Moving from the Gateway City to River City is not just a relocation; it's an exciting journey, teeming with new opportunities and adventures. You're leaving behind St. Louis, known for its iconic Arch and vibrant blues scene, to embrace Grand Rapids, where art, craft beer, and the Grand River await. Given the distance and the importance of starting this new chapter on the right foot, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where our expertise at Great Guys Moving comes in, ensuring your transition is smooth and worry-free.
Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids?
5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to St. Louis guide.
5 Best St. Louis to Grand Rapids Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
based on 1,711+ data points
St Charles, MO | |
Full Moving Service, Commercial Moving Service, Long Distance Services See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 3/5/2024) | |
USDOT: 4004648 Verify |
About Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC
Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC is a full-time moving company servicing the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Thi...Read More >>
Lansing, MI | |
Packing Service, Large Item Moving, Small to Medium Business Moving See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
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 >>
Arnold, MO | |
Residential moves (houses, apartments, high rises, etc.), Long-distance moves, Furniture disassembly & reassembly See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/6/2024) | |
USDOT: 3237297 Verify |
About BEK Moving Co.
Although BEK Moving Co. started in 2017, it has over 45 years of working experience performing residential moves, commercial relocations, an...Read More >>
Lansing, MI | |
Local Moving, Statewide Moving, Interstate Moving See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
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 >>
St. Louis, MO | |
Cheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
USDOT: 3876556 Verify |
About Modern Moving Company
Modern Moving Company will take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy your move. This locally owned and operated business is based i...Read More >>
Relocating from St. Louis to Grand Rapids Neighborhood Guide
When moving from one city to another, finding a new neighborhood that feels like home can be challenging. This guide is crafted to help you compare local neighborhoods between St. Louis, MO & Grand Rapids, MI, using your familiar surroundings as a baseline for your next community.
St. Louis | Grand Rapids |
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Central West EndHeritage Hill Diverse architecture, vibrant community | |
The HillEastown Bustling, culinary hotspot | |
SoulardEast Hills Rich history, local bars and restaurants | |
Lafayette SquareMidtown Historic homes, green spaces | |
Forest Park SoutheastBelknap Lookout Urban feel, close to parks | |
South GrandWestside Diverse dining, walkability | |
The LoopUptown Entertainment district, unique shops | |
ShawFulton Heights Community-oriented, access to parks | |
Tower Grove SouthEastgate Family-friendly, outdoor activities | |
ClaytonOttawa Hills Upscale, excellent schools |
In both St. Louis and Grand Rapids, the heart of each city is mirrored through its neighborhoods. If you’re someone who appreciates the historic charm and vibrant dining scene of The Hill in St. Louis, you’ll find a kindred spirit in Eastown, Grand Rapids, where eclectic eateries line the streets promising a gastronomic adventure. Nature enthusiasts who frequent Forest Park Southeast for its lush parkland will be pleased with Belknap Lookout’s urban green spaces, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. For those who thrive in the cultural buzz of The Loop, Uptown Grand Rapids offers an equally enticing blend of live music venues, galleries, and boutiques. Diving into these neighborhoods reveals more than just places to live; it uncovers communities where life’s moments are cherished and celebrated.
Things to Do in Grand Rapids
- Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Enjoy a show at DeVos Performance Hall
- Sample beer on the Beer City Ale Trail
- Stroll through Eastown neighborhood
- Attend a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey game
- Canoe on the Grand River
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
Moving from one city to another offers a chance to weigh the balance between challenge and opportunity. This comparison is your guide to understand the pros and cons of relocating from St. Louis, MO to Grand Rapids, MI. Embrace an honest reflection of the changes awaiting you, capturing the essence of both cities.
- Higher crime rates
- Hot summers
- Fewer craft breweries
- Less snowfall
- Lower crime rates
- Cooler summers
- Rich craft beer scene
- More winter activities
- Smaller city
- More subdued music scene
- Less famous BBQ
- Fewer dining options
- Larger city
- Rich music scene
- Famous BBQ
- Diverse cuisine
Moving from St. Louis, you'll miss the vibrant music scene with iconic venues like The Pageant, where live performances have long defined the city's cultural nightlife. St. Louis's reputation for having some of the best BBQ in the country, with institutions like Pappy's Smokehouse, will also set a high culinary bar. However, Grand Rapids welcomes you with its own local gems. The city's craft beer scene is nationally recognized, with pioneers like Founders Brewing Co. at the forefront. Winter in Grand Rapids transforms the city into a playground for snow enthusiasts, offering activities from skating at Rosa Parks Circle to skiing nearby. Although smaller, Grand Rapids boasts a burgeoning food scene, highlighted by spots such as San Chez Bistro, which melds innovation with local charm.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Louis & Grand Rapids, designed to give you a deeper understanding of what each food scene has to offer. Knowing about the local cuisine is crucial as food is a vital part of local culture and the overall living experience in an area. This comparison aims to better inform you about the food scene in your new city.
St. Louis | Grand Rapids |
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Most iconic local food item St. Louis-style BBQMichigan Cherry Salad | |
Most popular meat dish St. Louis-style RibsBeer Braised Beef | |
Most popular street food item Toasted RavioliPoutine | |
Most popular vegan food Jackfruit BBQTempeh Reuben | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 78 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 67 | |
Foodie Scene 89 | |
Vegan Friendly 78 |
In St. Louis, the most iconic local food item is the St. Louis-style BBQ, best exemplified by restaurants like Pappy's Smokehouse. The city's popular street food, Toasted Ravioli, can often be found in the vibrant Delmar Loop neighborhood. Over in Grand Rapids, the food scene shines with Michigan Cherry Salad and Beer Braised Beef, a nod to the state's rich agricultural and brewing heritage. Neighborhoods like Eastown are hotspots for discovering unique dishes such as the Tempeh Reuben, showcasing the city's dedication to diverse and vegan-friendly options. Both cities take pride in their culinary scenes, but you'll find Grand Rapids slightly more health-conscious and vegan-friendly, reflecting in their higher scores for fitness and vegan friendliness.
Restaurant Guide for Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
Moving to a new city can be a daunting experience, but finding your new favorite spots to dine can make anywhere feel like home. This guide will help you transition from St. Louis, MO to Grand Rapids, MI by comparing top restaurants in St. Louis to their closest counterparts in Grand Rapids , ensuring you won't miss out on great food as you settle into your new surroundings.
Pappy's SmokehouseTwo Scotts Barbecue Authentic smoked flavors and a commitment to quality meats. |
Sidney Street CafeGrove Farm-to-table dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. |
The HillAmore Trattoria Italiana Classic Italian dishes in a cozy, family-friendly setting. |
Blueberry HillStella's Lounge Unique burgers and a vast selection of whiskey, with a lively atmosphere. |
OlioMarcona on Lyon Mediterranean menus with a modern twist, emphasizing seasonal produce. |
Bogart's SmokehouseSlows Bar BQ Slow-cooked barbecue with a mix of traditional and innovative sauces. |
Rooftop CafeNew Hotel Mertens Rooftop dining with panoramic city views and a French-inspired menu. |
Peacemaker Lobster and CrabFish Lads Fresh seafood offerings reminiscent of coastal eateries, with a focus on sustainability. |
Salt + SmokePit Stop Catering Gourmet BBQ with a personal touch, highlighting local flavors. |
Ted Drewes Frozen CustardLove's Ice Cream Artisanal ice creams and vegan gelatos made with organic ingredients. |
For those moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids, finding a place where the food resonates with your taste can be an essential part of settling in. Take Sidney Street Cafe and Grove, for example. Both offer an exquisite farm-to-table dining experience, focusing on local produce and innovative dishes that cater to food enthusiasts. Similarly, seafood lovers who cherished Peacemaker Lobster and Crab in St. Louis will find a new haven in Fish Lads, where the freshness of the seafood and the commitment to sustainable dining echo their favorite spot back home. While not an exact replica, these Grand Rapids eateries offer a familiar comfort through their food, ambiance, and dedication to quality, ensuring that you can always find a slice of home, no matter where you are.
Ready to start your move?
Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. In this comparison, we'll explore the differences between St. Louis, MO, and Grand Rapids, MI in terms of housing. This includes cost, architecture, and lifestyle ratings to help you make an informed decision.
The housing markets of St. Louis and Grand Rapids present contrasting appeals. St. Louis, known for its beautiful, historic brick homes, typically offers more affordable housing costs. This city scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, reflecting its dense, vibrant urban core. On the other hand, Grand Rapids' housing market emphasizes modern conveniences and sustainability, with many listings highlighting energy-efficient features and communal spaces. Its architecture leans towards the Mid-Century Modern and Craftsman styles, catering to a different aesthetic preference. Moreover, Grand Rapids edges out St. Louis in bikeability, indicating a slightly more bicycle-friendly infrastructure - ideal if you prefer cycling over driving or walking.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI
1. Eastown: Known for its vibrant community and walkability, you'll find pet-friendly cafes and a welcoming atmosphere in Eastown, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
2. Heritage Hill: With its spacious parks and historic charm, Heritage Hill offers plenty of green space for your pets to explore, alongside pet-friendly housing options.
3. Heartside: A bustling downtown neighborhood, Heartside stands out for its pet-friendly apartments and proximity to dog parks, ensuring your furry friends are always welcome.
Weather Considerations for Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
Moving to a new city means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between St. Louis and Grand Rapids' weather helps you understand what to expect, making your transition smoother.
St. Louis, MO
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
St. Louis, MO
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
St. Louis, MO
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
St. Louis, MO
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When you're relocating from St. Louis to Grand Rapids, one of the most significant changes you'll notice is in the winter temperatures and snowfall. Grand Rapids experiences much colder winters with significantly more snow, averaging 74 inches annually compared to St. Louis's 17 inches. This means you'll need to prepare for winter driving conditions and possibly invest in warmer clothing and snow removal equipment. On the other hand, summers in Grand Rapids tend to be slightly cooler and less humid, which could be a pleasant change for those who find the St. Louis summers too hot or humid. Regardless, adapting to Grand Rapids' weather will require some adjustments, but understanding these differences ahead of time can help you better prepare for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income potential in St. Louis compare to Grand Rapids . This comparison will help you make an informed decision about your financial future in a new city.
When moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids, it's essential to note that while the average household income might be lower in Grand Rapids, the city offers a somewhat higher cost of living index. However, this is offset by lower state and average sales tax rates, potentially leading to a more manageable financial situation. The top industries in both cities are similar, which bodes well for employment opportunities. Yet, the differences in affordability and tax burden could influence your quality of life. Understanding these nuances is key to making a seamless transition.
Political & Religious Comparison between St. Louis, MO and Grand Rapids, MI
This comparison between St. Louis & Grand Rapids is designed to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you feel more at home in your new city.
St. Louis | Grand Rapids |
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Political Make-up Liberal/DemocraticModerately Conservative/Republican | |
Local Politics Democratic leadershipMixed, with Republican leanings | |
Religion Largely Christian, with a significant Catholic presenceDiverse, strong Catholic and Protestant communities |
When moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids, you'll find the political landscape shifts from a more liberal, Democratic-leaning environment to one that is moderately conservative, with a history of Republican leanings. This transition may reflect variations in local politics and community initiatives. However, on a religious front, both cities boast a vibrant Christian community, though St. Louis has a particularly significant Catholic presence. Grand Rapids counters with its own robust Catholic and Protestant communities, reflecting the city's diverse religious tapestry. As you settle into Grand Rapids, you'll likely notice these differences shaping local culture and public discourse.
Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from St. Louis to Grand Rapids
Moving from St. Louis, MO to Grand Rapids, MI, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison between the two cities will provide insights about what to expect when transitioning from one city to the other.
St. Louis | Grand Rapids |
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2422 Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | |
64 Traffic Congestion (out of 10) | |
65 Availability of Public Transit (out of 10) | |
ChallengingMore challenging Can you get by without car? |
While both St. Louis and Grand Rapids offer distinct living and commuting experiences, there are notable differences in navigating daily life in each city. St. Louis has a slightly higher average commute time and more traffic congestion, reflecting its larger metropolitan area and denser urban structure. Public transit is marginally better in St. Louis due to services like Metro Transit, which includes bus and light rail options. However, both cities are not ideally suited for living without a car, with Grand Rapids being slightly more challenging due to fewer public transit options and a more spread out urban design. Adjusting to these differences will be crucial for a smooth transition.
Popular St. Louis, MO to Michigan Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes