Best Columbus to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Columbus to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 202 mile move from Ohio to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Columbus to Detroit moving companies and more than 15,000 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 Columbus compared to Detroit. 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 Columbus to Detroit 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 | 9.19 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Integrity Moving and Storage | 8.98 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | 8.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Columbus to Detroit
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 202 miles from Columbus, OH to Detroit, MI will cost on average $1,953 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Detroit move is roughly $4,664. 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 | $1,317 | 300 ft³ | 4.39 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,953 | 450 ft³ | 4.34 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,218 | 750 ft³ | 4.29 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,664 | 1100 ft³ | 4.24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,704 | 1600 ft³ | 4.19 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,452 | 1800 ft³ | 4.14 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Columbus guide.
Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Detroit 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) |
Integrity Moving and Storage
2050 Corvair Blvd Unit 1
Columbus, OH, 43207
About Integrity Moving and Storage
With over three decades of expertise and a small-town customer-first approach, Integrity Moving and Storage offers exceptional service in Central Ohio....
Services
- Long-Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1343775 / 517527 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (2022) |
Professional Movers.com
1001 Woodward Ave Suite 500
Detroit, MI, 48226
About Professional Movers.com
With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in statewide, cross-country,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 266582 / 178368 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 714,000 (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) |
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.
Columbus vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Columbus, OH, to Detroit, MI, it helps to find a neighborhood that feels like home. In our guide, we aim to compare Columbus, OH & Detroit, MI local neighborhoods , offering a comfortable transition by identifying the most similar neighborhoods between these two vibrant cities.
| Columbus | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| German Village | Corktown | Historic architecture |
| Short North | Midtown | Arts and culture hub |
| Victorian Village | Woodbridge | Historic homes, close community |
| Clintonville | Rosedale Park | Family-friendly, spacious parks |
| Bexley | Palmer Woods | Exclusive, lush landscapes |
| Grandview Heights | Lafayette Park | Modernist architecture, community feel |
| Brewery District | Eastern Market | Thriving local market scene |
| Italian Village | West Village | Quaint eateries, charming boutiques |
| Old Town East | Boston-Edison | Historical significance |
| Upper Arlington | Grosse Pointe | Well-off, waterfront parks |
In Detroit's Corktown, like in Columbus' German Village, you'll immerse yourself in rich history among beautifully preserved architecture, offering a glimpse into an era gone by. For arts and culture aficionados familiar with Short North, Detroit's Midtown provides a similarly vibrant energy, with cultural institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and bustling areas such as the Midtown Detroit district. If you enjoyed the close-knit, historic ambiance of Victorian Village, Woodbridge offers an equally charming setting with its array of historic homes and tight-knit community vibe. Meanwhile, the family-friendly atmosphere and green expanses of Clintonville find a match in Rosedale Park, known for its lovely parks and community-centric living - a perfect setting for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.
Things to Do in Detroit
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts- Visit the Belle Isle Park
- Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
- Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
- Discover the Henry Ford Museum
- Experience the Motown Museum
- Try local eats at Eastern Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Detroit
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, packed with potential upsides and drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Columbus, OH to Detroit, MI, highlighting both the good and bad. Through comparing key aspects of both cities, you can make a more informed decision about this life-changing move.
Columbus, OH- Smaller city vibe
- Lower crime rates
- More limited nightlife
- Less industrial history
- Lower job growth
Detroit, MI- Larger urban area
- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse dining options
- Rich cultural heritage
- Auto industry hub
Detroit, MI- Higher unemployment rate
- Fewer green spaces
- Perceived as less friendly
- Higher living costs
- More chain establishments
Columbus, OH- Young professional community
- Accessible outdoor activities
- Friendly Midwestern vibe
- Affordable housing market
- Thriving local businesses
Consider the move from Columbus to Detroit and you'll find stark contrasts that could sway your decision. Columbus offers a cozy, small-town feel with friendly faces and local businesses such as Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams and the North Market. In contrast, Detroit boasts a vibrant urban scene with historical sites like the Henry Ford Museum, a testament to its rich automotive and cultural heritage. The burgeoning arts scene in neighborhoods such as Midtown and the historic Eastern Market provide unique dining and shopping experiences, far surpassing the typical chain establishments found in many cities. While Columbus promotes a community-oriented lifestyle with abundant parks like the Scioto Mile, Detroit invites those seeking a lively environment peppered with music, art, and a diverse culinary landscape. Deciding based on these factors will depend largely on personal priorities and the lifestyle you envision for yourself.
Columbus vs. Detroit Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus & Detroit. Understanding the culinary landscape is vital when relocating, as food significantly influences the local culture and the living experience in a new area.
| Columbus | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candies | Coney Island hot dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Bahama Mama sausage | Barbecue ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Food truck tacos | Greek gyros |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan chili | Shawarma cauliflower bites |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Detroit, you'll find yourself in a city celebrated for its robust and diverse culinary scene. Specific neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown are bustling with gastronomic innovation, offering everything from the traditional Coney Island hot dog at American Coney Island to contemporary takes on classic dishes at Slows Bar BQ. Detroit's street food, with Greek gyros standing out, reflects its ethnically rich composition. For vegans, the city is welcoming with creative offerings like shawarma cauliflower bites found in various eateries throughout the city. Detroit's iconic restaurants not only sum up the city's culinary identity but are deeply woven into its culture and history, making exploring them an adventure in itself.
Columbus vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city means finding those special places that make it feel like home. Food plays a big role in this transition. This comparison of top restaurants in Columbus, OH to Detroit, MI will help you discover where you can enjoy memorable meals that echo the flavors of Columbus in your new Detroit surroundings.
| Columbus | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro | Marais | Offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on French cuisine, much like The Refectory. |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Batch Brewing Company | Not just a brewery but also known for comfort food, including their spicy chicken that rivals Hot Chicken Takeover. |
| Northstar Café | Detroit Vegan Soul | Provides a health-conscious menu in a casual setting, similar to Northstar Café's approach to wholesome eating. |
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Huddle | Known for creative and high-quality ice creams that can stand up to Jeni's innovative flavors. |
| Lincoln Social Rooftop | The Monarch Club | Offers spectacular city views along with craft cocktails, echoing the upscale, aerial vibe of Lincoln Social Rooftop. |
| Skillet | Lady of the House | Both restaurants put a modern twist on traditional comfort food, using locally sourced ingredients. |
| Thurman Cafe | Cutter's Bar & Grill | Known for hefty burgers that can compete with Thurman Cafe's gargantuan offerings. |
| Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern | Tommy's Detroit Bar & Grill | A sports bar with a friendly atmosphere and hearty American fare, similar to Rusty Bucket's vibe. |
| Wolfgang Puck Steak | London Chop House | Premier steakhouse offering a luxurious dining experience akin to Wolfgang Puck Steak. |
| Service Bar | Mutiny Bar | Unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere that mirror the innovative and enjoyable essence of Service Bar. |
Finding a restaurant that blends the right ambiance with unforgettable flavors can truly make your new city feel like home. For instance, Detroit's Marais mirrors the sophisticated French cuisine of Columbus's The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro, ensuring a seamless transition for your refined palate. For those casual nights out, Detroit Vegan Soul captures the essence of Northstar Café's commitment to wholesome, conscious eating. Meanwhile, if it's innovation in sweets you're after, Huddle's imaginative ice creams offer a taste reminiscent of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, ensuring that your dessert adventures remain as exciting as ever. These establishments in Detroit are not just restaurants; they're beacons of comfort and familiarity waiting to welcome you with open arms and tantalizing dishes.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal component of any move. Understanding how Columbus and Detroit compare in terms of housing—the cost, statistics, architecture, walkability, and more— is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview to guide your relocation journey.
| Comparison | Columbus | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Art Deco, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, proximity to parks | Riverfront views, historic character |
While Columbus offers a more modern suburban feel, with median home prices significantly higher than in Detroit, it delivers spacious backyards and is famous for its proximity to green spaces. On the other hand, Detroit, showcasing a rich tapestry of Art Deco and Bungalow-style homes, provides more affordable housing options. Despite its lower walkability and bikeability scores, Detroit is known for its riverfront properties and buildings steeped in historic character. Understanding the nuances between Columbus’s and Detroit’s living environments will ensure you find a home that not only meets your budget but also your lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
1. Midtown: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Midtown is ideal for you and your pets due to its numerous parks and green spaces, along with pet-friendly cafes and grooming salons.
2. Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly restaurants and the popular Roosevelt Park, perfect for afternoon walks.
3. Woodbridge: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and close-knit community, Woodbridge offers a peaceful environment for pets, including easy access to spacious parks and the Michigan Humane Society for your pet’s needs.
Columbus vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding the weather differences between Columbus, OH and Detroit, MI is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to prepare you for the climate changes you will experience, ensuring there are no surprises as you acclimate to your new home.
Columbus, OH
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Occasional Tornadoes | Harsh Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Columbus and Detroit share similar summer temperatures, you'll notice a slight difference in winter, where Detroit experiences cooler temperatures and significantly more snowfall—about 34 inches annually compared to Columbus's 22 inches. Detroit also enjoys more days of sunshine than Columbus, albeit with a slightly higher humidity level. Seasonal allergies in both cities are mainly triggered by pollen, but in Detroit, dust adds an additional factor to consider. Understanding these differences can help you plan for outdoor activities and health considerations in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Detroit
When considering relocating from Columbus, OH to Detroit, MI, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison offers insight into income, taxes, cost of living, and the broader economic environment. It aims to illuminate the differences and similarities that could affect your budget and lifestyle when moving between these two cities.
| Comparison | Columbus | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 2.92 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.72 | 2.64 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Low to moderate | High |
Exploring deeper into the financial differences, the average household income in Detroit is notably lower than in Columbus, reflecting a broader economic disparity between the two cities. The Cost of Living Index further underscores Detroit's affordability, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing a lower cost of living. Despite the apparent economic challenges in Detroit, the city's rejuvenating industries, particularly in automotive and technology, are presenting new opportunities. However, the higher poverty and homelessness rates in Detroit compared to Columbus highlight the complex socio-economic dynamics at play, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning and consideration if you're contemplating this move.
Columbus vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics between Columbus & Detroit along with religious beliefs prevalent in these cities. Such insights aim to give you an at-a-glance view of the cultural and social makeup you're moving into or from.
| Columbus | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Focus on economic recovery and social justice |
| Religion | Christianity dominant, with diverse faith communities like Islamic Center of Columbus | Christianity prevalent, sizable Muslim community represented by institutions like Detroit Interfaith Council |
In moving from Columbus, OH to Detroit, MI, you'll find both cities share a strong leaning towards Democratic politics, with Detroit having a more pronounced affiliation. Columbus prides itself on progressive social policies, while Detroit's political climate is deeply intertwined with its economic recovery efforts and social justice issues. Religious life in both cities is dominated by Christianity, but they also possess vibrant, diverse religious communities. Columbus offers diverse faith communities such as the Islamic Center of Columbus, mirroring Detroit’s inclusive environment shown through its active Detroit Interfaith Council. Understanding these aspects will help you acclimate to the unique social fabric of your new city.
Columbus vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When planning a move, understanding the daily commute and traffic nuances is essential. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Columbus & Detroit, aiming to prep you for your new life in either city.
| Comparison | Columbus | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Moderately Feasible |
When moving from Columbus to Detroit, you'll notice differences in your daily commute. While the average commute time is similar, Detroit experiences slightly higher traffic congestion, which might require adjusting your travel times. Detroit also has better public transit options, thanks to their bus system and the Detroit Department of Transportation, making it more feasible to get by without a car compared to Columbus. Columbus, on its end, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with public transit options not as developed. This contrast emphasizes the need for a different approach to daily travel when relocating.
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