Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Grand Rapids to Long Beach Movers

Moving from the bustling cityscape of Grand Rapids, MI to the sunny shores of Long Beach, CA, is not just a relocation; it’s an exciting leap into a brand new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind the ‘Furniture City’ with its rich history and vibrant arts scene for ‘The Aquatic Capital of America,’ where sunshine, beaches, and a diverse culinary scene await. Given the significant distance and the life change this move represents, it’s crucial to enlist trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition. At Great Guys Moving, we understand this necessity and are dedicated to connecting you with the best movers for your journey, using our unbiased ranking algorithm to sift through the claims and find the true leaders in the moving industry.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Long Beach to Grand Rapids guide.

5 Best Grand Rapids to Long Beach Movers

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

#1
RL Relocation Logo
Exceptional

based on 867+ data points

Costa Mesa, CA
Whole Home Moves , Local and Long Distance , Packing and Organizing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2984580 Verify

About RL Relocation

RL Relocation is a full-service moving company that has been in business for several years. Based in California, they offer local and long-d...Read More >>

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#2
MASS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 503+ data points

Lansing, MI
Packing Service, Large Item Moving, Small to Medium Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3333210 Verify

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 >>

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#3
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo
Superb

based on 592+ data points

Lansing, MI
Local Moving, Statewide Moving, Interstate Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1890987 Verify

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 >>

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#4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb

based on 1,065+ data points

Kalamazoo, MI
Local Moving, Junk Removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2973885 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is one of the leading moving companies in Kalamazoo, MI for both local and long-distance relocations. If you're consider...Read More >>

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#5
The Student Movers Logo
Fabulous

based on 796+ data points

Huntington Beach, CA
Full Service (I need a truck and people to help load it), Labor Only (I just need the people to help me), Home Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2769852 Verify

About The Student Movers

With locations in Murrieta, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach, The Student Movers serves clients from California, offering local, intrasta...Read More >>

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Relocating from Grand Rapids to Long Beach Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be an exciting yet daunting process, especially when heading to a new city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Long Beach, CA . This resource aims to connect you with communities in Long Beach that echo the ambiance of your favorite Grand Rapids neighborhoods, making the unknown familiar.

Grand RapidsLong Beach
East Grand RapidsBelmont Shore

Vibrant, beachside community

Heritage HillBluff Park

Historic homes, ocean views

MidtownEast Village Arts District

Cultural hub, artsy vibe

Riverside ParkEl Dorado Park

Spacious parks, outdoor activities

Fulton HeightsCalifornia Heights

Quiet, residential with historic charm

Cherry HillBixby Knolls

Trendy eateries, lively atmosphere

Gaslight Village2nd Street

Eclectic shopping, dining options

Ottawa HillsPark Estates

Upscale, spacious homes

Alger HeightsLos Altos

Family-friendly, community-focused

EastownRetro Row

Unique shops, retro flair

Delving deeper into some of these comparisons, if you're moving from the historic and architecturally rich neighborhood of Heritage Hill in Grand Rapids, you'll find a new home in Bluff Park, Long Beach, to be quite appealing. Bluff Park offers not only historic homes that evoke a bygone era but also stunning ocean views that provide a serene backdrop to your day-to-day life. For those who enjoy the arts and culture that Midtown Grand Rapids offers, the East Village Arts District in Long Beach will capture your heart with its vibrant arts scene, hosting numerous galleries and cultural events throughout the year. Meanwhile, the outdoor enthusiasts who frequented Riverside Park's vast green spaces in Grand Rapids will find El Dorado Park in Long Beach to be an excellent venue for continuing their outdoor adventures, featuring expansive areas for picnics, sports, and simply enjoying the California sunshine.

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Things to Do in Long Beach

  • Explore Aquarium of the Pacific
  • Stroll along The Pike Outlets
  • Enjoy The Queen Mary tours
  • Visit Long Beach Museum of Art
  • Rent a kayak at Alamitos Bay
  • Bike the Belmont Shore Beach Path

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

Moving from one city to another comes with its share of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to mirror the journey from Grand Rapids, MI to Long Beach, CA, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks. By examining the shifting landscapes, we offer an honest reflection on how life transitions between these two distinct places.

CONs
PROs
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Colder climate
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lesser nightlife
Long Beach, CA iconLong Beach, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Bigger city amenities
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • More job prospects
  • Richer nightlife
Long Beach, CA iconLong Beach, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Can feel crowded
  • More urban
  • Heavier traffic
  • More expensive for families
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lower cost of living
  • Community feel
  • Abundant nature
  • Less traffic
  • Family-friendly

While Grand Rapids may charm you with its quaint, community feel and direct access to nature, moving to Long Beach brings a dynamic shift. In Long Beach, the cultural melange is palpable, from the vibrant collection of restaurants in the East Village Arts District to soothing strolls in El Dorado Park. Although you may miss the quieter streets and lower living costs of Grand Rapids, Long Beach compensates with its temperate climate and extensive job market. The promise of sunnier days at Rosie's Dog Beach or the historic intrigue of the Queen Mary might just turn the tide of nostalgia into an exciting new chapter. For those worry about the transition, consider the diverse and eclectic scenes from Pine Avenue to Belmont Shore, each offering unique vibes — from bustling nightlife to tranquil waterfront dining options like Parker's Lighthouse.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

Food is a critical element of local culture and provides a glimpse into what life is like in a new area. With this in mind, we’ve prepared a comparative look at the food scene you'll be transitioning to. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Long Beach, aiming to better inform you about your culinary future.

Grand RapidsLong Beach

Most iconic local food item

Wet BurritoSushi

Most popular meat dish

Pork RibsFish Tacos

Most popular street food item

TacosHot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Vegan ChiliVegan Sushi

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Sanchez Bistro
  • The Wolverine State Brewing Co.
  • Rosie's Diner
  • Parkers' Lighthouse
  • James Republic
  • The Attic

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

68

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

59

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

78

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

69

If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach, your palate is in for a vibrant shift. The iconic Sushi and Fish Tacos are omnipresent, reflecting Long Beach's close ties to its coastal geography. Vegan options flourish, with establishments like Seabirds Kitchen offering innovative plant-based dishes that are creative and delicious. The city's bustling food truck scene serves up a broad spectrum of flavors, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting to try. Neighborhoods like Belmont Shore and Downtown Long Beach are particularly vibrant, showcasing the city's culinary diversity and innovation. Whether you're exploring the waterfront eateries at Pine Avenue or savoring a casual meal in a hidden gem in East Village, Long Beach's food scene is sure to impress.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

Finding a new favorite eatery can turn a new city into home. This restaurant comparison will help you transition from Grand Rapids to Long Beach by matching your beloved dining spots to new, similar ones. Grand Rapids' top restaurants compared to Long Beach's equivalents provide a culinary bridge to ease your move.

GroveJames Republic

Both offer farm-to-table dining experiences.

San Chez BistroSeabirds Kitchen

Offering a focus on vegetarian and innovative dishes.

Butcher's UnionChianina Steakhouse

High-quality meats and a strong whiskey selection mirror each other's appeal.

Leo's Seafood Restaurant & BarPier 76 Fish Grill

Fresh seafood with a casual, yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Maru Sushi & GrillSushi Kara

Authentic Japanese cuisine, known for fresh sushi rolls.

The Electric CheetahRestauration

Creative comfort food in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Amore Trattoria ItalianaMichael's on Naples

Both are high-end Italian eateries with a cozy atmosphere.

Two Scotts BarbecueRobert Earl's BBQ

Authentic BBQ experience with a dedication to flavor and technique.

Stella's LoungeBeachwood BBQ & Brewing

Craft beer and high-quality pub food.

Harmony Brewing CompanyBallast Point Long Beach

Both offer a variety of craft beers and innovative pub fare.

While transitioning from Grand Rapids to Long Beach, you’ll notice similarities in the dining experience that help ease the shift between cities. For instance, James Republic mirrors Grove's ethos by offering nourishing farm-to-table options, fostering a local and seasonal dining experience. If you appreciate the artisanal approach to cuisine, both Sushi Kara and Maru Sushi & Grill exemplify the authenticity and craftsmanship in their sushi offerings, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create memorable dishes. On the other hand, for those who cherish a good barbecue, Robert Earl's BBQ in Long Beach provides an authentic smokey flavor that rivals what you've adored at Two Scotts Barbecue, ensuring your BBQ cravings are well catered to in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

When considering a move, the real estate market is a critical factor to weigh. It's essential to understand how housing in Grand Rapids, MI, and Long Beach, CA, stack up against each other, from costs to lifestyle. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities to help make your decision easier.

When comparing housing between Grand Rapids and Long Beach, the stark differences in median home prices and monthly rents become immediately apparent. Grand Rapids presents a more affordable option for both buyers and renters, with its typical mid-century modern and Victorian homes, compared to Long Beach's higher stakes market featuring Spanish Revival and modern architecture. Furthermore, Long Beach's higher ratings in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle reflect its denser, more pedestrian-friendly environment, a tempting feature for those who value a lively urban setting. The demand for sustainable features and ocean views in Long Beach points to a community with a distinct appreciation for environmental consciousness and scenic beauty.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Long Beach, CA

1. Bixby Knolls: Known for its walkable, tree-lined streets, Bixby Knolls offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a welcoming atmosphere for your furry friends.

2. Belmont Shore: With its close proximity to Rosie's Dog Beach, Belmont Shore is a paradise for dogs who love to splash in the ocean and make new friends.

3. Bluff Park: Boasting spacious parks and scenic views, Bluff Park is perfect for leisurely walks with your pet, plus it's just a stone's throw away from dog-friendly establishments.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

Moving from one location to another means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison is aimed at helping you understand how the weather in Grand Rapids, MI, and Long Beach, CA will vary, providing insights into what you can expect in your new home.

Summer icon
82°F / 61°F

Grand Rapids, MI

83°F / 68°F

Long Beach, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 18°F

Grand Rapids, MI

68°F / 48°F

Long Beach, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Grand Rapids, MI

12

Long Beach, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
74

Grand Rapids, MI

0

Long Beach, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach brings significant weather changes, most notably in winter weather and sunshine days. In Long Beach, winter is milder and summers are slightly warmer at night. You'll enjoy far more sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The shift in natural disaster risks from tornadoes to earthquakes and wildfires is also something to prepare for. Adjusting to these differences will be a key part of your transition.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

When you're planning a move from one location to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income opportunities in Grand Rapids stack up against those in Long Beach can help you prepare for the economic climate you're about to enter. This comparison gives you a holistic view of what to expect financially.

Shifting from Grand Rapids to Long Beach, you'll notice a stark contrast in the economic landscape. The average household income in Long Beach is notably higher, although this comes with a significantly higher cost of living index. Particularly, the state income and sales tax rates in California are much steeper than in Michigan, which could impact your take-home pay and overall expenses. However, it's interesting to note that property taxes are lower in Long Beach, offering some relief. Both cities boast robust industries but differ in their leading sectors, which could influence job opportunities based on your profession. Despite both regions facing challenges with homelessness, Long Beach presents a more affluent environment with lower poverty rates, possibly reflecting the economic opportunities available despite higher living costs.

Political & Religious Comparison between Grand Rapids, MI and Long Beach, CA

Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach can be quite the change, especially when considering the local communities you're about to join. This quick comparison aims to provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Grand Rapids & Long Beach, helping you get acquainted with your new city.

Grand RapidsLong Beach

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeLean Liberal

Local Politics

City GovernmentCity Government

Religion

Christian DominantDiverse Religious Landscape

While Grand Rapids leans slightly more conservative with a dominant Christian population, Long Beach offers a more liberal and religiously diverse community. This diversity is reflected in Long Beach's local politics, which tends to support more progressive policies compared to Grand Rapids. Exploring the local government websites of Grand Rapids and Long Beach can give you a deeper insight into each city's political environment. Embracing this change might offer you the opportunity to engage with a variety of cultures and viewpoints, enriching your experience in your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Long Beach

Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Long Beach, CA can significantly impact your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Long Beach is designed to help you better understand what to expect in your new city.

Grand RapidsLong Beach
2130

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

58

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes

Can you get by without car?

While Grand Rapids offers a more relaxed commuting experience with its lower average commute time and less traffic congestion, Long Beach's superior public transit system makes it possible for many to get by without a car. Long Beach boasts a comprehensive network of buses and the Long Beach Transit, which connects to the Los Angeles Metro, greatly enhancing mobility across the city and to surrounding areas. Conversely, in Grand Rapids, reliance on a car is more common due to the moderate availability of public transit options. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your daily routine and make informed decisions about transportation in your new home.

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