Best Detroit to Columbus Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Columbus and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 203 mile move from Michigan to Ohio go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Detroit to Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Columbus. 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 Columbus Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | 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 Columbus
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 203 miles from Detroit, MI to Columbus, OH will cost on average $1,954 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Columbus move is roughly $4,666. 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 | $1,318 | 300 ft³ | 4.39 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,954 | 450 ft³ | 4.34 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,219 | 750 ft³ | 4.29 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,666 | 1100 ft³ | 4.24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,707 | 1600 ft³ | 4.19 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,455 | 1800 ft³ | 4.14 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Columbus Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Blue Men Moving LLC
10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW
Pickerington, OH, 43147
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3544037 / 1184394 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,500 (2022) |
Manifest Shipping Llc
501 Southwick Pl
Trenton, OH, 45067
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3050908 / 49758 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 46,740 (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. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To ease the transition, our guide is designed to help you find neighborhoods in Columbus, OH, that mirror the community vibe of your favorite areas in Detroit, MI. By focusing on Detroit, MI & Columbus, OH comparison of local neighborhoods , we aim to make you feel right at home from day one in Columbus.
| Detroit | Columbus | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Short North | Arts and cultural hub |
| Corktown | German Village | Historic, vibrant community |
| Downtown Detroit | Downtown Columbus | Urban core, similar amenities |
| Eastern Market | North Market Area | Known for local markets and food scene |
| Brush Park | Victorian Village | Historic homes, close to downtown |
| Woodbridge | Clintonville | Eclectic, close-knit community |
| Rosedale Park | Grandview Heights | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Indian Village | Bexley | Affluent, historic, with beautiful homes |
| Palmer Woods | Upper Arlington | Upscale, spacious homes |
| Belle Isle | Schiller Park | Green spaces, recreational activities |
In Columbus, you'll find neighborhoods that not only match the spirit of Detroit's communities but also introduce you to new local attractions and cultures. For instance, if you're drawn to Corktown's historic and vibrant energy, German Village in Columbus will captivate you with its restored brick houses, quaint streets, and lively atmosphere. Here, you can visit Schmidt’s Sausage Haus to dive into local cuisine. Likewise, the Short North area, similar to Detroit's Midtown, is rich in arts and culture, featuring galleries like the Pizzuti Collection and events like Gallery Hop that bring the community together. Meanwhile, fans of Rosedale Park's family-friendly vibe will find a similar sense of belonging and community in Grandview Heights, known for its excellent schools and beautiful parks such as Pierce Field. Through these comparisons, you're sure to find a new neighborhood in Columbus that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Columbus
Moving from one city to another involves a myriad of considerations from lifestyle changes to economic opportunities and beyond. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Columbus, OH to help you weigh your options effectively.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Economic instability
- Harsher winters
Columbus, OH- Lower crime rate
- More job opportunities
- Milder winters
Columbus, OH- Less diverse culture
- Fewer live music venues
- Higher housing costs
Detroit, MI- Cultural heritage
- Rich music scene
- Lower living costs
While considering the move, it’s beneficial to think about the specifics that each location offers. Columbus holds an energetic scene with neighborhoods like the Short North Arts District, bustling with galleries, eateries like North Market, and unique boutiques that could be your new favorite places. On the other hand, Detroit honors its rich cultural heritage and history, embodied in places like the Motown Museum. For live music enthusiasts, Detroit’s packed schedule at venues such as the Fox Theatre contrasts with Columbus’s fewer but beloved spots like the Newport Music Hall. Each city has its pros and cons depending on what you prioritize most in your daily life, whether that's a dynamic job market, cultural experiences, or the overall climate and safety of your neighborhood.
Detroit vs. Columbus Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Columbus, understanding food is pivotal in embracing the essence of local culture. It plays a significant role in what life is like in these areas. By comparing these two cities, you'll be better informed about the food scene in your new home.
| Detroit | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Buckeye Candy |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Shawarma | Taco Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Kebabs | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Columbus, the Buckeye Candy—a peanut butter fudge dipped in chocolate—reflects Ohio's love for simple, homegrown specialties. You'll find a vibrant food truck scene, particularly acclaimed for its taco trucks, scattered across city corners and especially in the Short North and German Village neighborhoods. Columbus's food scene shines with establishments like Schmidt’s Sausage Haus in German Village, where the local love for bratwurst and other German dishes is evident. The city's high vegan-friendliness score is supported by innovative options like jackfruit tacos, easily found in the North Market. This bustling epicenter of food culture offers a variety of cuisines, making Columbus an enthralling destination for food lovers and health enthusiasts alike.
Detroit vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering places that remind you of home. If you're relocating from Detroit to Columbus, this restaurant comparison guide will help bridge the gap between Detroit and Columbus, assisting you in finding your new go-to spots for dining. Whether you're in search of high-end dining experiences or comforting casual eats, this guide is here to make your transition as smooth as possible.
| Detroit | Columbus | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Veritas | Inventive American cuisine in a sleek setting |
| SheWolf | The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro | High-end Italian with a French twist |
| Supino Pizzeria | Harvest Pizzeria | Handcrafted pies with locally sourced ingredients |
| Slows Bar BQ | Ray Ray's Hog Pit | Authentic, wood-smoked barbecue flavors |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace | Classic and inventive hot dog varieties |
| Rose's Fine Food | Skillet | Farm-to-table comfort food in a cozy setting |
| Grey Ghost | Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Creative American dishes with a craft brewery onsite |
| Iridescence | M at Miranova | Upscale dining with a modern flair |
| Marrow | The Guild House | Artisan eats in a chic and artistic space |
| Antietam | Lindey's | Classic, elegant dining with a contemporary twist |
In your culinary exploration of Columbus, you'll discover that places like Veritas offer an inventive take on American cuisine, reminiscent of the experimental dishes found at Selden Standard in Detroit. For those who delight in the flavors of authentic, wood-smoked barbecue, Ray Ray's Hog Pit provides a taste of home similar to Slows Bar BQ. Pizza enthusiasts will appreciate Harvest Pizzeria's commitment to locally sourced ingredients and handcrafted pies, echoing the quality and passion of Supino Pizzeria. Each of these Columbus eateries not only mirrors the culinary excellence found in Detroit but also adds its own local flair, ensuring that you'll find both comfort and new favorites in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Detroit, MI and Columbus, OH aims to give you clear insights into their housing markets, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Let's delve into how these two cities stack up.
| Comparison | Detroit | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Early 20th Century, Art Deco | Modern, Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic neighborhoods, large lots | Family-friendly communities, parks |
The housing markets in Detroit and Columbus offer unique advantages depending on what you value most in a community. Detroit's lower median home price is attractive for those seeking affordability and the charm of early 20th-century architecture. The city's rich history is reflected in its housing, with many neighborhoods highlighting properties that boast large lots and intricate designs. Contrastingly, Columbus leans towards a more modern architectural style with a slightly higher cost of living. However, it compensates with a higher urban lifestyle score, attributed to its vibrant communities and abundance of parks, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a mix of urban and suburban feel. Regardless of your preference, both cities exhibit a growing bikeability trend, fostering a more sustainable and active lifestyle.
Detroit vs. Columbus Weather Considerations
Moving between cities is a significant transition, especially when considering the weather. Understanding how the climate shifts from Detroit, MI to Columbus, OH can help you prepare for your relocation. This comparison is crucial for adjusting your lifestyle and planning for seasonal changes.
Detroit, MI
Columbus, OH
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Columbus, OH
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Columbus, OH
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Columbus, OH
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Less common | More frequent |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Detroit and Columbus offer midwestern climates with four distinct seasons, there are subtle yet significant differences worth noting. Columbus tends to have slightly warmer summers and winters, with a bit more rainfall annually than Detroit. One aspect you might find pleasantly surprising in Columbus is the slightly higher UV index, favoring outdoor enthusiasts. However, if you're moving from Detroit, be prepared for a bit more frequent natural disasters in Columbus, including storms. Adjusting to these changes will be an essential part of your relocation process.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Columbus
When contemplating a move from Detroit, MI to Columbus, OH, understanding the financial implications is vital. This comparison sheds light on the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic conditions in Detroit and Columbus , helping you gauge how your finances might adjust.
| Comparison | Detroit | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $58,202 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 92 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 4.797 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 3.64 | 2.07 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Manufacturing, Technology | Education, Healthcare, Financial Services |
| Affluence | Low | Medium |
| Poverty | High | Lower |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less Visible |
Comparing Detroit and Columbus reveals significant differences in average household incomes and cost of living indexes. Columbus residents tend to earn more annually, aligning with its higher cost of living. Despite similar state income taxes, property taxes in Detroit are notably higher, impacting homeownership costs. Additionally, sales tax in Columbus exceeds that of Detroit, affecting day-to-day expenses. Industry-wise, Columbus boasts a diverse economic base with strong sectors in education, healthcare, and financial services, suggesting more varied job opportunities compared to Detroit's traditional reliance on manufacturing. These factors collectively paint a picture of Columbus as a city with a slightly more affluent and economically diverse landscape.
Detroit vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Detroit, MI to Columbus, OH? This brief overview provides a quick snapshot focusing on the political and religious makeup of Detroit & Columbus . It highlights what you might expect in terms of local governance, political leanings, and religious landscapes, giving you an at-a-glance comparison between your current and future homes.
| Detroit | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Strong union influence | Progressive policies |
| Religion | Diverse; Christian majority | Diverse; Christian majority with growing numbers of other faiths |
While both Detroit and Columbus lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, the influence of unions on local politics in Detroit has been historically significant, shaping policies and elections. Columbus, however, is recognized for its progressive policies, reflected in its local governance and societal norms. The religious landscape in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Columbus has been experiencing a growth in diversity with more residents practicing a range of faiths. Understanding these dynamics can help you better prepare for your transition and integrate into your new community.
Detroit vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Columbus, OH? This comparison highlights the differences in traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Columbus to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like.
| Comparison | Detroit | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | It's challenging |
While both Detroit and Columbus offer distinct living experiences, you'll find subtle nuances in daily commutes and transportation. Detroit's reliance on personal vehicles is underscored by its lower public transit availability, making it tough to manage without a car. Conversely, in Columbus, the slightly better score for public transit reflects ongoing efforts to enhance bus and alternative transportation services. Despite this, living in Columbus without a vehicle still presents challenges due to the city's layout and areas not fully covered by public transit.
Additional Resources
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