Best Detroit to Oakland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Embarking on a move from city to city spices up life with a vibrant dash of adventure, immersing you in a fresh start. Trading the Motor City's historic charm and gritty resilience for the Golden State's sun-kissed shores and tech-forward atmosphere in Oakland is no small feat. Recognizing the monumental shift that lies ahead, our priority is connecting you with trusted, reliable professional movers, ensuring this long-haul journey mirrors the ease and excitement of embarking on this new chapter in your life.
Best Detroit to Oakland 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 |
| Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Balance Detroit | 8.44 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Detroit guide.
5 Best Detroit to Oakland 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 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
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distanc...Read More >>
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
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.
Detroit vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving across states can be daunting, especially when the cities are as distinct as Detroit, MI, and Oakland, CA.
This guide aims to ease your transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Oakland, CA . By comparing the vibes, demographics, and offerings of neighborhoods in your current city to those in your new one, we hope to help you find a place that feels like home.
| Detroit | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Piedmont Avenue | Artsy and vibrant, with local businesses |
| Corktown | Temescal | Historic with a trendy food scene |
| Downtown | Downtown Oakland | Urban and bustling, center of nightlife |
| Woodbridge | Rockridge | Charming and walkable, with craftsman homes |
| Indian Village | Montclair | Affluent, historic with beautiful homes |
| Eastern Market | Jack London Square | Warehouse vibe, waterfront dining |
| Rosedale Park | Dimond District | Family-friendly, community-oriented |
| Palmer Woods | Claremont Hills | Exclusive, with luxury properties |
| Boston-Edison | North Oakland | Diverse, with a mix of historic homes |
| Greektown | Old Oakland | Historic area, great nightlife |
If you're drawn to the bustling artsy vibe of Midtown in Detroit, with its eclectic mix of galleries such at the Detroit Institute of Arts, nearby Piedmont Avenue in Oakland welcomes you with a similar artistic heartbeat, highlighted by local favorites like the Hive for your caffeine fix and browsing sessions through unique shops. For those who love the historic charm and trendy dining options of Corktown, Temescal in Oakland echoes this with must-visit eateries such as Pizzaiolo for an unforgettable dining experience. The mixture of urban living with accessible natural beauty makes both cities unique, and the waterfront dining at Jack London Square, reminiscent of Eastern Market's vibrant food scene and community gatherings, offers a seamless transition for those moving from Detroit to Oakland. Your lifestyle can remain as diverse and richly cultured, wrapped in the new scenic views and the warm Californian sun.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Oakland
Moving from one city to another can be a major decision. Here, we'll lay out an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Oakland, CA. This comparison will give you a balanced view, outlining what you'll leave behind and what awaits you in your new home.
Detroit, MI- Harsh winters
- Lower cost of living
- Historic sports culture
- Automotive industry jobs
Oakland, CA- Milder climate
- Higher cost of living
- Diverse cultures
- Tech industry opportunities
Oakland, CA- Less musical heritage
- Expensive housing
- More transient population
- Far from lakes
Detroit, MI- Rich music history
- Affordable housing
- Community feel
- Easy lake access
Relocating from Detroit to Oakland introduces you to California's milder climate and its vibrant, diverse cultures, epitomized by neighborhoods like Temescal and Lake Merritt. While Detroit is renowned for its rich music scene and iconic artists, Oakland also boasts a lively cultural landscape with venues like the Fox Theater and the New Parish, offering a variety of musical and cultural experiences. Despite Detroit's affordability, Oakland's tech industry presents new employment opportunities, albeit with a higher cost of living. Oakland's Lake Merritt provides a unique urban nature experience, contrasting with Detroit's easy access to the Great Lakes. Both cities offer distinctive advantages depending on what you're looking for in your next chapter.
Detroit vs. Oakland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit, MI & Oakland, CA, offering a glimpse into the food landscapes of both cities. Understanding the culinary scene is crucial as food plays a significant role in local culture and living experience. Let’s explore what each city has to offer to better prepare for your move.
| Detroit | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | San Francisco sourdough |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Shawarma | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Coney | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the Coney Dog stands as a testament to the city’s love for hearty, satisfying meals, often enjoyed at iconic establishments like American Coney Island. The city's adaptation of the Greek shawarma to its streets speaks to Detroit’s diverse culinary influences. Moving over to Oakland, the culinary scene is a vibrant mix of cultures, where the Mexican taco trucks reign supreme on street corners and in food markets. Oakland’s high scores in vegan-friendliness and health consciousness reflect a growing trend towards plant-based diets, with spots like Brown Sugar Kitchen offering innovative takes on traditional dishes. Whether it's the bustling food truck gatherings or the unparalleled sourdough bread, Oakland promises a dynamic culinary adventure set against the backdrop of California's rich agricultural bounty.
Detroit vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Understanding how food makes a place feel like home is crucial when moving cities. This comparison charts the top Detroit eateries against their Oakland counterparts to help you discover your new favorite spots, ensuring a smoother transition from Detroit, MI to Oakland, CA through culinary exploration .
| Detroit | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Wood Tavern | Both offer a cozy atmosphere with inventive American cuisine. |
| Lady of the House | Belotti Ristorante | Known for their meticulous care in ingredient selection and cozy vibes. |
| Supino Pizzeria | Boot and Shoe Service | Both are celebrated for their thin-crust, artisanal pizzas. |
| Rose's Fine Food | Sequoia Diner | A local diner atmosphere with a focus on quality and locally sourced ingredients. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Everett & Jones Barbeque | Both are staples for their delectable BBQ and friendly, laid-back environment. |
| Antietam | Penrose | Similar in their chic, fine-dining experience with a focus on beautiful plating and flavors. |
| Gold Cash Gold | Homestead | Both housed in converted spaces, offering farm-to-table dining with a rustic charm. |
| Takoi | Hawking Bird | Both present a modern take on Asian cuisine with bold flavors and innovative dishes. |
| Detroit Vegan Soul | Shangri-La Vegan | For those seeking comforting vegan fare, both establishments share a commitment to healthy, soulful eating. |
| Cliff Bell's | The Sound Room | Offering a mix of live jazz with a speakeasy vibe, perfect for music enthusiasts. |
Among these culinary gems, special mention goes to Selden Standard in Detroit and Wood Tavern in Oakland, both of which offer not just meals but dining experiences that speak to the soul of their respective cities. The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and inventive American cuisine makes both spots standouts for foodies looking for a place to call their own. For pizza aficionados, a visit to Supino Pizzeria and its Oakland echo, Boot and Shoe Service, is a must. Here, the passion for crafting the perfect thin-crust, artisanal pizza shines through in every slice, making each a beacon for pizza lovers in their city. Detroit Vegan Soul and Shangri-La Vegan establish a bridge for those on a plant-based journey, proving that no matter where you are, soulful and healthy vegan options are within reach, allowing you to feel at home in a new city without compromising your dining preferences.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, delving into the real estate differences between Detroit, MI, and Oakland, CA is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate key aspects such as cost, living style, and the unique characteristics of each city's housing market.
| Comparison | Detroit | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historical, Bungalow | Victorian, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large lots, Historic charm | Eco-conscious, Proximity to public transit |
While both Detroit and Oakland offer unique living experiences, their real estate markets are markedly different. Detroit, with its rich history, features many homes with historical and bungalow styles, often highlighted for their large lots and historical charm. On the other hand, Oakland, known for its Victorian and Craftsman homes, leans heavily on its eco-conscious ethos, with listings frequently boasting about proximity to public transit and sustainable features. The move to Oakland from Detroit brings a significant jump in both home prices and monthly rent, reflecting the higher cost of living but also indicating a more walkable, bikeable, and urban lifestyle. Carefully consider these differences to make the best choice for your lifestyle and budget.
Detroit vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can significantly change your day-to-day life, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the weather in Detroit, MI compares to Oakland, CA is crucial for preparing for what lies ahead. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and plan accordingly.
Detroit, MI
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Adjusting from Detroit's humid summers and cold, snowy winters to Oakland's mild, dry climate will be a significant change. In Oakland, you'll enjoy more sunshine days and softer winters, eliminating the need for heavy winter gear. However, the higher average UV index in Oakland means sunscreen is a must. Despite similar humidity levels, the types of natural disasters differ, so preparing for earthquakes and wildfires instead of snowstorms and tornadoes will be a new experience. This move will also bring better air quality and less worry about snow but prepare for different allergens in the air.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Oakland
When considering a move from one city to another, it’s critical to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to illuminate the shifts in money and finance when moving from Detroit, MI to Oakland, CA, providing a clearer view of what to expect in terms of living costs and economic conditions.
| Comparison | Detroit | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Technology, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While considering a move from Detroit to Oakland, it’s crucial to acknowledge that you're moving into a significantly higher cost of living area. Oakland’s average household income is more than double that of Detroit, reflecting the city's higher affluence but also referencing its steep living expenses. State and sales taxes are notably higher in California, potentially affecting your net income. Yet, it's also important to note that Oakland's thriving economy, driven by technology and healthcare industries, presents ample opportunities for career growth. Despite these prospects, both cities face significant homelessness, a reminder of the complex socio-economic challenges in urban settings.
Detroit vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Detroit, MI to Oakland, CA, understanding the community you're entering is crucial. This quick overview offers a snapshot of the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Detroit & Oakland, providing insights into the local life you're about to join.
| Detroit | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic revival, public safety | Emphasis on social justice, environmental issues |
| Religion | Diverse, with a large Christian population | Highly diverse, notable Buddhist, Christian, and Muslim communities |
In Detroit, political engagement often circles around themes of economic development and enhancing public services, which reflects its historical and ongoing efforts for revival. The spiritual landscape is notably diverse but with a significant Christian majority. Shifting to Oakland introduces you to a city with a longstanding commitment to progressive ideals, where political activism is deeply woven into the community fabric. The unique blend of social justice orientation and environmental advocacy sets Oakland apart. Spiritually, it's a mosaic of beliefs, including vibrant Buddhist and Muslim communities that contribute to Oakland's rich cultural tapestry. This evolution of community and focus from one city to the other underscores the dynamic variety you'll experience as you transition from Detroit to Oakland.
Detroit vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI to Oakland, CA, it's crucial to grasp the differences in daily commute times and traffic, offering insight into this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Oakland. Such knowledge will assist in making an informed decision about your transportation mode in your new city.
| Comparison | Detroit | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 29.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Difficult | Easier |
When analyzing commuting and transportation between Detroit and Oakland, several key differences emerge. Detroit's average commute time is slightly shorter, but the city scores lower in terms of public transit availability, making it more challenging to navigate without a car. Conversely, Oakland experiences higher traffic congestion but boasts better public transit options, facilitated by services like BART and AC Transit, making it somewhat easier to live without a personal vehicle. This contrast underscores the importance of understanding local infrastructure and transportation dynamics, which can significantly affect your daily life and mobility in your new city.
Popular Detroit, MI to California Moving Routes
- Detroit to Los Angeles
- Detroit to San Diego
- Detroit to San Jose
- Detroit to San Francisco
- Detroit to Fresno
- Detroit to Sacramento
- Detroit to Long Beach
- Detroit to Bakersfield
- Detroit to Anaheim
- Detroit to Santa Ana
- Detroit to Riverside
- Detroit to Stockton
- Detroit to Irvine
- Detroit to Chula Vista
- Detroit to Fremont
- Detroit to San Bernardino
- Detroit to Modesto
- Detroit to Fontana
- Detroit to Moreno Valley
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
