Best Grand Rapids to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 830 mile move from Michigan to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 61 Grand Rapids to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 | 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 Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 830 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Boston, MA will cost on average $2,487 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Boston move is roughly $5,969. 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 | $1,673 | 300 ft³ | 5.58 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,487 | 450 ft³ | 5.53 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,108 | 750 ft³ | 5.48 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,969 | 1100 ft³ | 5.43 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,603 | 1600 ft³ | 5.38 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,588 | 1800 ft³ | 5.33 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids 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) |
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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world, but understanding your new home through the lens of your old one can ease the transition. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing popular neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Boston, MA . Identify which Boston neighborhood most resembles your corner of Grand Rapids and discover your next hometown.
| Grand Rapids | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Beacon Hill | Historic charm, walkable streets |
| H Heritage Hill | Back Bay | Architecturally stunning, bustling |
| Midtown | South End | Cultural hotspot, trendy eateries |
| Heartside | Jamaica Plain | Diverse, community-centric |
| Riverside Park | Charles River Esplanade | Green spaces, scenic views |
| Wealthy Street | North End | Rich history, Italian cuisine |
| Fulton Heights | Fenway | Sports-centric, vibrant nightlife |
| Gaslight Village | Brookline | Family-friendly, upscale shops |
| Cherry Hill | Dorchester | Eclectic, evolving community |
| Creston | Allston | Youthful energy, live music scene |
For those moving from Grand Rapids' East Grand Rapids, you'll find a kindred spirit in Boston's Beacon Hill with its lamp-lit streets and brick sidewalks reminiscent of a bygone era. Similarly, Heritage Hill's architectural grandeur finds a echo in Back Bay's Victorian brownstones and picturesque avenues. If you've loved the cultural vibrancy and dining scene of Midtown, the South End's acclaimed restaurants like Barcelona Wine Bar and artsy atmosphere are bound to captivate. The Charles River Esplanade, resembling Riverside Park, not only offers outdoor activities but breathtaking views of the Boston skyline. Meanwhile, North End's Italian fare will beckon Wealthy Street foodies, promising an epicurean adventure with renowned spots like Mamma Maria. This comparative exploration is poised to ignite your curiosity and inspire your relocation journey, making Boston feel like home sooner than you think.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Boston
Moving can be a major life decision that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the transition from Grand Rapids, MI to Boston, MA , focusing on how the pros outweigh the cons and vice versa. By understanding both sides, you can make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and preferences best.
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller city vibe
- Less public transit
- Fewer cultural attractions
- Lower job market
- Less diverse cuisine
Boston, MA- Larger city amenities
- Better public transit
- More cultural attractions
- Higher job market
- More diverse cuisine
Boston, MA- Higher cost of living
- Less personal space
- More traffic
- Denser neighborhoods
- Challenging parking
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower cost of living
- More personal space
- Less traffic
- Quaint neighborhoods
- Easier parking
Moving from Grand Rapids to Boston opens up a new world of opportunities, especially in terms of career prospects and cultural experiences. Boston's vibrant job market, particularly in education, healthcare, and technology sectors, could offer significant advancements in your career. The city's rich historical backdrop, including landmarks like the Freedom Trail and the Museum of Fine Arts, paired with diverse neighborhoods like the Italian-flavored North End and the artsy South End, offer a unique blend of cultural experiences. On the culinary side, places like Neptune Oyster in the North End serve up some of the best seafood in the country, highlighting the culinary diversity that Boston boasts. Meanwhile, Grand Rapids provides a more laid-back atmosphere and the perks of a smaller community, including lower living expenses and less congestion, making it a trade-off depending on what you value more in your day-to-day life.
Grand Rapids vs. Boston Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape is a critical part of getting to know your new home. Food is an essential aspect of local culture, which is why we're bringing you a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Boston . This will help you get a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Beer Cheese Soup | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Meats | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Clam Chowder in Bread Bowl |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Clam Chowder |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In getting to know Boston through its food, you'll quickly find that seafood, especially the iconic Clam Chowder, dominates the culinary scene, a reflection of the city's coastal location and historical ties to the sea. The North End neighborhood is particularly famous for its Italian cuisine and seafood, including places like Neptune Oyster. Conversely, Boston's food scene is adapting to meet the demand for vegan and health-conscious options, with innovative dishes like Vegan Clam Chowder emerging. The city's abundance of food trucks and high foodie scene rating indicates a vibrant, diverse, and accessible culinary landscape ready to explore.
Grand Rapids vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a big change but finding those special places to eat makes anywhere feel like home. The purpose of this comparison is to help newcomers moving from Grand Rapids to Boston find their next go-to restaurants , making the transition smoother and tastier.
| Grand Rapids | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| San Chez Bistro | Barcelona Wine Bar | Both offer a tapas-style dining experience that encourages sharing among friends. |
| The Chop House | Grill 23 & Bar | High-end steakhouses that prioritize quality cuts and upscale dining experiences. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | O Ya | Both are known for their innovative and beautifully presented sushi dishes. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Trillium Brewing | Craft beer aficionados will appreciate the passion and variety at both breweries. |
| Stella's Lounge | The Gallows | A spot for casual dining with a lively atmosphere and great burgers. |
| Madcap Coffee | Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Both cafes are beloved for their high-quality coffee and welcoming spaces. |
| Two Beards Deli | Sam LaGrassa's | Sandwich lovers will find innovative and satisfying options in both locations. |
| Grove | Giulia | Intimate dining experiences with a focus on farm-to-table dishes and exquisite flavors. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Neptune Oyster | Both are go-tos for fresh, high-quality seafood in a sophisticated setting. |
| Donkey Taqueria | Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar | Offering a modern twist on Mexican cuisine with a vibrant bar scene. |
Whether it's the intimacy and seasonal menus of Grove in Grand Rapids paralleled by Giulia in Boston or the crafted brews of Founders Brewing Co. finding a kinship in Trillium Brewing's artisanal approach, there are delightful similarities to be savored. For sushi aficionados, the transition from Maru Sushi & Grill to experiencing O Ya can be seamless, each offering an escape into culinary innovation with every bite. These carefully curated comparisons pave the way for discovery and adventure in your new city, ensuring that the move from Grand Rapids to Boston is flavorful and filled with anticipation for new favorite spots.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience. Comparing the housing aspects between Grand Rapids, MI, and Boston, MA is crucial in understanding what each city has to offer. This comparison provides insights into costs, styles, and living qualities to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Colonial and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, family-friendly | Access to public transport, historic charm |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Boston, you will notice a stark contrast in the real estate landscape. Boston’s highly walkable environment, complemented by its rich historical character, makes it an appealing urban center. The typical Colonial and Federal architectural styles echo the city’s deep historical roots, giving it a unique charm compared to Grand Rapids' Prairie and Craftsman houses. Moreover, Boston's urban lifestyle score outshines Grand Rapids, attributed to better access to public transportation and a plethora of cultural and social activities. However, this comes with a higher cost of living, as evident in Boston's significantly higher median home prices and rent. Whether you prioritize a bustling city vibe or a more laid-back and spacious living, understanding these differences is essential in planning your move.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Boston Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can signify a big change, not just in scenery, but also in everyday living conditions like the weather. Understanding the weather comparison between Grand Rapids, MI and Boston, MA is crucial as it will help you adapt more easily to your new environment. Here's a look at how the weather differs between these two cities.
Grand Rapids, MI
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Boston, you should prepare for milder winters and slightly more comfortable summer nights. Notably, Boston enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which may positively impact your mood and outdoor activities. Despite this, both cities experience similar levels of summer temperatures, but Boston sees a higher average annual rainfall. This increased precipitation contributes to Boston's lush summers but also means more wet days throughout the year. Additionally, while both cities face their share of natural disasters, it’s worth noting that Boston's proximity to the coast makes it susceptible to Nor'easters, which can significantly disrupt winter and spring weather.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Boston
Moving from one city to another involves a significant shift in your financial landscape. Understanding how your expenses, taxes, and the overall economic environment compare between Grand Rapids and Boston will help you navigate this transition more smoothly.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58% | 1.22% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 6.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Technology | Education, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Notable |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Boston, you'll encounter a stark contrast in the cost of living and average household income. Boston's significantly higher cost of living index at 162 compared to Grand Rapids' 90 reflects the expensive nature of the city, which is coupled with a higher average income. Despite higher incomes in Boston, the cost of living can greatly affect your financial comfort. Additionally, the difference in state income and sales tax rates indicates slight variations in tax burdens. These shifts, along with the prominent industries in each city, mirror the economic landscapes and opportunities available. Understanding these differences can guide you in making informed decisions for a smoother financial transition.
Grand Rapids vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
In moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Boston, MA, it's useful to have a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the local scene. This guide provides a brief comparison highlighting the political and religious makeup between Grand Rapids & Boston, offering insight into what you might expect from your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Largely Republican with some Democratic representation in urban areas. | Dominantly Democratic, with progressive policies and leadership. |
| Religion | Christian majority with a range of denominations; significant Reformed Church presence. | Diverse religious landscape with large Catholic community; active Islamic Society and Jewish communities. |
While Grand Rapids may lean more conservatively both in terms of resident political affiliations and local leadership, moving to Boston will introduce you to a markedly different political atmosphere that leans heavily liberal and progressive. The religious makeup of each city also reflects this diversity; Grand Rapids is known for its Christian majority and prominent Reformed Church presence, whereas Boston boasts a richly diverse religious landscape, with a significant Catholic population alongside vibrant Islamic and Jewish communities. This shift not only highlights the political and religious climate but also the cultural variances between your old and new home.
Grand Rapids vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Boston, MA involves adapting to new traffic and transportation dynamics. This comparison helps you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between these two cities.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes |
While Grand Rapids offers a relatively swift average commute time of 21 minutes, transitioning to Boston's busier traffic scenario, where the average time is nearly 30 minutes, can be quite an adjustment. Boston's traffic congestion scores higher, reflecting its dense urban environment, but it compensates with robust public transit options. Unlike Grand Rapids, where navigating without a car poses challenges, Boston's extensive public transportation network, including the MBTA subway and buses, make it entirely feasible to get by without owning a vehicle. This is a crucial aspect to consider for your daily commute and lifestyle in the bustling city of Boston.
Additional Resources
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