Best Detroit to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,429 mile move from Michigan to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Detroit to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,429 miles from Detroit, MI to Seattle, WA will cost on average $3,847 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Seattle move is roughly $9,293. 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 | $2,580 | 300 ft³ | 8.60 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,847 | 450 ft³ | 8.55 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,374 | 750 ft³ | 8.50 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,293 | 1100 ft³ | 8.45 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,438 | 1600 ft³ | 8.40 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,027 | 1800 ft³ | 8.35 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle 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 crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Seattle, WA , using familiar places as a baseline to help you understand your new surroundings. Discover which Seattle neighborhoods most closely resemble your favorite spots in Detroit.
| Detroit | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Capitol Hill | Vibrant arts scene, diverse dining |
| Corktown | Ballard | Historic charm, trendy eateries |
| Downtown | Downtown Seattle | Urban core, shopping & entertainment |
| Eastern Market | Pike Place Market | Bustling markets, unique shops |
| Brush Park | Queen Anne | Elegant homes, stunning views |
| Indian Village | Madrona | Residential, waterfront views |
| Boston-Edison | Magnolia | Quiet, family-friendly, with parks |
| Woodbridge | Greenwood | Strong sense of community, artsy |
| Riverfront | West Seattle | Waterfront activities, beach access |
| Palmer Woods | Laurelhurst | Affluent, with waterfront estates |
For those who cherished the vibrant arts scene and food culture of Detroit's Midtown, Capitol Hill in Seattle offers an eclectic mix that's sure to feel familiar, with venues like The Crocodile hosting live performances. If the historical allure and trendy eateries of Corktown captured your heart, you'll find a similar vibe in Ballard, home to the Ballard Farmers Market and landmarks like the Ballard Locks. For lovers of Detroit's Eastern Market, the bustling atmosphere of Pike Place Market in Seattle not only matches but expands on that market experience with its fish throwers and endless rows of artisans and unique shops. These neighborhoods, among others, bridge the gap between new and familiar, making the transition to Seattle an exciting journey of discovery.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Seattle
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, filled with potential and challenges. This comparison aims to help you understand the differences between Detroit, MI, and Seattle, WA , offering an honest reflection of what this relocation entails. Here, we juxtapose the practical realities of leaving Detroit's unique characteristics behind for Seattle's diverse opportunities and lifestyle.
Detroit, MI- Higher Crime Rate
- Harsh Winters
- Lower Employment Rate
- Economic Challenges
- Less Green Space
Seattle, WA- Lower Crime Rate
- Milder Climate
- Higher Employment Rate
- Thriving Economy
- Abundant Parks
Seattle, WA- High Living Costs
- Less Diverse Music Scene
- Less Auto-centric
- Modern Urban Landscape
- Less Emphasis on Sports
Detroit, MI- Affordable Housing
- Vibrant Music Scene
- Automotive Culture
- Historic Architecture
- Strong Sports Culture
While Detroit and Seattle offer contrasting experiences, each city's unique attributes can significantly affect your lifestyle. Moving to Seattle, you'll encounter a flourishing job market, particularly in the tech sector, thanks to giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Additionally, Seattle's commitment to public parks is evident in spots like Discovery Park, offering expansive green spaces rare in urban environments. However, Seattle's higher cost of living, particularly in popular areas such as Capitol Hill and Ballard, can be a shock for those used to Detroit's more affordable housing market. On the flip side, Detroit's vibrant music scene, deeply rooted in the history of Motown, and the city's rich automotive culture provide a unique cultural identity that might be missed after relocating to Seattle's more tech-focused environment.
Detroit vs. Seattle Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Seattle is crucial as food plays a vital role in understanding the culture and lifestyle of a new city. By comparing these two locations, you'll be better informed about the food scene of your new home.
| Detroit | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Detroit-style Pizza | Pacific Northwest Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Coney Dog | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Coney Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Shawarma | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the culinary scene prides itself on hearty, comforting foods with the Detroit-style pizza and Coney Dog standing out as signature dishes. Places like Lafayette Coney Island offer a glimpse into the city's rich auto industry history alongside delicious eats. On the flip side, Seattle's cuisine draws heavily from its coastal location, with Pacific Northwest Salmon and a vibrant seafood scene dominating. You can find exquisite examples of local flavors at establishments like Canlis and Matt's in the Market, both of which emphasize fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, Seattle's stronger emphasis on health and vegan options means you'll have no trouble finding lighter and plant-based fare, a testament to the city's fitness and health conscientiousness.
Detroit vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a blend of excitement and uncertainty, but finding your new go-to dining spots can help you feel more at home. This restaurant comparison between Detroit and Seattle will guide you in discovering your next favorite eateries, bridging familiar tastes with new adventures.
| Detroit | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Slows Bar BQ | Jack’s BBQ | Authentic Texan barbecue, reminiscent of Slows' slow-cooked meats and homely atmosphere |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Shorty's | Known for its hot dogs and vibrant, quirky decor, providing a similar casual and iconic dining experience |
| SheWolf | Altura | Both offer high-end, sophisticated dining with a focus on meticulously crafted Italian dishes |
| Roses Fine Food | The Fat Hen | Both cafes bring farm-to-table ethos to breakfast and lunch, served in a cozy, inviting setting |
| Taqueria El Rey | Tacos Chukis | Offering authentic, affordable Mexican street food that brings a taste of home to the Seattle dining scene |
| Selden Standard | Canlis | While Canlis is more upscale, both provide a culinary adventure with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes |
| Iridescence | The Pink Door | Both restaurants offer a fine dining experience with stunning views and exquisite menus, perfect for special occasions |
| Supino Pizzeria | Serious Pie | Pizzerias that elevate the simple pizza with gourmet toppings and a dedication to quality dough and ingredients |
| Pupusería y Restaurante Salvadoreño | Guatemala Antigua | Both offer a taste of Central American cuisine through their traditional dishes and casual, welcoming atmosphere |
| Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles | The Wandering Goose | Southern comfort food, including outstanding chicken and waffles, served in a homey space |
Exploring Seattle through its dining scene will bring you comfort and joy as you discover places like Jack’s BBQ for those who miss the iconic flavors of Slows Bar BQ in Detroit. Altura and SheWolf might be oceans apart but share the same commitment to delivering an exquisite Italian dining experience. Meanwhile, those with a penchant for cozy and inviting breakfast spots will find The Fat Hen mirrors the warm, farm-to-table ethos of Roses Fine Food. This guide is not just about finding places that serve similar dishes; it's about discovering spots where the spirit and passion for food resonate with your favorites back in Detroit.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial for making informed decisions. This comparison between Detroit and Seattle aims to highlight the essential aspects of housing , such as costs, architecture, and lifestyle, to assist you in your relocation journey.
| Comparison | Detroit | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic, post-industrial | Modern, craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious lots, historic character | Views, green spaces |
The vast difference in median home prices and rents between Detroit and Seattle reflects the variation in economic status and cost of living in these cities. In Detroit, the real estate market emphasizes the city's rich history and post-industrial charm, often highlighting spacious lots and the historic character of homes. This contrasts with Seattle, where modern and craftsman architectural styles dominate, and real estate listings frequently boast about views and proximity to green spaces, catering to a demand for an urban lifestyle blended with nature. Considering walkability and bikeability, Seattle offers a more connected urban experience, indicative of the city's investment in infrastructure to support a bustling urban lifestyle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Detroit vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Detroit, MI to Seattle, WA, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're used to is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities between Detroit and Seattle's climate, preparing you for what to expect.
Detroit, MI
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Detroit to Seattle introduces you to a more mild climate year-round, with cooler summers and warmer winters in Seattle compared to Detroit. Although Seattle is famed for its rainy days, it actually receives only a slightly higher amount of rainfall annually than Detroit. However, Seattle experiences far fewer days of sunshine and significantly less snowfall, making winter less harsh but also offering fewer sunny days overall. Additionally, while Detroit's air quality ranges from good to moderate, Seattle typically enjoys good air quality year-round, contributing to a healthier living environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Seattle
Moving from Detroit, MI to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape shift. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income will change ensures your transition is smooth and financially sound. This comparison elucidates these vital differences between Detroit and Seattle.
| Comparison | Detroit | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 3.1 | 0.99 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 10.1 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Technology, Aerospace, Retail |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
When considering a move from Detroit to Seattle, you'll find a dramatic increase in the average household income, alongside a significant rise in the cost of living. Notably, Seattle does not impose a state income tax, which can somewhat offset higher living expenses. However, Seattle's property and sales tax rates present a mixed picture. The vibrant tech and aerospace industries in Seattle contribute to its higher average household income and affluence level. Both cities face challenges with homelessness, requiring attention and understanding from new residents. This comparison highlights crucial financial aspects to consider, ensuring your move is not only about changing locations but also adapting to a new economic climate.
Detroit vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to your quick guide for comparing the makeup of Detroit, MI to Seattle, WA. This section provides a *comparison of the politics between Detroit & Seattle *, alongside religious beliefs, offering a snapshot of what to expect from the local communities.
| Detroit | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Primarily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic revitalization, public safety | Strong emphasis on environmental issues, social equity |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities | Less religiously affiliated, diverse spiritual groups |
Both Detroit and Seattle harbor communities with strong Democratic leanings, though the focus of local politics can vary significantly. Detroit places a heavy emphasis on economic revitalization and improving public safety, potentially reflecting its journey through economic challenges and rebirth. Seattle, known for its progressive stance, prioritizes environmental sustainability and social equity, mirroring the values of its residents. When it comes to religion, Detroit's population is more traditionally affiliated, primarily with Christianity, hosting a myriad of churches and religious institutions throughout the city. Conversely, Seattle boasts a high number of individuals identifying as spiritual but not religious, contributing to a diverse range of spiritual practices and communities within the city. This reflects broader national trends toward decreasing religious affiliation, especially in urban centers like Seattle.
Detroit vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Seattle, WA is a big change, especially when it comes to daily commutes and navigating traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Seattle is designed to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for your new routine.
| Comparison | Detroit | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Detroit and Seattle share some similarities in average commute times, the differences in their transportation systems are notable. Seattle shines with its higher public transit score, largely thanks to its extensive network including buses, light rail, and ferries, making it very feasible to live without a car. On the other hand, Detroit's public transit system is less robust, making a car almost a necessity for getting around. Traffic congestion in Seattle is slightly higher, a testament to its dense population and active city life. Understanding these differences is key to making your move as smooth as possible.
Additional Resources
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