Best Detroit to Tulsa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Tulsa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 944 mile move from Michigan to Oklahoma go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Detroit to Tulsa 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 Serenity Moving Services), 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 Detroit compared to Tulsa. 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 Tulsa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Serenity Moving Services | 9.11 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bigger Better Movers | 8.56 | 8.97 | Authorized For Property, 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 Tulsa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 944 miles from Detroit, MI to Tulsa, OK will cost on average $2,584 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Tulsa move is roughly $6,206. 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 | $1,738 | 300 ft³ | 5.79 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,584 | 450 ft³ | 5.74 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,269 | 750 ft³ | 5.69 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,206 | 1100 ft³ | 5.64 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,948 | 1600 ft³ | 5.59 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,976 | 1800 ft³ | 5.54 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tulsa to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Tulsa Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Serenity Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by Serenity Moving Services3217 Bart Conner Dr suite d
Norman, OK, 73072
About Serenity Moving Services
Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, community. This...
Services
- Full Service Moving
- Packing & Unpacking
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2439364 / 988784 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
Bigger Better Movers
829 NW 116th St
Oklahoma City, OK, 73120
About Bigger Better Movers
Founded in 2017, Bigger Better Movers is a local Oklahoma moving company that offers residential and commercial relocation services to Oklahoma...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3910852 / 1443568 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (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. Tulsa Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, familiarizing oneself with similar neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. In this guide, we'll explore a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Tulsa, OK to help identify areas in Tulsa that mirror the community feel and amenities of your favorite Detroit neighborhoods.
| Detroit | Tulsa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Cherry Street | Artsy with a vibrant nightlife |
| Corktown | Brookside | Historical with bustling bars and eateries |
| Downtown | Downtown Tulsa | Business center with urban lifestyle |
| Indian Village | Swan Lake | Historic homes with a sense of community |
| Woodbridge | Florence Park | Family-friendly with charming homes |
| Boston-Edison | Maple Ridge | Stately homes with historic appeal |
| Eastern Market | Blue Dome District | Unique shops and weekend markets |
| Rosedale Park | Bryn Mawr | Quiet, with a mix of urban and green spaces |
| Palmer Woods | Terrace Drive | Luxurious homes with grand architecture |
| Belle Isle | Riverside Drive | Parkland with outdoor activities |
For those drawn to Detroit's Midtown for its artistic vibe and nightlife, Cherry Street in Tulsa offers a similar atmosphere with a plethora of galleries, live music, and bars reminiscent of establishments found in Detroit. Corktown residents will find a comparable experience in Tulsa's Brookside, where the historic backdrop sets the scene for vibrant social gatherings and diverse culinary experiences, much like popular Detroit eateries. If you appreciate the stately homes and historical charm of Indian Village, Swan Lake in Tulsa provides an equally enriching sense of community amidst its preserved architecture. For outdoor enthusiasts who cherish Belle Isle’s picturesque parkland, Riverside Drive in Tulsa extends an invitation to explore its trails, green spaces, and riverside views, fostering a connection with nature within an urban setting.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Tulsa
Moving from one city to another is a significant life event that comes with its share of challenges and opportunities. This guide is designed to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Detroit, MI to Tulsa, OK , providing you with the insights needed to make an informed decision. By comparing the pros and cons directly, we aim to illuminate the realities of such a relocation, helping you to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks with clarity.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rates
- Cold winters
- Higher living costs
- Lower job growth
Tulsa, OK- Lower crime rates
- Milder winters
- Lower living costs
- Higher job growth
Tulsa, OK- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer major league teams
- Less diverse food scene
- Quieter nightlife
Detroit, MI- Rich cultural scene
- Great sports city
- Diverse food options
- Vibrant downtown
When considering moving from Detroit to Tulsa, it's essential to look beyond the surface. For example, Detroit's vibrant downtown area, home to celebrated places like Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the historic Detroit Institute of Arts, contrasts with Tulsa's quieter, yet burgeoning nightlife, highlighted by gems such as The Vanguard for music enthusiasts and Gathering Place, a riverfront park that offers a scenic retreat from city life. Moving to Tulsa might mean saying goodbye to Detroit's famous sports teams and diverse food scene, featuring iconic restaurants like Slows Bar BQ. But it also opens the door to Tulsa's lower cost of living, lower crime rates, and a close-knit community that many find inviting. This comparison highlights the importance of considering how the lifestyle changes will impact your personal and professional life.
Detroit vs. Tulsa Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Tulsa serves as an exploration of an important part of local culture—the food scene. Understanding what each city offers in terms of dining can significantly enhance your relocation experience, allowing you to dive right into the culinary heart of your new home.
| Detroit | Tulsa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Fried Okra |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-Style Pizza | BBQ Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Indian Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Kebabs | Vegetable Sushi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Detroit and Tulsa both offer vibrant and distinct culinary scenes, they differ in their signature dishes and dining experiences. In Detroit, the Coney Dog stands as a testament to the city's love for comfort food, easily found at local favorites like Lafayette Coney Island. On the other hand, Tulsa prides itself on a rich BBQ tradition with places like Burn Co Barbecue drawing crowds for their BBQ Brisket. Detroit's abundance of food trucks and vegan options in trendy neighborhoods like Midtown showcases its culinary diversity. Similarly, Tulsa’s Indian tacos reflect its blend of cultural influences, offering a unique taste found at street food festivals and local markets. Both cities cater to food lovers, whether you're after a traditional meat dish, a vegan delight, or street food flair.
Detroit vs. Tulsa Restaurant Comparison
Relocating offers the perfect opportunity to redefine your dining experiences. Food is not just sustenance but a way to make an area feel like home. This comparison between Detroit, MI, and Tulsa, OK restaurants aids in discovering your next favorite eatery, creating a gastronomic bridge between your old and new homes.
| Detroit | Tulsa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Juniper | Visually stunning plates with a focus on local cuisine |
| Rose's Fine Food | FarmBar | Farm-to-table dining, serving comfort food with a twist |
| Slows Bar BQ | Burn Co Barbecue | Known for authentic, slow-cooked barbecue |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Coney I-Lander | A Tulsa staple for classic Coney Island-style hot dogs |
| Supino Pizzeria | Andolini's Pizzeria | Offers a wide range of authentic Italian pizzas |
| Iridescence | Prhyme Downtown Steakhouse | Upscale dining with an emphasis on prime cuts |
| Sister Pie | Antoinette Baking Co. | Famous for pie but offers a variety of baked goods |
| Gather | Hodges Bend | Known for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional cuisine |
| Dime Store | Dilly Diner | A go-to spot for breakfast all day and classic diner offerings |
| Tamaleria Nuevo Leon | El Rancho Grande | Offers traditional Mexican dishes and handcrafted tamales |
Exploring new culinary landscapes can be a delightful journey when you know where to start. For lovers of locally sourced, innovative dishes, Juniper in Tulsa echoes Detroit's Selden Standard by emphasizing fresh, local ingredients prepared in ways that both surprise and comfort the diner. For those missing the iconic barbecue flavors of Slows Bar BQ, Tulsa's Burn Co Barbecue fills that void with its own unique approach to smoked meats, cooked low and slow. Similarly, the comfort of biting into a classic Coney Island-style hot dog is found at Coney I-Lander, capturing the essence of Lafayette Coney Island's beloved tradition. These transitions don't just introduce you to new venues; they connect you to familiar tastes and memories while encouraging you to embrace the local culinary scene.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Tulsa Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is essential when considering a move. Understanding how Detroit, MI and Tulsa, OK contrast in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle helps make an informed decision. Here's a comparison to guide you.
| Comparison | Detroit | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic | Ranch-style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Wood floors, Downtown proximity | Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods |
Detroit and Tulsa offer distinct living experiences reflected in their housing costs and styles. Detroit's housing market is more affordable, with a strong emphasis on historical architecture and proximity to an urban lifestyle. Meanwhile, Tulsa presents a suburban feel, with ranch-style homes and larger yard spaces being highly sought after. Walking and biking scores slightly favor Tulsa, indicating a bit more friendliness towards these modes of transportation. Beyond the numbers, the essence of each city is captured in their real estate listings; Detroit celebrates its wood floors and downtown life, while Tulsa values its quiet neighborhoods and spacious outdoor areas.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tulsa, OK
1. Brookside: With its array of pet-friendly patios at local eateries, you and your furry friend can enjoy dining experiences together.
2. Riverside: Boasting the expansive River Parks with miles of trails, your pet can enjoy plenty of outdoor exercise and you can take in some beautiful views of the Arkansas River.
3. Cherry Street: Home to a welcoming atmosphere for pets with several dog-friendly shops and an annual pet parade, making it a vibrant community for pet owners.
Detroit vs. Tulsa Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Detroit, MI to Tulsa, OK, understanding the weather differences is crucial to adjusting seamlessly. Key aspects like temperature ranges, humidity, and susceptibility to natural disasters significantly impact daily life. With Detroit and Tulsa having distinct climatic conditions, this comparison aims to prepare you for the changes ahead.
Detroit, MI
Tulsa, OK
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Tulsa, OK
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Tulsa, OK
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Tulsa, OK
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Freezing Rain | Tornadoes, Hailstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 183 days | 230 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In Tulsa, expect hotter summers and milder winters compared to Detroit, thus altering your wardrobe and daily energy consumption. The increased sunshine days can invigorate your outdoor activities, while the lower humidity may provide some relief during the heat. However, Tulsa's higher UV index and vulnerability to tornadoes necessitate proactive preparedness for sun safety and natural disasters. Air quality and allergy triggers differ as well, potentially impacting health and comfort. Adapting to Tulsa's weather will require adjustments, but knowing these differences can ease the transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Tulsa
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Detroit compares to Tulsa . This comparison will shed light on the differences in monetary aspects including income levels, taxes, and the overall cost of living, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Detroit | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $51,008 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 88.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 5.0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 1.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 8.517 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Health Care | Energy, Aviation, Technology |
| Affluence | Lower-middle | Middle |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lower |
Moving from Detroit to Tulsa, you'll enter a different economic climate. For starters, the average household income in Tulsa is significantly higher, suggesting a stronger local economy. Despite this, you'll face a higher cost of living, marked by Tulsa's higher living index. Taxes, particularly sales tax, are also higher in Tulsa. However, this could be balanced by the lower property tax rate, making homeownership potentially more favorable. The shift in dominant industries between the two cities highlights diverse career opportunities, which could be an important factor depending on your professional background. Tulsa’s affluence is described as middle compared to Detroit’s lower-middle, aligning with the economic indicators and reflecting on aspects like poverty and homelessness rates. This suggests a generally more prosperous environment in Tulsa, but it's important to weigh these factors against the higher cost of living.
Detroit vs. Tulsa Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Detroit & Tulsa. If you're moving from Detroit to Tulsa, understanding these aspects can help you anticipate the social and cultural environment you'll be transitioning into.
| Detroit | Tulsa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Liberal | Conservative |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious presence | Christianity predominant, Tulsa Interfaith Alliance represents multiple faiths |
While both Detroit and Tulsa have predominantly Christian populations, Tulsa's conservative lean is more pronounced, influencing its local politics and potentially the social atmosphere you'll experience there. Detroit's political landscape is more liberal, reflected in its public policies and social services. A move from Detroit to Tulsa would mean transitioning into a community where Republican views are more prevalent, and the influence of Christianity might be observed more in communal activities and local governance. This shift could impact your daily life, from the types of community events available to the conversations you'll have with your new neighbors.
Detroit vs. Tulsa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI, to Tulsa, OK, involves adapting to new daily routines, especially when it comes to commuting. This comparison offers insights into the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Tulsa, helping you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Detroit | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25.5 | 18.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
While Detroit and Tulsa both present their unique challenges and advantages when it comes to commuting, one standout difference is the average commute time. With Tulsa offering a significantly shorter average commute time than Detroit, your daily travel might be less stressful. However, this benefit comes with a need for a greater reliance on personal vehicles in Tulsa, where public transportation options are more limited. This aspect is crucial when planning your move, as living in Tulsa might necessitate owning a car, more so than in Detroit, where public transit, though not perfect, offers more alternatives.
Additional Resources
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