Best Grand Rapids to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 766 mile move from Michigan to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Grand Rapids to Durham 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 Raleigh Moving Company), 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 Durham. 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 Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | 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 Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 766 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Durham, NC will cost on average $2,433 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Durham move is roughly $5,836. 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 | $1,637 | 300 ft³ | 5.46 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,433 | 450 ft³ | 5.41 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,017 | 750 ft³ | 5.36 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,836 | 1100 ft³ | 5.31 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,409 | 1600 ft³ | 5.26 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,370 | 1800 ft³ | 5.21 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
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. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Are you planning a move and looking for something familiar in a new city? This guide helps you find your bearings by comparing local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Durham, NC . By matching up top neighborhoods from Grand Rapids with their closest counterparts in Durham, we aim to ease your transition and help you discover your next favorite place.
| Grand Rapids | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Eastown | Trinity Park | Vibrant, diverse community |
| Heritage Hill | Old West Durham | Historic homes, walkable |
| Midtown | Geer Street | Emerging arts scene |
| Heartside | American Tobacco District | Urban renewal, artsy vibe |
| Cherry Hill | Hope Valley | Family-friendly, upscale |
| Belknap Lookout | Watts Hospital-Hillandale | Great views, tight-knit |
| Roosevelt Park | Cleveland-Holloway | Diverse, upcoming area |
| Alger Heights | Woodcroft | Quiet, residential |
| Ottawa Hills | Forest Hills | Mature trees, historic charm |
| East Grand Rapids | Duke Park | Near downtown, green spaces |
In uncovering the personality of each neighborhood, you'll find that Trinity Park resonates with the spirit of Eastown, offering a vibrant and diverse community, eclectic dining, and local art. The cozy yet historic vibe of Old West Durham mirrors Heritage Hill's storied streets and architecture. For those intrigued by Durham's emerging cultural and arts scene, Geer Street’s lively bars, restaurants, and art spaces should feel like Midtown’s counterpart. Meanwhile, the American Tobacco District, with its repurposed industrial buildings turned into entertainment and dining hubs, captures the innovative essence of Heartside. And for family-focused individuals used to Cherry Hill’s homely atmosphere, Hope Valley’s spacious homes and community activities offer a familiar suburban comfort. These neighborhoods bridge the gap between your old home and new, entwining the familiar with the excitement of discovery.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Durham
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Durham, NC, highlighting what you'll gain and what you might miss. Understanding these aspects will help you prepare for your relocation.
Grand Rapids, MI- Colder winters
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer job opportunities
Durham, NC- Milder winters
- Vibrant city life
- Wider food variety
- Greater career options
Durham, NC- Higher expenses
- No close lakes
- Busier streets
- Fewer breweries
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower cost of living
- Lakeside activities
- Quaint neighborhoods
- Brewery scene
Moving from Grand Rapids to Durham brings exciting changes, especially if you value a dynamic city vibe and a variety of dining options. Durham’s downtown area is bustling with a range of restaurants that offer everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine, unlike Grand Rapids which has a more limited selection. However, you'll miss the casual, lakeside lifestyle that Grand Rapids offers, as well as its burgeoning brewery scene renowned for places like Founders Brewing Co. Yet, Durham compensates with its cultural richness, historic sights like Brightleaf Square, and the thriving research and tech job market driven by the Research Triangle Park. Overall, your move will exchange some comforts of a smaller city for the bustling, diverse opportunities in Durham, making it an exciting yet thoughtful transition.
Grand Rapids vs. Durham Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Durham offers a glimpse into the food scene of both cities. Understanding the culinary landscape is essential because food is a significant aspect of local culture and living experience. Here, you can better grasp what awaits your palate in your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Wet Burrito | Carolina-Style BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Brisket | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Chili | Vegan Barbecue Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Grand Rapids, the vibrant food scene reflects a diversity of flavors, from the beloved Wet Burrito to the creativity seen in local street tacos. Noteworthy establishments such as San Chez Bistro offer a taste of globally inspired dishes, while Founder's Brewing Co. captures the essence of the city's love for craft beer. Durham, on the other hand, prides itself on a rich tradition of Carolina-Style BBQ, with restaurants like Dame's Chicken & Waffles offering a unique Southern culinary experience. The city's food truck scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Downtown and the Durham Central Park area, showcases an eclectic mix of gourmet burgers and vegan options, indicating a strong foodie culture that caters to varied tastes.
Grand Rapids vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
At the heart of every city's culture is its cuisine, and finding those go-to eateries can truly make a new place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Grand Rapids and Durham is designed to ease the transition by helping you discover your next favorite dining spots, guided by familiar tastes from your current hometown.
| Grand Rapids | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Chop House | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Offers high-end dining with exquisite attention to flavor and presentation. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Sushioki | Fusion rolls and a creative take on sushi offer a similar upscale casual atmosphere. |
| San Chez A Tapas Bistro | Bar Virgile | Providing a variety of gourmet small plates ideal for sharing, echoing San Chez's communal dining vibe. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Ponysaurus Brewing | A haven for craft beer aficionados with a strong focus on community and quality brews. |
| The Electric Cheetah | Bull City Burger and Brewery | Known for creative and locally-sourced dishes, mirroring Electric Cheetah’s unique and eclectic menu. |
| Stella's Lounge | The Federal | Casual, laid-back setting offering hearty, American pub fare with a unique twist. |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Gocciolina | Authentic Italian dishes crafted with care, spotlighting the best of regional cuisine similar to Amore’s approach. |
| Two Beards Deli | Foster's Market | A cozy spot for sandwiches and salads, offering freshly made, comforting eats akin to Two Beards. |
| Madcap Coffee | Cocoa Cinnamon | Artisan coffee with a focus on quality and sustainability, perfect for the discerning Madcap fan. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Saltbox Seafood Joint | Fresh, locally-sourced seafood prepared with a unique, home-style touch comparable to Leo's. |
For those looking to replicate their Grand Rapids dining experiences in Durham, you'll find a blend of familiar and fresh culinary delights. Mateo Bar de Tapas and Gocciolina stand out by offering an experience that rivals The Chop House and Amore Trattoria Italiana, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and exceptional flavors. On the more casual side, Bull City Burger and Brewery echoes the creative and locally-sourced ethos of The Electric Cheetah, promising a dining experience full of character and community spirit. Meanwhile, Ponysaurus Brewing offers a similar vibe to Founders Brewing Co., making it the go-to spot for craft beer lovers seeking a sense of belonging in their new city. With these comparisons, you're well on your way to discovering your new favorite spots in Durham that feel like a taste of home.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a pivotal role in relocating, making it crucial to understand how Grand Rapids, MI, and Durham, NC, compare in aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. These comparisons help in making informed decisions about housing options.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-century Modern, Craftsman | Colonial Revival, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks, Garages | Energy efficiency, Open floor plans |
The typical Grand Rapids home exhibits mid-century modern and craftsman styles, reflecting a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. Meanwhile, Durham's architecture, with its appreciation for colonial revival and craftsman styles, showcases historic elegance complemented by modern functionality. The median home price in Durham is markedly higher than in Grand Rapids, signaling Durham's burgeoning real estate market. Despite this, Durham offers slightly better walkability, bikeability, and a more pronounced urban lifestyle, possibly due to its robust public infrastructures and vibrant downtown area. This could make Durham an appealing option for those seeking a dynamic city life combined with the character and comfort of traditional American architecture.
Grand Rapids vs. Durham Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather differs between your current city and your future home is crucial when planning a move. Comparing the climates of Grand Rapids, MI, and Durham, NC, will help you adjust your expectations and prepare better for the change. This chart gives you an overview of what to expect weather-wise.
Grand Rapids, MI
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornados | Hurricanes, Severe Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Durham, you're transitioning from a climate with significant snowfall and fewer sunny days to one that enjoys more sunshine and milder winters. Durham's summer temperatures are a bit higher, and it tends to be less humid than Grand Rapids. However, it's important to prepare for the occasional hurricane or severe storm, which are rare in Grand Rapids. Both cities face challenges with seasonal allergies, primarily due to pollen and mold, but the overall warmer and sunnier climate of Durham may be a welcome change for many.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Durham
When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. It's vital to know how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Grand Rapids will compare to those in Durham to make an informed decision and prepare accordingly.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.54 | 1.18 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Education | Education, Health Care, Tech |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Moderate |
In comparing Grand Rapids and Durham, you'll find notable differences that could impact your financial planning. Durham offers higher average household incomes, which is enticing, but this comes with a higher cost of living and sales tax rate. The property taxes in Durham are lower, providing some relief for homeowners. The predominant industries also vary, which might affect your employment opportunities depending on your field. Understanding these nuances is crucial for a smooth transition and establishing a comfortable lifestyle in your new city.
Grand Rapids vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Durham, NC introduces you to varied community demographics and beliefs. This quick comparison aims to give you a snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Durham along with insights into the religious landscape, helping you understand the cultural nuances of your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Republican | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Conservative on state level, mixed locally | Progressive, with strong Democratic leadership |
| Religion | Christian Majority (Protestant & Catholic) | Diverse religious landscape, Christianity predominant |
Transitioning from Grand Rapids to Durham, you'll move from a city with a slight Republican inclination to one where Democratic policies and leadership are more predominant. Local politics in Durham are known for their progressive stance, a contrast to the conservative state-level politics back in Michigan, though Grand Rapids itself can be more mixed. Religion plays a significant role in both communities, with Christianity being the majority religion in both cities. However, Durham boasts a more diverse religious scene, reflecting its broader demographic diversity. Understanding these dynamics will help you better integrate into your new community.
Grand Rapids vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Durham, NC? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Durham will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21.3 | 22.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible |
While the average commute time is fairly similar between Grand Rapids and Durham, there are distinct differences in the quality and availability of public transportation between the two cities. Durham has a slight edge with better public transit options available, making it more feasible to navigate the city without a car. With lower traffic congestion scores, Durham offers a slightly more relaxed commuting experience. However, both cities present challenges and benefits, and understanding these nuances can help you prepare for your relocation and daily travel in your new home.
Additional Resources
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