Best Durham to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Durham, NC, to Grand Rapids, MI, is more than a change of scenery; it's an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind the Bull City's renowned academic vibes and warm southern hospitality for Grand Rapids, affectionately known as Beer City USA, with its vibrant art scene and burgeoning craft beer culture, promises an adventure of its own. It's crucial, however, to ensure this journey begins smoothly by entrusting your belongings to reliable and professional movers, making your transition as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Best Durham to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Durham guide.
5 Best Durham to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving ExpertsAbout 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
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
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
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.
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
Making a move to a new city can feel daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've prepared a guide to help you find areas in Grand Rapids, MI that share the ambiance and amenities of your favorite Durham, NC locales. Through this comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Grand Rapids, MI, you'll be better equipped to find a new place that feels like home.
| Durham | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Park | Heritage Hill | Historic homes, vibrant community |
| Old West Durham | Eastown | Eclectic shops, diverse dining |
| Rockwood | Fulton Heights | Close-knit, community-focused |
| Hope Valley | East Grand Rapids | Upscale, peaceful with parks |
| Woodcroft | Forest Hills | Family-friendly, great schools |
| Watts-Hillandale | Creston | Historical charm, active community |
| Southpoint | Byron Center | Modern amenities, shopping hubs |
| American Tobacco District | Heartside | Urban living, arts and culture |
| Brightleaf | Midtown | Nightlife, young professional scene |
| Treyburn | Ada | Luxurious, spacious homes |
In moving from Durham's beloved Trinity Park with its historic homes and tree-lined streets, you'll find a similar sense of community and architectural grace in Grand Rapids' Heritage Hill. Both neighborhoods boast a rich history, preserved in the elegance of their homes. For those who relish the diverse dining and unique shopping experiences of Old West Durham, Eastown in Grand Rapids offers an eclectic and vibrant atmosphere. East Grand Rapids parallels the upscale and leisurely lifestyle of Hope Valley, where serene parks such as Reeds Lake offer a peaceful retreat. Meanwhile, the cultural vibrancy and urban renewal seen in the American Tobacco District in Durham is mirrored in Grand Rapids’ Heartside, where arts, entertainment, and dining converge. Each of these neighborhoods provides its own unique charm and amenities, ensuring that you can find a new home in Grand Rapids that resonates with the lifestyle you cherished in Durham.
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 Durham to Grand Rapids
Moving from one city to another always comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Durham, NC to Grand Rapids, MI . Below are charts designed to help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
Durham, NC- Higher humidity
- More traffic
- Longer summers
- Fewer snow days
- Less diverse seasons
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower humidity
- Less traffic
- Cooler summers
- More snow activities
- Distinct seasons
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller cultural scene
- Different job market
- Less diversity in cuisine
- Quieter nightlife
- Colder winters
Durham, NC- Rich culture
- Strong job market
- Diverse cuisine
- Vibrant nightlife
- Warmer winters
When considering the transition from Durham to Grand Rapids, you'll find changes in climate and lifestyle. Durham is known for its DPAC events and diverse dining options, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. In contrast, Grand Rapids offers a distinct seasonal experience, with activities tailored to each, such as winter sports at Cannonsburg Ski Area. Grand Rapids boasts less traffic, making daily commutes more manageable, and its unique attractions, like the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, offer an engaging blend of art, nature, and tranquility, setting it apart from Durham's vibrant, yet busier lifestyle.
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
Food is a crucial part of understanding local culture and what life is like in a new city. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI to help you get acquainted with what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Durham | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Michigan Cherry Pie |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork Sandwich | Beer Brats |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Durham, the food scene is vibrant, with a notable affection for BBQ and innovative vegan options like BBQ Jackfruit that speak to the city's diverse culinary landscape. For instance, diners can explore traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist at places like Poole's Diner, or enjoy Durham's take on street tacos in various food trucks scattered across the city. Conversely, Grand Rapids offers a cozy Midwestern culinary experience, highlighted by its famous Michigan Cherry Pie and an array of craft beers at Founders Brewing Co. The city prides itself on a mix of traditional American and international cuisines, making it a welcoming place for food enthusiasts.
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your go-to spots for dining out. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease the transition for someone moving from Durham, NC to Grand Rapids, MI by identifying counterpart eateries. Let's find those new favorites that make a place feel like home.
| Durham | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | San Chez Bistro | A blend of Spanish tapas and global flavors, promising a similar communal dining experience. |
| Pizzeria Toro | Harmony Brewing Company | Known for wood-fired pizzas and a cozy, artistic atmosphere reminiscent of Pizzeria Toro. |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | Brewery Vivant | Offers farm-to-table burgers and craft beer, capturing the essence of a local brewpub. |
| Mothers & Sons Trattoria | Osteria Rossa | Casual yet refined Italian dining with handmade pasta, echoing the authentic touch of Mothers & Sons. |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Field & Fire Café | Offers European-style baked goods and café fare in a setting that rivals the charm of Guglhupf. |
| M Sushi | Maru Sushi & Grill | High-quality sushi and a modern dining experience that parallels M Sushi's excellence. |
| Juan Luna's Rotisserie and Grill | Donkey Taqueria | While focusing on Mexican cuisine, it provides a unique twist on traditional dishes much like Juan Luna's. |
| Backyard BBQ Pit | Two Scotts Barbecue | Authentic smoky flavors and a down-to-earth vibe that barbecue enthusiasts in Durham cherish at Backyard BBQ Pit. |
| Dashi Ramen | The Søvengård | Offers a menu with Scandinavian influence but includes dishes that satisfy ramen lovers, reminiscent of Dashi's spirit. |
| NanaSteak | Chop House Grand Rapids | Delivers an upscale steakhouse experience, focusing on quality and ambiance akin to NanaSteak. |
For those who consider themselves food enthusiasts, transitioning from Durham's eclectic dining scene to Grand Rapids doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. A visit to Harmony Brewing Company offers not just a slice of gourmet pizza but an ambiance that might remind you of evenings spent at Pizzeria Toro. Similarly, Brewery Vivant is not just about enjoying a burger and beer; it’s about the sense of community and shared values that echo Bull City Burger and Brewery's ethos. And for those special nights out, Chop House Grand Rapids provides a steakhouse experience where the quality of food and attention to detail could very well make you nostalgic for NanaSteak back in Durham. Exploring these Grand Rapids alternatives can offer more than just a meal—it’s a way to discover the city's unique character and maybe, just maybe, find a new place that feels like "your" spot.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight key aspects of housing between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI. Knowing these details will assist in making an informed decision. Compare housing in Durham and Grand Rapids to see what fits your needs best.
| Comparison | Durham | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, hardwood floors | Proximity to breweries, open-concept layouts |
Housing preferences can vary widely, but comparing Durham and Grand Rapids sheds light on unique offerings. In Durham, homes often come with spacious yards and classic hardwood floors, reflecting a preference for traditional settings. On the other hand, Grand Rapids boasts a more modern edge, with many listings highlighting proximity to local breweries and preference for open-concept layouts, appealing to those who value a mix of urban lifestyle and home comfort. With Grand Rapids scoring higher in walkability and bikeability, it caters more to those seeking an active, urban lifestyle compared to Durham's more laid-back, spacious living arrangements.
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.
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When preparing for a move, it's essential to understand the climate changes you'll face. This comparison highlights the differences in weather between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI , providing a clear perspective on what to expect in your new home.
Durham, NC
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Storms | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The switch from Durham's milder winters to Grand Rapids' more intense cold and significant snowfall is a key point for potential movers. While both cities enjoy four distinct seasons, Grand Rapids experiences notably fewer days of sunshine and much higher annual snowfall, indicating a need for preparedness in winter driving and home maintenance. Moreover, the contrast in natural disaster risks—from hurricanes in Durham to snowstorms and occasional tornadoes in Grand Rapids—underscores the importance of understanding local emergency protocols and insurance considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Grand Rapids
When considering a move between different locations, it's vital to weigh the economic and financial differences you'll encounter. This comparison between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI, focuses on essential money matters. Understanding these can help make your transition smoother and prevent any financial surprises.
| Comparison | Durham | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84 | 1.58 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health, Tech | Manufacturing, Health Care, Education |
| Affluence | Reasonably affluent | Modestly affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Low to moderate |
Moving from Durham to Grand Rapids could be advantageous for those seeking a more affordable cost of living without compromising the quality of life. Although the average household income in Durham is higher, Grand Rapids offers a lower cost of living index and a more favorable state income tax rate. This could mean that despite a seemingly lower income, your dollar stretches further in Grand Rapids. Additionally, the contrasting property and sales tax rates between the two cities are crucial for long-term financial planning, especially for homeowners and frequent shoppers. Both cities prioritize health care and education in their top industries, suggesting stable employment opportunities in these sectors.
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents you will find in Durham, NC & Grand Rapids, MI . Understanding these aspects can provide insights into the community vibes and values that await you in your new city.
| Durham | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Moderately Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Conservative with pockets of progressivism |
| Religion | Varied, with a notable number of non-religious residents | Significant Christian influence, local churches and denominations |
Moving from Durham, NC, to Grand Rapids, MI, you'll notice a shift not just in weather but also in the political and religious landscapes. Durham's political atmosphere is quite progressive, reflecting in its local governance and public policies. In contrast, Grand Rapids has a more conservative stance, though it's sprinkled with progressive communities, reflecting a more diverse political viewpoint. Religion plays a stronger, more visible role in the day-to-day life of Grand Rapids, with a significant Christian presence and numerous active local churches compared to Durham, where you'll find a broader spectrum of beliefs, including a larger community of non-religious residents. This comparison reflects the diverse tapestry of America and highlights the unique character each city offers.
Durham vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving to a new city can be exciting, yet adapting to a different commute can be a bit of a curveball. This section is aimed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Grand Rapids . Whether you're driving or relying on public transport, knowing what to expect will make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Durham | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Fairly feasible |
In Durham, while the average commute time is slightly longer, the difference is marginal. Traffic congestion is generally low, but Durham's public transit scores are lower than Grand Rapids. This suggests that while investing in a GoDurham pass might be beneficial, owning a car could be more necessary for navigating Durham efficiently. In contrast, Grand Rapids, with its slight edge in public transit availability and less dependency on a car, highlights the city's effort in providing more The Rapid transit options and bike-friendly routes for its residents, making getting by without a car fairly feasible. Understanding these nuances in both cities will assist you in planning your daily commute, whether you prefer driving or using public transit.
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