Best Oakland to Detroit Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunny, eclectic vibe of Oakland, CA, to the resilient, industrious spirit of Detroit, MI, marks not just a change of scenery but an exhilarating chapter in your life. You’re trading the laid-back, innovative atmosphere of the Bay for the rich historical tapestry and revitalization of the Motor City. Given the distance and the significance of this transition, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professionals. Let us at Great Guys Moving help ensure this journey is smooth and stress-free, connecting you with the best movers the country has to offer.
Best Oakland to Detroit Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Upline Moving | 8.60 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Oakland guide.
5 Best Oakland to Detroit Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized mo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
About Professional Movers.com
With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in sta...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Relocation
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the company has...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate 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.
Oakland vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating to an unfamiliar city, finding a neighborhood that feels like home is paramount. This guide aims to ease that transition with a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Detroit, MI. By identifying comparable areas, we hope to help you quickly familiarize yourself with your new surroundings based on what you've loved about your current locale.
| Oakland | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Corktown | Trendy eateries, vibrant nightlife |
| Temescal | Midtown | Arts, culture, and food scene |
| Piedmont Avenue | West Village | Charming local shops, community vibe |
| Montclair | Palmer Woods | Historic homes, leafy streets |
| Lake Merritt | Riverfront | Scenic views, recreational activities |
| Uptown Oakland | Downtown Detroit | Entertainment hub, urban living |
| Jack London Square | Rivertown | Waterfront dining, heritage |
| North Oakland | Boston-Edison | Architectural beauty, historic |
| Grand Lake | Indian Village | Storied past, community atmosphere |
| Dimond District | Rosedale Park | Family-friendly, green spaces |
If you enjoy the bustling atmosphere and trendy restaurants of Rockridge in Oakland, you'll find a similar vibe in Detroit's Corktown. Both neighborhoods boast a thriving dining scene, like Corktown's well-loved Slows Bar BQ matching the culinary diversity found in Rockridge. For lovers of arts and vibrant cultural scenes, transitioning from Temescal to Detroit's Midtown offers a seamless transition, with institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts echoing the artistic community back in Oakland. Those moving from the green, laid-back streets of Montclair will appreciate the historical charm and lush scenery of Palmer Woods, where expansive homes and manicured lawns provide a peaceful retreat akin to their Oakland counterpart.
Things to Do in Detroit
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts- Visit the Belle Isle Park
- Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
- Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
- Discover the Henry Ford Museum
- Experience the Motown Museum
- Try local eats at Eastern Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Detroit
Moving from one city to another is a major life decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. This comparison is designed to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Detroit, MI. It aims to help you weigh the pros and cons, enabling you to make an informed decision about your move.
Oakland, CA- Higher living costs
- Denser traffic
- Fewer job opportunities
Detroit, MI- More affordable housing
- Less traffic congestion
- Growing job market
Detroit, MI- Emerging cultural scene
- Harsh winters
- Industrial-focused jobs
Oakland, CA- Richer cultural scene
- Milder climate
- Access to tech jobs
One of the key advantages of moving from Oakland to Detroit is the significant difference in living costs, particularly housing. While Oakland's Bay Area is known for its exorbitant prices, Detroit offers much more affordable options, enabling a higher quality of life and financial freedom. Traffic congestion is another aspect where Detroit scores better, easing daily commutes compared to Oakland's often gridlocked roads. However, it's crucial to consider the trade-offs, such as the transition from Oakland's milder climate to Detroit's challenging winters. On the cultural front, while Oakland boasts a vibrant arts scene with institutions like the Oakland Museum of California and numerous trendy eateries in areas like Temescal, Detroit is experiencing a cultural rebirth with emerging hotspots in neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown, showcasing places like the Detroit Institute of Arts and innovative restaurants such as Selden Standard. Despite the contrasts, each city offers unique opportunities and challenges, making the decision deeply personal and dependent on individual priorities.
Oakland vs. Detroit Food Guide
Food is not just about nourishment; it's a vibrant part of local culture and daily life. Through this comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Detroit, we aim to give you a taste of what your new home has to offer, helping you feel more informed and excited about the food scene in your future city.
| Oakland | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Coney Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Detroit-Style Pizza |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Gyros |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burrito | Vegan Coney |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the vibrant food scene is a testament to its diverse culture. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their mouth-watering BBQ ribs and an array of food trucks offering everything from tacos to vegan delights. Commis, a highlight in Piedmont Avenue, offers a refined dining experience that's uniquely Oakland. Meanwhile, Detroit's historic Eastern Market area showcases the city's meat-packing roots with establishments like Slows Bar BQ, reflecting the city's love for hearty meals such as Detroit-style pizza and the iconic Coney dog. Both cities pride themselves on accommodating health-conscious and vegan diners, making either location a thrilling place for food enthusiasts.
Oakland vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding food spots that remind you of home can make the new place feel more welcoming. This restaurant comparison between Oakland and Detroit will guide you in discovering your next go-to eateries, ensuring a smoother transition into your new city life.
| Oakland | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Marais | Both offer exquisite fine dining experiences with a focus on local, high-quality ingredients. |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | SavannahBlue | Soul food with a twist, both known for their vibrant atmospheres and comfort food classics. |
| Mua | Selden Standard | Creative, upscale dishes in a trendy setting, perfect for foodies looking for an adventurous meal. |
| Pizzaiolo | Supino Pizzeria | Both are beloved for their thin-crust, artisanal pizzas and commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. |
| Hopscotch | Takoi | Fusion dining that combines different cuisines for a unique, memorable meal. |
| Shakewell | Ottava Via | Mediterranean influences and a lively dining experience make both spots stand out. |
| Laurel Hardware | Gold Cash Gold | Both offer a laid-back yet trendy atmosphere with inventive dishes and cocktails. |
| Grand Lake Kitchen | Rose's Fine Food | A homey vibe with upscale diner food, each known for their homemade recipes and local ingredients. |
| Homeroom | Slows Bar BQ | While one focuses on mac and cheese and the other on BBQ, both emphasize comfort food and a casual, friendly atmosphere. |
| Burma Superstar | Bangkok 96 Street Food | For an explosion of flavors and a focus on Southeast Asian cuisine, both are go-to destinations. |
For enthusiasts longing for the warm, familiar embrace of comfort foods, the transition from Oakland's Brown Sugar Kitchen to Detroit's SavannahBlue might feel seamless, both offering a soulful dining experience highlighted by their inventive takes on classic dishes. Similarly, the artisanal, thin-crust pizzas that have made Oakland's Pizzaiolo a local favorite find a kindred spirit in Supino Pizzeria of Detroit, which also prides itself on crafting pizzas with fresh, quality ingredients and a creative flair. Foodies will appreciate the adventurous culinary journey offered by Mua and its Detroit counterpart, Selden Standard, where each meal is an exploration of flavors and ingredients, presented in a trendy, upbeat atmosphere.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets and housing characteristics of Oakland and Detroit is essential to make an informed decision. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities, assisting you in finding a new home that meets your needs.
| Comparison | Oakland | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Art Deco, International Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to public transit, eco-friendly features | Renovated properties, large lots |
Both Oakland and Detroit offer unique advantages depending on your housing and lifestyle preferences. Oakland, with its higher cost of living, features Victorian and Craftsman architecture with better overall walkability and urban lifestyle scores. City amenities and eco-friendly features are often highlighted in Oakland real estate listings. On the other hand, Detroit's more affordable market includes iconic Art Deco buildings and properties with large lots that are frequently mentioned in listings. Though its scores for walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle are lower, the city is undergoing significant rejuvenation, making it an appealing option for those looking to invest in a transforming urban environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
1. Midtown: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Midtown is ideal for you and your pets due to its numerous parks and green spaces, along with pet-friendly cafes and grooming salons.
2. Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly restaurants and the popular Roosevelt Park, perfect for afternoon walks.
3. Woodbridge: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and close-knit community, Woodbridge offers a peaceful environment for pets, including easy access to spacious parks and the Michigan Humane Society for your pet’s needs.
Oakland vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move, understanding how the weather in Oakland vs. Detroit will change is essential for your transition. This comparison encapsulates key climatic differences to help you anticipate and adapt to your new home environment.
Oakland, CA
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities offer vibrant cultures and lifestyles, the weather could be a significant change for you. Oakland's mild climate with plentiful sunshine contrasts sharply with Detroit's four distinct seasons, including cold winters and more humid summers. Moving from Oakland, you'll leave behind the earthquakes but may need to prepare for Detroit's snow and occasionally severe weather. Understanding these differences can help you plan for clothing, outdoor activities, and general day-to-day living in Detroit.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Detroit
When planning a move from Oakland to Detroit, it's crucial to compare critical financial aspects of both cities. This comparison helps you understand how your cost of living, taxes, and the economic environment will shift. Let's explore Oakland, CA versus Detroit, MI in terms of finance and economy to better prepare for your transition.
| Comparison | Oakland | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 max | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 2.44 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Health Care, Retail | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate to High | Low to Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Moving from Oakland to Detroit brings with it a significant shift in financial landscapes. While Oakland boasts a higher average household income and a lower poverty rate, its cost of living is substantially higher than Detroit's. The stark difference in state income tax rates, with California's being one of the highest in the country, versus Michigan's flat rate, can substantially impact your take-home pay. Additionally, despite Detroit's lower average income and higher poverty rates, its affordability is notably higher. This underscores the importance of understanding the economic environment and tax structures of your new home, enabling you to plan and manage your finances more effectively in Detroit.
Oakland vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
In planning your move from Oakland, CA to Detroit, MI, it's crucial to get familiar with the essential differences between these two vibrant cities. The comparison below provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the politics between Oakland & Detroit , as well as a glimpse into the local religious communities. This concise overview will help you adjust more seamlessly to your new surroundings.
| Oakland | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Predominantly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive focus on social issues | Emphasis on economic revival and social justice |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism | Diverse; significant Christian and Islamic communities |
You will notice that both Oakland and Detroit share a common political alignment, predominantly supporting Democratic principles. This overarching commonality might make the political transition smoother for you. However, the local focuses in Oakland on broader social issues contrast with Detroit's emphasis on economic revival and addressing social justice concerns. Both cities boast a rich religious tapestry, though specific communities may have a more substantial presence in one city compared to the other. This diversity can enrich your experience, offering numerous opportunities for spiritual growth and community involvement.
Oakland vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Preparing for a move requires a deep dive into many aspects of a new city. One critical area you need to understand is the daily commute and traffic. This guide provides a comparative look at driving and transit options between Oakland, CA, and Detroit, MI, aimed to help you better understand what your daily transportation might look like.
| Comparison | Oakland | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but challenging | No, car is essential |
In Oakland, the higher average commute time and traffic congestion reflect its urban layout and proximity to the dense San Francisco Bay Area. The city’s public transit—comprising buses, BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), and ferries—offers a viable alternative to driving. However, the extent to which you can rely on public transit in Oakland depends on your exact location and destination. Detroit, in contrast, has a significantly lower traffic congestion level and a shorter average commute time. However, the city's dependency on cars is much more pronounced due to the lower availability and coverage of public transit options. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for planning your daily movements around either city, keeping in mind that owning a car in Detroit is nearly essential for a smooth transition.
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