Moving from Detroit to Denver: Cost and Tips
Before you make your move from DET to DEN, know the important factors that may affect the cost of your move.
How much will it cost to move from Detroit to Denver?
Quick Answer: The average cost to move from Detroit to Denver is $2,000-$4,200 depending on the size, route, and timing of the move. Hiring a professional moving company will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or using a moving container will save you money but also require a lot more work.
Get an even better idea of your particular moving cost using them moving cost estimator.
Ready to get a full grasp on the factors that affect the cost of your cross country move?
Let’s dive right in.
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Detroit to Denver?
| Moving Company | Moving Container | Freight Company | Truck Rental* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 bedroom | $1,680 – $3,455 | $1,900 – $2,401 | $1,710 – $2,520 | $1,149 – $1,486 |
| 2-3 Bedroom | $2,200 – $4,632 | $2,491 – $3,410 | $2,565 – $3,180 | $1,200 – $1,706 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $4,490 – $8,930 | $3,453 – $4,894 | $3,420 – $4,920 | $1,501 – $2,083 |
*Pricing above does not include lodging, gas, tolls, and other moving-related expenses.
Why Do The Moving Costs Vary So Much?
Moving rates differ depending on where you are moving, when you are moving, how large your house is, and several other factors. If you want to save money on your move, you need to know what affects the cost.
Inbound vs. Outbound Demand
Inbound and outbound demand plays a significant role in the cost. The need dramatically affects the rates. If more people are moving to or from the same locations as you, you can negotiate a better rate.
There are a lot of people moving from Detroit, so you should receive a competitive rate. There are also many people moving to and from Denver, which also helps keep the cost down.
Off vs. Peak Season Moving Expenses
Rates also change depending on the time of the year you are relocating. During the summer, a lot of families are moving. So, the rates are usually higher. However, summer is not the only time when you may run into peak pricing.
Moving companies charge more on weekends and during school or federal holidays, as well. You should also check for special events in both cities because they can affect moving rates and other moving-related expenses.
Services That Make Your Move More Costly
Typically, the more full-service your move is, the more you pay. If you rent a truck, pack everything yourself, and provide your own materials, you will likely save the most money. However, there are times when it pays to have someone else do it for you. Not to mention, the true cost of a truck rental is far more than you might expect at first.
When it comes to moving, no one solution works for everyone. So, if paying as little as possible is your goal, avoid these extra add-ons.
- Professional packing
- Packing materials
- Moving boxes
- Property protection insurance
- Mattress covers
- A storage unit
- Dolly and tool rentals
Hiring Professional Movers
Professional movers are quick and efficient. What may take you days to finish, they can do in just a few short hours.
They know how to pack valuables, so they are protected on the road, as well. So, if you have expensive furniture, paintings, or other valuables, you should strongly consider letting a moving company handle those items.
However, it is crucial to note that movers charge more if you do not live on the first floor. They may also charge more for heavy items or specialty items like fireproof safes, weighing over a thousand pounds, and requiring more people to move.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Paying for movers and packing supplies is not the only thing you need to consider. Other moving expenses can add up, too. So, here are the additional costs you need to include in your budget.
Travel Expenses
You have to figure out how to get from Detroit to Denver. It is over an 18-hour car ride. So, you will need to stop along the way. Booking lodging early is the best way to avoid last-minute rate spikes.
Luckily, flights from Denver to Detroit are very affordable. You can find fares for as low as $99, and the average cost is around $200.
Transporting Your Vehicles
If you choose to fly, you will have to transport your vehicles. Shipping your car will not be cheap, though. You will pay around $1,300 for your transport.
However, some movers offer full-service relocation, and you may be able to negotiate a discount if you have them move your belongings and cars.
Paying for Peace of Mind
A worthwhile moving expense that you should think about is personal property protection insurance. Everything you own will be in the moving truck, and even if you choose a reputable company, accidents can happen.
Ensuring your property is the best way for you to protect your valuables. However, it will cost you around one percent of the coverage value. So, if you own $100,000 worth of insurable property, it will cost you around $1,000.
Moving companies do offer basic protection, depending on state regulations. However, most states only require moving companies to provide 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items. That will do little to help you replace an expensive piece of artwork or your laptop.
So, many movers choose to fill in the gap with a protection policy, and if you are going to move valuables, you should too.
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Why are people moving from Detroit to Denver?
Fewer people are leaving Detroit now, but Detroit was one of the leading U.S. cities in terms of outbound moving just a few years ago. Denver has also seen fewer new residents in the past few years. However, there are still plenty of people moving from ‘Motor City’ to the ‘Mile High City.’ Here’s why.
The Weather
Denver is an excellent option for Detroit residents who love the weather but want a different change of pace. Plus, while you get to experience all four seasons in Denver, it is known for having clear skies. You will enjoy about 120 more days of sunshine at your new home.
The Economy
Denver’s economy is more robust than most destinations, making it desirable for people from struggling cities like Detroit. Millions of visitors travel to Denver each year, which boosts the economy and makes Denver a great place to start a business.
Job Opportunities
There are plenty of job opportunities in Denver. However, the most popular industries include aerospace, healthcare, telecommunications, finance, energy, and IT. However, there are also many jobs in the hospitality industry, which are great for students.
What Are Some of the Best Places to Move to in Denver?
Denver has many neighborhoods to choose from, with apartments, townhouses, lofts, and single-family homes. The home prices are also similar to those in New York, and you will find that there are affordable areas and affluent areas.
When you are shopping for your new Colorado home, check out these neighborhoods. They won’t disappoint you.
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is the most densely populated neighborhood in the Denver area. Bars and restaurants line the streets, and many people gather there on the weekends. Capitol Hill is an excellent area for young people. There are plenty of jobs available nearby in the hospitality industry, and it provides easy access for meetups with friends.
You can find tiny older apartments for as little as $700 a month or newer, more spacious one and two bedrooms starting at around $1,400. There is also a good mix of people in the area, and there is always something going on.
North Capitol Hill / Uptown
Another great area is Uptown, also known as North Capitol Hill. It starts on East Colfax, where Capitol Hill ends and runs North to 20th Avenue. Like Capitol Hill, there are plenty of places to eat and grab a drink, especially on 17th Avenue, a one-way street where many people gather at night and on weekends.
You will find plenty of affordable apartments in Uptown. It offers larger and more up-to-date options than nearby Capitol Hill, too. So, if you are looking for a large apartment in a lively area, Uptown is the place to look.
The Highlands
If you want to live in a home with more space, you will find plenty of single-family properties in The Highlands, also referred to by longtime residents as North Denver. It includes Lower Highland, West Highland, Berkeley, and Sunnyside.
Single-family homes in The Highlands start around $300,000, and there are condos, apartments, and houses for sale or lease.
Sloan Lake
Want to get out of the city? If so, the Sloan Lake neighborhood with the largest lake in Denver as its centerpiece is a great choice. However, homes in the area start in the $600s and go up to more than $2 million. The site is desirable after even with the higher prices, and there are usually only a handful of properties for sale.
Cherry Creek
Another fantastic neighborhood is Cherry Creek, which gets its name from the creek that runs through it. In terms of the environment, it is similar to Capitol Hill and North Denver, but it is also home to some of the city’s most incredible residences. So, if luxury living appeals to you, this is where you will find it.