Best Grand Rapids to Raleigh Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Grand Rapids to Raleigh Movers

Moving from Grand Rapids, the River City, to Raleigh, the City of Oaks, signifies an exciting shift in your life's landscape, embracing new opportunities and adventures. Transitioning from the artful vibrance and snowy winters of Michigan to the lush greenery and burgeoning tech scene of North Carolina requires not just emotional preparation, but also pragmatic planning. Recognizing the importance of this long journey is crucial, which is why we recommend enlisting trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your possessions arrive safely, making the journey as smooth as possible.

Michigan iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon

Best Grand Rapids to Raleigh Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
MASS Movers9.03NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Kingsley Moving Systems8.99NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Powell Relocation Group8.89A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Grand Rapids guide.

5 Best Grand Rapids to Raleigh Moving Companies

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
MASS Movers Logo
Exceptional9.03/10
based on 503+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3333210 / 1062576

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved33,587 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo
Superb8.99/10
based on 592+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1890987 / 682343

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved140,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Powell Relocation Group Logo
Superb8.89/10
based on 605+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

261884 / 176235

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers50
Total Annual Miles Moved900,000 (2021)
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.

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be both an exciting and daunting experience. To ease the transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Raleigh, NC , helping you find a familiar feel in an unfamiliar place. Whether you're seeking vibrant culture, serene parks, or lively dining scenes, we've matched top neighborhoods from your current city to your future home, making your move as seamless as possible.

Grand RapidsRaleighHow They're Similar
East Grand RapidsFive PointsHistoric homes, family-friendly vibe
Heritage HillHistoric OakwoodPreserved historic architecture
Heartside DistrictWarehouse DistrictBooming arts scene, dining
MidtownGlenwood SouthNightlife, walkable urban area
EastownCameron VillageEclectic shops, local eateries
Gaslight VillageNorth HillsUpscale shopping, modern living
Belknap LookoutBoylan HeightsHilltop views, community-centric
Fulton HeightsHillsboroughHistoric appeal, vibrant community
Ottawa HillsMordecaiQuiet residential area, charming homes
Roosevelt ParkPullen ParkFamily-friendly, green spaces

If the charming streets of East Grand Rapids have won your heart with their historic homes and tree-lined avenues, you'll find a kindred spirit in Raleigh's Five Points. This neighborhood not only mirrors the family-friendly atmosphere but also hosts a series of annual events that bring the community together, such as outdoor concerts and holiday parades. Lovers of the vibrant arts and dining scene in Grand Rapids' Heartside District will feel right at home in the Warehouse District of Raleigh, where converted industrial spaces now house galleries, restaurants, and breweries, such as Crank Arm Brewing and CAM Raleigh. For those who enjoy the shopping and dining variety of Gaslight Village, the upscale boutiques and modern dining spots in North Hills offer a seamless transition with destinations like North Hills Shopping Center at the heart of the action.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Raleigh

Making the move from Grand Rapids, MI to Raleigh, NC is a significant decision, one that involves weighing the potential drawbacks against the advantages. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the positives and negatives associated with this relocation, helping you make the most informed choice.

CONs
PROs
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Colder Winters
  • Less Job Opportunities
  • Smaller City
  • Lower Diversity
  • Fewer Cultural Venues
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Milder Winters
  • More Job Opportunities
  • Larger Metro Area
  • Higher Diversity
  • More Cultural Venues
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Costlier Housing
  • Less Personal
  • Further from the Coast
  • Different Cultural Scene
  • Higher Traffic Congestion
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Affordable Housing
  • Cozy Community Feel
  • Proximity to Lakes
  • Rich Cultural Heritage
  • Lower Traffic Congestion

Relocating to Raleigh from Grand Rapids presents new opportunities and challenges. Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, is renowned for its thriving job market, particularly in technology, education, and healthcare sectors. It boasts a diverse cultural scene, with venues like the North Carolina Museum of History and art institutions like the North Carolina Museum of Art, providing residents with rich educational and leisure activities. The city's diverse restaurant scene, including award-winning establishments like Brewery Bhavana, offers culinary experiences that cater to a wide array of tastes. Raleigh's green spaces, like the expansive Pullen Park, provide beautiful outdoor settings for relaxation and recreation, making the city not just a place to live, but a place to thrive. However, one should be prepared for the higher housing costs and increased traffic that come with life in a growing metropolitan area.

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Raleigh, highlighting how food is a critical aspect of local culture and living experience. This comparison aims to provide insights into the food scene of both locations, enabling you to make an informed decision about your move.

Grand RapidsRaleigh
Most iconic local food itemWet BurritoEastern North Carolina BBQ
Most popular meat dishBeer Braised PorkPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food itemTacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodTempeh ReubenBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Poole's Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Raleigh, you'll discover a vibrant food scene marked by its embrace of Eastern North Carolina BBQ, a must-try for any new resident. Places like The Pit symbolize this tradition, offering authentic flavors that represent the heart of Raleigh's culinary identity. The city’s food trucks, gallivanting across neighborhoods like Downtown and the Warehouse District, present an array of choices from classic hot dogs to innovative vegan dishes like BBQ Jackfruit. Raleigh's strong fitness and health conscientiousness, paired with an abundance of vegan options, ensures that you'll have access to meals that are not only delicious but also align with a healthier lifestyle.

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

Finding that new go-to restaurant can truly make a new city feel like home. This comparison is designed to help you navigate the culinary scene as you move from Grand Rapids, MI to Raleigh, NC—highlighting similarities between top dining spots. Whether you crave upscale dining or a casual bite, this guide connects you with your next favorite eatery.

Grand RapidsRaleighWhat You'll Love
GroveSecond Empire Restaurant & TavernBoth offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
San Chez BistroJose and SonsCombines a creative mix of cuisines in a casual, yet trendy atmosphere, akin to San Chez's approach to tapas.
The Chop House Grand RapidsSullivan’s SteakhouseBoth provide a premium steakhouse experience with a commitment to quality meat and fine wine.
Maru Sushi & GrillSushi OOffering creative sushi rolls and a variety of Japanese dishes in a contemporary setting, mirroring Maru's vibe.
Amore Trattoria ItalianaVivaceAuthentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist, echoing Amore’s passion for Italian culinary traditions.
Electric CheetahRaleigh Times BarBoth are iconic in their cities for unique, eclectic menus and a casual, relaxed dining experience.
Founders Brewing Co.Brewery BhavanaLike Founders, offers great beers in a unique environment, plus a notable in-house dining experience.
Wealthy Street BakeryBoulted BreadBoth bakeries are cherished in their communities for handmade, artisan breads and pastries.
Bistro Bella VitaPoole’s DinerOffering modern, inventive dishes with a focus on local sourcing, similar to Bistro Bella Vita’s approach.
SovengardWhiskey KitchenThough Whiskey Kitchen has a Southern spin, it still shares Sovengard's commitment to local, sustainable cuisine in a trendy atmosphere.

If you’re mourning the loss of your go-to spots in Grand Rapids, Raleigh's diverse dining scene promises exciting alternatives. For example, lovers of refined, locally-sourced cuisine who frequented Grove in Grand Rapids will find solace and satisfaction at Raleigh's Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern. Here, the emphasis on seasonal ingredients and an upscale dining experience closely mirrors the Grove’s philosophy. Similarly, fans of the laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere at Electric Cheetah will feel right at home in Raleigh Times Bar, where the eclectic menu and casual ambiance provide a seamless transition. This guide, though not exhaustive, gives a taste of home in your new city, connecting you with places that resonate with your culinary heartstrings.

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Ready to start your move?

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current city and your future home is crucial. Here, we will explore how Grand Rapids, MI, and Raleigh, NC, stack up against each other in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and more, to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

ComparisonGrand RapidsRaleigh
Typical Architecture StyleMid-century Modern, CraftsmanColonial, Georgian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, large windowsOpen floor plans, energy efficiency

In transitioning from Grand Rapids, MI, to Raleigh, NC, you'll notice a stark difference in housing costs, with Raleigh's median home price and rent being markedly higher. However, this is offset by Raleigh's focus on energy-efficient homes and open floor plans, a contemporary preference for many homebuyers. Although Raleigh scores lower in walkability, its rich Southern architecture, featuring Colonial and Georgian styles, offers a distinct aesthetic appeal compared to Grand Rapids’ Mid-century Modern and Craftsman homes. Both cities boast a vibrant urban lifestyle, though Grand Rapids slightly edges out with better walkability and bikeability, showcasing its denser, more navigable urban core.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC

1. North Hills: With an abundance of pet-friendly shops and an expansive park, your pet will love the outdoor activities available.

2. Boylan Heights: This neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly community atmosphere and easy access to Dorothea Dix Park, a popular spot for dog walks and community gatherings.

3. Five Points: You and your pet will enjoy walking through the historical streets and visiting local pet-friendly businesses, including several cafes and eateries that welcome furry friends.

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can mean a big change in weather. Understanding how the climate in Raleigh, NC contrasts with what you're used to in Grand Rapids, MI is crucial. This guide provides an essential comparison to help you prepare for your move.

Summer icon
83°F / 61°F

Grand Rapids, MI

89°F / 68°F

Raleigh, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 18°F

Grand Rapids, MI

50°F / 30°F

Raleigh, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Grand Rapids, MI

43

Raleigh, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
75

Grand Rapids, MI

6

Raleigh, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonGrand RapidsRaleigh
Air QualityGoodGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, IceHurricanes, Heavy Rains
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Grand Rapids to Raleigh, you'll notice a significant change in both temperature and precipitation. Raleigh enjoys a milder winter with less snowfall, allowing for more outdoor activities year-round. However, it's also prone to hurricanes and heavier rain compared to the snowstorms you might be used to. With more days of sunshine and a slightly higher UV index, you'll have more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in Raleigh, though it's important to stay prepared for its humid summers and the increased risk of allergies, especially mold, which is more prevalent than in Grand Rapids.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your expenses might shift is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the financial aspects of relocating from Grand Rapids to Raleigh, focusing on income, taxes, and cost of living differences.

ComparisonGrand RapidsRaleigh
Avg. Household Income$59,596$74,612
Cost of Living Index90.798.2
State Income Tax4.255.25
Avg. Property Tax1.580.84
Avg. Sales Tax67.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, EducationTechnology, Education, Government
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessModerateLower

Relocating from Grand Rapids to Raleigh will likely mean experiencing a higher cost of living, reflected in both higher average household income and a significantly higher cost of living index in Raleigh. While Raleigh may offer higher income potential, it's important to budget for the state's higher income and sales tax rates. On the brighter side, property taxes are considerably lower in Raleigh, which can be a relief for homeowners. The economic landscape differs notably between the two cities, with Raleigh boasting a strong presence in technology and government sectors, possibly offering new career opportunities for newcomers.

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Raleigh, NC, it's insightful to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Raleigh provides a brief overview, helping you understand the community you're about to join.

Grand RapidsRaleigh
Political Make-upMix of Republican and Democratic, leaning towards Conservative in rural areasLeans Democratic, especially in urban and suburban areas
Local PoliticsDiverse representation with an emphasis on local businesses and community developmentDynamic political landscape with strong emphasis on growth, education, and technology
ReligionChristian-oriented with significant Catholic and Protestant populations, presence of diverse religious communitiesVaried, with a strong presence of Christian denominations alongside growing diversity of faith traditions

Understanding the differences in political and religious climates can greatly impact your experience in a new city. Grand Rapids has a balanced political environment but leans conservative in its outskirts, often focusing on community and local commerce. Its religion heavily revolves around Christian beliefs, with substantial Catholic and Protestant communities. Raleigh, on the other hand, has a more Democratic lean, especially in its bustling urban and suburban areas, and presents a vibrant political scene that prioritizes education and technological advancements. Its religious landscape is quite diverse, with a significant Christian population complemented by various other faith traditions, reflecting its multicultural demographics. This insight should help you anticipate the community vibe as you plan your move.

Grand Rapids vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Raleigh, NC means navigating new roads and transport systems. To better understand the daily commute and traffic scene, we've made a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Raleigh. This will help you adjust to your new home with ease.

ComparisonGrand RapidsRaleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2126
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but limited

In both Grand Rapids and Raleigh, you'll find relatively moderate levels of traffic congestion, making commutes relatively predictable for U.S. cities of their sizes. However, Raleigh has a slightly longer average commute time, which is something to bear in mind if you're considering living further out from the city center. While both cities offer public transit options, Raleigh scores a notch higher in terms of availability, thanks in part to its expansive bus system, the GoRaleigh. Nevertheless, having a car in both cities expands your access significantly, as public transit options may not cover all areas comprehensively. Adapting to your new city's transport nuances will be an important step in making Raleigh feel like home.

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