Best Jacksonville to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Jacksonville, the "River City," to Grand Rapids, known as "Furniture City," marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the sun-kissed beaches and embracing the alluring charm of a city rich in art and culture signifies a fresh start. It's essential to entrust this long-distance move to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a seamless transition. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of your journey and are committed to connecting you with the best movers, as determined by our unbiased ranking algorithm.
Best Jacksonville to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skinner Moving & Storage | 9.21 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| MoveBright Van Lines | 9.17 | 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 |
| Sunshine State Movers | 8.80 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville guide.
5 Best Jacksonville to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Skinner Moving & Storage
Skinner Moving & Storage is a family-owned and operated moving company based in the First Coast area. Their service offers include resid...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
About MoveBright Van Lines
MoveBright Van Lines provides exceptional service to First Coast residents, delivering on-demand moves at the best prices in town. Located i...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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
About Sunshine State Movers
Sunshine State Movers is a professional moving company based in Baymeadows, Jacksonville, Florida, specializing in making moving easy and st...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Packing Services
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.
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to an unfamiliar city can be daunting, but understanding your new environment through the lens of your current one can ease the transition. We have created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Jacksonville, FL & Grand Rapids, MI to help you find your new favorite area that feels just like home.
| Jacksonville | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Riverside | Eastown | Artistic and vibrant community vibe |
| San Marco | Heritage Hill | Historic with charming architecture |
| Avondale | East Grand Rapids | Affluent with a family-friendly atmosphere |
| Ortega | Ottawa Hills | Upscale homes and winding roads |
| Mandarin | Forest Hills | Suburban with spacious lots and parks |
| Springfield | Midtown | Diverse, historic, with a sense of community |
| Jacksonville Beach | Gaslight Village | Lively area with waterfront access |
| Baldwin | Ada | Quiet, rural charm with open spaces |
| Murray Hill | Westside | Growing arts scene and local eateries |
| Atlantic Beach | Reeds Lake | Resort-like, with natural beauty |
If you're a fan of Riverside's artsy streets and community-centric spaces in Jacksonville, you'll feel right at home in Eastown, Grand Rapids, with its array of local art galleries, vibrant food scene, and bustling farmers market. San Marco's historical allure is mirrored by Heritage Hill's array of preserved homes, making it a haven for those who appreciate architectural splendor. For beach lovers, Jacksonville Beach's similarity to Gaslight Village offers a seamless transition, where the charm of waterfront living is complemented by engaging retail and dining spots such as Rose's Express on the shores of Reeds Lake. For those moving from the suburban serenity of Mandarin, Forest Hills provides an equally peaceful environment with ample green spaces and the acclaimed Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park nearby, ensuring a smooth adjustment to your new home in Grand Rapids.
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 Jacksonville to Grand Rapids
Moving across the country can be a daunting yet exciting endeavor. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Jacksonville, FL to Grand Rapids, MI. By examining the cons of Jacksonville contrasted with the pros of Grand Rapids, and vice versa, this guide facilitates a well-rounded decision-making process.
Jacksonville, FL- Hotter Summers
- Higher Crime Rate
- Less Scenic
- Fewer Cultural Venues
Grand Rapids, MI- Cooler Summers
- Lower Crime Rate
- More Scenic
- More Cultural Venues
Grand Rapids, MI- No Beaches
- Colder Winters
- Higher Housing Costs
- Smaller City
Jacksonville, FL- Beach Access
- Milder Winters
- More Affordable Housing
- Larger City
Moving from the sun-drenched beaches of Jacksonville to the picturesque landscapes of Grand Rapids means embracing change in climate as well as lifestyle. Grand Rapids offers an enriching cultural scene with institutions like the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the renowned Grand Rapids Art Museum, providing a feast for the senses. The city is also home to lush parks such as Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, a haven for nature lovers. Meanwhile, Jacksonville's proximity to the ocean and its milder winters will be missed, yet the vibrant city life and burgeoning restaurant scene in neighborhoods like Eastown and the Heritage Hill historic district in Grand Rapids offer new adventures and opportunities for exploration and relaxation. In weighing these factors, the transition harbors both challenges and exciting new prospects.
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Jacksonville & Grand Rapids highlights how food is a vital aspect of local culture. By comparing these two cities, you'll get a clearer picture of the food scene in your new home, helping you transition smoothly.
| Jacksonville | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Southern BBQ | Braised Pork Belly |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Soul Food | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Jacksonville, you'll discover a rich blend of Southern flavors with a twist, especially in neighborhoods like Riverside and Avondale. Local favorites include shrimp and grits, a staple of Southern cuisine, and an abundant selection of vegan soul food options. On the other hand, Grand Rapids boasts a vibrant food scene reflective of its Midwest roots, with iconic dishes like Beer Cheese Soup and an affinity for braised meats and vegan alternatives, particularly notable in the Eastown and Downtown areas. Whether you're sampling street food or dining in at one of the top iconic restaurants, both cities offer diverse experiences to satisfy your taste buds.
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Jacksonville, FL to Grand Rapids, MI by highlighting comparable dining experiences . Whether you crave high-end dinners or casual bites, you'll find your next favorite spot.
| Jacksonville | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Orsay | Reserve Wine & Food | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. |
| Maple Street Biscuit Company | Real Food Cafe | Southern comfort meets Midwestern hospitality for a delicious breakfast or brunch. |
| Town Hall | Grove | A focus on farm-to-table dining with a creative and rotating seasonal menu. |
| Hawkers Asian Street Fare | Rak Thai | Authentic Asian street food flavors with a wide variety of plates to share. |
| Black Sheep | Brewery Vivant | A farm-to-table ethos within a unique brewery setting, known for their craft beer and innovative dishes. |
| Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant | Fish Lads | Fresh, quality seafood options that bring a taste of the coast to the Midwest. |
| Bold Bean Coffee Roasters | Madcap Coffee Company | Both are celebrated for their dedication to the art of high-quality coffee roasting and brewing. |
| Moon River Pizza | Harmony Brewing Company | Not just for their beer, but also for their unique and tasty pizzas. |
| Bearded Pig | Two Scotts Barbecue | A embodiment of American barbecue tradition with a focus on smoked meats and hearty sides. |
| TacoLu | Donkey Taqueria | Innovative and authentic Mexican dishes that offer a fresh take on traditional flavors. |
When you arrive in Grand Rapids, start your culinary adventures at places like Reserve Wine & Food, where the ambiance and menu reflect the sophistication of Orsay, especially if you're in the mood for an elegant dining experience that celebrates local cuisine. For those mornings when you miss the comforting, homestyle flavors of Maple Street Biscuit Company, Real Food Cafe's hearty offerings will fill you up with Midwestern warmth. Don't forget to explore the robust coffee culture at Madcap Coffee Company, which rivals the artisanal quality of Bold Bean Coffee Roasters, ensuring your coffee cravings are well met with expertly brewed selections. Each of these Grand Rapids establishments mirrors a beloved Jacksonville counterpart, ensuring you feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate profoundly impacts the relocation process, making it critical to understand how Jacksonville and Grand Rapids compare in this regard. This analysis spans various aspects like housing costs, architecture, walkability, and bikeability, providing a holistic view of what each city offers.
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mediterranean Revival, Ranch | Craftsman, Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to beaches | Access to local breweries, vibrant arts scene |
When analyzing the housing aspects between Jacksonville and Grand Rapids, it's evident that each city presents a unique living proposition. Jacksonville, with its spacious yards and close proximity to beaches, appeals to those seeking a more laid-back and subtropical lifestyle. The city's architecture favors Mediterranean Revival and Ranch styles, reflecting its historical and geographical context. On the other hand, Grand Rapids offers a more urban lifestyle with a higher walkability score, reflecting its compact city layout. The city prides itself on its vibrant arts scene and numerous local breweries, often highlighted in real estate listings. This contrast in living experiences is tied closely to the distinct architectural styles and lifestyle amenities each city promotes.
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.
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Jacksonville, FL to Grand Rapids, MI, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Jacksonville and Grand Rapids , helping you prepare for your relocation.
Jacksonville, FL
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Jacksonville, FL
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Jacksonville, FL
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Jacksonville, FL
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing the weather patterns of Jacksonville, FL to Grand Rapids, MI, several key differences emerge. Jacksonville enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters, while Grand Rapids experiences colder temperatures, particularly in winter, with significant snowfall. The adjustment to shorter days and more considerable seasonal variation in Grand Rapids may take time for newcomers. Notably, understanding the potential for natural disasters like hurricanes in Jacksonville versus snowstorms and tornadoes in Grand Rapids is crucial for preparedness. Additionally, the variance in air quality and allergens could impact your daily comfort and health after your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Jacksonville to Grand Rapids
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Jacksonville, FL, and Grand Rapids, MI, focuses on money and finance, helping you gauge how the cost of living and other economic factors will impact your budget.
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,621 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.9 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 4.25% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.94% | 1.58% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Finance, Transportation | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | High | Low to Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
Moving from Jacksonville to Grand Rapids may seem financially daunting, but it offers a fascinating economic landscape to explore. The slightly higher average household income in Grand Rapids, coupled with its lower cost of living index, makes it an attractive destination financially. However, transitioning from a state with no income tax to one with a 4.25% income tax in Michigan requires careful budget planning. Despite the higher property taxes, Grand Rapids' stronger focus on manufacturing, healthcare, and education industries offers diverse job opportunities. Remember, the key to a successful move lies in understanding these financial nuances and preparing accordingly.
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can bring striking contrasts in daily life, not least in the political and religious atmospheres you'll encounter. This quick overview aims to provide a comparison of the politics between Jacksonville & Grand Rapids, offering a snapshot of the typical population makeup in these cities.
| Jacksonville | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mix of Democratic and Republican leadership | Dominantly Democratic leadership |
| Religion | Evangelical Protestant heavily represented | Diverse; significant Christian Reformed and Catholic communities |
In your move from Jacksonville, FL, to Grand Rapids, MI, you'll transition from a city with a more conservative leaning to one that is known for its liberal sway, especially in local politics where Grand Rapids has a history of Democratic leadership. While Jacksonville has a significant population of Evangelical Protestants, upon arriving in Grand Rapids, you'll find a more diverse religious landscape, with strong Christian Reformed and Catholic communities marking their presence. This change in political and religious makeup will be one of the many contrasts you'll navigate as you settle into your new home.
Jacksonville vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Jacksonville & Grand Rapids, ensuring a smoother transition in your daily commute and traffic experience.
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Moderately Possible |
Moving from Jacksonville to Grand Rapids, you'll find some notable differences in daily transit experiences. While Jacksonville's average commute time is slightly longer, traffic congestion tends to be more manageable in Grand Rapids. Public transit is more readily available and easier to navigate in Grand Rapids, making it more feasible to get by without a car compared to Jacksonville. Adjusting to these changes may take a bit of time, but understanding them can significantly ease your transition.
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