Best Rochester to Detroit Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic charm of Rochester, affectionately known as "The Flower City," to the vibrant streets of Detroit, the legendary "Motor City," marks an exciting chapter in your life. While you're trading in Rochester's scenic waterways for Detroit's rich automotive heritage and burgeoning art scene, remember that embarking on such an adventure requires careful planning. Most importantly, ensuring a seamless transition means entrusting your belongings to professional movers who are not just the best but the right fit for you—this is where our expertise at Great Guys Moving comes into play, guiding you every step of the way.
Best Rochester to Detroit Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zippboxx | 9.37 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.96 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Reliable Movers | 8.94 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Professional Movers.com | 8.56 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Rochester guide.
5 Best Rochester to Detroit Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Zippboxx
Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both l...Read More >>
Services
- Local movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Storage
This listing has been claimed by Interior Moving Services, Inc.About Interior Moving Services, Inc.
Located in Rochester, New York, Interior Moving Services has close to three decades of moving expertise, serving both residential and commer...Read More >>
Services
- Local residential moving
- Local commercial moving
- Long-distance residential moving
This listing has been claimed by Reliable MoversAbout Reliable Movers
Reliable Movers is a family-owned and operated business specializing in moves from New York to Florida. Since 1996, this Auburn-based moving...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving, local and long distance
- Commercial factories and offices moving
- Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving
About Professional Movers.com
With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in sta...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Relocation
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the company...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate 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.
Rochester vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted waters. To help you find your bearings, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & Detroit, MI . By examining the cultural and logistical parallels, this guide aims to make your transition as smooth as possible, helping you discover your new favorite spots that share the same vibe as your old haunts.
| Rochester | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Park Avenue | Midtown | Vibrant arts and cultural scene |
| East Avenue | Indian Village | Historic homes and architectural beauty |
| Highland Park | Palmer Woods | Lush landscapes and upscale living |
| South Wedge | Corktown | Hip vibes with an eclectic mix of dining and shopping |
| North Winton Village | West Village | Charming homes and a close-knit community feel |
| Swillburg | Rosedale Park | Family-friendly with a strong sense of community |
| Corn Hill | Boston-Edison | Historic district with striking homes |
| Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) | Woodbridge | Artsy atmosphere with unique cultural spots |
| Browncroft | Bagley | Peaceful suburbia with a blend of modern amenities |
| Ellwanger-Barry | Sherwood Forest | Quiet, tree-lined streets and well-maintained estates |
Your fond memories of early morning jogs in Highland Park can find a new path in Palmer Woods, known for its serene environment and beautifully maintained historic homes nestled among mature trees. If you've enjoyed the bustling atmosphere and eclectic dining options along Park Avenue in Rochester, you'll feel right at home in Detroit's Midtown, a hub of arts, culture, and culinary delights such as Selden Standard for upscale dining and Traffic Jam & Snug for a unique brewery experience. Meanwhile, Corktown will beckon you with its vibrant energy comparable to that of South Wedge, featuring innovative restaurants like Lady of the House that highlight the neighborhood's charm and creativity.
Things to Do in Detroit
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts- Visit the Belle Isle Park
- Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
- Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
- Discover the Henry Ford Museum
- Experience the Motown Museum
- Try local eats at Eastern Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Detroit
Moving from one city to another brings its share of challenges and rewards. This comparison is designed to offer an honest reflection of both the positives and negatives of relocating from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI. By contrasting the cons of living in Rochester with the pros of moving to Detroit, and vice versa, this guide aims to provide a well-rounded perspective to help you make an informed decision.
Rochester, NY- Colder winters
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse economy
- Lower nightlife options
- Scarce public transit
Detroit, MI- Mild winters
- Larger urban area
- More job opportunities
- Vibrant nightlife
- Better public transit
Detroit, MI- Less community feel
- Adjustment to new culture
- Higher crime rates
- Fewer parks
- Higher cost of living
Rochester, NY- Close-knit community
- Rich local culture
- Lower crime rates
- Abundant green spaces
- Lower cost of living
Moving from Rochester to Detroit, you're exchanging the cozy, communal feel of smaller city life for the bustling energy of a larger urban area. Detroit's rejuvenated downtown area, including destinations like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the historic Eastern Market, offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that Rochester's more intimate settings can't quite match. The transition might be jarring for those accustomed to Rochester's dense network of parks and green spaces, such as Highland Park and Genesee Valley Park. However, Detroit counters with its own unique outdoor offerings like the expansive Belle Isle Park. Nightlife and dining options in Detroit also see an upgrade, with areas such as Greektown and Midtown featuring a variety of restaurants and bars to explore, like the famous Slows Bar BQ and PizzaPapalis. While the cost of living and crime rate adjustment can be a concern, the diverse economic opportunities and improved public transit in Detroit offer a promising new chapter for those willing to navigate its complexities.
Rochester vs. Detroit Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Rochester & Detroit highlights the unique culinary scene intrinsic to each city. Food, an essential aspect of local culture, shapes the living experience in any area. This comparison will inform you better about the food scene in your new city.
| Rochester | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Coney Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef on Weck | Barbecue Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Abbott's Frozen Custard | Gyro |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Imam Bayildi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the Coney Dog, a variation of the hot dog topped with chili, onions, and mustard, is a must-try street food, symbolizing the city's love for hearty, comfort foods. You can find this iconic dish at American Coney Island among other places. The city's foodie scene, richer in variety and cultural influences, is reflected in its higher scores for food diversity, including street food and vegan options. Neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown, home to Slows Bar BQ and Selden Standard, offer a glimpse into Detroit's vibrant culinary landscape, catering to a range of palates and preferences. Detroit's emphasis on health-conscious eating options is slightly higher than in Rochester, indicative of the burgeoning fitness and health trend within the city's food scene.
Rochester vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial part in making a place feel like home. Through this restaurant comparison, we aim to help you transition from Rochester, New York, to Detroit, Michigan, by finding your new favorite eateries . Whether you're looking for high-end dining, casual bites, or unique foodie experiences, this guide will provide valuable insights.
| Rochester | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Slows Bar BQ | Known for its high-quality barbecue and casual dining experience. |
| Good Luck Restaurant | Selden Standard | Offers farm-to-table dining with a focus on shared plates. |
| Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters | Renowned for their quality coffee and cozy atmosphere. |
| Roux | Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails | Both serve French-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. |
| Bar Bantam | Grand Trunk Pub | Both offer a unique pub experience with a focus on local ingredients. |
| Swan Market | Polonia Restaurant | Known for their authentic Eastern European dishes and homely ambiance. |
| Simply Crepes | Le Petit Zinc | Specializes in crepes and offers a charming European café vibe. |
| The Owl House | Seva | Both are beloved for their creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan options. |
| Nosh | Ottava Via | They share a passion for crafting Italian-inspired meals in a cozy setting. |
| DiBella's Subs | Erbelli’s Gourmet Pizzeria, Italian Bistro & Pub | Offers hearty sandwiches and Italian dishes. |
While both Rochester and Detroit boast unique culinary landscapes, certain restaurants stand out for offering similar flavors and atmospheres that help make a new city feel like home. For instance, if you've come to love the casual yet authentic barbecue experience at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Rochester, you'll find a kindred spirit in Detroit's Slows Bar BQ. Similarly, fans of the cozy and artisanal Joe Bean Coffee Roasters will appreciate the care and attention to detail found at Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters in Detroit. Both cities also offer exceptional vegan and vegetarian dining options, with The Owl House in Rochester answering the call for innovative plant-based cuisine, much like Seva in Detroit. These comparisons aim not only to ease the transition but to excite the palate with the promise of discovering new favorites in your future home city.
Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts the decision-making process when moving. Comparing Rochester, NY and Detroit, MI is crucial for understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle . This comparison aims to highlight these aspects, guiding you towards making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Rochester | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Art Deco, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Gardens | Renovated kitchens, Historic details |
When shifting from Rochester to Detroit, you'll notice a significant difference in housing costs, with Detroit presenting a more affordable option in terms of both purchasing and renting. Detroit's housing market is distinctive for its abundance of Art Deco and Bungalow-style homes, a nod to its rich architectural history. This contrasts with Rochester's preference for Colonial and Cape Cod designs. Although both cities offer a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles, Detroit's is notably flavored by its historic districts and the recent revitalization of its downtown area. Furthermore, features such as renovated kitchens and historic details are frequently highlighted in Detroit's real estate listings, reflecting the city's blend of tradition and modernity.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
1. Midtown: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Midtown is ideal for you and your pets due to its numerous parks and green spaces, along with pet-friendly cafes and grooming salons.
2. Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly restaurants and the popular Roosevelt Park, perfect for afternoon walks.
3. Woodbridge: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and close-knit community, Woodbridge offers a peaceful environment for pets, including easy access to spacious parks and the Michigan Humane Society for your pet’s needs.
Rochester vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather compares between your current location and your new home is crucial for a comfortable transition. When moving from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI, it's important to familiarize yourself with the differences in climate you will experience. This guide helps you to understand the weather-related adjustments you might need to make.
Rochester, NY
Detroit, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Detroit, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Detroit, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Detroit, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Rochester | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Ice storms | Snowstorms, Occasional Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Rochester and Detroit experience the four seasons fully, you'll find Detroit to be slightly milder in the winter, with fewer snowfall inches annually compared to Rochester's heavy snows. However, Detroit enjoys more sunny days per year, which could be a welcome change for those moving from Rochester. Despite these weather differences, the overall annual humidity and UV index between the two cities are similar, meaning your adjustment in daily and seasonal activities may not be as drastic. Noteworthy is the difference in air quality and the types of seasonal allergies predominant in each city, which might affect individuals sensitive to such environmental factors.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Detroit
When planning a move, comparing costs between your current and future home is crucial. This chart outlines key financial differences between Rochester, NY, and Detroit, MI, focusing on aspects that will impact your budget. It's a helpful tool to gauge how your finances might adjust post-move.
| Comparison | Rochester | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $36,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 99.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.33 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.47 | 3.64 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Automotive, Technology, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | Low |
| Poverty | High | Very high |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While Rochester boasts a higher average household income compared to Detroit, both cities face their unique challenges. Detroit's lower average income is compounded by a very high poverty rate and significant homelessness issues, reflecting deeper economic struggles. Conversely, Rochester's cost of living and state income taxes are slightly higher but offset by its moderate affluence level and robust sectors in education, health services, and manufacturing. These economic factors are integral to understand, as they directly influence daily life and long-term financial planning in your new city.
Rochester vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Rochester, NY, to Detroit, MI, understanding the cultural and social environment is crucial. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Rochester & Detroit and looks into the religious landscape of both cities, providing a quick snapshot of what to expect.
| Rochester | Detroit | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with progressive elements | Progressive with strong union influence |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with diverse religious communities | Christianity predominates, significant Muslim community |
While both Rochester and Detroit are known for their Democratic leanings, Detroit showcases a stronger Democratic inclination, heavily influenced by a vibrant union presence in local politics. This is a testament to the city's rich history in the automotive industry and labor movements. Rochester, while also Democratic, tends to display a mixture of moderate and progressive political views. On the religious front, both cities have a Christian majority, however, Detroit stands out for its substantial Muslim community, reflecting its diverse cultural tapestry. This enriches the city's social fabric, offering a wide range of cultural and religious institutions for new residents to explore.
Rochester vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another is a big step, and understanding how daily commutes contrast can ease this transition. In this guide, we'll delve into the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Detroit, offering insights to help you better plan your day-to-day travel in your new city.
| Comparison | Rochester | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
In both Rochester and Detroit, the average commute times show that both cities have relatively short distances to travel. However, Detroit has a slightly higher traffic congestion score, which could mean more time spent in your vehicle. Rochester offers slightly better public transit options, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car. However, in Detroit, the dependency on personal vehicles is higher, partly due to less comprehensive public transit networks. Planning your travels and understanding the peak traffic times can make a significant difference in your daily commute. Whether you're navigating the bustling streets of Detroit or the quieter lanes of Rochester, being prepared will help you efficiently manage your time and stress levels.
Popular Rochester, NY to Michigan Moving Routes
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