Best Pittsburgh to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 285 mile move from Pennsylvania to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Pittsburgh to Detroit 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Detroit 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 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.80 | 8.2 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to Detroit
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 285 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,024 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Detroit move is roughly $4,837. 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 | $1,364 | 300 ft³ | 4.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,024 | 450 ft³ | 4.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,335 | 750 ft³ | 4.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,837 | 1100 ft³ | 4.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,955 | 1600 ft³ | 4.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,734 | 1800 ft³ | 4.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Pittsburgh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Detroit 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) |
Two Men and a Truck
3555 Valley Dr
Pittsburgh, PA, 15234
About Two Men and a Truck
With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1321899 / 509618 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 260,000 (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) |
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA, to Detroit, MI, it helps to compare the neighborhoods you know to those you'll discover. This guide outlines comparisons between Pittsburgh, PA & Detroit, MI local neighborhoods , helping you find a new area that feels like home. Whether you cherish the vibrant streets, lush parks, or unique dining spots of your current locale, we'll help you locate a similar vibe in Motor City.
| Pittsburgh | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Shadyside | Midtown | Diverse, cultural hub |
| Squirrel Hill | Palmer Woods | Affluent, historic homes |
| Lawrenceville | Corktown | Trendy, artsy vibes |
| East Liberty | New Center | Revitalized, contemporary |
| South Side Slopes | Indian Village | Scenic views, historic |
| Oakland | Woodbridge | Academic, eclectic community |
| Bloomfield | West Village | Charming, close-knit |
| Mount Washington | Brush Park | Picturesque, upscale living |
| Strip District | Eastern Market | Lively, food-oriented |
| Highland Park | Lafayette Park | Lush greenery, modernist homes |
In Shadyside, the vibrant Walnut Street with its boutiques and restaurants sets a lively urban tone much like Detroit's Midtown, where the cultural beats of the Detroit Institute of Arts and historic Majestic Theatre pulse. Squirrel Hill's tranquil tree-lined streets and polished residences share a kinship with Palmer Woods, notable for its architectural marvels and lush landscapes. Meanwhile, Lawrenceville's restoration has turned it into a hub for creatives and foodies, similar to the transformation seen in Corktown, Detroit's oldest neighborhood, now teeming with art installations and trendy eateries like Slows Bar BQ. The Strip District is known for its bustling markets and local specialty foods, echoed in Eastern Market's vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary options. If you're transitioning from Pittsburgh to Detroit, these insights can help you visualize your new surroundings and find a neighborhood that mirrors the amenities and ambiance you've grown to cherish.
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 Pittsburgh to Detroit
Moving from one city to another comes with its set of changes and challenges. This comparison aims to give you a balanced perspective by weighing the pros and cons of relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Detroit, MI . Understanding the differences between these two cities will help you make an informed decision about your move.
Pittsburgh, PA- Smaller city vibe
- Higher living costs
- Less diverse industries
- Less sports teams
- Quieter nightlife
Detroit, MI- Larger city dynamics
- More affordable housing
- Broad job opportunities
- Rich sports culture
- Vibrant nightlife
Detroit, MI- Rebuilding culture scene
- Fewer parks
- Less communal vibe
- Higher crime rates
- Struggling school system
Pittsburgh, PA- Rich cultural scene
- More green spaces
- Stronger community feel
- Lower crime rates
- Better public schools
While considering the move from Pittsburgh to Detroit, it's crucial to delve into the specific attributes driving these pros and cons. Detroit's housing market, for example, offers a more affordable entry point for homebuyers, with neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown presenting great value alongside a burgeoning culinary and arts scene as highlighted by venues like The Royal Detroit and Michigan Opera Theatre. The resurgence of Detroit's downtown area promises vibrant nightlife at places like Punch Bowl Social, against Pittsburgh’s quieter evening scene. However, Pittsburgh counters with a strong sense of community bolstered by its smaller, yet densely packed neighborhoods and ample green spaces such as Schenley Park. The contrast in school systems also marks a vital point of consideration, reflecting the differing urban experiences these cities offer.
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Food Guide
Food is a key element that brings flair and character to any locale, greatly enriching the local culture and living experience. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Detroit to help you gain a better understanding of the culinary delights awaiting you in your new city.
| Pittsburgh | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Primanti Bros. Sandwich | Detroit-style Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pierogi | Coney Island Hot Dog |
| Most popular street food item | Haluski | Greek Gyros |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Seitan Shawarma |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Pittsburgh, the iconic Primanti Bros. Sandwich, a unique concoction of grilled meat, coleslaw, tomato, and French fries between Italian bread, is a must-try. You can find such classic sandwiches at the original Primanti Bros. in the Strip District, a neighborhood known for its vibrant food scene. Meanwhile, in Detroit, the city takes pride in its Detroit-style Pizza, characterized by its thick crust and reverse layering of ingredients, which you can savor at Buddy's Pizza, amongst other local favorites. Detroit also boasts a diverse food scene, from the traditional Coney Island Hot Dogs found at American Coney Island to innovative vegan options, demonstrating the city's adaptability and evolving culinary trends.
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a significant life change, and finding comfort in your new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from Pittsburgh to Detroit by helping you find new favorite eateries based on your old favorites. Whether you're in search of upscale dining, casual spots, or unique culinary experiences, this guide has got you covered.
| Pittsburgh | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Altius | Iridescence | Offers a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views, mirroring Altius' elegance |
| Primanti Bros. | Lafayette Coney Island | Known for its casual and iconic dining atmosphere, similar to Primanti Bros. in Pittsburgh |
| Pamela's Diner | Dime Store | Features a classic brunch experience with a Detroit twist, comparable to the charm of Pamela's Diner |
| Meat & Potatoes | Selden Standard | Like Meat & Potatoes, it's known for hearty, American comfort food but with a seasonal and artisanal approach |
| Butcher and the Rye | Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails | Offers a rustic and cozy atmosphere with an innovative menu, akin to Butcher and the Rye’s appeal |
| DiAnoia's Eatery | Ottava Via | Delivers a casual yet authentic Italian dining experience, making it a great counterpart to DiAnoia's Eatery |
| Federal Galley | Fort Street Galley | Provides a food hall setting that showcases a variety of culinary talents, similar to Federal Galley's concept |
| Morocco | Cass Cafe | While offering a different cuisine, it captures the unique and artistic atmosphere found at Morocco in Pittsburgh |
| Pusadee's Garden | Takoi | Both offer garden dining with a focus on Asian cuisine, though Takoi presents a Thai twist compared to Pusadee's Laotian flavors |
| Eleven | The Apparatus Room | High-end dining with a focus on innovative American cuisine, paralleling Eleven's upscale offerings |
When exploring the culinary scene of your new city, Detroit's Iridescence immediately stands out as an exceptional dining experience, offering panoramic views of the city skyline much like Pittsburgh's Altius. For those nostalgic about the casual comfort of Primanti Bros., Lafayette Coney Island in Detroit offers an authentically local dining experience peppered with history. Meanwhile, brunch enthusiasts will appreciate the Dime Store, whose creative and hearty dishes serve as a delightful counterpart to Pamela's Diner. If you're a fan of Italian fare from DiAnoia's Eatery, you'll find a new home at Ottava Via, where the charm of Detroit's Italian cuisine shines through. Exploring these establishments not only introduces you to the flavors of Detroit but also bridges the gap between your old and new homes through the universal language of delicious food.
Ready to start your move?
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move. It's essential to comprehend how Pittsburgh and Detroit stack up in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, and the urban lifestyle they offer. This comparison aims to provide a clear insight into these important factors.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian & Colonial | Art Deco & Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to universities and hospitals | Renovated historic homes |
When comparing Pittsburgh and Detroit, the most striking difference lies in the median home prices, indicating a more affordable housing market in Detroit. Pittsburgh's higher median rent reflects a denser urban environment with proximity to renowned educational and medical institutions. The prevalent architectural styles also signal the cities' historical epochs, with Pittsburgh showcasing Victorian and Colonial homes signifying its establishment during America's early expansion, while Detroit's Art Deco and Bungalow styles hint at its automotive boom era. Despite their differences, both cities offer a unique blend of urban lifestyle with Detroit slowly catching up in terms of bikeability, making it an increasingly friendly city for cyclists.
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
When relocating, it's crucial to understand how the climate of your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison is especially vital if you're moving from Pittsburgh to Detroit. The following charts highlight key weather differences, providing insights into the variations in temperature, sunshine, humidity, and more, ensuring you're well-prepared for what to expect.
Pittsburgh, PA
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pittsburgh, PA
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Storms | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Pittsburgh and Detroit share similar seasonal temperature ranges, you'll find Detroit enjoys more days of sunshine per year. This difference may be particularly appealing if you prefer brighter days. Additionally, while both cities experience their share of natural disasters, it's important to note that Detroit is more prone to snowstorms and tornadoes, necessitating preparedness for such events. Also, despite the minor difference in annual humidity percentage, air quality in Detroit is generally considered better, which could be a significant factor if you're sensitive to air pollutants.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Detroit
When considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Detroit, MI, comparing the financial landscape is crucial to ensure the transition meets your economic expectations. This guide aims to compare Pittsburgh's and Detroit's key financial metrics such as household income, cost of living, and tax rates, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $57,821 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.4 | 3.2 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Finance | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
In comparing Pittsburgh and Detroit, several financial aspects stand out. Notably, the average household income in Pittsburgh is significantly higher than in Detroit, which may reflect differing economic opportunities between the two cities. Furthermore, while the cost of living in Pittsburgh is slightly higher than in Detroit, this is offset by the city's moderately higher affluence and lower levels of poverty and homelessness. State income and sales tax rates also vary between the two, potentially affecting your net income and expenditure. Understanding these metrics is important for planning a financially viable move.
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Detroit, MI, understanding the comparison of the politics between Pittsburgh & Detroit and the religious landscape is crucial. This quick snapshot offers an at-a-glance view of what to expect in terms of the political and religious makeup of residents in these cities.
| Pittsburgh | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive trends in leadership | Historically Democratic leadership |
| Religion | Mixed Christian majorities with growing diverse religious communities | Predominantly Christian, with significant Muslim community |
Within both Pittsburgh and Detroit, the political leanings are predominantly Democratic, though Detroit shows a stronger inclination towards Democratic leadership. While Pittsburgh is experiencing progressive trends, Detroit has a long-standing history with Democratic leadership. Religiously, both cities are primarily Christian, but Detroit stands out with its significant Muslim community, reflecting its more diverse religious landscape. This influence is evident in the presence of various cultural institutions and places of worship throughout the city, offering newcomers a rich tapestry of communities to explore and engage with. As you make your move, these aspects are just a few that contribute to the unique cultural fabric of each city.
Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Detroit, MI, requires adjusting to a new environment, especially when it involves navigating daily commutes. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Detroit to better understand what the daily commute and traffic will be like in your new city.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
In Pittsburgh, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Detroit, reflecting differing urban layouts and traffic congestion levels. Pittsburgh has a moderate level of traffic congestion but prides itself on a more accessible public transit system than Detroit, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car. However, Detroit's lesser traffic congestion doesn't directly translate to a better commuting experience due to its less comprehensive public transit options. This comparison indicates that while Detroit might offer a slightly quicker commute, Pittsburgh provides better support for those looking to use public transportation or forgo a car entirely.
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