Factors influencing moving costs from Grand Rapids to Columbus
What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus
Moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Grand Rapids than in Columbus, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Grand Rapids compares to Columbus so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Grand Rapids | Columbus | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,659 | $1,100 |
Average home value | $328,256 | $157,861 |
Average income (per capita) | $63,299 | $50,542 |
Cost of living (single person) | $5,333 | $2,041 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,160 | $3,834 |
Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 5.3% |
Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.0% |
State income tax | 4.25% | 5.49% |
- Rent prices in Columbus are 34% lower than in Grand Rapids, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Columbus.
Home prices in Columbus are 51.9% lower than in Grand Rapids. - Income in Columbus is 20.2% lower than in Grand Rapids, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbus include Aflac, TSYS, and Synovus.
- The cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 61.7% lower than in Grand Rapids. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 46.5% lower than in Grand Rapids.
- The unemployment rate in Columbus is 23.26% higher than in Grand Rapids.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Columbus, since the cityโs sales taxes in Columbus are 50.00% higher than in Grand Rapids.
- State income taxes in Columbus are 29.18% higher than in Grand Rapids.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,148.13 in Columbus to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Grand Rapids.
How life is different in Grand Rapids vs. Columbus
Columbus | Grand Rapids | |
---|---|---|
Population | 206,922 | 198,893 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 2 | 6 |
Walkability score | 25 | 56 |
Bike friendliness score | 31 | 52 |
Crime Index | 72.18 | 44.23 |
Safety Index | 27.82 | 55.77 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Columbus's population is about 4% greater than Grand Rapids.
- Columbus's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Grand Rapids's higher score of 6.
- Columbus is less walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 25 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids's 56 out of 100.
- Columbus has a bike-friendliness score 31 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Grand Rapids, which has a score of 52 out of 100.
- Columbus's crime rate is higher than Grand Rapids with a score of 72.18 compared to Grand Rapids's 44.23. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 72.18% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Grand Rapids neighborhoods are safer than 44.23%.
- Columbus is considered to be less safe than Grand Rapids with a score of 27.82 vs Grand Rapids's 55.77.
- Air quality in Columbus is good, and in Grand Rapids it's good.
Other things to consider for your Grand Rapids vs. Columbus move
- Weather: Columbus has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- 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: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Georgia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Georgia doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbus. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Columbus
Ready to relocate to "Lowell of the South["? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbus.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- MidTown
- Uptown
- Downtown Columbus
- Overlook
- Lakebottom
Best neighborhoods for families
- North Columbus
- Brookstone
- Green Island Hills
- MidTown
- Ivy Park
Things to do in Columbus
After settling into your new Georgia home, youโll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbus has lots to offer, no matter what youโre interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbus is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, National Civil War Naval Museum, Columbus Museum, Coca-Cola Space Science Center, and The Lunch Box Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Flat Rock Park โ among other sites โ are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbus Lions (NAL), Columbus River Dragons (FPHL), Columbus Chatt-a-Hoots (SBL), or Columbus Rapids (NISL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Grand Rapids to Columbus?
The best time to move from Grand Rapids to Columbus is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Grand Rapids.
When is the cheapest time to move from Grand Rapids to Columbus?
Because most people are moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus 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 Grand Rapids to Columbus take?
The 893-mile move from Grand Rapids, MI, to Columbus, GA, takes two to seven days. Some Grand Rapids movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbus.