Best Detroit to New York City Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to New York City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 622 mile move from Michigan to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 61 Detroit to New York City 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 JP Urban Moving), 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 New York City. 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.

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Best Detroit to New York City Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1JP Urban Moving9.859.78Authorized For HHGContact
2Metropolis Moving9.729.62Authorized For HHGContact
3Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.468.22Authorized For HHGContact
4Balance Detroit8.437.79Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5High Quality Moving Company8.238.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Detroit to New York City

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 622 miles from Detroit, MI to New York City, NY will cost on average $2,310 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to New York City move is roughly $5,537. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,555300 ft³5.18
1 Bedroom$2,310450 ft³5.13
2 Bedrooms$3,813750 ft³5.08
3 Bedrooms$5,5371100 ft³5.03
4 Bedrooms$7,9741600 ft³4.98
5+ Bedrooms$8,8811800 ft³4.93
*Please note: These Michigan to New York moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & New York. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MI to NY mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New York City to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to New York City Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

JP Urban Moving Logo

JP Urban Moving

Exceptional9.85/10
based on 4,145+ data points

266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl

Brooklyn, NY, 11238

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...

Services

  • Local NYC Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving, Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2096754 / 882954

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Metropolis Moving Logo

Metropolis Moving

Exceptional9.72/10
based on 2,535+ data points

476 Jefferson St

Brooklyn, NY, 11237

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4277979 / 1662478

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
2
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.46/10
based on 379+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.43/10
based on 69+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.23/10
based on 838+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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. New York City Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're leaving behind a city you know well for one that's unfamiliar. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & New York City, NY , highlighting their equivalents to help you feel right at home in your new environment.

DetroitNew York CityHow They're Similar
MidtownWilliamsburgTrendy, artsy vibe
DowntownFinancial DistrictBusiness hub, high-rise apartments
CorktownGreenwich VillageHistoric, vibrant nightlife
West VillageBrooklyn HeightsQuiet, residential, picturesque streets
WoodbridgeAstoriaDiverse, community feel, great food scene
Eastern MarketChelseaMarket culture, art galleries, eclectic dining
RiverfrontUpper West SideRiverside parks, family-friendly
Palmer WoodsForest HillsLeafy, spacious homes, family-oriented
Indian VillageCarroll GardensHistoric homes, strong sense of community
MexicantownSunset ParkVibrant, multicultural, great eateries

For those accustomed to the vibrant market days and eclectic dining options of Eastern Market in Detroit, Chelsea in New York City will captivate you with its own market culture centered around the Chelsea Market, alongside an array of art galleries and unique eateries. Moving from the quiet, residential streets of West Village in Detroit, you'll find a similar historic charm and serene environment in Brooklyn Heights. This NY neighborhood offers picturesque streets lined with lovely homes, making it an ideal spot for those in search of a peaceful retreat within the city's hustle. Meanwhile, Detroit's Corktown, known for its historic vibe and lively nightlife, shares its spirit with Greenwich Village. Here, you'll discover numerous historic bars, theaters, and jazz clubs that echo the vibrant culture of Greenwich Village, ensuring you won't miss a beat of city life.

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Things to Do in New York City

  • Explore Central Park on foot or bike
  • Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Enjoy a Broadway show
  • Walk the High Line
  • Savor eats at Chelsea Market
  • Catch a game at Yankee Stadium
  • Attend a workshop at Brooklyn Public Library

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to New York City

Moving from Detroit, MI to New York City, NY presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the transition between Detroit and New York City , highlighting the cons compared to the pros and the pros compared to the cons . Understanding both sides can help you make a well-informed decision about your relocation adventure.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • Spacious Homes
  • Car-Dependent
  • Fewer Job Opportunities
  • Less Diverse Cuisine
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Vibrant Cultural Scene
  • Extensive Public Transit
  • Walkability
  • Diverse Career Options
  • World-Class Dining
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Smaller Living Spaces
  • Less Driving
  • Faster Pace of Life
  • Denser Urban Environment
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • Spacious Homes
  • Car-Dependent
  • Community Feel
  • Access to Nature

When considering a move from Detroit to New York City, one of the most striking changes is the pace of life. In NYC, the hustle is real, with places like Times Square and Wall Street epitomizing the city’s non-stop energy. However, this comes with unparalleled access to cultural landmarks such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and diverse dining options from famed spots like Katz's Delicatessen to innovative eateries in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg. While Detroit offers a more relaxed pace and spacious living, the transition to New York’s dynamic urban environment promises a wealth of experiences, from Broadway shows to Central Park’s vast greenery. Balancing the fast pace, neighborhoods like Greenwich Village offer a sense of community amidst the urban sprawl. Making the move is not just about trading spaces and lifestyle but embracing a new spectrum of opportunities and experiences unique to New York City.

Detroit vs. New York City Food Guide

Food significantly shapes the local culture and daily life in any area. To assist you in understanding what culinary experiences await you in your new city, we're offering a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & New York City . This guide aims to give you a taste of what your new life could be like, at least when it comes to dining.

DetroitNew York City
Most iconic local food itemDetroit-style pizzaBagels
Most popular meat dishConey DogPastrami on rye
Most popular street food itemGyrosHalal chicken and rice
Most popular vegan foodTempeh ReubenAvocado toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Grimaldi's
  • Jean-Georges
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

As you move from Detroit, a city revered for its unique Detroit-style pizza and innovative vegan options like the tempeh Reuben, to New York City, renowned for its iconic bagels and a world-class food scene, you'll notice considerable differences in local fare. In NYC, neighborhoods such as the East Village or Williamsburg could become your go-to for an eclectic mix of street foods, including the famous Halal chicken and rice, and upscale dining experiences, with places like Katz's Delicatessen and Grimaldi's. This diverse culinary landscape in New York City perfectly complements its rich cultural tapestry, offering something special for every palate.

Detroit vs. New York City Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Detroit to New York City, finding comfort in culinary delights can help make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison guide aims to connect your Detroit dining favorites with their New York City counterparts, ensuring you'll quickly discover new go-to spots for that taste of familiarity.

DetroitNew York CityWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardGramercy TavernBoth iconic for their seasonal American cuisine and warm, welcoming atmospheres.
SheWolfL'ArtusiInnovative Italian dishes in an equally stylish and bustling setting make it a perfect match.
Supino PizzeriaRoberta'sBoth specialize in thin-crust pizzas with a creative twist, revered by locals.
Rose's Fine FoodClinton St. Baking CompanyKnown for the best breakfast and brunch serving comfort classics with attention to quality ingredients.
Slows Bar BQMighty Quinn's BarbequeBoth offering a modern approach to traditional barbeque, with a focus on slow-cooked meats.
Polish Village CafeVeselkaOffers a heartfelt connection to Eastern European cuisine, serving comforting, traditional dishes.
Detroit Vegan SoulBy ChloeVegan eateries with a soulful twist, focused on hearty, satisfying dishes that appeal to everyone.
Taqueria El ReyLos Tacos No.1Authentic, no-frills Mexican cuisine bringing the taste and feel of street food indoors.
AntietamBuvetteBoth are charming and intimate, offering a thoughtful selection of European-inspired dishes.
IridescenceThe River CaféSpectacular city views paired with fine dining, perfect for those special occasions or romantic evenings.

Whether it's the nuanced, seasonal flavors of Selden Standard that you miss, or the soulful, comforting vegan dishes from Detroit Vegan Soul, New York City’s dining scene has you well-covered. For instance, transitioning from the culinary creativity of SheWolf to the vibrant and bustling energy of L'Artusi, you'll find the same dedication to innovative Italian cuisine. Similarly, the spirit of slow-cooked, painstakingly prepared meats will follow you from Slows Bar BQ to Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque, ensuring that your barbeque cravings are met with the utmost quality. Each NYC counterpart not only mirrors the essence but elevates your dining experience in a city known for its diverse and expansive culinary landscape.

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Detroit vs. New York City Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the real estate landscape is crucial when planning a move. Knowing how Detroit and New York City compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle offers vital insights for a smooth transition.

ComparisonDetroitNew York City
Typical Architecture StyleHistoric, Art DecoPre-war, Modern High-Rise
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious lots, Historic charmProximity to subway, Rooftop decks

When considering a move from Detroit to New York City, you'll find stark contrasts in the real estate landscape. Detroit offers more affordable housing options with a focus on spacious lots and historic charm. In contrast, New York City, known for its skyrocketing home prices and rents, prioritizes proximity to public transportation and modern amenities like rooftop decks. The lifestyle in NYC is decidedly more urban, with a higher walkability and bikeability score, reflecting the city's dense and accessible nature. This comparison underscores the importance of considering your lifestyle preferences and budget when planning a move.

Detroit vs. New York City Weather Considerations

When relocating from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather will compare between Detroit and New York City. This knowledge will help you adjust better to your new environment, making the transition smoother and more comfortable.

Summer icon
83°F / 63°F

Detroit, MI

85°F / 69°F

New York City, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 23°F

Detroit, MI

39°F / 26°F

New York City, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
33"

Detroit, MI

50"

New York City, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
43"

Detroit, MI

25"

New York City, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDetroitNew York City
Air QualityModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, TornadoesHurricanes, Nor'easters
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In comparing Detroit to New York City, a notable difference is the number of sunny days you can expect; New York City enjoys more sunshine annually. Additionally, the winters are slightly milder in New York City, but it also sees a higher annual rainfall, potentially affecting your outdoor plans. Interestingly, while Detroit may experience more snowfall, New York City is not exempt from winter challenges, including the potential for severe nor'easters. Adjusting your wardrobe and planning for these variations will be essential for a comfortable transition to your new city.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to New York City

When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial landscape of your new home is critical for a smooth transition. This comparison serves as a guide to align your financial expectations when moving from Detroit, MI to New York City, NY, covering everything from income to the cost of living.

ComparisonDetroitNew York City
Avg. Household Income$36,140$67,997
Cost of Living Index99.4185.8
State Income Tax4.254.0-8.82
Avg. Property Tax3.581.69
Avg. Sales Tax68.875
Top 3 IndustriesAutomotive, Technology, Health ServicesFinance, Media, Technology
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessSignificantWidespread

Transitioning from Detroit to New York City, the shift in financial landscape can be stark. The average household income in NYC is significantly higher than in Detroit, which might seem promising. However, it's coupled with a substantially higher cost of living—over twice that of Detroit—rendering the apparent income advantage less impactful. Sales tax and property tax rates vary notably between the two cities, directly affecting your day-to-day and long-term financial planning. Moreover, the move from an economy dominated by the automotive sector to one driven by finance, media, and technology signifies a major shift in job opportunities. Understanding these dynamics will be crucial in smoothing your transition and successfully adapting to your new environment.

Detroit vs. New York City Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for your move from Detroit, MI, to New York City, NY, understanding the local cultures and beliefs can greatly enhance your settling-in process. This quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between Detroit & New York City aims to give you an at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect from the residents in these vibrant cities.

DetroitNew York City
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticHeavily Democratic
Local PoliticsLean towards liberal policiesVery progressive with a focus on social issues
ReligionDiverse, with Christianity being predominantHighly diverse, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and more

Both Detroit and New York City have a predominately Democratic political makeup, which influences local policies and the social environment. However, New York City is known for its particularly progressive stance on social issues, reflecting its incredibly diverse population. Religion in both cities is varied, but New York City exhibits a broader spectrum of religious beliefs and practices, attributable to its global demographic. Institutions like Trinity Church Wall Street in NYC and The Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Detroit highlight the architectural and cultural significance of religious establishments in urban landscapes. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate social interactions and community engagement more seamlessly in your new home.

Detroit vs. New York City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This guide aims to illuminate the differences between the daily commute and traffic in Detroit & New York City, helping you better understand what to expect when transitioning between these two distinct urban environments.

ComparisonDetroitNew York City
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2540
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultEasily

When it comes to commuting and getting around, Detroit and New York City offer starkly different experiences. Detroit, with its lower traffic congestion, makes driving a more viable option for many. However, the city's public transit options are limited, making it challenging to rely solely on buses and trains. On the other hand, New York City's dense network of subways and buses makes it one of the few cities where owning a car is more of a hassle than a convenience. For newcomers from Detroit, adapting to the extensive public transit system will be a significant change but also opens up a new level of accessibility and convenience in navigating the city.

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