Best Detroit to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 286 mile move from Michigan to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Detroit to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), 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 Detroit compared to Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Meta Movers | 9.11 | 9.43 | 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 Pittsburgh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 286 miles from Detroit, MI to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $2,024 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Pittsburgh move is roughly $4,839. 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 | $1,365 | 300 ft³ | 4.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,024 | 450 ft³ | 4.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,337 | 750 ft³ | 4.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,839 | 1100 ft³ | 4.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,958 | 1600 ft³ | 4.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,738 | 1800 ft³ | 4.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Pittsburgh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're leaving behind familiar neighborhoods. This guide is designed to help you ease into your new surroundings by comparing local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Pittsburgh, PA . You'll find comparisons of popular neighborhoods in Detroit to their closest equivalents in Pittsburgh, helping you to find a new place that feels like home.
| Detroit | Pittsburgh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Lawrenceville | Vibrant arts scene |
| Corktown | Strip District | Historic meets modern |
| Downtown | Downtown | Central business districts |
| Eastern Market | Bloomfield | Rich in local markets |
| Indian Village | Shadyside | Elegant homes |
| Brush Park | East Liberty | Urban renewal |
| West Village | Squirrel Hill | Community-focused living |
| Rosedale Park | Point Breeze | Family-friendly atmosphere |
| Woodbridge | Highland Park | Historic charm |
| Palmer Woods | Mount Lebanon | Quiet, upscale living |
For those who love Detroit's Corktown and its perfect blend of historic charm and modern touches, Pittsburgh's Strip District offers a similar vibe, with renovated warehouses and a bustling market scene. Lawrenceville, comparable to Detroit's Midtown, buzzes with an energetic arts scene, unique boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal locale for creatives and professionals alike. Nature lovers migrating from Woodbridge will find themselves at home in Highland Park, where the blend of architectural beauty and green spaces offers a serene living environment. These neighborhood comparisons are aimed at helping you identify which parts of Pittsburgh will resonate with you the most, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort as you embark on your new life in the Steel City.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Pittsburgh
Moving from one city to another encompasses a variety of factors both challenging and rewarding. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Detroit, MI to Pittsburgh, PA, highlighting the perks and pitfalls associated. Understanding these differences can help in making a well-informed decision about your relocation.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Economic instability
- Lower quality schools
Pittsburgh, PA- Safer neighborhoods
- Stronger job market
- Higher ranking schools
Pittsburgh, PA- Higher living costs
- Smaller cultural scene
- Lesser music venues
Detroit, MI- Affordable housing
- Richer in history
- Vibrant music scene
One of the stark differences between Detroit and Pittsburgh is the vibrancy of their respective music scenes. Detroit, known for its rich musical heritage, home to Motown Records, offers a unique cultural experience that Pittsburgh struggles to match. However, Pittsburgh counterbalances this with superior educational opportunities, boasting institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh. Additionally, despite higher living costs, Pittsburgh's stronger job market and safer neighborhoods, exemplified by areas such as Shadyside and Squirrel Hill, offer compelling reasons for relocation. Pittsburgh also prides itself on its higher-quality educational institutions, making it an attractive destination for families. Both cities offer unique perks and pitfalls, but for those in search of safety, employment opportunities, and education, Pittsburgh may stand out as the preferable choice.
Detroit vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide
Food plays a vital role in understanding local culture and the lifestyle of an area. With this in mind, we have created a comparison to enlighten you about the differences and similarities in local cuisine as you consider moving from one vibrant city to another. Specifically, we will delve into the comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Pittsburgh , helping you adapt to the culinary landscape of your new home.
| Detroit | Pittsburgh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Pierogi |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-Style Pizza | Primanti Bros. Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Shawarma | Pretzel |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Kebabs | Vegan Pierogi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the famous Coney Dog, a delightful hot dog topped with a savory meat sauce, can be enjoyed at classic spots like American Coney Island. For pizza lovers, Detroit-style pizza at Buddy's Pizza offers a unique square, deep-dish experience that is a city hallmark. The city's health and fitness conscientiousness, combined with a high abundance of food trucks, creates a diverse food landscape with plenty of options. Pittsburgh, with its rich tradition of pierogies, showcases this iconic food at numerous local festivals and restaurants throughout the city. A visit to Primanti Bros. is a must for newcomers, where the addition of fries and coleslaw inside their sandwiches presents a culinary experience emblematic of the Steel City. Both cities boast an impressive foodie scene, with Detroit slightly edging out in terms of vegan-friendly options, reflecting the growing trend towards plant-based diets.
Detroit vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for a bite to eat. This comparison chart aims to ease the transition from Detroit, MI to Pittsburgh, PA, by highlighting some of the best dining equivalents. Whether you're craving upscale dining, a casual bite, or a unique foodie experience, let this guide serve as your culinary compass. The purpose of this charts is to make Pittsburgh feel like home by using Detroit restaurants as a reference point .
| Detroit | Pittsburgh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Eleven | Seasonal and refined American dishes |
| Slows BBQ | Pork & Beans | Texas-inspired barbecue with craft beer |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Franktuary | Innovative hot dogs and local sustainable ethos |
| Supino Pizzeria | Pizzeria Davide | Authentic hand-tossed pizzas |
| Gold Cash Gold | Cure | Locally-sourced New American cuisine |
| Rose's Fine Food | Pamela's Diner | Quaint diner with a homey feel |
| Detroit Vegan Soul | B52 Cafe | Vegan eats with an eclectic menu |
| Roma Cafe | DiAnoia's Eatery | Beloved Italian with an authentic feel |
| Takoi | Noodlehead | Street-style Thai with a modern twist |
| Cliff Bell's | Alphabet City | Intimate jazz and eclectic dining |
If you find yourself missing the bustling atmosphere and creative dishes of Takoi in Detroit, Noodlehead in Pittsburgh welcomes you with open arms, offering a similar innovative take on Thai cuisine in an equally vibrant setting. Meanwhile, fans of Detroit’s historic jazz vibes at Cliff Bell’s can find solace in Alphabet City, where the intimate dining experience is complemented by a selection of performances that capture the spirit of Detroit's rich musical heritage. Also, for those who appreciate the unique botanical setting of Gold Cash Gold, Pittsburgh’s Cure presents an inviting atmosphere where the focus on locally-sourced ingredients and inventive American cuisine draw striking parallels, ensuring your gastronomic adventure continues seamlessly in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial in making a move seamless. Understanding how Detroit and Pittsburgh's real estate markets compare can significantly inform your decision. This comparison will guide you through important aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Housing | Detroit | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price (USD) | $55,000 | $190,000 |
| Median Monthly Rent (USD) | $850 | $1,200 |
| Typical Architecture Style | Tudor and Bungalow | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability (out of 10) | 5 | 7 |
| Bikeability (out of 10) | 4 | 6 |
| Urban Lifestyle (out of 10) | 6 | 8 |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Renovated kitchens, Open floor plans | Hardwood floors, Spacious backyards |
When comparing the real estate markets of Detroit and Pittsburgh, several aspects stand out. Pittsburgh, with its higher median home price and rent, may seem less affordable than Detroit at first glance. However, it compensates for this with its higher walkability and urban lifestyle score, indicating a more vibrant city life. The architecture in Pittsburgh, featuring Victorian and Craftsman styles, reflects its rich industrial history, while Detroit's Tudor and bungalow homes narrate a different tale of American residential development. Whether you prioritize space, community accessibility, or historical charm can significantly impact your decision on where to move. Considering the unique offerings of Detroit's wide-open plan homes and Pittsburgh's appeal for outdoor spaces underscores the importance of aligning your housing choice with your lifestyle preferences.
| Comparison | Detroit | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Tudor and Bungalow | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Renovated kitchens, Open floor plans | Hardwood floors, Spacious backyards |
When comparing the real estate markets of Detroit and Pittsburgh, several aspects stand out. Pittsburgh, with its higher median home price and rent, may seem less affordable than Detroit at first glance. However, it compensates for this with its higher walkability and urban lifestyle score, indicating a more vibrant city life. The architecture in Pittsburgh, featuring Victorian and Craftsman styles, reflects its rich industrial history, while Detroit's Tudor and bungalow homes narrate a different tale of American residential development. Whether you prioritize space, community accessibility, or historical charm can significantly impact your decision on where to move. Considering the unique offerings of Detroit's wide-open plan homes and Pittsburgh's appeal for outdoor spaces underscores the importance of aligning your housing choice with your lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA
1. Lawrenceville: This neighborhood boasts a vibrant community with easy access to dog parks and pet-friendly restaurants like The Vandal, making it perfect for you and your furry friend.
2. Shadyside: Known for its walkable streets and a welcoming atmosphere for pets, Shadyside offers numerous pet stores such as Petagogy and outdoor areas, ideal for keeping your pet healthy and happy.
3. Squirrel Hill: With its close proximity to Frick Park, Squirrel Hill provides endless trails and green spaces for you and your pet to explore, alongside pet-friendly cafes and community activities.
Detroit vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the variations in weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison between Detroit, MI, and Pittsburgh, PA weather will provide insights into what new environmental conditions you can expect, ensuring you are well-prepared for your relocation.
Detroit, MI
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing the weather patterns of Detroit, MI, and Pittsburgh, PA, you'll find both cities experience four distinct seasons but with some notable differences. Pittsburgh tends to have fewer days of sunshine and slightly more snowfall, which can impact your outdoor activities and commuting habits. Additionally, Pittsburgh's increased precipitation contributes to its humidity and the types of seasonal allergies residents may experience, leaning more towards mold in addition to pollen. Planning for these differences can help you adjust more seamlessly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Pittsburgh
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects such as income, taxes, and cost of living might change. This comparison aims to equip you with essential financial information to ensure a smooth transition. Detroit vs Pittsburgh provides a clear view of what to expect in terms of money and finance.
| Comparison | Detroit | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $57,821 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 91.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 3.07 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 2.4 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Healthcare, Education, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Less significant |
Considering the financial comparison between Detroit and Pittsburgh, it's notable that Pittsburgh generally offers a higher average household income but also comes with a higher cost of living index. However, the state income tax is lower in Pittsburgh than in Detroit, which can be a financial relief. Industries play a critical role in a city's economy, and both cities have a strong presence in technology and healthcare, offering numerous employment opportunities. Understanding these differences can help you prepare more effectively for your move and anticipate changes in your financial situation.
Detroit vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating can bring about significant changes, not just in scenery but also in the community you'll be part of. This quick comparison between the politics and religious makeup of Detroit & Pittsburgh offers insight into the demographic shift you might experience, providing a glance at what to expect from your new neighbors.
| Detroit | Pittsburgh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | City governance & social issues take center stage | Environmental initiatives & tech industry impact highlighted |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population. Notable Catholic presence. | Diverse, with prominent Catholic and Jewish communities |
When moving from Detroit to Pittsburgh, you're transitioning between two cities with rich, albeit distinct, political and religious landscapes. Detroit's strong Democratic lean mirrors Pittsburgh’s, though each city focuses on unique local issues. Detroit's initiatives often revolve around city governance and social equity, while Pittsburgh has a keen focus on environmental sustainability and the influence of the booming tech industry. Religiously, both cities boast diversity, but Pittsburgh notably houses a vibrant Jewish community alongside its Christian majority, contrasting Detroit’s more homogeneous religious makeup. These differences can subtly but significantly impact your social interactions and community engagement.
Detroit vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit to Pittsburgh or vice versa requires adapting to different lifestyles, especially when it comes to daily commutes. In this comparison, we aim to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Detroit & Pittsburgh, focusing on average commute times, traffic congestion levels, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a car in both cities.
| Comparison | Detroit | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
In both Detroit and Pittsburgh, one can expect relatively short average commute times compared to larger U.S. cities. However, Pittsburgh edges out with slightly less time spent traveling and better public transit options, making it more feasible to live there without a car. Detroit's public transit scores lower, indicating that owning a car might be necessary to navigate the city effectively. While traffic congestion in Pittsburgh rates a bit higher, its public transit system, including buses and the unique Pittsburgh Light Rail, helps mitigate some of that congestion by offering alternative ways to get around. Moving to either city means adjusting to these nuances in daily travel, enhancing your overall living experience.
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