($1,468) Movers From Grand Rapids, MI to Lafayette, LA

What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Lafayette

Moving from Grand Rapids to Lafayette means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Grand Rapids than in Lafayette, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Grand Rapids compares to Lafayette so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Lafayette are 70% higher than in Grand Rapids, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Lafayette.
  Home prices in Lafayette are 34.7% lower than in Grand Rapids.
• Income in Lafayette is 6.0% lower than in Grand Rapids, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Lafayette include LHC Group, King-Patin, and Guy’s Towing Service.
• The cost of living for a single person in Lafayette is 66.5% lower than in Grand Rapids. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Lafayette is 41.2% lower than in Grand Rapids.
• The unemployment rate in Lafayette is 34.88% higher than in Grand Rapids.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lafayette, since the city’s sales taxes in Lafayette are 57.50% higher than in Grand Rapids.
• State income taxes are the same in Lafayette and Grand Rapids.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,004.13 in Lafayette 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. Lafayette

• Lafayette's population is about 39% less than Grand Rapids.
• Lafayette's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Grand Rapids's higher score of 6.
• Lafayette is less walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids's 56 out of 100.
• Lafayette has a bike-friendliness score 47 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.
• Lafayette and Grand Rapids have a similar crime rate.
• Lafayette and Grand Rapids are considered to be equally safe.
• Air quality in Lafayette is good, and in Grand Rapids it's good.

Other things to consider for your Grand Rapids vs. Lafayette move

• Weather: It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.
• 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: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a Louisiana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving permits: Louisiana doesn\’t require moving permits, but it\’s 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. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Lafayette. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative 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 Lafayette

Ready to relocate to "Hub City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lafayette.

Helpful moving resources