Best Phoenix to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunbaked avenues of Phoenix, AZ to the vibrant communities of Grand Rapids, MI is more than a change of scenery—it's a thrilling leap into a new chapter of your life. Trading the sprawling "Valley of the Sun" for the lush landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of "River City" offers an exhilarating blend of new flavors, neighborhoods, and possibilities to explore. Yet, embarking on such a significant journey necessitates the support of trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this transition and are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and worry-free move to your new home.
Best Phoenix to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.31 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.03 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.99 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Phoenix guide.
5 Best Phoenix to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCAbout Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
This listing has been claimed by Creative Moving and Packing, LLCAbout Creative Moving and Packing, LLC
Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long-Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...Read More >>
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its profess...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move, understanding the character and vibe of local neighborhoods can be challenging. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ with Grand Rapids, MI to find your new favorite spot. Whether you're seeking vibrant nightlife, serene parks, or historical ambiance, this comparison will ease your transition.
| Phoenix | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Arcadia | East Grand Rapids | landscape, community feel |
| Roosevelt Row | Heartside District | art scene, dining |
| Encanto | Heritage Hill | historic homes, architecture |
| Desert Ridge | Northview | family-friendly, shopping |
| Paradise Valley | Ada | upscale living, natural beauty |
| Downtown | Downtown Grand Rapids | urban living, entertainment |
| North Mountain | Belknap Lookout | city views, community parks |
| Ahwatukee Foothills | Forest Hills | outdoor activities, family-oriented |
| Midtown | Eastown | cultural diversity, nightlife |
| Camelback East | Ottawa Hills | history, education emphasis |
By exploring these neighborhood matches, you can start to picture your life in Grand Rapids. For example, if you're enamored with the artsy and vibrant culture of Roosevelt Row in Phoenix, the Heartside District in Grand Rapids will captivate you with its thriving art galleries, like the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, and bustling dining scene, featuring local favorites such as San Chez Bistro. Meanwhile, the historic charm of Encanto finds its match in Heritage Hill, where strolling through the neighborhood feels like stepping back in time among well-preserved architectural marvels. And for lovers of outdoor activities, the Ahwatukee Foothills' comparison, Forest Hills, offers lush parks like Cascade Peace Park and opportunities for riverside hikes, reinforcing Grand Rapids' appeal for nature and fitness enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Grand Rapids
Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park- Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Enjoy a show at DeVos Performance Hall
- Sample beer on the Beer City Ale Trail
- Stroll through Eastown neighborhood
- Attend a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey game
- Canoe on the Grand River
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Grand Rapids
Making the move from Phoenix, AZ to Grand Rapids, MI involves weighing various factors to ensure a smooth transition. This comparison aims to mirror the pros and cons of relocating from Phoenix to Grand Rapids, offering an honest reflection on what to expect from such a significant change. Understanding both the good and the bad will help you make a more informed decision.
Phoenix, AZ- Extreme heat
- Scarce greenery
- Less snowfall
- Wide urban sprawl
Grand Rapids, MI- Cooler summers
- Lush landscapes
- Snowy winters
- Compact city living
Grand Rapids, MI- Less sunny days
- Flatter terrain
- Harsh winters
- Narrower roads
Phoenix, AZ- Abundant sunshine
- Diverse landscapes
- Mild winters
- Wide city spaces
The transition from Phoenix's arid climate to the four distinct seasons in Grand Rapids presents an exciting change, especially for those who enjoy seasonal activities. You can swap the desert hikes at South Mountain Park and Preserve for the lush trails of Riverside Park or Blandford Nature Center. Embrace Grand Rapids' snowy winters with visits to Cannonsburg Ski Area for skiing and snowboarding. The culinary scene also offers a stark, yet delightful contrast; you'll exchange Phoenix’s southwestern flavors for a taste of Grand Rapids' vibrant farm-to-table restaurants like Reserve Wine & Food and upscale dining experiences at The Gilmore Collection’s establishments.
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & Grand Rapids, highlighting that food is a significant part of local culture and provides insight into what living in an area might be like. This comparison aims to equip you with information about the food scene in your new city.
| Phoenix | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | Wet Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fries |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Seitan Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Grand Rapids, you'll find an exciting local food scene with unique offerings like the wet burrito that distinguishes itself from other regions. For a sample of this city's culinary heart, neighborhoods like Eastown and the Downtown Market are must-visits, hosting establishments like San Chez Bistro and HopCat which are recognized for their diverse menus. Meanwhile, the vegan scene is burgeoning, with places like the Seitan Sandwich making a notable mark in local offerings. The city's growing popularity with food trucks and a vibrant foodie culture means you'll never run out of new dishes to try, reflecting Grand Rapids' welcoming and inclusive approach to dining.
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding your new go-to spots for dining out can turn a new city into home. To bridge the culinary gap between your old and new haunts, we've compiled a restaurant comparison chart from Phoenix to Grand Rapids , helping you discover your next favorite eateries. Let this serve as your flavor roadmap from the deserts of Phoenix to the Great Lakes of Grand Rapids .
| Phoenix | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Binkley’s Restaurant | Reserve Wine & Food | High-end dining with exquisite wine pairings |
| Pizzeria Bianco | Harmony Hall | Craft pizzas with a local brewery vibe |
| Barrio Café | Taqueria San Jose | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on street-style tacos |
| Nobuo at Teeter House | Maru Sushi & Grill | Inventive Japanese dishes and a serene dining experience |
| Matt’s Big Breakfast | Real Food Café | Classic diner fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients |
| Durant’s | Chop House Grand Rapids | Upscale steaks and seafood in an elegant setting |
| La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop | Donkey Taqueria | Unique and modern taco selections |
| Postino WineCafé | Aperitivo | Sophisticated wine bar with charcuterie and cheese pairings |
| Roosevelt Row | Downtown Market Grand Rapids | An eclectic mix of local eateries and artisan vendors |
| Chef’s Kitchen | Grove | Farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
While Phoenix and Grand Rapids may seem worlds apart, there's no doubt that both cities cater to diverse palates and dining preferences. For instance, Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix has set a high bar for artisanal pizzas, but Harmony Hall in Grand Rapids meets the challenge with its own craft pizzas coupled with a unique brewery atmosphere, making it a must-visit for pizza aficionados. Foodies looking for an elevated dining experience will appreciate the parallels between Binkley’s Restaurant and Reserve Wine & Food, where the commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional wine pairings highlight the best of what both cities have to offer. Moreover, moving from the vibrant Mexican cuisine at Barrio Café to Grand Rapids' Taqueria San Jose will ensure your cravings for authentic tacos are well satisfied, proving that geographical distance doesn't diminish the quality and authenticity of divine food experiences.
Ready to start your move?
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. Comparing the housing characteristics between Phoenix, AZ and Grand Rapids, MI will help you determine what best fits your needs. This comparison focuses on various housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to aid in your decision-making.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Mid-century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Air Conditioning | Garage, Proximity to Breweries |
While Phoenix offers a warmer climate with a higher median home price and rent, Grand Rapids attracts with its affordability, and a slightly more walkable and urban lifestyle. Phoenix homes often boast Spanish Colonial architecture, compared to the Mid-century Modern styles commonly found in Grand Rapids. The popularity of pools and air conditioning in Phoenix listings contrasts with the emphasis on garages and proximity to local breweries in Grand Rapids. This contrast underlines the unique lifestyle choices and amenities prioritized by residents in each city. Whether your preference leans towards the sun-drenched deserts of Arizona or the vibrant, brewery-rich neighborhoods of Michigan, these cities offer diverse living experiences that cater to a wide range of preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI
1. Eastown: Known for its vibrant community and walkability, you'll find pet-friendly cafes and a welcoming atmosphere in Eastown, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
2. Heritage Hill: With its spacious parks and historic charm, Heritage Hill offers plenty of green space for your pets to explore, alongside pet-friendly housing options.
3. Heartside: A bustling downtown neighborhood, Heartside stands out for its pet-friendly apartments and proximity to dog parks, ensuring your furry friends are always welcome.
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When planning a move, it's essential to understand how the weather contrasts between your current home and your future one. This comparison offers insights into the drastic weather differences you'll experience moving from Phoenix, AZ, to Grand Rapids, MI, helping to prepare you for the climate change.
Phoenix, AZ
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Phoenix, AZ
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Phoenix | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Dust Storms | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The transition from Phoenix's arid climate with blazing summers to Grand Rapids's humid continental climate means adjusting to cooler summers and frosty winters. Notably, Grand Rapids experiences nearly half the days of sunshine compared to Phoenix and a significant increase in both rain and snowfall. While Phoenix residents seldom worry about snow, the move to Grand Rapids will require readiness for snowstorms and the joys of winter sports. Moreover, preparing for the humidity and allergy shifts will ensure a smoother transition to your new home environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Grand Rapids
When planning a move from Phoenix, AZ to Grand Rapids, MI, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, state income tax, property tax, and average incomes will impact your finances. This comparison aims to highlight these financial differences to better prepare you for your relocation between these two cities.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $68,435 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100.7 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 2.59 - 4.50 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.62 | 1.58 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.6 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Real Estate, Health Services, Retail | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Phoenix to Grand Rapids can have a significant impact on your finances, primarily due to differences in the cost of living and tax rates. Grand Rapids offers a more affordable cost of living index at 91.3 compared to Phoenix's 103.7, making it easier on your wallet for daily expenses. However, the state income tax in Michigan is a flat rate of 4.25%, slightly higher than the range in Arizona, which could affect your take-home pay. Property taxes are also higher in Grand Rapids, reflecting on homeownership costs. Despite these differences, Grand Rapids' moderate cost of living and diverse economic base, led by manufacturing, health services, and education, might offer new employment opportunities and a comfortable lifestyle.
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick look at the comparison of the politics between Phoenix, AZ & Grand Rapids, MI , focusing on the political and religious landscape of these cities. This comparison will help you understand what to expect in terms of community values when moving from Phoenix to Grand Rapids.
| Phoenix | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Historically Conservative, but trending more progressive |
| Local Politics | Mix of progressive and conservative policies | Strong community involvement in local decisions |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Strong Protestant influence, with significant Catholic and other religious communities |
When moving from Phoenix to Grand Rapids, you'll notice differences in the political and religious climates. Phoenix, with its blend of progressive and conservative policies, presents a diverse political environment. Grand Rapids, traditionally conservative but increasingly embracing progressive ideas, encourages community involvement in politics, evident in local decision-making processes. The religious makeup also varies; Phoenix offers a broad religious spectrum, whereas Grand Rapids has a robust Protestant presence alongside significant Catholic and other religious communities. Understanding these nuances will ease your transition and integration into your new home.
Phoenix vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Grand Rapids, MI, it's important to compare the traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This can help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, tailoring your expectations and plans accordingly.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but it's challenging |
When transitioning from Phoenix to Grand Rapids, you'll notice a slight reduction in commute times and less traffic congestion overall. Grand Rapids has a marginally better public transit system, thanks in part to services like The Rapid, which provides comprehensive bus coverage throughout the city and its suburbs. However, even with this availability, the cities' infrastructure and sprawling areas make owning a car almost a necessity, especially in Phoenix. In Grand Rapids, it's slightly easier to manage without a personal vehicle, but you may find it limits your mobility and accessibility to certain areas. This comparison underscores the importance of planning your daily commute and understanding local transit options in your new city.
