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($1,252) Cost to Move From Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 2,281 miles from Los Angeles to Detroit typically costs between $1,384 and $7,737. The trip is expected to last from seven–18 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Los Angeles to Detroit

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Los Angeles to Detroit

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Los Angeles to Detroit much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Los Angeles, there are 96 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Detroit.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Los Angeles to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,281-mile move from Los Angeles to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,476 – $5,815
  • Moving Container $1,659 – $3,234
  • Rental Truck $1,292 – $2,397
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,475 – $7,737
  • Moving Container $2,082 – $4,585
  • Rental Truck $1,384 – $2,852
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,592 – $11,846
  • Moving Container $2,982 – $6,336
  • Rental Truck $1,817 – $3,642
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Safeway Moving
West Rancho Dominguez, CA Highland Park, MI
2 Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
La Cañada Flintridge, CA Farmington, MI
4 Bedrooms
Oct 02, 2025
PODS
Sierra Madre, CA Taylor, MI
Studio apartment
Oct 01, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
South El Monte, CA Grosse Pointe Park, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
BLVD Moving
Chino Hills, CA Inkster, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
North American Van Lines
Los Angeles, CA Milan, MI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 31, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA Oak Park, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 12, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Coronita, CA Roseville, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025
American Van Lines
Upland, CA Estral Beach, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 31, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
La Puente, CA Westland, MI
Studio apartment
Jul 30, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Detroit, MI to Los Angeles, CA guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Los Angeles to Detroit move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Los Angeles that offers long-distance services to Detroit can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 102 top local movers in Los Angeles who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Los Angeles to Detroit.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  4. Excalibur Movers Los Angeles: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.2% of all reviews were positive
11.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend. Clients appreciate Seka’s responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo’s Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo’s stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo’s would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easier and faster—that’s what hundreds of customers say about Excalibur Movers Los Angeles. From 1,281 reviews analyzed, 89% are glowing with praise, with people consistently highlighting the company’s efficiency, speed, professionalism, and careful handling of their belongings. Customers consistently praise the crews for being fast, organized, and courteous, with many mentioning that moves finish ahead of schedule and under budget. Competitive pricing is another frequent compliment, making them stand out from many pricier competitors. Frequent repeat customers say items always arrive safe and sound, and the moving process is reliable and stress-free. A small portion of feedback (8%) points to issues like items arriving damaged, unexpected extra charges, or occasional delays, with some customers reporting tough claim resolution or poor customer support after problems. Neutral reviews often mention minor mishaps or communication lapses but still appreciate efficient service. Compared to other movers, Excalibur’s team consistently runs smoother moves at great value with notably fewer complaints about damage or hidden costs. If you want an efficient move with friendly pros, most customer input shows Excalibur is a top choice—but double-check your quote for possible extras and inspect your items on delivery.
Get a Quote (877) 557-7777

Company Info

State license #: 019128

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1383790

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.3% of all reviews were positive
6.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call NorthStar Moving Company a standout in the moving industry, praising efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, quick process, and communication. Out of 1,215 reviews, 92% gave positive input. Customers frequently thank staff for protecting their belongings, arriving promptly, and making stressful transitions much easier. Rates are seen as competitive or a good value, especially compared to other movers who charge more or damage items. Communication with office staff and movers is often highlighted as a reassurance during stressful moves, with efficient booking and helpful support being noted advantages. Negative feedback appears in only 6% of responses, with the biggest concerns being damaged items, higher-than-expected charges, and some delayed arrivals or deliveries. A few customers experienced discrepancies between estimates and final pricing, or had items lost or mishandled. Others mentioned follow-up to resolve issues but found the claims process or communication for resolution challenging. NorthStar earns its reputation by consistently going above and beyond for most customers, solving moving day obstacles, and delivering quick, safe service at fair prices. Compared to many moving operations, NorthStar offers greater reliability, more careful crews, and much better results in both local and long-distance jobs. Customers said they’d continue to choose NorthStar, while advising others to keep an eye on pricing details and final inventory. The overwhelmingly positive feedback positions this company as a top choice in professional moving services.
Get a Quote (213) 622-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 1836576

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles to Detroit?

In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,252 – $5,281 $1,283 – $3,060 $1,266 – $2,372
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,475 – $7,737 $2,082 – $4,585 $1,384 – $2,852
4+ bedrooms $6,592 – $11,846 $2,982 – $6,336 $1,817 – $3,642
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 2,281-mile move from Los Angeles to Detroit, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Los Angeles to Detroit

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Detroit from Los Angeles, you can expect prices to land between $1,252 and $5,281. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,475 to $7,737 for the trip from Los Angeles to Detroit. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,592 and $11,846.

Cost of moving containers from Los Angeles to Detroit

Moving containers from Los Angeles to Detroit will cost you $1,283 to $3,060 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,082 to $4,585. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,982 to $6,336. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Los Angeles to Detroit

Renting a moving truck from Los Angeles to Detroit typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,266 and $2,372 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,384 to $2,852. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,817 to $3,642.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Los Angeles to Detroit move

The cost of Los Angeles movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,530 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,060 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Los Angeles.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,266 to $3,192, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Detroit

Many movers find Detroit easier on the wallet than Los Angeles – roughly 57% less for singles and 47% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,500 for one person in Detroit versus $5,833 in Los Angeles. For a family of four, it’s $6,687 compared with $12,720.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Los Angeles Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $2,603 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $4,443 $2,542
Average home value $2,368,088 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $5,833 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $12,720 $6,687
Unemployment rate 10.6% 9.06%
Sales tax 9.5% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.25%
  • When relocating from Los Angeles to Detroit, expect to find rent about 58% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 97% more affordable in Detroit compared to Los Angeles.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 50% lower in Detroit compared to Los Angeles.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Detroit, as the cost of living for a single person is 57% lower compared to Los Angeles.
  • A move to Detroit can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 47% less than what it costs in Los Angeles.
  • The unemployment rate in Detroit is about 15% lower than in Los Angeles. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes are 37% less in Detroit relative to Los Angeles. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Michigan are 68% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Los Angeles and Detroit:

Living Expense Los Angeles Detroit
Basic utilities $192.54 $251.12
Cell phone plan $62.50 $55.77
Dozen eggs $7.02 $3.52
Loaf of bread $4.58 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $68.50
Gym membership $47.76 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Los Angeles than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Los Angeles than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Los Angeles than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Los Angeles than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Los Angeles than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Los Angeles than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Los Angeles than in Detroit.

How life is different in Los Angeles vs. Detroit

Los Angeles Detroit
Population 3,820,914 639,111
Transportation score 8 7
Walkability score 69 51
Bike friendliness score 59 52
Crime index 53.81 72.92
Safety index 46.19 27.08
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 83% less than Los Angeles.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Los Angeles’s score of 8.
  • Detroit is less walkable than Los Angeles with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Los Angeles’s 69 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 Los Angeles, which has a score of 59.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Los Angeles with a score of 72.92 compared to Los Angeles’s 53.81. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Los Angeles with a score of 27.08 vs Los Angeles’s 46.19.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Los Angeles it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Los Angeles to Detroit move

  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Michigan’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Detroit. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Detroit

Planning your move to America’s Comeback City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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

After settling into your new Michigan home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Detroit has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Detroit features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on 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 Los Angeles to Detroit?

Planning your move from Los Angeles to Detroit? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Los Angeles.

When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Detroit?

Because most people are moving from Los Angeles to Detroit in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Los Angeles to Detroit take?

The 2,281-mile journey from Los Angeles, CA to Detroit, , typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Los Angeles offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Detroit.

Are there special savings available from movers in Los Angeles?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 2 have discounts for military personnel. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Los Angeles?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Los Angeles, 82 movers can manage piano relocations. 71 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

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