Best San Jose to Grand Rapids Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Jose to Grand Rapids and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,323 mile move from California to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 San Jose to Grand Rapids moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose compared to Grand Rapids. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best San Jose to Grand Rapids Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1D&L Movers9.359.36Active
2Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
3Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC9.269.14Active
4MASS Movers9.049.15Authorized For Property, HHG
5Kingsley Moving Systems8.999.19Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Jose to Grand Rapids?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,323 miles from San Jose, CA to Grand Rapids, MI will cost on average $3,757 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Grand Rapids move is roughly $9,073. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,519300 ft³$8.40
1 Bedroom$3,757450 ft³$8.35
2 Bedrooms$6,224750 ft³$8.30
3 Bedrooms$9,0731100 ft³$8.25
4 Bedrooms$13,1171600 ft³$8.20
5+ Bedrooms$14,6671800 ft³$8.15
*Please note: These California to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Michigan. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to San Jose guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Grand Rapids Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC Logo

Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,646+ data points

San Carlos, CA, 94070

About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3184868 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
MASS Movers Logo

MASS Movers

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 458+ data points

Lansing, MI, 48910

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...

Services

  • Packing Service
  • Large Item Moving
  • Small to Medium Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3333210 / 1062576

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved32,500 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo

Kingsley Moving Systems

Superb8.99/10
based on 533+ data points

610 Detroit St

Lansing, MI, 48912

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...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Interstate Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1890987 / 682343

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved140,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison

When planning a move to an unfamiliar city, it helps to find areas similar to what you're used to. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Grand Rapids, MI , providing a baseline for you to identify with. By comparing top neighborhoods in San Jose to their counterparts in Grand Rapids, you'll get a sense of where you might feel most at home.

San JoseGrand RapidsHow They're Similar
Willow GlenEast Grand RapidsFamily-friendly with a strong sense of community
The AlamedaHeritage HillHistoric homes and vibrant arts scene
Downtown San JoseDowntown Grand RapidsUrban core with thriving entertainment
Almaden ValleyForest HillsAffluent, with ample outdoor activities
JapantownEastownCultural diversity with unique shops and restaurants
West San JoseWest Grand RapidsSuburban feel with convenient amenities
North San JoseNorthviewGrowing tech area with family communities
EvergreenCascadeSuburban, upscale neighborhoods
Rose GardenFulton HeightsHistoric charm with beautiful gardens
Silver CreekAdaRural landscapes, upscale living

In comparing specific neighborhoods, if you're drawn to the charming, tree-lined streets of Willow Glen in San Jose for its family-oriented community and local boutiques, you'll find a similar vibe in East Grand Rapids, known for its excellent schools and lively Wealthy Street with eateries like Woody's. Or perhaps the cultural tapestry and historic architecture of San Jose's The Alameda captivate you; Heritage Hill in Grand Rapids will not disappoint, with its grand historical homes and proximity to museums like the Grand Rapids Public Museum. For urban dwellers, Downtown San Jose's bustling scene is mirrored in Downtown Grand Rapids, where venues like the Van Andel Arena host concerts and events, bolstering an energetic nightlife reminiscent of your San Jose favorites.

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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 San Jose to Grand Rapids

Moving from San Jose, CA to Grand Rapids, MI presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you to weigh the pros and cons before making your big move.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • High Living Costs
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Fewer Seasonal Changes
  • Less Green Space
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lower Living Costs
  • Less Traffic
  • Four Distinct Seasons
  • More Parks/Forests
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Smaller Tech Scene
  • More Limited Job Market
  • Fewer International Options
  • Quieter Nightlife
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Strong Tech Scene
  • Better Job Market
  • Diverse Cuisine
  • Vibrant Nightlife

Although San Jose boasts a robust tech scene and a vibrant job market, particularly in the tech sector, Grand Rapids offers a significantly lower cost of living, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle on a smaller budget. In Grand Rapids, the joys of experiencing four distinct seasons can be a fresh change from San Jose's milder climate, with opportunities to enjoy the snow in winter and beautiful fall colors. The city is home to several well-loved parks such as Riverside Park, which offers vast green spaces for outdoor activities, something that can be limited in the densely populated areas of San Jose. Additionally, despite Grand Rapids having a quieter nightlife, areas like the Downtown Market offer unique culinary experiences, showcasing the local burgeoning food scene that can certainly rival San Jose's diverse cuisine over time.

San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide

Food is an integral component of local culture, shaping our experiences in any location. Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial when moving to a new place. Thus, this comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Grand Rapids will equip you with insights into the food scene of your future home.

San Jose
Grand Rapids
Most iconic local food item
Pho
Wet Burrito
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Smoked Brisket
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Hot Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Acai Bowl
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Original Joe's
  • Dia de Pesca
  • Founder's Brewery
  • Sanctuary
  • The Old Goat
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In San Jose, you'll discover a vibrant food scene reflective of its diverse community. Pho and tacos, emblematic street foods, can be found in abundance, particularly in neighborhoods like Little Saigon and Downtown. Falafel's Drive-In, a long-standing local favorite, showcases the city's penchant for blending traditional and innovative cuisines. Conversely, Grand Rapids prides itself on hearty dishes with a Midwestern touch. The city's love for smoked brisket and wet burritos can be witnessed in local haunts such as Founder's Brewery and The Old Goat, making Eastern Fulton and the Baxter neighborhood essential stops for food lovers. Both cities offer unique flavors and dining experiences, marking them as true foodie destinations.

San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This San Jose to Grand Rapids restaurant comparison will guide you in finding your next favorite spots by paralleling eateries from both cities. Whether you're craving sophisticated dining experiences or laid-back bites, this comparison has got you covered.

San JoseGrand RapidsWhat You'll Love
AdegaGroveUpscale dining with a focus on farm-to-table philosophy
La Foret RestaurantThe Chop HouseClassic fine dining with a focus on steaks and a similar elegant ambiance
Original Joe's San JoseNew Hotel MertensOffers a nostalgic dining experience with a historic vibe
Firehouse No.1 GastropubBrewery VivantKnown for its unique brewery setting and hearty pub fare
Dia de PescaFish LadsCounter service spot known for fresh seafood and casual eats
Falafel Drive-InShawarma KingOffers authentic Middle Eastern fare in a fast-casual setting
ManresaReserve Wine & FoodFine dining with a strong emphasis on wine pairings
Back A Yard Caribbean GrillIrie KitchenProviding a taste of Caribbean flavors in an informal atmosphere
Santouka RamenAndo Asian KitchenDelivers authentic Asian flavors with a focus on noodles
Pizza AnticaHarmony Brewing CompanyCraft pizza with a cozy, community feel

In your food explorations from San Jose to Grand Rapids, you'll find that Grove mirrors the upscale dining experience of Adega, with both places priding themselves on their commitment to locally sourced ingredients and innovative cuisine. Similarly, for those who enjoyed the historic and classic comfort food of Original Joe's San Jose, New Hotel Mertens offers a chance to dine in a space that harkens back to the grandeur of the early 20th century with a menu that blends traditional and contemporary tastes. Meanwhile, foodies who have savored the unique Caribbean dishes at Back A Yard Caribbean Grill will find a kindred spirit in Irie Kitchen, where the focus on vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients brings the essence of the Caribbean to Michigan. These comparisons not only highlight the diversity of dining options in both cities but offer a literal taste of home in a new setting, making the transition smoother and more delicious.

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San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, evaluating real estate in San Jose and Grand Rapids is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison will illuminate the differences and similarities in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to help you find your ideal environment.

San Jose
Grand Rapids
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Spanish
Craftsman and Mid-Century
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Silicon Valley, modern amenities
Historic charm, community feel

San Jose, with its proximity to Silicon Valley, commands a higher median home price and monthly rent compared to Grand Rapids. The city's real estate listings often highlight modern amenities suited for an urban lifestyle, with a high focus on tech-savvy environments. In contrast, Grand Rapids showcases a rich historical charm and a strong community feel, reflected in its real estate market. Craftsman and Mid-Century homes are popular, offering unique architectural styles at more accessible prices. While San Jose boasts better bikeability and a slightly more urban environment, Grand Rapids provides a balanced lifestyle with a focus on comfort and tradition.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI

1. Eastown: You'll love strolling with your pet through tree-lined streets and discovering pet-friendly cafes and parks.

2. Heritage Hill: With its spacious sidewalks and several nearby parks, this historic neighborhood is ideal for pet owners to explore with their furry friends.

3. Downtown Grand Rapids: Enjoy the vibrant urban environment with plenty of green spaces, including the popular Riverside Park, perfect for a pet outing.

San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations

When moving from one location to another, understanding weather comparisons between San Jose, CA and Grand Rapids, MI is crucial. This knowledge allows you to prepare for how your day-to-day life might change in a new climate. Let's dive into the specifics.

San Jose
Grand Rapids
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
83°F / 62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60°F / 42°F
31°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.5
38
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
74.9


Moving from San Jose to Grand Rapids brings significant weather shifts. While both cities enjoy warm summers, Grand Rapids experiences harsher winters, with average highs in the 30s and considerable snowfall - a stark contrast to San Jose's mild winters. Additionally, Grand Rapids has far fewer days of sunshine, which might affect your daily activities and mood. Moreover, Grand Rapids faces more diverse natural disasters, including snowstorms and tornadoes, unlike San Jose's primary risk of earthquakes. These changes emphasize the importance of preparing for a varied climate that can significantly influence your lifestyle and the necessities for your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Grand Rapids

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison chart provides a clear picture of how living in San Jose stacks up against life in Grand Rapids across various money and finance dimensions. It's an essential tool for anyone aiming to grasp the economic landscape of their new home in comparison to what they're accustomed to.

San Jose
Grand Rapids
Avg. Household Income
$126,377
$59,596
Cost of Living Index
156.1
90.7
State Income Tax
13.3
4.25
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
1.58
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
6
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

Moving from San Jose to Grand Rapids, you'll find a striking difference in the average household income and the overall cost of living. Grand Rapids offers a more affordable living environment, with a cost of living index significantly lower than San Jose's. This means your income could stretch further here, especially when considering lower state income and sales tax rates. Additionally, while both cities boast robust healthcare and education sectors, San Jose's prominence in technology contrasts with Grand Rapids' manufacturing base. These differences can impact job opportunities and economic atmosphere, making Grand Rapids an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from San Jose, CA, to Grand Rapids, MI, understanding the community you're transitioning into can greatly ease the process. This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Jose & Grand Rapids delivers a quick snapshot of the demographic landscape you'll be entering, providing insight into the local culture and values.

San Jose
Grand Rapids
Political Make-up
Liberal
Conservative
Local Politics
Democratic majority
Republican presence with Democratic strongholds
Religion
Multicultural and diverse
Christian majority, with diverse religious communities

The political and religious landscapes of San Jose and Grand Rapids reflect the broader diversity and character of each city. In San Jose, a dynamic, multicultural hub, you'll find a predominantly liberal and Democratic makeup, showcasing the city's progressive values. Conversely, Grand Rapids presents a more conservative outlook, though it's remarkable for its pockets of Democratic influence that add complexity to the local political scene. This city's religious affiliation leans towards a Christian majority but is home to a variety of beliefs, underscoring its diverse community spirit. Understandably, these differences will introduce you to new cultural experiences and community structures as you transition from the vibrant life of San Jose to the spirited heart of Grand Rapids.

San Jose vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can greatly impact your daily life, particularly when it comes to getting around. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in San Jose, CA compared to Grand Rapids, MI , we've prepared a comparison chart detailing the differences in transportation options and traffic congestion between these two cities.

San Jose
Grand Rapids
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
With Difficulty
No

In San Jose, you'll find yourself contending with longer commute times and higher traffic congestion, reflective of its bustling tech hub status. While public transportation is available, with services such as the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offering bus and light rail options, navigating the city without a car can still be challenging. Conversely, in Grand Rapids, the commute is generally shorter, and while traffic congestion is less of an issue, the city’s public transit options, like The Rapid, can be more limited in comparison. This can make it challenging to get by without a car, although the smaller city size somewhat mitigates this.

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