Best Grand Rapids to Columbus Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 319 mile move from Michigan to Ohio go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Grand Rapids 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 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 | 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 Columbus
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 319 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Columbus, OH will cost on average $2,052 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Columbus move is roughly $4,907. 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 | $1,383 | 300 ft³ | 4.61 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,052 | 450 ft³ | 4.56 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,383 | 750 ft³ | 4.51 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,907 | 1100 ft³ | 4.46 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,058 | 1600 ft³ | 4.41 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,850 | 1800 ft³ | 4.36 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids 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) |
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. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you compare popular neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI & Columbus, OH . By matching the vibe and characteristics of neighborhoods from where you're moving to your new city, you can find a new area that feels like home.
| Grand Rapids | Columbus | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Eastown | Short North | vibrant arts scene, local boutiques |
| Heritage Hill | Victorian Village | historic homes, leafy streets |
| Midtown | Italian Village | mixed-use spaces, community vibe |
| Heartside | German Village | cobblestone streets, charming cafes |
| Wealthy Street | Grandview Heights | trendy restaurants, walkable |
| Gaslight Village | Clintonville | family-friendly, local shops |
| Riverside Park | Scioto Mile | green spaces, riverfront activities |
| Belknap Lookout | Brewery District | lively atmosphere, craft breweries |
| Alger Heights | Hilliard | suburban feel, good schools |
| East Grand Rapids | Bexley | affluent, well-established community |
Exploring neighborhoods like Eastown and Short North, you will find a thriving arts community filled with galleries, such as the Columbus Museum of Art, and local boutiques offering one-of-a-kind items. For those who appreciate the historic charm and architectural beauty of Heritage Hill, Victorian Village provides a similar ambiance with its grand, historic homes and serene, tree-lined streets, perfect for leisurely strolls. If you're moving from Wealthy Street and loved the trendy eateries there, Grandview Heights in Columbus will catch your fancy with places like Third and Hollywood for an upscale dining experience. Additionally, Riverside Park lovers will find a new haven in Scioto Mile, where the lush green parks and scenic riverfront offer a plethora of outdoor activities, from walking trails to interactive water features, ensuring that your leisure and recreational needs are fully met in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus
Moving from one city to another offers a unique opportunity to weigh the pros and cons of transitioning from Grand Rapids, MI, to Columbus, OH. This evaluation aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this particular relocation, ensuring you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs and expectations.
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
- Lower job opportunities
- Fewer cultural attractions
Columbus, OH- Larger population
- Wider food variety
- Greater career options
- More entertainment venues
Columbus, OH- More impersonal
- Denser living spaces
- Less green space
- Busy urban life
Grand Rapids, MI- Community feel
- Close-knit neighborhoods
- Accessible outdoor activities
- Rich local history
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to Columbus, OH, introduces you to a vibrant culinary scene, with restaurants like The Guild House offering high-end dining experiences, and food festivals celebrating diverse cultures annually. On the job front, Columbus' status as the state capital and a technological hub increases your career opportunities significantly. However, Ohio's capital is much more urbanized; despite this, Columbus has managed green spaces well, with parks such as the Scioto Audubon Metro Park providing a quick nature escape. The balance between urban growth and maintaining a sense of community might be more nuanced in Columbus, yet neighborhoods like German Village and the Short North Arts District preserve that close-knit feel with their unique combination of history, culture, and modernity.
Grand Rapids vs. Columbus Food Guide
Food deeply enriches the cultural experience of a place, painting a vivid picture of what life is like there. In this guide, we're diving into a comparison to help you grasp the culinary landscapes of your old and new homes. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Columbus , aimed at offering a flavor of what each city serves best, guiding your gastronomic journey as you make the move.
| Grand Rapids | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Wet Burrito | Buckeye Candy |
| Most popular meat dish | Spare Ribs | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Gyros |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Cauliflower Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Grand Rapids, the beloved wet burrito stands as a testament to the city's ability to blend international cuisines into its local food scene, with places like San Chez Bistro offering an eclectic mix of flavors. Meanwhile, Columbus celebrates its German heritage with mouthwatering Bratwurst, prominently featured at spots like The Thurman Cafe. The cities have vibrant food truck scenes, encouraging outdoor dining adventures. Particularly, Columbus's bustling scene around areas like the Short North and German Village offers a wide array of food trucks and street food options, reflecting its higher score in both foodie culture and vegan friendliness. Whether it's the hearty traditional dishes or the flourishing vegan options, both cities have unique offerings that speak volumes of their local tastes and preferences.
Grand Rapids vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial part in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to help you transition from Grand Rapids to Columbus, guiding you towards finding your next go-to dining spots based on your current favorites.
| Grand Rapids | Columbus | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Grove | Veritas | Contemporary American cuisine with a focus on innovative dishes |
| San Chez Bistro | Barcelona Restaurant | Eclectic Spanish tapas and a vibrant atmosphere |
| Vivant | Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Craft beers paired with creative, upscale eats |
| The Chop House | Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse | High-end steaks and an extensive wine list |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Fukuryu Ramen | Quality sushi and ramen with a modern twist |
| Two Beards Deli | Katalina's | Quirky cafe with unique sandwiches and a local flair |
| Madcap Coffee Company | Stauf's Coffee Roasters | Expertly brewed coffee in a cozy setting |
| The Electric Cheetah | Northstar Café | Inventive, healthy meals in a casual-chic environment |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Marcella's | Rustic Italian dishes served in a lively, welcoming space |
| HopCat | The Guild House | Artisanal eats with a focus on local sourcing and creativity |
When searching for that perfect blend of ambiance and flavor that you've grown to adore in Grand Rapids, look no further than these Columbus equivalents. For a taste of sophisticated American cuisine reminiscent of Grove, Veritas in Columbus offers an innovative dining experience that won't disappoint. Fans of unique, globally-inspired dishes and craft beer, similar to what Vivant has to offer, will find solace and excitement at Wolf's Ridge Brewing. The transition from Maru Sushi & Grill to Fukuryu Ramen symbolizes not just a shift in cities but a continuation of enjoying high-quality Japanese cuisine with modern interpretations. Each of these Columbus restaurants not only mirrors the exceptional culinary standards you've become accustomed to but also serves as a gateway to new gastronomic adventures in your new hometown.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts
Deciding to move involves numerous considerations, with real estate in Grand Rapids, MI, and Columbus, OH playing a pivotal role. Understanding the distinct housing landscapes, including costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle offerings, is essential for making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Victorian and Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to nature, family-friendly | Easy city access, vibrant nightlife |
When examining housing options between Grand Rapids and Columbus, it becomes apparent that each city offers a unique living experience tailored to different lifestyles. Grand Rapids, with its Prairie and Craftsman architectural styles, leans towards a more suburban, family-oriented vibe reflected in its real estate listings emphasizing proximity to nature and family-friendly amenities. Columbus, with its slightly more affordable median home price and higher monthly rent costs, showcases Victorian and Colonial Revival homes. It scores higher in urban lifestyle, owing to its vibrant nightlife and easy city access, making it ideal for those seeking a more dynamic, city-centric living. Both cities offer commendable walkability and bikeability, but Columbus edges out slightly, supporting a more active urban lifestyle.
Grand Rapids vs. Columbus Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison between Grand Rapids, MI and Columbus, OH will highlight the key differences and what you can expect in terms of climate. Whether considering sunshine days , seasonal allergies , or winter lows , these insights will help you prepare for your new home.
Grand Rapids, MI
Columbus, OH
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Columbus, OH
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Columbus, OH
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Columbus, OH
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing the climates of Grand Rapids and Columbus, while some similarities are apparent, the differences are significant enough to impact your daily life and seasonal preparedness. Columbus enjoys more sunshine days annually and slightly warmer temperatures across the board, which could be a plus if you prefer milder winters and warmer summers. However, Grand Rapids experiences a considerably higher amount of snowfall, a factor that might influence your commute and lifestyle during the winter months. Air quality also varies between the two, with Grand Rapids generally boasting better conditions. If you're sensitive to seasonal allergies, the common allergens are largely the same, though the intensity and duration of allergy seasons can vary. Understanding these differences will help you adjust seamlessly to your new environment in Columbus.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus
When planning a move from one city to another, it's critical to grasp how the cost of living and other financial aspects between Grand Rapids and Columbus will impact your budget. Understanding these differences ensures a smoother transition to your new home.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $58,202 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 92 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 4.797 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 1.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education | Education, Government, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Modest | City-focused |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Comparable |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Moderate to High |
When comparing financial aspects between Grand Rapids, MI, and Columbus, OH, a few items stand out. Firstly, the average household income in Columbus is slightly higher than in Grand Rapids, which can be appealing. However, this benefit is somewhat offset by Columbus's higher cost of living index and sales tax rate. State income tax in Ohio is also higher than in Michigan. Another difference to consider is the main industries fueling each city's economy, which may influence job opportunities in your field. Realizing these economic nuances will better prepare you for a successful move and financial adaptation.
Grand Rapids vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison
This concise comparison aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of your current and future cities. This comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Columbus is crafted to help you understand the community you're joining and leaving behind.
| Grand Rapids | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Republican | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with pockets of both conservative and progressive influences | Progressive, particularly on social issues |
| Religion | Highly diverse, with a strong Christian presence, including La Grave Christian Reformed Church | Diverse, with significant Catholic, Protestant, and non-Christian faith communities, including the Saint Joseph Cathedral |
The political landscape can tell you a lot about a city's culture and values. Moving from Grand Rapids, which has a modest lean towards Republican ideologies, to Columbus, known for its Democratic leanings, you might notice significant differences in public policies and community values. The local politics in Grand Rapids show a blend of conservative and progressive ideas, whereas Columbus tends to have more progressive views, especially on social issues. When it comes to religion, both cities boast a rich tapestry of faiths, allowing for a vibrant intermingling of traditions and communities. However, Grand Rapids has a notable Christian influence, including notable establishments such as La Grave Christian Reformed Church, while Columbus provides a broad platform for a variety of faiths, including impressive structures like the Saint Joseph Cathedral, showcasing the city's religious diversity.
Grand Rapids vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Columbus, OH, it’s essential to understand the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Columbus will provide insights into what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Manageable |
While both Grand Rapids and Columbus have their unique charm, you'll find that commuting in Columbus is slightly longer on average, with a bit more congestion. However, Columbus boasts a slightly better public transportation system, making it more manageable for those without a car. While it's challenging to get by without a car in Grand Rapids due to its less extensive public transit system, Columbus offers more options like COTA’s bus services that can help you navigate the city with ease. It's also worth noting that both cities are actively working on improving their transportation infrastructures to accommodate growing populations.
Additional Resources
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