Best Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the coastal charm of Virginia Beach, VA to the vibrant streets of Grand Rapids, MI is an adventure that promises new experiences and opportunities. Leaving behind Virginia Beach’s oceanfront serenity for Grand Rapids’ artful heart, known as “Furniture City,” can feel like starting a fresh chapter in a completely different book. It’s vital to ensure this transition is seamless by entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we meticulously rank the best in the country to help you make the right choice.
Best Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marathon Moving Services | 9.27 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Prime Movers USA | 9.08 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.03 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.99 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| A Friendly & Affordable Mover | 8.23 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Virginia Beach guide.
5 Best Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Marathon Moving ServicesAbout Marathon Moving Services
Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing & Delivery
About Prime Movers USA
Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves (within 50 miles)
- Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
- Packing/unpacking services
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
This listing has been claimed by A Friendly & Affordable MoverAbout A Friendly & Affordable Mover
A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one of the most ex...Read More >>
Services
- Local and long-distance professional moving services
- Free in-home estimates
- Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS
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.
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be a daunting experience, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we have created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Virginia Beach, VA & Grand Rapids, MI . This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Grand Rapids that shares the charm and characteristics of your favorite Virginia Beach locality.
| Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Oceanfront | Belknap Lookout | Stunning views and lively beachfront vibe |
| Sandbridge | East Grand Rapids | Peaceful, waterfront living with a tight-knit community feel |
| Great Neck | Eastown | Thriving local businesses and vibrant community events |
| Chesapeake Beach | Riverside Park | Outdoor activities and proximity to water |
| Town Center | Heartside | Bustling art scene and urban living |
| Pungo | Ada | Rural ambiance with a strong sense of community |
| Alanton | Heritage Hill | Historic homes and tree-lined streets |
| Bayside | Midtown | Diverse community with local shopping and dining |
| Kings Grant | Forest Hills | Family-friendly with excellent schools |
| Lynnhaven | Gaslight Village | Upscale shopping and fine dining in a picturesque setting |
For those drawn to the Oceanfront’s bustling beachside community in Virginia Beach, Belknap Lookout in Grand Rapids offers a similarly vibrant atmosphere with its stunning city views and access to nature. Moving from Sandbridge's serene beachfront to East Grand Rapids? You’ll find peaceful waterfront living alongside a tight-knit community. If the creative and active lifestyle of Great Neck is what you're leaving behind, Eastown's thriving local shops and vibrant community events promise a seamless transition. Further encapsulating this transition, imagine going from the historic charm of Alanton to Heritage Hill, where each street tells a story, and community heritage is deeply valued. In essence, your move from Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids doesn’t have to mean leaving the lifestyle you love behind; it’s about rediscovering it in a new setting.
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 Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids
Moving from one city to another brings its unique set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Virginia Beach, VA to Grand Rapids, MI. By examining the pros and cons, you can better prepare for the transition and know what to expect from your new home.
Virginia Beach, VA- Higher humidity
- Frequent hurricanes
- Longer commute times
- Costlier housing
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower humidity
- Fewer natural disasters
- Shorter commute times
- More affordable housing
Grand Rapids, MI- No beaches
- Harsher winters
- Smaller city feel
- Less cultural diversity
Virginia Beach, VA- Beach access
- Milder winters
- Larger city amenities
- More cultural diversity
Moving from the coastal charm of Virginia Beach to the vibrant, urban landscape of Grand Rapids offers a diverse range of experiences. In Virginia Beach, you might love basking in the sun at Sandbridge Beach or exploring the bustling Boardwalk. However, Grand Rapids counters with its own appeal, featuring the scenic Grand River and the Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, ideal for nature lovers. Foodies transitioning from the seafood splendors of Virginia Beach will find solace in Grand Rapids’ culinary scene, with local gems like San Chez Bistro offering a taste of something different. Both cities boast unique attractions, yet it’s the day-to-day living — from the weather to the cultural vibes — that will spell out the biggest changes for newcomers.
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is a pivotal aspect of immersing oneself into a new city, as food plays a significant role in cultural identity and the everyday joy of living somewhere. In a bid to assist you, we've put together a comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia Beach & Grand Rapids, so you're more acquainted with the culinary scene in your future home.
| Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Seafood Boil | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Virginia Ham | Polish Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Oysters | Taco Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Veggie Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
If you're moving to Grand Rapids, you'll transition from the oceanic freshness of Virginia Beach's seafood to the hearty and comforting Midwestern flavors. Grand Rapids stands out particularly for its craft beer scene, influencing many local dishes like the beloved Beer Cheese Soup. Founders Brewing Co., a name synonymous with the local food and drink culture, offers a distinctive menu that pairs excellently with their vast beer selection. Not to be overlooked are the city’s vibrant vegan options and food trucks, offering a surprising variety of choices. Veggie tacos from a local food truck parked in neighborhoods like Eastown can deliver a delightful culinary experience.
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can truly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Virginia Beach and Grand Rapids is designed to ease your transition by matching your go-to Virginia Beach spots with similar options in your new Grand Rapids neighborhood. Let's dive into the culinary scene!
| Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant | Fish Lads | Casual spot offering fresh seafood selections mirroring coastal vibes. |
| Blue Seafood & Spirits | Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Elegant dining with a focus on quality seafood dishes. |
| Tautog's Restaurant | Grove | Farm-to-table dining with an intimate, cozy feel reminiscent of Tautog's. |
| Duck Donuts | Sandy's Donuts | Handcrafted donuts with a local flair, offering a similar personal touch. |
| Leaping Lizard Café | Real Food Café | Quirky, homely café specializing in homemade meals and a warm atmosphere. |
| Waterman's Surfside Grille | Bostwick Lake Inn | A lakeside eatery providing scenic views and a varied menu echoing Waterman's seaside charm. |
| Pelóns Baja Grill | Donkey Taqueria | Unique, authentic Mexican cuisine offering a similar beachy vibe. |
| Becca Restaurant & Garden | Marie Catrib’s | Fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into creative dishes in a garden-like setting. |
| The Atlantic | New Hotel Mertens | French brasserie with a historic ambiance paralleling The Atlantic's upscale experience. |
| Citrus Breakfast and Lunch | Anna’s House | Bright, cheerful spot focusing on innovative, healthy breakfast and brunch options. |
For those passionate about seafood, making the transition from Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant or Blue Seafood & Spirits in Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids' Fish Lads or Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar will be seamless, with both cities offering top-quality seafood that’s both fresh and flavorful. Fans of unique, cozy dining experiences like those found at Tautog's Restaurant will find Grove in Grand Rapids to be equally enchanting with its focus on farm-to-table freshness. Meanwhile, donut lovers mourning the absence of Duck Donuts will find solace in Sandy's Donuts, where the handcrafted doughnuts capture the essence of local flavors. This restaurant guide ensures that your move from Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids doesn’t have to mean leaving behind the flavors you love—it's about discovering new ones that feel just as right.
Ready to start your move?
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate dramatically influences the experience of relocating. Understanding how Virginia Beach and Grand Rapids measure up in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can empower your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Mid-Century Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Beach Access, Spacious Yards | Historic Neighborhoods, Art & Culture Proximity |
When comparing Virginia Beach with Grand Rapids, you'll notice significant differences that might influence your decision. The more affordable median home price and lower monthly rent in Grand Rapids make it an enticing option for many. Also, the city presents a higher walkability and bikeability score which implies that it's easier to get around without a car, enhancing the urban experience. The emphasis on historic neighborhoods and proximity to the arts in Grand Rapids contrasts with Virginia Beach's focus on beach access and spacious yards, highlighting the lifestyle variances between the two cities. These points suggest that your preference for a more urban or relaxed beach lifestyle could be a deciding factor.
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.
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When relocating, understanding how the weather in Virginia Beach compares to Grand Rapids is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate changes and prepare for a new climate.
Virginia Beach, VA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Virginia Beach, VA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Virginia Beach, VA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Virginia Beach, VA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, floods | Blizzards, floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In moving from Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids, you'll experience less sunshine but more snowfall, crucial for those who love or loathe winter sports. The summer temperatures are milder in Grand Rapids, offering a break from Virginia Beach's high humidity and heat. Despite similar pollen levels, Winter offers stark contrasts; expect significant snowfall and colder temperatures. Understanding these changes will help you prepare for your new home's outdoor activities, wardrobe, and health considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids
When considering a move from Virginia Beach, VA, to Grand Rapids, MI, it's crucial to compare the financial aspects. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income between Virginia Beach and Grand Rapids will affect your wallet is key to a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $81,634 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80 | 1.54 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Defense, Tourism, Information Technology | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately low |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderately low |
When comparing Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids, it's clear there are notable differences in financial environments. While the average household income in Virginia Beach is higher, the cost of living also exceeds that of Grand Rapids. This discrepancy suggests your dollar might stretch further in Grand Rapids, despite the potentially lower income. Moreover, the difference in state income tax rates can also contribute to a different take-home pay, favoring Grand Rapids slightly. However, this advantage might be offset by higher property taxes. Understanding these variances can help in financial planning and setting realistic expectations for your new life in Grand Rapids.
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from Virginia Beach, VA, to Grand Rapids, MI, understanding the communities you'll be joining is essential. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Virginia Beach & Grand Rapids, helping you align your expectations with reality.
| Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely conservative | Moderately liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican dominance in local elections | Democratic leaning in local governance |
| Religion | Protestant Christianity prevalent | Diverse, with a notable Protestant and Catholic community |
Political and religious views can deeply influence the cultural fabric of a city. Virginia Beach's conservative lean, mostly visible through its voting patterns in recent elections, contrasts with Grand Rapids' more liberal stance, often reflected in its more progressive local policies and governance. On the religious front, while both cities host a significant Christian population, Grand Rapids presents a more diverse religious landscape, indicating a potentially different social climate. Understanding these dynamics might help you better integrate into your new community.
Virginia Beach vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in driving and transit options between Virginia Beach & Grand Rapids is crucial for anyone planning to move. This comparison will help you better grasp what to expect in your daily commute and navigate traffic in your new city.
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Moderately possible |
When comparing Virginia Beach to Grand Rapids, you'll find several notable differences in their commuting dynamics. Virginia Beach has a slightly longer average commute time and higher traffic congestion levels. This might be due to its status as a popular tourist destination, especially during summer months. In contrast, Grand Rapids offers a slightly more efficient public transit system, making it easier to get around without a car. While living in Virginia Beach without a car can be challenging, Grand Rapids provides a bit more flexibility, thanks to its investment in transit options.
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