Best Norfolk to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Norfolk to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 716 mile move from Virginia to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Norfolk 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 Marathon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Norfolk 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.

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Best Norfolk to Detroit Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Marathon Moving Services9.279.25Authorized For HHGContact
2Prime Movers USA9.079.39Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Professional Movers.com8.548.07Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.478.22Authorized For HHGContact
5A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.238.74Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Norfolk to Detroit

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 716 miles from Norfolk, VA to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,390 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Norfolk to Detroit move is roughly $5,732. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,608300 ft³5.36
1 Bedroom$2,390450 ft³5.31
2 Bedrooms$3,946750 ft³5.26
3 Bedrooms$5,7321100 ft³5.21
4 Bedrooms$8,2581600 ft³5.16
5+ Bedrooms$9,2001800 ft³5.11
*Please note: These Virginia to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Virginia & Michigan. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed VA to MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Norfolk guide.

Compare the 5 Best Norfolk to Detroit Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 1,058+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 628+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Professional Movers.com Logo

Professional Movers.com

Fabulous8.54/10
based on 270+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

266582 / 178368

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved714,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.47/10
based on 379+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo

A Friendly & Affordable Mover

Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,243+ data points

516 Central Dr Suite 104

Virginia Beach, VA, 23454

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one...

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Norfolk vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Norfolk, VA & Detroit, MI, highlighting similarities to help you find your new home with ease.

NorfolkDetroitHow They're Similar
GhentMidtownVibrant arts and culture scene
LarchmontPalmer WoodsQuiet, residential with historic homes
Freemason DistrictCorktownRich history with modern vibes
Colonial PlaceBoston-EdisonArchitecturally significant homes
Ocean ViewRiverfrontScenic views and water activities
East BeachBelle IsleIsland park with recreational activities
LafayetteWoodbridgeCommunity-focused with an artsy vibe
RiverfrontHarbortownWaterfront living with amenities
West GhentBrush ParkEclectic and fast-growing
Norfolk HighlandsWarrendaleAffordable, suburban feel

If you're charmed by Ghent's lively arts scene, Midtown Detroit will captivate you with its creative pulse, featuring cultural institutions such as the Detroit Institute of Arts and bustling eateries akin to Ghent's beloved local spots. Larchmont's serene residential streets find a match in Palmer Woods, where majestic historic homes are surrounded by lush landscapes. For those drawn to Ocean View's coastal vibe, Detroit's Riverfront offers breathtaking views along with riverside parks for leisure and events, mirroring Ocean View's blend of relaxation and community activities. These comparable neighborhoods offer a glimpse into the seamless transition you can experience, from Norfolk's coastal charm to Detroit's urban allure.

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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 Norfolk to Detroit

Moving from one city to another carries its mix of excitement and apprehension. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection from Norfolk, VA to Detroit, MI , contrasting the good and bad to help you make an informed decision. The following charts will navigate through both the perks and drawbacks of this significant change.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Higher hurricane risk
  • Smaller job market
  • Lesser cultural venues
  • Housing costs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Lower natural disaster risk
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural venues
  • Affordable housing options
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Colder winters
  • Less maritime presence
  • Higher traffic congestion
  • No beach access
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Vibrant coastal setting
  • Naval heritage
  • Lower traffic congestion
  • Beach access

Moving to Detroit may mean bidding farewell to the gentle sea breezes and beach days of Norfolk, yet it opens the door to the rich cultural scene Detroit boasts. Imagine swapping the Norfolk Naval Station's maritime vistas for the historic Motown Museum's soulful echoes or the Detroit Institute of Arts' world-class collections. Though the winters in Detroit could be a shock, the affordability of housing makes it easier to find a comfortable home, possibly near gems like Belle Isle Park, a beautiful island park in the Detroit River, or in thriving neighborhoods such as Midtown with its eclectic mix of restaurants like Selden Standard for farm-to-table dining. While traffic might increase, the exploration of such vibrant city spaces—and perhaps a renewed appreciation for snow—might just make it worthwhile.

Norfolk vs. Detroit Food Guide

Understanding the local food culture is essential when relocating. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk & Detroit to help you grasp what culinary delights await in your new city. Food not only satisfies our hunger but also connects us to the community, making this guide pivotal for those moving.

NorfolkDetroit
Most iconic local food itemChesapeake Blue CrabsConey Dog
Most popular meat dishFried CatfishDetroit-style Pizza
Most popular street food itemOyster Po'boyShawarma
Most popular vegan foodSeitan BBQ RibsChickpea Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Doumar's Cones & Barbecue
  • Toast
  • Granby Street Pizza
  • American Coney Island
  • Buddy's Pizza
  • Selden Standard
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Detroit brings you closer to the heart of America's automotive industry, which influences its unique gastronomy, from the famed Coney Dog at American Coney Island to the delectable Detroit-style Pizza at Buddy's Pizza. The city's Shawarma, thanks to its significant Middle Eastern community, notably in neighborhoods like Dearborn, is not to be missed. Meanwhile, the vegan food scene is growing, with offerings such as Chickpea Tacos making waves among food enthusiasts. Detroit's food scene, robust and full of character, promises an exciting culinary exploration that reflects its rich cultural tapestry.

Norfolk vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a blend of excitement and nostalgia, especially when it comes to leaving behind your favorite dining spots. But fear not, this restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition by finding new favorite eateries in Detroit based on your loved ones in Norfolk . Navigate your culinary journey in Motor City with ease and excitement.

NorfolkDetroitWhat You'll Love
Handsome BiscuitRose’s Fine Food and WineKnown for homemade biscuits and a cozy feel
LeGrand KitchenLady of the HouseFarm to table dining with an innovative twist
The BirchBATCH Brewing CompanyCraft beers and unique small plates
A.W. ShucksMudgie’s Deli and Wine ShopSeafood with a focus on freshness and local ingredients
ToastSelden StandardArtisanal toasts and creative cuisine in a modern setting
No Frill Bar and GrillMercury Burger & BarCasual dining with a great burger selection
Chartreuse Kitchen & CocktailsGregory’s Soul FoodComfort food with a soulful twist
Terrasini Pastry ShopSheWolfAuthentic Italian pastries and desserts
LuceOttava ViaItalian dining with a modern flare
Doumar’sDime StoreClassic diner experience with unique menu items

Moving from Norfolk to Detroit introduces you to a unique culinary landscape, where familiar flavors meet new twists. At Rose’s Fine Food and Wine, you'll discover a sense of home with fresh, homemade biscuits that rival those of Handsome Biscuit back in Norfolk. Embrace the innovative spirit of Detroit dining at Lady of the House, where the farm-to-table concept takes a creative turn, much like the experience at LeGrand Kitchen. For those special, cozy Italian pastry mornings, transitioning from Terrasini Pastry Shop to SheWolf will satisfy your sweet tooth with authentic Italian craftsmanship. This guide not only serves as your roadmap to finding Detroit’s culinary gems but also ensures you won’t have to forgo the comfort of your favorite meals as you settle into your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Norfolk vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, making it crucial to compare Norfolk, VA and Detroit, MI housing markets. This comparison covers housing costs , architecture , walkability , and urban lifestyle, providing an essential guide for planning your move.

ComparisonNorfolkDetroit
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalArt Deco
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront views, Proximity to naval basesHistoric neighborhoods, Proximity to downtown

When comparing Norfolk and Detroit, it's evident that each city offers a unique living experience tailored to different lifestyles. Norfolk, with its higher median home prices, reflects its coastal charm and proximity to naval bases, making it appealing for those connected to military life or who cherish waterfront living. Detroit, on the other hand, offers an incredibly affordable housing market, making it ideal for those seeking urban revival in a city known for its rich musical and automotive heritage. Detroit's slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores align with its resurging downtown area, providing residents with a more urban lifestyle at a lower cost. Notably, Detroit's historic Art Deco architecture contrasts with Norfolk's Colonial Revival styles, offering a visual representation of the cities’ unique characters and histories.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Norfolk vs. Detroit Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider how the climate might change. This comparison will give you insight into what to expect weather-wise, making your transition smoother. Norfolk, VA and Detroit, MI weather differences are highlighted to illustrate the impact on your daily life and help you prepare for the new conditions.

Summer icon
87°F / 70°F

Norfolk, VA

83°F / 63°F

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 32°F

Norfolk, VA

35°F / 22°F

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
46"

Norfolk, VA

34"

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5.8"

Norfolk, VA

42.7"

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonNorfolkDetroit
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Norfolk to Detroit, you’ll notice a significant change in winter weather, where Detroit experiences colder temperatures and a higher volume of snowfall annually. This requires appropriate wardrobe adjustments and potentially different commuting plans during the snowy season. While both cities suffer from pollen and mold allergies, the severity and timing might vary due to the differing climates. Also, Norfolk's higher risk of hurricanes contrasts with Detroit's snowstorms and occasional tornadoes, calling for differing emergency preparedness plans.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Norfolk to Detroit

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and economic factors in Norfolk and Detroit will impact your wallet. This comparison aims to provide a clear understanding of what to expect financially, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonNorfolkDetroit
Avg. Household Income$58,591$36,140
Cost of Living Index96.699.4
State Income Tax5.754.25
Avg. Property Tax1.073.64
Avg. Sales Tax66
Top 3 IndustriesDefense, Transportation, Health ServicesAutomotive, Technology, Healthcare
AffluenceModestVaried
PovertyNotableSignificant
HomelessnessPresentCritical

While Detroit may offer a lower cost of living compared to Norfolk, it's important to consider the broader economic context. Detroit's average household income is significantly lower, which reflects in its levels of poverty and homelessness being more pronounced. Additionally, while both cities share a similar average sales tax, Detroit's higher average property tax rate can affect homeowners profoundly. Top industries in Detroit - automotive, technology, and healthcare - provide diverse employment opportunities, though the economic revitalization is still a work in progress. Choosing between these cities involves weighing the cost benefits against the economic challenges each city faces.

Norfolk vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents between Norfolk, VA, and Detroit, MI. Understanding these aspects can offer insights into the community culture you're moving to.

NorfolkDetroit
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressiveHighly progressive
ReligionChristian majority, with diverse religious communitiesChristian majority, significant Muslim population

If you're moving from Norfolk to Detroit, you'll find yourself transitioning from a moderately progressive political climate to one that is highly progressive, reflecting in local governance and community initiatives. Norfolk leans Democratic, but Detroit is known for its strong Democratic leaning, often influencing local and national politics. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, with Christianity being the majority in Norfolk, supplemented by a variety of other faiths. Detroit also has a strong Christian presence but stands out for its substantial Muslim community, adding to the city's rich cultural diversity. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate into your new home.

Norfolk vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Comparing the traffic and transportation options between Norfolk & Detroit is essential for understanding what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in your routine and adjust your transportation planning accordingly.

ComparisonNorfolkDetroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2425
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingDifficult

In Norfolk, you may find it somewhat easier to manage without a car, thanks to a slightly higher availability of public transit options compared to Detroit. However, living in Detroit without a car is more challenging, highlighting the city's greater reliance on personal vehicles, despite having an average commute time similar to Norfolk's. Traffic congestion is notably higher in Detroit, reflecting its busy urban environment. Both cities present unique challenges and advantages in terms of transportation, so considering your commute and access to public transit will be crucial in making your move smoother.

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