Best Seattle to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Emerald City to the River City is more than a relocation; it's an exciting journey into a new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind Seattle's iconic coffee culture and tech hubs for Grand Rapids' artful vibe and thriving brewery scene. To ensure this long-distance move is smooth and stress-free, it's vital to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, who use an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best moving services available.
Best Seattle to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| People Movers | 9.16 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.02 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Seattle guide.
5 Best Seattle to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...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.
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings is crucial. This guide helps you bridge that knowledge gap by comparing local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Grand Rapids, MI , so you can find a slice of the familiar in a new city. We'll explore popular neighborhoods in Seattle and match them with the closest equivalent in Grand Rapids, aiming to make your transition as smooth as possible.
| Seattle | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Eastown | Diverse, artsy vibe |
| Ballard | Heritage Hill | Historic homes, community feel |
| Queen Anne | East Grand Rapids | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Fremont | Midtown | Eclectic, vibrant arts scene |
| Greenwood | Creston | Residential, burgeoning arts scene |
| West Seattle | Ottawa Hills | Quiet, close-knit community |
| South Lake Union | Belknap Lookout | Tech hub, modern living |
| Pioneer Square | Heartside District | Historic, vibrant nightlife |
| Wallingford | Fulton Heights | Family-friendly, walkable |
| Beacon Hill | Garfield Park | Diverse, community-oriented |
If you're attracted to the lively and diverse culture of Capitol Hill in Seattle, you'll find a similar spirit in Grand Rapids' Eastown. Known for its artsy vibe, Eastown boasts an array of local restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, much like those found on Capitol Hill. Heritage Hill, resembling Seattle's Ballard, is cherished for its stunning historic homes and tight-knit community, offering a tranquil, yet culturally rich lifestyle. For those drawn to Queen Anne's upscale atmosphere, East Grand Rapids presents an equally affluent locale with plenty of parks and a strong sense of community. Each of these Grand Rapids neighborhoods mirrors their Seattle counterparts not just in ambiance, but also in the variety of local amenities, from public parks like East Grand Rapids' Wealthy Theatre to Midtown's thriving arts scene, reminiscent of Seattle's Fremont. Whether you're shopping local markets, dining at unique eateries, or enjoying scenic views, these Grand Rapids neighborhoods provide a familiar, yet new experience for Seattle transplants.
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 Seattle to Grand Rapids
Making a move from Seattle, WA, to Grand Rapids, MI, involves weighing various factors. This comparison aims to provide a balanced view of the pros and cons of this relocation, focusing on the key differences between Seattle and Grand Rapids to assist in your decision-making process.
Seattle, WA- High living cost
- Frequent rain
- Heavy traffic
- Less sun
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower cost of living
- Distinct seasons
- Less congestion
- More sunny days
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller job market
- Fewer cultural venues
- Fewer natural landscapes
- More traditional cuisine
Seattle, WA- Vibrant tech scene
- Rich cultural diversity
- Abundant nature
- Global cuisine
Moving from the bustling city of Seattle, known for its vibrant tech scene, rich cultural diversity, and bountiful nature, to Grand Rapids entails navigating a change in lifestyle. Grand Rapids offers a quintessential Midwestern experience, characterized by a welcoming community, burgeoning art scene, and an invitation to enjoy distinct seasons - from the blooming flowers at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in the spring to crisp autumn walks in Riverside Park. While you might miss Seattle's wide array of global cuisines, Grand Rapids counters with burgeoning local eateries like San Chez Bistro, offering a cozy dive into local and traditional cuisine. Moreover, the reduced congestion and lower cost of living in Grand Rapids present a refreshing change from Seattle's often rain-soaked streets and high living costs.
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
Whether you're a food lover or simply enjoy exploring local cuisines, understanding what culinary delights await you in a new city is crucial. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Grand Rapids to give you a taste of what each city offers. Let's dive into the flavors and dining scenes that define these vibrant communities.
| Seattle | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Pho | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Poutine |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pho | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the rich flavors of fresh, local salmon and the vibrant international influence are evident, especially with the city's love for Pho and Tacos. Luxurious dining at Canlis offers unforgettable views and meals, while Pike Place Chowder introduces you to Seattle's best seafood chowder. Grand Rapids, on the other hand, has a burgeoning food scene that's highlighted by its craft beer industry. Here, dishes like Beer Cheese Soup and the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich dominate local menus, alongside inventive offerings from places like San Chez Bistro. Whether craving the comfort of a Tempeh Reuben in Grand Rapids or diving into the vast array of vegan options in Seattle, both cities unveil unique culinary landscapes waiting to be explored.
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a whirlwind, but discovering new favorite dining spots can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to guide Seattle, WA residents in finding their culinary matches in Grand Rapids, MI, ensuring a seamless transition to your new locale.
| Seattle | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Reserve Wine & Food | Elevated dining experience with a focus on fine wines |
| The Pink Door | Grove | Creative farm-to-table dishes in an intimate setting |
| Ray's Boathouse | Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Fresh seafood with a waterfront vibe |
| Dick's Drive-In | Stella's Lounge | Classic burgers and vegan options in a lively atmosphere |
| Pike Place Chowder | Fish Lads | Quality chowder and seafood options in a market setting |
| Walrus and the Carpenter | Grove | Innovative dishes and a distinctive oyster selection |
| Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures | Rockwell Republic | Fresh, local ingredients with a creative twist |
| Terra Plata | San Chez Bistro | A farm-to-table ethos with a Mediterranean flair |
| Salumi | Char | Artisan cured meats and Italian specialties |
| Skillet Diner | Anna's House | Unique, homey breakfast and brunch options |
For seafood enthusiasts moving from Seattle to Grand Rapids, the transition is smooth with Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar offering a tantalizing experience reminiscent of Ray's Boathouse. Both locales promise fresh catches accompanied by scenic views, making for memorable dining experiences. Meanwhile, fans of the iconic Dick's Drive-In will find solace in Stella's Lounge, where the vibe is equally as relaxed and the burgers just as satisfying, but with a twist of unique vegan options for the modern palate. Lastly, those missing Terra Plata’s terrace dining will delight in San Chez Bistro’s open-air feel, coupled with a menu that merges farm-to-table freshness with the warmth of Mediterranean cuisine, ensuring that your dining adventure in Grand Rapids mirrors the eclectic and rich flavors of Seattle.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how Seattle, WA and Grand Rapids, MI compare in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and more. This comparison will help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Seattle | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Craftsman | Mid-century, Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Eco-friendly | Family-friendly, Spacious yards |
When considering the move from Seattle, WA to Grand Rapids, MI, the stark contrast in housing costs stands out the most. Seattle's median home price is significantly higher than Grand Rapids, reflecting the city's booming tech industry and high demand for housing. However, Grand Rapids offers a more affordable entry into homeownership, along with spacious yards often mentioned in real estate listings—an appealing feature for families. Additionally, Seattle's higher walkability and bikeability scores correlate with its vibrant urban environment, full of eclectic dining and retail options. Grand Rapids, while more modest in urban lifestyle scoring, presents a growing culinary and arts scene, highlighted by events like the annual ArtPrize competition.
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.
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Grand Rapids, MI, it's vital to understand how the weather differences will impact your daily life. This comparison aims to highlight the Seattle vs. Grand Rapids weather variances , providing you with a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.
Seattle, WA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Thunderstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The transition from Seattle to Grand Rapids involves adjusting to colder winters with significantly more snowfall—something to keep in mind for your winter travel and daily commute. While both cities have comparable summertime temperatures and humidity levels, Grands Rapids' winter is notably more severe, emphasizing the need for appropriate cold-weather gear and possibly affecting your lifestyle and outdoor activities. Despite similar amounts of sunshine days per year, the type and frequency of natural disasters vary, reflecting the unique geological and meteorological conditions of each location.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Grand Rapids
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape you're moving into is crucial. This comparison aims to enlighten you about how your cost of living, taxes, and income could change. This chart specifically compares the financial aspects of living in Seattle, WA to Grand Rapids, MI , providing a nuanced look at what to expect.
| Comparison | Seattle | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 1.54 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
While the average household income in Seattle is significantly higher than in Grand Rapids, the cost of living in Seattle is almost double that of Grand Rapids, which could balance out the difference in income to some extent. The absence of state income tax in Washington might seem appealing, but Seattle's higher sales and property taxes could offset this advantage. In terms of industry, Seattle is more focused on technology and aerospace, which may contribute to its higher average income, whereas Grand Rapids has a strong manufacturing base and is noted for its health services and education sectors. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate changes in your financial landscape and plan accordingly.
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can often feel like stepping into a whole new world, especially when the cities in question have distinct political and religious climates. Through this comparison of the political and religious makeup of Seattle, WA & Grand Rapids, MI , we aim to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect in terms of these aspects in your new home.
| Seattle | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderately Conservative/Republican leaning |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, environmental focus | Conservative fiscal policies, strong local governance |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Higher religious engagement, Christian majority |
In transitioning from Seattle to Grand Rapids, you'll likely notice significant differences in the political and religious atmospheres. Seattle is known for its liberal stance, fostering progressive policies and placing a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. On the other hand, Grand Rapids brings a more moderate conservative perspective, with local politics often focusing on conservative fiscal policies and a strong sense of local governance. Furthermore, religion plays a more prominent role in the everyday life of Grand Rapids compared to Seattle, with a larger portion of the population identifying as religious, predominantly within the Christian faith. Adjusting to these changes will be an important part of making Grand Rapids your new home.
Seattle vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA to Grand Rapids, MI? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Grand Rapids will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic situations might look like in each city.
| Comparison | Seattle | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27.8 | 21.9 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | Challenging |
In Seattle, although the average commute time is longer and traffic congestion is higher, the city boasts better availability of public transit. This makes it more feasible to get around without a car, especially if you live and work within or near the city center. Conversely, Grand Rapids presents a picture with lesser traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time. However, with lower availability of public transportation, relying solely on public transit can be more challenging. This means that having access to a car might be more vital in Grand Rapids than in Seattle for your daily commute needs.
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