Best Philadelphia to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historical charm of Philly to the vibrant art scene in Grand Rapids marks an adventure that's as thrilling as it is life-changing. You're trading the "City of Brotherly Love" and its iconic cheesesteaks for the "River City" where craft beer flows like water and contemporary art adorns city streets. Given the stretch of miles between these diverse locales, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount—luckily, we at Great Guys Moving pride ourselves on connecting you with the best, ensuring your transition is as seamless as the rivers connecting these two cities.
Best Philadelphia to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.51 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Pineapple Movers | 9.44 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| banning moving | 9.21 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.03 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.99 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Philadelphia guide.
5 Best Philadelphia to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country 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
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.
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, finding a neighborhood you love can be challenging. This guide aims to simplify that by comparing local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Grand Rapids, MI . By identifying similarities between neighborhoods in both cities, we can help you feel more at home in your new surroundings.
| Philadelphia | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | Heritage Hill | Historic charm, green spaces |
| Fishtown | Eastown | Vibrant arts scene, unique eateries |
| Manayunk | East Hills | Hip, with trendy shops and cafes |
| Old City | Heartside District | Rich history, cultural hotspots |
| University City | Midtown | Educational institutions, lively community |
| Center City | Downtown GR | Urban center, entertainment options |
| Northern Liberties | Belknap Lookout | Growing, with luxury developments |
| Chestnut Hill | East Grand Rapids | Affluent, suburban feel |
| South Philadelphia | Roosevelt Park | Diverse community, family-friendly |
| West Philadelphia | Baxter | Diverse, community-oriented |
In comparing neighborhoods like Rittenhouse Square and Heritage Hill, you'll find both offer a blend of historic charm with modern amenities amidst lush greenery. Heritage Hill, like Rittenhouse Square, is adorned with historic homes and is near parks such as Wilcox Park, offering a similar feel to Philadelphia's leafy streets. For those drawn to the innovative and artsy vibe of Fishtown, Eastown in Grand Rapids will feel like home with its collection of unique eateries such as That Early Bird Cafe and vibrant arts scene, highlighted by events at Wealthy Theatre. The similarity between the old-world charm of Old City and the cultural richness of Heartside District is evident in their array of galleries, museums, and historic sites, offering a seamless transition for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
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
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Grand Rapids
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of what you might gain and lose by relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI. By comparing the pros and cons directly, you'll have a better foundation for making an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher crime rates
- Costly living
- Dense traffic
- Urban hustle
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower crime rates
- More affordable
- Less congestion
- Calmer pace
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller historical scope
- Less diversity
- Fewer major teams
- Lesser variety
Philadelphia, PA- Richer history
- More diversity
- Better sports scene
- Broader cuisine
While Philadelphia boasts a rich tapestry of history evident in landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Grand Rapids offers a quieter, yet no less rich, cultural experience with places such as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. The move from Philly's dense and bustling atmosphere to Grand Rapids' calmer, more relaxed pace might be jarring, but it also offers a more affordable living situation, with the cost of housing notably lower, allowing more room in your budget to explore Grand Rapids' burgeoning art scene, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum and local craft breweries like Founders Brewing Co. Despite a smaller sports scene, Grand Rapids has spirited local teams and offers outdoor recreational opportunities, like those around Lake Michigan, which are less accessible in Philadelphia's urban environment. Making a move to Grand Rapids can offer a refreshing change with its unique blend of small-town charm and growing urban developments.
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
Food is a significant part of local culture and life quality in a new area. To help you become better acquainted with what awaits your palate, we'll compare the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Grand Rapids . This overview will enable you to have a clearer idea of the food scene you're moving into.
| Philadelphia | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheesesteak | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Smoked Meats |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Mushroom Cheesesteak | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Philadelphia, the iconic cheesesteak is more than just a meal; it's a local obsession that can be found in numerous venues around the city, with Pat's King of Steaks in Passyunk Square and Zahav in Society Hill being outstanding examples. Grand Rapids, on the other hand, has carved a niche in the culinary world with its craft beer scene, where places like Founders Brewing Co. combine unique brews with hearty dishes like Beer Cheese Soup. This distinction between the cities' food scenes highlights the diverse flavors and dining experiences awaiting you, from the historic streets of Philadelphia to the innovative craft beer pubs in Grand Rapids.
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to connect your love for the familiar flavors of Philadelphia with the exciting culinary scene in Grand Rapids. By comparing top restaurants from Philadelphia to their Grand Rapids counterparts , we aim to make your transition smoother and tastier, ensuring you find your new favorite spots in no time.
| Philadelphia | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Grove | Fine dining with a commitment to exquisite plates and flavors |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Two Beards Deli | Offers a wide variety of hearty sandwiches reminiscent of Philly's best |
| Federal Donuts | Sandy's Donuts | Known for a creative selection and quality, akin to Federal's unique offerings |
| Reading Terminal Market | Downtown Market | An indoor market offering a plethora of eateries and fresh food options |
| Vernick Food & Drink | Reserve Wine & Food | Similar upscale experience focusing on meticulously crafted meals |
| La Colombe | Madcap Coffee | Both cafes are renowned for their dedication to the craft of coffee making |
| Di Bruno Bros. | Aperitivo | Offers a range of gourmet cheeses and meats, echoing Di Bruno's Italian market vibe |
| Pizzeria Beddia | Harmony Brewing Company | Notable for its exceptional pizzas and casual, friendly atmosphere |
| Suraya | Zoko 822 | A similar celebration of unique and vibrant flavors, focusing on Basque cuisine |
| El Vez | Donkey Taqueria | Offers innovative and traditional Mexican fare with a lively atmosphere |
The gastronomic landscape of Grand Rapids, while diverse and vibrant, harbors cozy corners for those craving the Philadelphia taste and experience. Grove brings a piece of Zahav's Middle Eastern flair to the Midwest with its farm-to-table approach and innovative cuisine. Similarly, Sandy's Donuts fills the doughnut-shaped hole in your heart left by Federal Donuts with its inventive flavors and classic favorites. For a more casual setting that evokes the essence of Pizzeria Beddia, Harmony Brewing Company's artisanal pizzas and local craft beers create a warm, inviting atmosphere. These establishments not only serve as testament to Grand Rapids' culinary versatility but also ensure that no matter where you are, the flavors of home are never too far away.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for making informed decisions. This comparison is designed to illuminate the differences in housing between Philadelphia, PA, and Grand Rapids, MI, covering aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and more, to assist in your move.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Georgian, Federal | Mid-century Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic details, proximity to public transit | Family-friendly neighborhoods, green spaces |
In an in-depth look into the housing aspects of both cities, Philadelphia exhibits a higher median home price and monthly rent compared to Grand Rapids, reflecting the larger urban lifestyle and amenities that come with living in one of America's oldest cities. The architecture in Philadelphia leans towards the historic Georgian and Federal styles, resonating with its rich history, whereas Grand Rapids showcases a diverse range of Mid-century Modern and Craftsman homes, appealing to those with a taste for unique American architectural designs. The walkability and bikeability scores also favor Philadelphia, indicating a more compact urban environment suitable for those who prefer to navigate the city on foot or by bike. Interestingly, real estate listings in Philadelphia often highlight historic details and proximity to public transit, showcasing the city's heritage and connectivity. In contrast, Grand Rapids' listings tend to emphasize family-friendly neighborhoods and the abundance of green spaces, catering to those seeking a balance between urban living and access to nature.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide highlights the weather differences between Philadelphia, PA and Grand Rapids, MI to help you get accustomed to your new home’s climate. Whether it's preparing for colder winters or understanding local allergy triggers, this comparison will aid in setting realistic expectations.
Philadelphia, PA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Storms, Floods | Snowstorms, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Philadelphia and Grand Rapids experience all four seasons, there are notable differences to consider. One significant contrast is the winter weather, with Grand Rapids seeing considerably more snowfall annually than Philadelphia. This means you should be prepared for heavier snowfall and potentially investing in snow removal equipment or services. Additionally, Grand Rapids enjoys fewer days of sunshine compared to Philadelphia, which might affect your outdoor activities, especially during the shorter days of winter. Both cities have their unique challenges concerning air quality and allergies, with Philadelphia experiencing good overall air quality and seasonal pollen allergies, while Grand Rapids faces moderate air quality and a diverse range of allergens, including mold in the fall.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Grand Rapids
When planning a move, it's crucial to compare how the cost of living, taxes, and economic landscapes differ between your current and future home. This guide aims to equip you with financial insights moving from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI , ensuring you're well-prepared for the transition.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 1.54 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Manufacturing, Health Services, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | High | Lower than Philadelphia |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Lower than Philadelphia |
When moving from Philadelphia to Grand Rapids, you'll likely find a more favorable cost of living, with Grand Rapids scoring lower on the index and boasting a lower average sales tax. Although the average household income is higher in Philadelphia, the lower cost of living in Grand Rapids could offset this difference. It's important to note the variations in state income and property taxes, with Grand Rapids having a slightly higher state income tax but a lower sales tax rate. Both cities offer robust healthcare and manufacturing industries, promising diverse job opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances will help you make a smoother transition and manage your budget effectively.
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing for a move from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI, understanding the comparison of the politics between Philadelphia & Grand Rapids and the religious makeup of each city provides a crucial snapshot of the new community you'll be joining. This comparison aims to give you a quick insight into what to expect in these sectors.
| Philadelphia | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Moderately Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Mix of Conservative and Moderate Policies |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Protestant-majority, with a notable Christian Reformed community |
In Philadelphia, the political atmosphere leans heavily Democratic, reflecting in progressive local policies and governance. This contrasts with Grand Rapids, where local politics show a blend of conservative and moderate views. This difference can affect local regulations, public services, and community initiatives you may experience. On the religious front, Philadelphia's diversity includes a strong Catholic community, contrasting with Grand Rapids, where Protestant faith, especially the Christian Reformed Church, plays a significant role in the community's culture and activities. Knowing these distinctions helps you to anticipate the cultural shift and engage more readily with your new neighbors.
Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options between these two cities.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but limited | No, car is essential |
In Philadelphia, the robust public transit system, including buses, subways, and trolleys, facilitates getting around without a car, though it might be inconvenient depending on your specific location and destination. In contrast, Grand Rapids’ less expansive public transit system makes owning a car almost essential for daily commutes and errands. Ultimately, while you might find yourself enjoying shorter average commute times in Grand Rapids, the trade-off includes a higher dependence on personal vehicles due to the limited public transportation options.
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