediterranean dishes at Selden Standard might find Oleana's innovative menu a comforting reminder of home. Similarly, artisanal pizza lovers transitioning from Supino Pizzeria can find solace in the wood-fired creations at Area Four, where the emphasis on local sourcing and authentic craftsmanship echoes the spirit of Detroit's beloved pizzeria. Each restaurant transition offers not just a comparable culinary experience but also the atmosphere and cultural vibrancy that made your favorites back in Detroit unforgettable.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move, making it essential to understand how Detroit, MI and Boston, MA compare in terms of housing. This comparison will cover aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle, offering a comprehensive view of what each city has to offer.
| Comparison | Detroit | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Bungalows, Colonial | Federal, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Yards, Garages | Historic Detail, Proximity to Public Transit |
When moving from Detroit to Boston, the contrast in the housing market can be stark. The steep difference in median home prices and monthly rent reflects Boston's higher cost of living, which is balanced by its stronger walkability and urban lifestyle scores. The architecture in Boston is also notably different, with a rich history that often comes through in its housing, as opposed to Detroit's more varied historic bungalows and colonials. These features, including access to public transit and the nature of the neighborhoods, are essential for understanding what to expect from each city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Detroit vs. Boston Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, it's crucial to know what weather awaits you. This guide compares the climates of Detroit, MI, and Boston, MA, highlighting how each city's weather conditions may impact your daily life. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for your new environment.
Detroit, MI
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Detroit to Boston, expect slightly more sunshine and less humidity, making summer days in Boston feel a bit more comfortable. Though winter temperatures are somewhat similar, Boston experiences slightly more annual snowfall, accentuating its picturesque winter scenes. Notably, Boston's air quality is generally better, attributed to its aggressive environmental initiatives. This, combined with distinct seasonal differences in allergens, especially during spring and fall, may influence your daily comfort and health. Being prepared for more snow and different allergen profiles will help you adjust smoothly to life in Boston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Boston
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Detroit and Boston will impact your budget and lifestyle. This comparison aims to outline the monetary differences you should expect, aiding in a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Detroit | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 5.00 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 1.2 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Health Services | Education, Health Services, Finance |
| Affluence | Varied | Higher |
| Poverty | Significantly present | Less prevalent |
| Homelessness | Notable | Moderate |
Moving from Detroit to Boston, you’ll notice a stark difference in the cost of living, with Boston being substantially more expensive. This is not just in terms of housing, but also when considering everyday expenses. While the average household income in Boston is considerably higher, it's essential to factor in these costs which could offset the higher income. The state income tax and property tax rates differ slightly, with Michigan having a lower income tax rate but a higher property tax rate compared to Massachusetts. The industries that drive each city's economy also depict a shift from automotive and technology in Detroit to education, health services, and finance in Boston, signifying a potential change in job opportunities. Understanding these dynamics will help you manage your finances more effectively as you make the transition.
Detroit vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from Detroit to Boston, a quick overview of the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Detroit & Boston might help you understand the community you're about to join. This snapshot provides insight into the political leanings, local governance, and predominant religious beliefs in each city, preparing you for the cultural landscape that awaits.
| Detroit | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Primarily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on urban revitalization, crime reduction | Emphasis on education, housing, and public transport improvements |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant, followed by other religions |
Both Detroit and Boston are known for their Democratic leanings, reflecting similar political ideologies, though the focus of local politics might differ. In Detroit, issues such as urban revitalization and crime reduction are at the forefront, driven by the city's need to rebound from economic challenges. On the other hand, Boston's political scene is deeply invested in education, housing, and improving public transportation. The religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse, with Christianity being the most common, but they also house a variety of other religious practices and communities, offering a rich, multicultural environment for new residents.
Detroit vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Boston, MA requires understanding the differences in daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Boston offers insights into what you might expect.
| Comparison | Detroit | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
In Detroit, owning a car is almost a necessity due to limited public transit options, earning it a lower score in that category. By contrast, Boston prides itself on a more robust public transit system, making it feasible to live without a personal vehicle. The average commute time in Boston is slightly longer, potentially due to the higher traffic congestion score compared to Detroit. However, the efficient public transit in Boston, including the MBTA subway, buses, and commuter rail services, mitigates these concerns by offering various alternatives to driving.
Additional Resources
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