Best Oakland to Detroit Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Oakland to Detroit Movers

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.

California iconArrow iconMichigan icon

Best Oakland to Detroit Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Rock 'n Roll Moving9.03NRActiveContact
Professional Movers.com8.56A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.47NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

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)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 304+ data points

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Packing and unpacking service
  • Dismantling and reassembling service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277673 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
3
Professional Movers.com Logo
Fabulous8.56/10
based on 270+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

266582 / 178368

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved714,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
G
Fabulous8.47/10
based on 379+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

OaklandDetroitHow They're Similar
RockridgeCorktownTrendy eateries, vibrant nightlife
TemescalMidtownArts, culture, and food scene
Piedmont AvenueWest VillageCharming local shops, community vibe
MontclairPalmer WoodsHistoric homes, leafy streets
Lake MerrittRiverfrontScenic views, recreational activities
Uptown OaklandDowntown DetroitEntertainment hub, urban living
Jack London SquareRivertownWaterfront dining, heritage
North OaklandBoston-EdisonArchitectural beauty, historic
Grand LakeIndian VillageStoried past, community atmosphere
Dimond DistrictRosedale ParkFamily-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 background image

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.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Denser traffic
  • Fewer job opportunities
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • More affordable housing
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Growing job market
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Emerging cultural scene
  • Harsh winters
  • Industrial-focused jobs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, 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.

OaklandDetroit
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadConey Dog
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsDetroit-Style Pizza
Most popular street food itemTacosGyros
Most popular vegan foodVegan BurritoVegan Coney
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • ShakeWell
  • Nyum Bai
  • American Coney Island
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Supper Club
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.

OaklandDetroitWhat You'll Love
CommisMaraisBoth offer exquisite fine dining experiences with a focus on local, high-quality ingredients.
Brown Sugar KitchenSavannahBlueSoul food with a twist, both known for their vibrant atmospheres and comfort food classics.
MuaSelden StandardCreative, upscale dishes in a trendy setting, perfect for foodies looking for an adventurous meal.
PizzaioloSupino PizzeriaBoth are beloved for their thin-crust, artisanal pizzas and commitment to fresh, quality ingredients.
HopscotchTakoiFusion dining that combines different cuisines for a unique, memorable meal.
ShakewellOttava ViaMediterranean influences and a lively dining experience make both spots stand out.
Laurel HardwareGold Cash GoldBoth offer a laid-back yet trendy atmosphere with inventive dishes and cocktails.
Grand Lake KitchenRose's Fine FoodA homey vibe with upscale diner food, each known for their homemade recipes and local ingredients.
HomeroomSlows Bar BQWhile one focuses on mac and cheese and the other on BBQ, both emphasize comfort food and a casual, friendly atmosphere.
Burma SuperstarBangkok 96 Street FoodFor 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.

CTA Banner background image

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.

ComparisonOaklandDetroit
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, CraftsmanArt Deco, International Style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingClose to public transit, eco-friendly featuresRenovated 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 background image

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.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

83°F / 63°F

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

35°F / 22°F

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23

Oakland, CA

34

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Oakland, CA

33

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonOaklandDetroit
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesBlizzards, 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.

ComparisonOaklandDetroit
Avg. Household Income$82,236$36,140
Cost of Living Index139.199.4
State Income Tax13.3 max4.25
Avg. Property Tax0.732.44
Avg. Sales Tax9.256
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Health Care, RetailAutomotive, Technology, Healthcare
AffluenceModerate to HighLow to Moderate
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessHighModerate

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.

OaklandDetroit
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticPredominantly Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive focus on social issuesEmphasis on economic revival and social justice
ReligionDiverse; includes Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and JudaismDiverse; 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.

ComparisonOaklandDetroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3226
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, but challengingNo, 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.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Oakland to Detroit Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Oakland, CA to Michigan Moving Routes