Highly rated local moving companies for New York City to Detroit moves
Organizing a move from New York City to Detroit can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 165 local movers in New York City known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.
Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from New York City to Detroit.
- NYC Great Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Imperial Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Roadway Moving : 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Alpha Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 39493
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2180117
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 32647
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1422485
Alternate Names: Lion’s Den Enterprises Inc. , Imperial Self Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 38589
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1854436
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2047066
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 2047066
Alternate Names: Alpha Movers , Alpha Relocation Services , Alpha Transportation, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 648262
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 648262
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
How much does it cost to move from New York City to Detroit?
On average, moving companies in New York charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,002 – $2,895 | $724 – $1,665 | $472 – $822 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,774 – $4,977 | $1,282 – $2,567 | $505 – $1,046 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,385 – $7,157 | $1,761 – $3,191 | $593 – $1,239 |
Cost to hire movers from New York City to Detroit
When planning a move to Detroit from New York City, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,002 and $2,895. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,774 and $4,977 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,385 to $7,157.
Cost of moving containers from New York City to Detroit
When you’re heading from New York City to Detroit, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $724 and $1,665. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,282 and $2,567. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,761 to $3,191. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from New York easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New York City to Detroit
A moving rental truck from New York City to Detroit is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $472 to $822. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $505 to $1,046, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from New York City to Detroit costs around $593 to $1,239.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors that affect moving costs from New York City to Detroit
The cost of New York City movers will depend on:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from New York City to Detroit may only cost $1,546, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $5,946.
- The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in New York City.
- Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($472–$1,093), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.
What to know before moving from New York City to Detroit
Many movers find Detroit easier on the wallet than New York City – roughly 56% less for singles and 56% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,500 for one person in Detroit versus $5,683 in New York City. For a family of four, it’s $6,687 compared with $15,081.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| New York City | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $3,992 | $1,325 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $8,817 | $2,542 |
| Average home value | $752,778 | $73,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,058 | $37,761 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,683 | $2,500 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $15,081 | $6,687 |
| Unemployment rate | 11.2% | 9.06% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 4.25% |
- Rent is about 71% less expensive in Detroit than in New York City, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 90% cheaper in Detroit than in New York City.
- You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 52% less in Detroit than in New York City.
- Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Detroit. The cost of living for a single person there is 56% below that of New York City.
- A move to Detroit can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 56% lower compared to New York City.
- Detroit has a lower unemployment rate than New York City by about 19%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Sales taxes are 25% cheaper in Detroit compared to New York City. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
- Income taxes are 61% less in Michigan compared to New York, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.
Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in New York City versus Detroit:
| Living Expense | New York City | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $186.67 | $251.12 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.90 | $55.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $6.33 | $3.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.04 | $2.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $28.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $135.00 | $68.50 |
| Gym membership | $159.00 | $43.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in New York City than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in New York City than in Detroit.
- Eggs cost more in New York City than in Detroit.
- Bread is more expensive in New York City than in Detroit.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in New York City than in Detroit.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in New York City than in Detroit.
- Gym memberships cost more in New York City than in Detroit.
How life is different in New York City vs. Detroit
| New York City | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,258,035 | 639,111 |
| Transportation score | 10 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 88 | 51 |
| Bike friendliness score | 69 | 52 |
| Crime index | 50.83 | 72.92 |
| Safety index | 49.17 | 27.08 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Detroit’s population is about 92% less than New York City.
- Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than New York City’s score of 10.
- Detroit is less walkable than New York City with a score of 51 out of 100 vs New York City’s 88 out of 100.
- Detroit has a bike-friendliness score of 52 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as New York City, which has a score of 69.
- Detroit’s crime rate is higher than New York City with a score of 72.92 compared to New York City’s 50.83. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
- Detroit is considered to be less safe than New York City with a score of 27.08 vs New York City’s 49.17.
- Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in New York City it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your New York City to Detroit move
- HOA rules: Costs across New York City and Detroit are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Michigan, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Michigan, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
- Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Detroit. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Detroit
With your sights set on America’s Comeback City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Detroit.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Corktown
- Brush Park
- Woodbridge
- Downtown
- Lafayette Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Sherwood Forest
- Palmer Woods
- University District
- Corktown
- Lafayette Park
Things to do in Detroit
With your move to Michigan complete, you can dive right into experiencing Detroit. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:
- Arts and culture: Detroit is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from New York City to Detroit?
If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from New York City to Detroit. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in New York City.
When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Detroit?
Want to save on your move from New York City to Detroit? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.
How long does a move from New York City to Detroit take?
The 615-mile move from New York City, NY, to Detroit, , takes one to six days. Some New York City movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Detroit.
What kinds of discounts do New York City movers offer?
Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In New York City, 3 movers provide AAA member discounts. 8 movers offer special pricing for military members. 9 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.
Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.
Need help moving a piano or antiques in New York City?
These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 146 movers in New York City provide piano moving services. 117 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.
Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.
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