Best Columbus to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Columbus, the heart of Buckeye Nation, to Grand Rapids, known as Beer City USA, is an adventure that's both exhilarating and life-changing. While you're saying goodbye to the bustling streets and college football Saturdays in Columbus, you're stepping into the vibrant arts scene and the rich cultural tapestry of Grand Rapids. Given the long distance and the treasures you're bringing along, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition— that's where our expertise at Great Guys Moving comes into play, offering you peace of mind on this exciting journey.
Best Columbus to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.57 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | 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 |
| Integrity Moving and Storage | 8.99 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Columbus guide.
5 Best Columbus to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior moving experience...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and s...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance 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 Integrity Moving and Storage
With over three decades of expertise and a small-town customer-first approach, Integrity Moving and Storage offers exceptional service in Ce...Read More >>
Services
- Long-Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Piano 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.
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This guide is designed to ease that transition, by comparing Columbus, OH & Grand Rapids, MI neighborhoods . We'll match you with areas that share similar vibes, amenities, and livability, making your move as seamless as possible.
| Columbus | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| German Village | Heritage Hill | Historic charm, walkable streets |
| Short North | Eastown | Trendy shops, vibrant arts scene |
| Clintonville | East Grand Rapids | Family-friendly, parks and cafes |
| Victorian Village | Midtown | Historic homes, tight-knit community |
| Italian Village | Belknap Lookout | Views, young professionals |
| Grandview Heights | Ottawa Hills | Walkable, local businesses |
| Brewery District | Westside | Breweries, industrial charm |
| Franklinton | Roosevelt Park | Arts community, revitalization |
| Olde Towne East | Cherry Hill | Historic homes, eclectic vibe |
| Downtown | Downtown Grand Rapids | Urban living, entertainment |
In the heart of Columbus, the Short North offers a bustling arts and nightlife scene which is closely mirrored by Eastown in Grand Rapids, where the streets are alive with trendy shops and galleries. For those enchanted by the historic architecture and cobbled streets of German Village, Heritage Hill’s stately homes and tree-lined avenues in Grand Rapids offer a similar old-world charm. Meanwhile, families looking for a community vibe similar to Clintonville will find East Grand Rapids appealing with its plethora of parks, like John Collins Park, and family-oriented cafes. Grandview Heights, known for its walkability and local businesses, finds its match in Grand Rapids' Ottawa Hills, an area that boasts charming local spots like That Early Bird Café. Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of community spirit and local attractions, ensuring newcomers can find a new home that feels just right.
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 Columbus to Grand Rapids
Moving is a significant decision that requires weighing both the good and the bad. This guide offers a balanced comparison for those considering relocating from Columbus, OH to Grand Rapids, MI. Through contrasting the pros and cons, our charts provide an honest reflection of what you can expect in both cities.
Columbus, OH- Higher crime rate
- More traffic
- Hotter summers
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower crime rate
- Lesser traffic
- Cooler summers
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller city
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less diverse
Columbus, OH- Larger city
- More job opportunities
- More diverse
Moving from a bustling city like Columbus, OH, to a more laid-back environment in Grand Rapids, MI, has its sets of pros and cons. Columbus residents enjoy a wide variety of dining options, such as the renowned North Market, where you can savor dishes from around the world. On the other hand, Grand Rapids offers a cozy culinary scene with gems like Sanchez Bistro, known for its innovative dishes. You might miss the vibrant Short North Arts District of Columbus, teeming with galleries and boutiques, but Grand Rapids counters with its own cultural hub, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, located in the heart of downtown. Both cities offer unique experiences that cater to different lifestyles and interests, making your transition from Columbus to Grand Rapids a journey worth exploring.
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus, Ohio, and Grand Rapids, Michigan, showcasing food as a vital aspect of local culture and lifestyle. This comparison will help you understand the culinary scene in your new city.
| Columbus | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candies | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Polish Kielbasa |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Poutine |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Columbus, the culinary scene is infused with creativity, particularly noted for Buckeye candies, a symbol of Ohio's rich culinary landscape that can be found in local cafes and markets. The BBQ scene, especially for ribs, thrives in neighborhoods like the Short North, where food festivals often feature this favorite. Reflecting its burgeoning foodie scene, Columbus hosts a variety of Taco Trucks, offering an exciting array of street food options. Grand Rapids counters with its own unique culinary trademarks. Known as "Beer City USA," its Beer Cheese Soup is a testament to the city's robust beer culture, often enjoyed in local breweries like Founders Brewing Co. The city's Polish heritage shines through in its love for Kielbasa, available in eateries throughout the Eastown neighborhood. And for vegans, Grand Rapids offers hearty and flavorful options like Vegan Chili, highlighting the city's thoughtful and inclusive approach to dining.
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city can often start with discovering your go-to spots for a great meal. This restaurant comparison chart aims to bridge the culinary gap between Columbus, OH, and Grand Rapids, MI, guiding you toward finding new favorites that echo the charm of your old haunts. Whether you're seeking a fancy night out, a casual bite, or something uniquely foodie, we've got you covered.
| Columbus | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro | Grove Restaurant | Fine dining with a local farm to table focus |
| Northstar Café | Marie Catrib's | Casual dining with an emphasis on organic ingredients |
| Lincoln Social Rooftop | Haute at New Hotel Mertens | Rooftop dining with a great view of the city |
| Thurman Cafe | Stella's Lounge | Famous for their burgers and large whiskey selection |
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Love's Ice Cream & Chocolate | Artisanal ice cream focusing on organic ingredients |
| Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Brewery Vivant | Craft brewery with a strong farm-to-table ethos |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Forty Acres Soul Kitchen | Authentic American soul food with a modern twist |
| Katzinger's Delicatessen | Two Beards Deli | A deli with a creative sandwich menu and casual vibe |
| Mitchell's Ocean Club | Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | High-end seafood with a polished setting |
| COSI | The Public Museum Cafe | Located in a museum, offers a similar educational experience with lighter fare |
Embracing the local food scene is a delicious way to start feeling at home in Grand Rapids. For example, if you adored the elegant dining experiences at The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro in Columbus, you'll find Grove Restaurant's farm-to-table approach in Grand Rapids equally satisfying, with its focus on local, sustainable ingredients delivered in a fine dining atmosphere. Fans of unique ice cream flavors and quality ingredients at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams won't miss a beat transitioning to Love's Ice Cream & Chocolate, where the commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients shines. And for those who consider themselves brewery aficionados, the transition from Wolf's Ridge Brewing to Brewery Vivant will feel seamless, thanks to Brewery Vivant's dedication to craft beer and sustainable practices, mirroring the experience you've come to love.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal element of relocating, hence understanding how housing in Columbus and Grand Rapids compares is crucial. This comparison will assist you in assessing costs, architectural styles, and the lifestyle each city offers, enabling an informed decision for your big move.
| Comparison | Columbus | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Colonial | Mid-century Modern and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, granite countertops | Hardwood floors, energy efficiency |
When comparing the two cities, Columbus slightly edges out Grand Rapids in terms of median home prices and rent, suggesting a marginally higher cost of living in housing. However, each city presents a unique living experience through its dominant architectural styles; Columbus homes tend to favor modern and colonial architecture, while Grand Rapids showcases a love for mid-century modern and craftsman styles, indicating a preference towards historical and traditional designs. Despite a lower walkability score, Grand Rapids compensates with greater bike-friendly routes. The difference in lifestyle scores between the cities hints at Columbus's more vibrant urban life, though Grand Rapids is not far behind, offering its own unique charms and amenities.
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.
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to can ease the transition. This comparison between Columbus, Ohio, and Grand Rapids, Michigan, will highlight how different or similar the climates are. Knowing the weather patterns will help you prepare for your relocation seamlessly.
Columbus, OH
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Severe storms, tornadoes | Severe storms, tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In detail, both Columbus and Grand Rapids experience hot summers and cold winters, but Grand Rapids tends to have slightly colder temperatures during the winter months. The most significant difference between the two is in annual snowfall, with Grand Rapids seeing over three times as much snow as Columbus. This difference underscores the need for winter weather preparedness if moving from Columbus to Grand Rapids. Also, Grand Rapids gets fewer days of sunshine annually, which could affect your outdoor activities and Vitamin D intake. Being ready for these variations can help you adapt more quickly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Grand Rapids
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape of your new home is crucial. Comparing Columbus, OH to Grand Rapids, MI in terms of finance and economy will give you a solid foundation for planning your relocation. This comparison will help you gauge how your expenses, income, and quality of life may change.
| Comparison | Columbus | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 2.969 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.04 | 1.58 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower than Columbus |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Less prevalent |
Moving from Columbus, OH to Grand Rapids, MI, you'll notice slight variations in the cost of living and taxes which can significantly impact your budget. While the average household income in Grand Rapids is slightly less than in Columbus, the lower cost of living index in Grand Rapids (87.6 compared to Columbus at 90.8) may afford you a comparable, if not more comfortable, lifestyle. Additionally, the state income tax is higher in Michigan, but this is somewhat balanced out by lower sales and property taxes in Grand Rapids. Understanding these financial nuances will be key in adjusting your budget and expectations, making for a smoother transition to your new city.
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. Understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This overview provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Columbus & Grand Rapids, offering a glimpse into the cultural landscape of both cities.
| Columbus | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Moderately Conservative |
| Local Politics | Democrat-led City Council | Republican influence, Mixed City Commission |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant non-religious population | Christianity dominant, Reformed tradition strong |
While both Columbus and Grand Rapids offer vibrant communities, their cultural landscapes bear some differences, particularly in political and religious inclinations. Columbus is known for its liberal outlook and Democrat-led city governance, which influences local policies and social issues. On the other hand, Grand Rapids leans more towards moderate conservatism, with a mixed city commission reflecting a balance of political perspectives. Religion plays a more central role in Grand Rapids, where Christianity, particularly in the Reformed tradition, holds significant influence. This contrasts with Columbus's more diverse religious makeup, where a broader range of beliefs and a sizable non-religious community are present. These differences highlight the unique character and values of each city, offering insights into the community dynamics you will experience.
Columbus vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Columbus, OH to Grand Rapids, MI can be a big change, especially when it comes to understanding the daily commute and traffic. This comparison will shed light on what driving and transiting in Columbus & Grand Rapids is like, helping you adjust to your new city with ease.
| Comparison | Columbus | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | More challenging |
In both Columbus and Grand Rapids, the average commute time is similar, with just a minute difference. However, Columbus experiences slightly more traffic congestion compared to Grand Rapids, likely due to its larger population and broader metropolitan area. While Columbus offers a bit more in terms of public transit options, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car, both cities present challenges in this regard. In Grand Rapids, getting by without a car might be a tad more difficult due to lesser availability of public transit services, suggesting a stronger reliance on personal vehicles for daily commutes.
