Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local movers for Cincinnati to Detroit moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Cincinnati that also handles long-distance moves to Detroit. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 12 local movers in Cincinnati who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Cincinnati to Detroit.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Clark and Sons Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Relocation Services: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.34 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 136562
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 604361
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2962688
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00604903
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 1878284
Alternate Names: Smooth Move Relocation Services LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops Moving Help
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
How much does it cost to move from Cincinnati to Detroit?
The average hourly rate for movers in Ohio is $153. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $928 – $3,132 | $567 – $1,352 | $299 – $528 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,601 – $4,369 | $1,082 – $2,067 | $323 – $638 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,994 – $5,931 | $1,413 – $2,409 | $362 – $715 |
Cost to hire movers from Cincinnati to Detroit
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Cincinnati to Detroit will cost between $928 and $3,132. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Cincinnati to Cincinnati will range from $1,601 to $4,369, and a large move from Cincinnati to Detroit will cost from $1,994 to $5,931.
Cost of moving containers from Cincinnati to Detroit
If you’re moving from Cincinnati to Detroit, expect to pay between $567 and $1,352 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,082 up to $2,067. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,413 and $2,409. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Cincinnati to Detroit
Renting a moving truck from Cincinnati to Detroit is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $299 and $528. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $323 and $638. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $362 up to $715 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Cincinnati to Detroit
The cost of Cincinnati movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,233, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $4,963.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Cincinnati, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($299–$654) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Cincinnati to Detroit
Overall, Cincinnati and Detroit land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $2,500 in Detroit and $2,467 in Cincinnati, while families in Detroit see $6,687 versus $6,418 in Detroit.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Cincinnati | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,488 | $1,325 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,893 | $2,542 |
| Average home value | $232,735 | $73,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,682 | $37,761 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,467 | $2,500 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,418 | $6,687 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | 9.06% |
| Sales tax | 6.5% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 4.25% |
- If you’re heading to Detroit from Cincinnati, you’ll find that rent is roughly 14% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 69% less in Detroit than in Cincinnati.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 43% lower in Detroit compared to Cincinnati.
- The cost of living for a single person is within about 5% of the same in Detroit and Cincinnati, so you likely won’t notice a major difference.
- The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Detroit and Cincinnati, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
- In Detroit, the unemployment rate is approximately 85% higher than in Cincinnati, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes drop 8% in Detroit compared to Cincinnati, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
- Income taxes are 21% higher in Michigan than in Ohio, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Cincinnati and Detroit:
| Living Expense | Cincinnati | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $128.95 | $251.12 |
| Cell phone plan | $56.81 | $55.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.26 | $3.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.30 | $2.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $68.50 |
| Gym membership | $30.82 | $43.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Cincinnati than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Cincinnati than in Detroit.
- Eggs are less expensive in Cincinnati than in Detroit.
- Bread is more expensive in Cincinnati than in Detroit.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Cincinnati than in Detroit.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Cincinnati than in Detroit.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Cincinnati than in Detroit.
How life is different in Cincinnati vs. Detroit
| Cincinnati | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 309,317 | 639,111 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 49 | 51 |
| Bike friendliness score | 36 | 52 |
| Crime index | 48.47 | 72.92 |
| Safety index | 49.53 | 27.08 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Detroit’s population is about 107% greater than Cincinnati.
- Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Cincinnati’s score of 6.
- Detroit and Cincinnati are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 52 out of 100, Detroit is more bike-friendly than Cincinnati, which has a score of 36 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Cincinnati with a score of 72.92 compared to Cincinnati’s 48.47. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Cincinnati neighborhoods are safer than 48.47%.
- Detroit is considered to be less safe than Cincinnati with a score of 27.08 vs Cincinnati’s 49.53.
- Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Cincinnati it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Cincinnati to Detroit move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Michigan 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Detroit. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Detroit
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to America’s Comeback City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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
Once you’re settled into your new home in Michigan, it’s time to get out and discover what Detroit has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Detroit, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites 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 Cincinnati to Detroit?
The best time to move from Cincinnati to Detroit is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Cincinnati.
When is the cheapest time to move from Cincinnati to Detroit?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Cincinnati to Detroit, 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 Cincinnati to Detroit take?
Moving from Cincinnati, OH to Detroit, covers 263 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Cincinnati movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Detroit.
Which movers in Cincinnati give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 1 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Cincinnati?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 3 movers in Cincinnati advertise piano moving expertise. State totals show 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Cincinnati moving services
Popular Ohio routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
