Best Milwaukee to Grand Rapids Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Milwaukee, the City of Festivals, to Grand Rapids, nicknamed Beer City USA, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. While you bid farewell to Milwaukee's vibrant summer festivals and hearty dishes, you're set to embrace the rich art scene and booming craft beer culture of Grand Rapids. Given the distance and logistics involved, it’s crucial to trust your move to professional movers who have been rigorously evaluated. At Great Guys Moving, we take pride in connecting you with the highest-rated movers, ensuring your transition is smooth and worry-free.
Best Milwaukee to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.31 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.08 | 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 |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Milwaukee guide.
5 Best Milwaukee to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About About Time Moving Systems LLC
This locally owned and operated moving company serves the Milwaukee, WI, area with high-quality residential and commercial relocation servic...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
About The Go To Guys, LLC
The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the United States, the firm is well-e...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local 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
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.
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning a move from Milwaukee, WI, to Grand Rapids, MI, understanding the local neighborhoods is crucial for feeling at home. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & Grand Rapids, MI, helping you find a new neighborhood similar to what you love about your current one.
| Milwaukee | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Third Ward | Heritage Hill | Historic architecture, vibrant arts scene |
| Bay View | Eastown | Eclectic shops, diverse dining options |
| Walker's Point | Heartside | Booming nightlife, innovative restaurants |
| East Side | Midtown | Diverse, youthful energy, near colleges |
| Wauwatosa | East Grand Rapids | Family-friendly, upscale living |
| Historic Third Ward | Heartside District | Artsy, with a rich history |
| Riverwest | Creston | Community-oriented, arts and music scene |
| Shorewood | Gaslight Village | Quaint, with a strong sense of community |
| Brady Street | Cherry Hill | Vibrant nightlife, unique boutiques |
| Brewers Hill | Belknap Lookout | Panoramic views, close-knit community |
In the move from Milwaukee's Third Ward, known for its historic market buildings and flourishing arts scene, you'll find a similar spirit in Grand Rapids' Heritage Hill. Here, streets lined with well-preserved 19th-century homes blend into a landscape dotted with modern art galleries and theaters. From the heart of Eastown's bustling commerce and diverse eateries reminiscent of Bay View’s creative vibe, to the educational and youthful energy found in Midtown, mirroring Milwaukee’s East Side near the University, Grand Rapids offers neighborhoods with distinctive characters yet familiar comforts. Whether it's the family-friendly atmosphere of East Grand Rapids that echoes Wauwatosa's charm or the trendy nightlife and shopping in Cherry Hill capturing Brady Street's essence, transitioning will feel less daunting. Not to mention, outdoor enthusiasts moving from Riverwest will appreciate Creston's robust community activities, parks like Briggs Park, and annual events that foster a strong sense of belonging.
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 Milwaukee to Grand Rapids
Moving homes is a significant decision, often fueled by the desire for a better lifestyle, career opportunities, or simply a change of scenery. This guide presents a balanced view, offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes associated with relocating from Milwaukee, WI to Grand Rapids, MI . Through comparative charts, this analysis aims to elucidate the challenges and advantages, enabling you to make an informed decision.
Milwaukee, WI- Harsher winters
- Higher crime rate
- Lesser job opportunities
- Fewer cultural events
Grand Rapids, MI- Milder winters
- Lower crime rate
- More job opportunities
- Rich culture scene
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller city feel
- Less diverse cuisine
- Public transit limitations
- Fewer neighborhoods
Milwaukee, WI- Larger city amenities
- More diverse cuisine
- Better public transit
- Diverse neighborhoods
While Milwaukee boasts a larger city's amenities, including a more diverse cuisine scene and better public transit options, Grand Rapids offers its own array of unique advantages. For instance, Grand Rapids' vibrant culture scene is showcased through events at DeVos Performance Hall and exhibits at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Grand Rapids has milder winters compared to Milwaukee, making outdoor activities more enjoyable year-round. Neighborhood parks like the Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park provide serene escapes, while restaurants like Sanchez Bistro offer a taste of the city's rich culinary diversity. This move might mean trading off Milwaukee's diverse neighborhoods and extensive public transit for Grand Rapids' charming smaller city feel, but it also opens up a world of new job opportunities and cultural experiences.
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
Food greatly enriches local culture, influencing what life feels like in a particular area. To help you better understand the culinary scene you’re moving into, we have undertaken a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Grand Rapids . This will equip you with essential insights into the food personality of your new city.
| Milwaukee | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Beer Cheese Soup | Michigan Cherry Salad |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Black Bean Burger | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
If you love exploring new culinary adventures, then moving to Grand Rapids will be a delight. With its higher foodie scene and vegan-friendly options score, Grand Rapids demonstrates an eclectic mix of traditional and innovative eateries. Notable neighborhoods like Eastown boast vibrant venues like The Green Well and San Chez Bistro, where you can savor dishes that are as diverse as the community itself. Founders Brewing Co. offers not just pioneering craft beers but also an inviting menu that’s reflective of local flavors and ingredients, anchoring Grand Rapids’ status as a food lover's haven. Whether it’s the pioneering craft beers or the sumptuous Michigan Cherry Salad, your move to Grand Rapids is bound to be an exciting culinary journey.
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a major life change, and finding comfort in the local food scene is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison charts aim to ease the transition by highlighting the culinary bridges between Milwaukee and Grand Rapids , ensuring you'll find your next favorite spot with ease.
| Milwaukee | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Sanford | Grove | Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients |
| Bavette La Boucherie | Butcher's Union | Quality meats in a casual setting |
| Ardent | Reserve Wine & Food | High-end dining with a notable wine list |
| Honeypie | Marie Catrib's | Homestyle comfort food with a twist |
| Odd Duck | Electric Cheetah | Inventive dishes in a quirky atmosphere |
| Conejito's Place | Donkey Taqueria | Authentic Mexican fare in a lively setting |
| La Merenda | San Chez Bistro | Tapas and global plates for sharing |
| Blue’s Egg | Anna's House | Unique breakfast and brunch options |
| Leon's Frozen Custard | Furniture City Creamery | Classic and innovative frozen treats |
| Swingin' Door Exchange | Brick & Porter | Cozy pub with hearty American fare |
Exploring the culinary offerings of a new city is an adventure, and this comparison guide is tailored to reconnect you with familiar flavors while embracing new experiences. Grove, mirroring Sanford's commitment to local ingredients and fine dining, is a standout for those special occasions. Meanwhile, Electric Cheetah can satisfy your cravings for Odd Duck's inventive cuisine with its own quirky twists. For a more casual vibe akin to Conejito's Place, Donkey Taqueria offers a vibrant atmosphere alongside authentic Mexican dishes. This cross-city culinary map ensures that, even though the scenery might change, the quality and enjoyment of your dining experiences remain a comforting constant.
Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial. This comparison between Milwaukee, WI, and Grand Rapids, MI, focuses on housing aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these differences will help make your relocation smoother.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Bungalow | Mid-century Modern, Tudor |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Spacious backyards | Energy efficiency, Open floor plans |
The real estate landscapes in Milwaukee and Grand Rapids present a tapestry of urban living marked by distinct architectural styles and lifestyle scores. Milwaukee's homes lean towards the Craftsman and Bungalow designs, often highlighted in listings for their hardwood floors and generous backyards, catering to those seeking a blend of traditional charm and outdoor space. Conversely, Grand Rapids offers a preference for Mid-century Modern and Tudor architectures, with a notable emphasis on energy efficiency and open floor plans, reflecting a modern living ethos. The slightly higher bikeability score in Grand Rapids may appeal to cycling enthusiasts, while Milwaukee's better walkability and urban lifestyle score suggest a lively city atmosphere suited for those desiring a vibrant urban experience.
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.
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Milwaukee, WI to Grand Rapids, MI, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare accordingly. The weather comparison between Milwaukee and Grand Rapids is essential for those moving to anticipate differences in climate and seasonal variations they will experience.
Milwaukee, WI
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Snowstorms, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids, you might notice a few changes in weather patterns. While the average summer temperatures are slightly higher in Grand Rapids, winter temperatures remain comparable in both cities. However, Grand Rapids tends to receive significantly more snowfall, nearly 30 inches more annually, which could impact your winter activities and commute preparation. Moreover, despite having more annual rainfall, Grand Rapids experiences fewer days of sunshine compared to Milwaukee. This decrease in sunny days, coupled with a higher average humidity, may affect outdoor activities and personal comfort. Preparing for these climatic differences can make your move smoother and help you adapt to your new environment more quickly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids
When considering a move from one city to another, it's pivotal to gauge the financial landscape you're transitioning into. This comparison aims to shed light on the cost of living, tax implications, and overall economic environment between Milwaukee and Grand Rapids . Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $59,596 |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 90.7 |
| State Income Tax | 7.65 | 4.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.17 | 1.58 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.6 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less Visible |
Moving from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids, you'll notice a slight bump in the average household income which might be a welcome change. However, this increase is accompanied by a higher cost of living and average sales tax rate in Grand Rapids. It's also important to note the significantly lower state income tax rate in Michigan compared to Wisconsin, potentially offering some respite despite the higher living costs. Property taxes are lower in Grand Rapids, offering further financial relief for homeowners. Remember, the economic environment you're entering includes more than just base numbers; context like the major industries and the socio-economic climate play a crucial role in understanding your financial future in a new city.
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
If you're considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Grand Rapids, MI, it's useful to understand how these cities compare at a glance. This quick comparison focuses on the politics and religious makeup between Milwaukee & Grand Rapids, offering insights into the local community you're planning to call home.
| Milwaukee | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Liberal on social issues | Moderate, with a conservative tilt on some issues |
| Religion | Highly Diverse, with a significant Catholic presenceArchdiocese of Milwaukee | Diverse, with strong Protestant influenceDiocese of Grand Rapids |
While both Milwaukee and Grand Rapids offer a vibrant community life, they differ significantly in their political and religious landscapes. Milwaukee's more liberal leanings, particularly on social issues, contrast with Grand Rapids' moderate stance that can tilt conservative, especially on fiscal matters. Religion plays a crucial role in both cities, though with different dominances; Milwaukee has a pronounced Catholic presence, supported by institutions like the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, while Grand Rapids has a strong Protestant influence, notably within the Diocese of Grand Rapids. This change might influence your social integration, providing new cultural and community engagement opportunities.
Milwaukee vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Grand Rapids, MI, it's crucial to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Grand Rapids is designed to help you navigate the differences and similarities in each city's transportation dynamics.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
In Milwaukee, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Grand Rapids, but only by a minute, signaling minimal difference in daily travel times. Traffic congestion in Milwaukee rates higher, indicative of busier roads, while Grand Rapids enjoys slightly less congested routes. When it comes to public transit, both cities have room for improvement, though Milwaukee offers slightly better options, making a car-less lifestyle more feasible but still challenging. In Grand Rapids, getting around without a car is more difficult, emphasizing the necessity of having a vehicle for more convenient transportation. Understanding these nuances can greatly aid in your adjustment to your new city.
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