Best Boston to Detroit Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Boston to Detroit Movers

Moving from the historic avenues of Boston, MA, to the revitalizing energy of Detroit, MI, marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the academic vibrancy and leafy streets of "Beantown" for the bustling, automotive heart of "Motor City" is a journey filled with new discoveries. To ensure this adventure begins on the right wheel, it's crucial to trust your move to professional movers, like those we've rigorously ranked at Great Guys Moving, who understand the nuances of such a long-distance transition.

Massachusetts iconArrow iconMichigan icon

Best Boston to Detroit Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Stairhopper Movers9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Centaur Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Intelligent labor & Moving9.51A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Professional Movers.com8.54A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.47NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to Detroit Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Professional Movers.com Logo
Fabulous8.54/10
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 12/17/2024)

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 has...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

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
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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.

Boston vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, understanding your new city can feel like decoding a complex puzzle. This guide is designed to compare local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Detroit, MI , offering a baseline for those familiar with Boston to find their bearings in Detroit. By aligning similar neighborhoods, we provide a bridge to help you transition smoothly to your new home.

BostonDetroitHow They're Similar
Beacon HillIndian VillageHistoric homes, close-knit community
Back BayMidtownCultural hub, diverse dining
South EndCorktownTrendy eateries, artsy vibe
North EndEastern MarketRich history, food scene
Jamaica PlainWoodbridgeDiverse community, urban green spaces
Fenway-KenmoreNew CenterHistoric architecture, cultural attractions
CharlestownWest VillageCharming, walkable streets
Seaport DistrictRivertownWaterfront views, modern developments
East BostonSouthwest DetroitVibrant multicultural atmosphere
South BostonLafayette ParkCommunity-focused, green spaces

If you adore the quaint, historic charm of Beacon Hill, with its brick sidewalks and gas-lit streets, you'll find a similar vibe in Indian Village's expansive homes and meticulously preserved architecture. For those drawn to the diverse, artistic culture of the South End, Corktown offers a comparable blend of trendy shops, innovative restaurants like Sugar Rush, and an engaging arts scene with venues such as the Michigan Building. Meanwhile, Fenway-Kenmore sports enthusiasts and culture lovers will appreciate New Center's rich history and the architectural splendor of the Detroit Institute of Arts, mirroring Fenway's eclectic mix of cultural institutions and ballpark energy.

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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 Boston to Detroit

Moving can be a rollercoaster of emotions and logistics. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Detroit, MI. Understanding both the pros and cons will help you make a more informed decision about your big move.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • High living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Severe winters
  • Smaller city
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Milder winters
  • Larger area
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Less historical sites
  • Fewer top colleges
  • Varying healthcare quality
  • Fewer landmarks
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Elite universities
  • Robust healthcare
  • Cultural landmarks

While the transition from Boston to Detroit might seem daunting, it's packed with opportunities for renewal and growth. Detroit's affordability means you might be able to enjoy a spacious home in neighborhoods like Midtown or Corktown, both of which are known for their vibrant arts scene and a growing number of eateries like Selden Standard for those who cherish farm-to-table dining. Although you might miss Harvard's historic campuses or the architectural grandeur of the Boston Public Library, Detroit offers its own unique cultural experiences, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum. Moreover, Detroit’s revitalization efforts in areas like the Detroit Riverwalk and Campus Martius Park provide refreshing outdoor spaces that are quickly becoming the city's pride, blending modernity with Detroit's rich cultural tapestry.

Boston vs. Detroit Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Detroit, MI because food is a significant part of local culture and contributes to the overall living experience in an area. By examining the food scene in both locations, you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you after your move.

BostonDetroit
Most iconic local food itemClam ChowderConey Dog
Most popular meat dishLobster RollDetroit-Style Pizza
Most popular street food itemFish and ChipsGreek Gyros
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegan Coney
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Supino Pizzeria
  • Slows Bar BQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Boston to Detroit, the transformation in the local food scene can be significant. In Boston, you might be used to the rich flavors of Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls, quintessential to New England's culinary identity found in iconic establishments like the Union Oyster House. Transitioning to Detroit introduces you to the Deep-Dish Square Pizza, a hearty alternative iconic to the city, with top spots such as Supino Pizzeria showcasing the best. Detroit's Coney Dogs, served at places like Lafayette Coney Island, offer a unique twist to a classic American dish. Each city boasts a vibrant food scene reflective of its cultural diversity, with an array of options from street food to high-end dining that caters to all tastes, including those with a penchant for vegan cuisine.

Boston vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison

Relocating to a new city doesn't mean leaving your favorite meals behind. Recognizing food's importance in making somewhere feel like home, this comparison aims to connect you with delicious parallels in your new locale. Through comparing top restaurants in Boston with their Detroit counterparts, you'll uncover your next go-to spots, ensuring a seamless culinary transition.

BostonDetroitWhat You'll Love
OleanaSelden StandardArtisanal dishes with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients
Neptune OysterVoyagerExceptional seafood creations in a cozy, inviting atmosphere
ToroLa FeriaAuthentic Spanish tapas bar offering a vibrant, shared dining experience
Mike's City DinerDime StoreClassic diner fare with a modern twist and an emphasis on quality ingredients
Craigie On MainChartreuse Kitchen & CocktailsKnown for creative dishes and a dynamic, friendly setting
UniTakoiInnovative Asian fusion, delivering unique flavors and meticulously plated dishes
GiuliaOttava ViaCozy Italian trattoria offering handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas
Santarpio's PizzaSupino PizzeriaFamous for its thin crust pizza and casual, friendly environment
No. 9 ParkThe Apparatus RoomElegant dining with a focus on inventive American cuisine
Flour Bakery + CafeAvalon International BreadsBeloved bakery known for organic breads and a welcoming vibe

For those moving from Boston to Detroit, the transition won't mean sacrificing culinary excellence. Selden Standard in Detroit mirrors Oleana’s commitment to local, seasonal ingredients, both offering plates that are as beautiful as they are delicious. If it's the cozy buzz of a Spanish tapas bar you'll miss from Toro, Detroit's La Feria stands ready to envelop you in a shared dining experience reminiscent of warm nights in Boston. And for pizza aficionados lamenting the departure from Santarpio’s characteristic crust, Supino Pizzeria will soon become a new favorite, its thin-crust pizzas earning a special place in the hearts of Detroit locals and newcomers alike. This guide not only helps find equivalences but ensures the culinary journey continues unabated in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in relocating. Understanding how Boston, MA and Detroit, MI housing particulars stack against each other can significantly influence your decision-making. This guide will explore costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle features pertinent to each city.

ComparisonBostonDetroit
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, FederalArt Deco, Colonial Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to public transport, historic charmLarge lots, affordable pricing

In both Boston and Detroit, the character of the community directly impacts lifestyle preferences, as reflected in real estate trends. Boston’s higher median home price and rent reflect its dense, historic neighborhoods with a high degree of walkability, especially noting the city's fondness for Victorian and Federal architectural styles. On the other hand, Detroit offers a significantly more affordable entry point into the housing market, with an emphasis on Art Deco and Colonial Revival styles, larger lot sizes, and a value on space which influences its urban lifestyle score. Deciding between Boston’s bustling, compact urban charm and Detroit’s spacious, historical allure requires weighing these distinctive living experiences against personal preferences and priorities.

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.

Boston vs. Detroit Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another requires a deep dive into various aspects, among which weather plays a critical role. It’s essential to understand how the climate in Boston, MA compares to Detroit, MI, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
82°F/65°F

Boston, MA

83°F/63°F

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F/22°F

Boston, MA

35°F/20°F

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8"

Boston, MA

33.5"

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Boston, MA

42.7"

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonDetroit
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersNor'easters, BlizzardsTornadoes, Ice Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When comparing the weather between Boston and Detroit, you'll notice a few key differences and similarities that may influence your daily life. Detroit experiences slightly harsher winters with more snow and less sunshine than Boston, possibly affecting your commute or outdoor plans. However, both cities face significant humidity and seasonal allergies, particularly with pollen and mold, which could impact those sensitive to these allergens. Adjusting to Detroit's weather might require a few tweaks to your wardrobe and seasonal preparations, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. Understanding these nuances helps ease the transition between these two cities.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Detroit

When moving from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will delve into the cost of living, taxation, and economic environments between Boston and Detroit , helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonBostonDetroit
Avg. Household Income$79,283$36,140
Cost of Living Index132.599.4
State Income Tax5.04.25
Avg. Property Tax1.152.29
Avg. Sales Tax6.256
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, FinanceManufacturing, Health Services, Retail
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessLowHigh

While Boston boasts a significantly higher average household income and a stronger perception of affluence compared to Detroit, it also comes with a higher cost of living, reflected in its Cost of Living Index. Detroit, despite a lower average income, presents a potentially easier financial adjustment due to its lower living costs. Taxes vary slightly between the two, with Massachusetts having a higher state income tax but Michigan levying a higher property tax, impacting long-term residencies considerably. Understanding these aspects is crucial for planning your move and ensuring financial stability in your new city.

Boston vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison

Embarking on a relocation journey not only involves a change of address but also immersing yourself into a new cultural and socio-political environment. This comparison of the political and religious makeup between Boston & Detroit offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at providing insights into the communities you'll be joining or leaving behind.

BostonDetroit
Political Make-upMostly DemocraticHeavily Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressive on various urban issuesFocus on economic revitalization and social equity
ReligionLargely Catholic, Boston CatholicDiverse, with a significant African-American Christian community

While both Boston and Detroit lean heavily Democratic in terms of political makeup, the focus and flavor of local politics in each city reflect their unique histories and current priorities. In Boston, a city that combines historical heritage with educational and technological innovation, the political landscape is moderately progressive, tackling a variety of urban issues. Detroit, on the other hand, emphasizes economic revitalization and social equity, reflecting its journey through significant economic challenges and its vibrant African-American heritage. Religion in Boston is largely influenced by its historical Catholic majority, while Detroit presents a more diverse religious scene, with a significant presence of African-American Christian communities. Understanding these nuances will help you texture your expectations and engagement with your new community.

Boston vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Boston, MA to Detroit, MI, this comparison of the traffic and transportation options is essential for understanding what your daily commute and traffic experience would be like. By understanding these differences, you can better plan your daily routine and transportation needs in your new city.

ComparisonBostonDetroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)30.424.5
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

In Boston, thanks to a more extensive public transportation system, including the MBTA, also known as the "T", you might find it easier to get by without a car. The average commute time is slightly longer in Boston, reflective of its higher traffic congestion levels. However, the city's commitment to public transit accessibility eases this burden. In contrast, Detroit, while having less traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time, relies more heavily on personal vehicles. The public transit system in Detroit, consisting mainly of buses and the People Mover, is not as comprehensive as Boston's. This makes owning a car almost a necessity for efficient daily commuting.

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