Best Grand Rapids to Jacksonville Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Grand Rapids, the city of art and rivers, to Jacksonville, or the Gateway to the Sunshine, is an adventure that signifies a major life transition for you. While you're leaving behind the brisk autumns and vibrant art scene of Grand Rapids, you're stepping into Jacksonville's sunny beaches and sprawling parks. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, it's crucial to ensure you're supported by trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we come in, offering you the best movers as ranked by our unbiased algorithm at Great Guys Moving.
Best Grand Rapids to Jacksonville 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 |
| Powell Relocation Group | 8.89 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Jacksonville to Grand Rapids guide.
5 Best Grand Rapids to Jacksonville 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 Powell Relocation Group
Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not nee...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Services
- Corporate Relocation
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. This guide features a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Jacksonville, FL , highlighting the equivalent neighborhoods to make you feel right at home. Whether you're looking for bustling city life or a quiet suburb, this comparison will help you find a new neighborhood that matches your lifestyle.
| Grand Rapids | Jacksonville | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | San Marco | Historic charm, upscale dining |
| Heritage Hill | Riverside | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| Midtown | Springfield | Urban renewal, tight-knit community |
| Beltline | Southside | Business hubs, shopping centers |
| West Side | Murray Hill | Quaint, rising culinary scene |
| Fulton Heights | Avondale | Trendy eateries, boutique shopping |
| Gaslight Village | San Jose | Affluent, waterfront estates |
| Heartside | Brooklyn | Diverse, up-and-coming restaurants |
| Cherry Hill | Ortega | Exclusive, waterfront views |
| Creston | Mandarin | Family-friendly, historic sites |
In comparing these neighborhoods, for example, if you're drawn to the historic homes and artsy vibe of Heritage Hill in Grand Rapids, you'll likely appreciate the similar characteristics found in Riverside, Jacksonville. Riverside boasts a rich history with well-preserved homes, vibrant street arts, and an eclectic mix of restaurants, such as Hawkers Asian Street Fare, that contribute to its unique character. For those who love the community feel and urban renewal efforts of Midtown, Springfield offers a similar ambiance where historic charm meets modern updates, evident in landmarks like Springfield Preservation and Revitalization. On the other hand, the quiet, upscale dining scene of East Grand Rapids finds its match in San Marco, with prime venues like Matthews Restaurant. This guide aims to provide a smooth relocation process by helping you discover a Jacksonville neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle in Grand Rapids.
Things to Do in Jacksonville
Stroll through Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.- Enjoy the beaches at Jacksonville Beach.
- Discover art at Cummer Museum.
- Paddleboard on the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Attend a Jaguars game at TIAA Bank Field.
- Explore Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve.
- Savor meals in San Marco District.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville
Making a move from one city to another can be a significant life change, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Jacksonville, FL. By examining the pros and cons side by side, you can make a more informed decision about your potential move.
Grand Rapids, MI- Colder climate
- Lesser cultural diversity
- Smaller city feel
- Lower job growth
- Fewer water activities
Jacksonville, FL- Warmer weather
- Greater cultural diversity
- Big city vibe
- Higher job growth
- More beach access
Jacksonville, FL- Less intimate community
- Less historical sites
- Higher cost of living
- Noisier city environment
- Less seasonal variety
Grand Rapids, MI- Cozy small-town vibe
- Rich cultural heritage
- Lower cost of living
- Quieter suburban areas
- More seasonal changes
While considering a move from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville, it's important to go beyond just comparing weather patterns or job opportunities. For instance, Grand Rapids’ rich cultural scene, with institutions like the Grand Rapids Art Museum, provides a deeply rooted sense of community and history. Conversely, Jacksonville offers an engrained coastal culture, with beaches like Jacksonville Beach and Neptune Beach, providing ample opportunities for water sports and relaxation in the sun. The vibrant food scene in Jacksonville, highlighted by spots like Safe Harbor Seafood Restaurant, contrasts with Grand Rapids’ cozy café culture, exemplifying the distinct lifestyle shift awaiting you. These nuanced differences between the cities underscore the unique experiences each location offers, emphasizing that there’s much to gain in making the move, despite the cons.
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Food Guide
Food is a pivotal part of experiencing local culture and understanding what it's like to live in a new area. In this guide, we're going to compare the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Jacksonville so you can be better informed about the food scene in your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Jacksonville | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Beer Cheese Soup | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Chops | BBQ Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Tofu Scramble |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Jacksonville, you'll quickly discover the city's rich palette for seafood, notably its iconic Shrimp and Grits which can be savored in riverside establishments like Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant. The vibrant food truck scene, especially around neighborhoods like Riverside, gives you a taste of local and international flavors, including the ever-popular Fish Tacos. Additionally, Jacksonville's food scene caters well to health-conscious and vegan residents, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes such as the Tofu Scramble. Be sure to explore eateries like Orsay and Maple Street Biscuit Company for a comprehensive taste of Jacksonville's culinary offerings.
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be an adventure, and discovering local culinary gems is a vital part of making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Grand Rapids, MI, and Jacksonville, FL, aims to help you find your next favorite dining spots using familiar flavors as your guide.
| Grand Rapids | Jacksonville | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| San Chez Bistro | Tabla | Similar tapas style menu and vibrant atmosphere. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Kamiya 86 | Offering a sophisticated take on sushi and Japanese cuisine. |
| The Chop House | Ruth's Chris Steak House | Both are known for their exquisite steaks and upscale dining experience. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Intuition Ale Works | Known for their craft beers and casual, friendly vibe. |
| Stella's Lounge | MOJO no.4 Urban BBQ Whiskey Bar | With a creative menu and an eclectic, cozy ambiance. |
| Grove | Orsay | High-quality, farm-to-table ethos with a focus on French cuisine. |
| Two Beards Deli | Pinegrove Market and Deli | Known for hearty sandwiches and a down-to-earth atmosphere. |
| Madcap Coffee Company | Vagabond Coffee | Both offer a passion for expertly crafted coffee in a hip setting. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Safe Harbor Seafood Restaurant | Both offer fresh, high-quality seafood in a relaxed setting. |
| Electric Cheetah | Maple Street Biscuit Company | Both offer unique comfort food in a quirky, inviting space. |
In the quest to find dining establishments that resonate with your palate, these comparisons between Grand Rapids and Jacksonville eateries serve as a starting point. For instance, if sushi and Japanese flavors are what you're after, Kamiya 86 will impress you with its artful presentation and quality, much like Maru Sushi & Grill. When you're in the mood for comfort food with a twist, Maple Street Biscuit Company in Jacksonville mirrors the unique and quirky vibe you loved at Electric Cheetah. It's not just about the food, but also about the experiences and memories you'll build around the table in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Real Estate & Living Facts
Realizing the dream of a new home encompasses a multitude of factors, making the understanding of real estate dynamics critical. Grasping how Grand Rapids, MI and Jacksonville, FL measure up against each other in terms of housing complements the essence of your moving decision.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Craftsman | Mediterranean, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historical features, proximity to lakes | Waterfront, large yards |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville, you'll notice significant differences in the housing market and lifestyle aspects. While Grand Rapids boasts a more moderate climate reflected in its architectural styles like Prairie and Craftsman, Jacksonville takes a warmer approach with Mediterranean and Ranch-style homes, suitable for its subtropical climate. The median home price and rent are notably higher in Jacksonville, reflecting its larger size and coastal location. Despite being less walkable than Grand Rapids, Jacksonville compensates with its unique offerings such as larger yards and waterfront properties — an attractive feature for those dreaming of a home by the sea. Exploring these cities' housing markets opens up a plethora of options tailored to your lifestyle and preferences, from the urban bustling life in Grand Rapids to the laid-back, coastal vibes in Jacksonville.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, FL
1. Riverside: Riverside is known for its picturesque Memorial Park, a favorite among local dog owners for walks and playdates, and you'll also find many pet-friendly cafes and shops along King Street.
2. San Marco: With picturesque, walkable streets and the dog-friendly San Marco Square at its heart, your pet will love the outdoor dining options and the welcoming atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.
3. Jacksonville Beach: The sandy shores and the pet-friendly Adventure Landing park make Jacksonville Beach ideal for pets who love to swim or need plenty of outdoor activities to burn off energy.
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Jacksonville, FL, understanding how the weather compares between these two cities is essential. This comparison will help you anticipate changes and adapt to your new climate. Grand Rapids and Jacksonville offer contrasting weather conditions, which are detailed in the chart below.
Grand Rapids, MI
Jacksonville, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Jacksonville, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Jacksonville, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Jacksonville, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Ice Storms | Hurricanes, Tropical Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Although the table provides a high-level comparison, it's worth diving deeper into how these differences might affect you. For instance, moving from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville means leaving behind cold, snowy winters in favor of mild winters and very hot and humid summers. The significant increase in sunshine days can positively impact your mood and vitamin D levels, but it also means preparing for a higher UV index and the potential for more intense seasonal allergies due to longer growing seasons. Understanding these differences will help you transition smoothly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville
If you're considering a move, it's essential to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison between Grand Rapids, MI, and Jacksonville, FL, offers insight into what you can expect.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $58,621 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 92.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58% | 0.97% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail | Logistics, Finance, Health Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville, you'll notice key financial differences. Michigan's state income tax disappears in Florida, potentially offering you more disposable income. However, consider Jacksonville's slightly higher cost of living index and sales tax, which could offset some savings. Despite similar average affection descriptions between the two cities, Jacksonville faces a higher poverty level, an important factor in understanding local economic challenges. Such insights are crucial for making an informed decision about your move.
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can bring noticeable changes, not just in scenery but in community composition as well. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot to help you compare the politics between Grand Rapids & Jacksonville, along with the religious landscape. It's especially designed for those weighing the cultural and societal aspects of their potential new home.
| Grand Rapids | Jacksonville | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Conservative | Mixed, leaning Conservative |
| Local Politics | Democratic leadership in city roles | Republican leadership in city roles |
| Religion | Christian majority with strong Reformed Christian communities | Diverse Christian presence, with significant Baptist and Evangelical communities |
When transitioning from Grand Rapids to Jacksonville, you'll notice changes in the political and religious landscapes. Grand Rapids, with its Democratic leadership in city roles, presents a contrast to Jacksonville's Republican-leaning governance. This shift might impact local policies and community initiatives that matter to you. Religious makeup also varies, where Grand Rapids is known for its strong Reformed Christian communities, Jacksonville offers a more diverse Christian landscape, including Baptist and Evangelical denominations. Understanding these differences can help you align with a community that shares your values.
Grand Rapids vs. Jacksonville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Jacksonville, FL is a significant change, especially when it comes to understanding what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Jacksonville is designed to help you better grasp what to expect on a day-to-day basis.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21.8 | 25.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is relatively low compared to many urban areas, which might make the transition to Jacksonville's slightly higher commute times noticeable. Jacksonville experiences more traffic congestion, likely due to its larger size and sprawling nature. While Grand Rapids offers moderate public transit options, in Jacksonville, reliance on public transit can be more challenging, making car ownership more of a necessity. Notably, while living without a car in Grand Rapids can be manageable, especially with planning around bus routes, doing so in Jacksonville might significantly limit your mobility and access to certain areas.
Popular Grand Rapids, MI to Florida Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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