Factors that influence moving costs from Grand Rapids to Manchestertoggle

The cost of Grand Rapids movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Grand Rapids to Manchester might cost as little as $1,548, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,249.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Grand Rapids, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $728 to $1,764. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Manchester

Moving from Grand Rapids to Manchester 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 Manchester, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Grand Rapids Manchester
Average rent cost $1,659 $2,004
Average home value $328,256 $410,329
Average income (per capita) $63,299 $67,132
Cost of living (single person) $5,333 $2,449
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,160 $5,256
Unemployment rate 4.3% 3.8%
Sales tax 6.0% 0.0%
State income tax 4.25% 4.0%
  • Rent prices in Manchester are 21% higher than in Grand Rapids, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Grand Rapids.
    Home prices in Manchester are 25.0% higher than in Grand Rapids.
  • Income in Manchester is 6.1% higher than in Grand Rapids, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Manchester include Southern New Hampshire University, Freudenberg North America Limited Partnership, and Velcro Brand.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Manchester is 54.1% lower than in Grand Rapids. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Manchester is 26.6% lower than in Grand Rapids.
  • The unemployment rate in Manchester is 11.63% lower than in Grand Rapids.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Manchester, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Manchester are 100.00% lower than in Grand Rapids.
  • One perk of moving to Manchester is paying less in state income taxes, which are 5.88% lower than in Grand Rapids.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,377.65 in Manchester 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. Manchester

Manchester Grand Rapids
Population 115,644 198,893
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 6
Walkability score 51 56
Bike friendliness score 42 52
Crime Index 56.09 44.23
Safety Index 43.91 55.77
Air Quality Good Good
  • Manchester's population is about 42% less than Grand Rapids.
  • Manchester's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Grand Rapids's higher score of 6.
  • Manchester is less walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids's 56 out of 100.
  • Manchester has a bike-friendliness score 42 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.
  • Manchester's crime rate is higher than Grand Rapids with a score of 56.09 compared to Grand Rapids's 44.23. This means that Manchester neighborhoods are safer than 56.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Grand Rapids neighborhoods are safer than 44.23%.
  • Manchester is considered to be less safe than Grand Rapids with a score of 43.91 vs Grand Rapids's 55.77.
  • Air quality in Manchester is good, and in Grand Rapids it's good.

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

  • Weather: August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Manchester, while January and February are the least comfortable months.
  • 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: The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) is the agency tasked with regulating and overseeing movers that offer relocation services within the state. If youโ€™ve already moved and had a dispute with your moving company, they may be able to help resolve the issue, but youโ€™ll need to file a formal complaint first.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a New Hampshire moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: New Hampshire doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™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. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Manchester. 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 a cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your 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 Manchester

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

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Wilton
  • Amherst
  • Milford
  • Hooksett
  • Brookline

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bedford
  • Hollis
  • Amherst
  • Mont Vernon

Things to do in Manchester

After settling into your new New Hampshire home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Manchester has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Manchester is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Currier Museum of Art, Millyard Museum, Scouting Museum and Library, and Art 3 Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Lake Massabesic, Livingston Park, and Pine Island 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 New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Eastern League), Saint Anselm Hawks (NE-10), or Southern New Hampshire Penmen (NE-10) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Grand Rapids to Manchester?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Grand Rapids to Manchester. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Grand Rapids.

When is the cheapest time to move from Grand Rapids to Manchester?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Grand Rapids to Manchester, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Grand Rapids to Manchester take?

The 874-mile journey from Grand Rapids, MI to Manchester, NH typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Grand Rapids offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Manchester.

Helpful moving resources