Best Detroit to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,464 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Detroit to Santa Rosa 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Santa Rosa. 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 Detroit to Santa Rosa Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Celis Movers9.389.32Authorized For HHG
3Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHG
4Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHG
5High Quality Moving Company8.248.5Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Detroit to Santa Rosa?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,464 miles from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $3,877 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Santa Rosa move is roughly $9,366. 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$2,599300 ft³$8.66
1 Bedroom$3,877450 ft³$8.61
2 Bedrooms$6,423750 ft³$8.56
3 Bedrooms$9,3661100 ft³$8.51
4 Bedrooms$13,5431600 ft³$8.46
5+ Bedrooms$15,1461800 ft³$8.41
*Please note: These Michigan to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & California. 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 MI to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Santa Rosa Movers

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Celis Movers Logo

Celis Movers

Exceptional9.38/10
based on 1,738+ data points

601 Petaluma Blvd N C

Petaluma, CA, 94952

About Celis Movers

Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Nationwide moving services
  • Strategic warehousing locations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2594954 / 921948

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved95,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.24/10
based on 757+ data points

32401 W 8 Mile Rd

Livonia, MI, 48152

About High Quality Moving Company

High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
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.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but comparing familiar neighborhoods in Detroit, MI & Santa Rosa, CA can help ease the transition. This guide aims to provide insights by identifying similar neighborhoods, offering a baseline for comparison and helping you get to know your new surroundings with confidence.

DetroitSanta RosaHow They're Similar
CorktownRailroad SquareHip, historic district
MidtownDowntown Santa RosaCultural hub, vibrant scene
Indian VillageMcDonald Historic DistrictHistoric homes, leafy streets
GreektownOld Courthouse SquareEntertainment and dining
Palmer WoodsProctor TerraceElegant homes, tree-lined streets
WoodbridgeMontgomery VillageQuaint, family-friendly
New CenterBennett ValleyShopping and residential
Rosedale ParkFountaingroveSuburban, upscale feel
East English VillageCloverleaf RanchResidential community vibe
Jefferson ChalmersRincon ValleySuburban with local charm

If you enjoy the historic charm and vibrant culture found in Corktown, you'll find a similar spirit in Santa Rosa's Railroad Square, with its artsy vibe and historic buildings. Midtown Detroit's rich cultural offerings are echoed in Downtown Santa Rosa, where art galleries, theaters, and unique eateries like the Russian River Brewing Company create a bustling, lively ambiance. Indian Village's majestic homes and leafy streets resonate with the McDonald Historic District's classic architecture, while Palmer Woods' serene elegance mirrors the luxurious aura of Proctor Terrace with its graceful homes and inviting community parks. Rosedale Park in Detroit offers a suburban escape, much like the upscale feel in Fountaingrove, where you can enjoy refined suburban life amidst beautiful landscapes.

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Things to Do in Santa Rosa

  • Kayak on Spring Lake
  • Explore Safari West Wildlife Preserve
  • Visit Schulz Museum for cartoon fans
  • Taste craft beer at Russian River Brewing
  • Tour Sonoma vineyards for wine enthusiasts
  • Family fun at Howarth Park
  • Hike in Annadel State Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa

Moving from one city to another is a journey filled with changes. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA . Through contrasting charts, we evaluate the unique aspects of each locale, enabling you to weigh the pros and cons in a comprehensive manner.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher crime rates
  • Colder winters
  • Declining industries
  • Less green space
  • Economic challenges
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder climate
  • Thriving wine industry
  • More parks and trails
  • Booming economy
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer cultural landmarks
  • Lesser sports presence
  • Few industrial positions
  • Less water access
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Affordable housing
  • Rich music heritage
  • Strong sports culture
  • Vibrant auto industry
  • Vast water access

Relocating to Santa Rosa, CA, introduces you to a world-renowned wine country, featuring esteemed establishments like the Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens and the picturesque Sonoma County vineyards. This bucolic landscape offers numerous outdoor activities, with Sonoma County Parks providing an expansive network of trails for hiking and biking. Meanwhile, Detroit's rich music history is palpable in iconic venues like the Motown Museum, celebrating the city's storied past. While Santa Rosa’s cost of living might be higher, its economy, bolstered by agriculture and tourism, offers diverse job opportunities, contrasting Detroit’s reliance on the auto industry. Each city presents a unique lifestyle, influenced by their cultural, economic, and environmental attributes.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial when relocating, as food plays an integral role in the local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Santa Rosa to help you get acquainted with what awaits your palate in your new home.

Detroit
Santa Rosa
Most iconic local food item
Coney Dog
Wine Country Cuisine
Most popular meat dish
Detroit-style Pizza
Grass-fed Beef Burgers
Most popular street food item
Gyros
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Kebabs
Quinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Buddy's Pizza
  • St. Francis Winery & Vineyards
  • Russian River Brewing Company
  • Willi's Wine Bar
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 comparing the food scenes of Detroit and Santa Rosa, it's evident that each city offers a unique dining experience reflective of its culture and local resources. Detroit, known for its hearty and comforting cuisine such as the Coney Dog and Detroit-style Pizza, satisfies cravings for traditional, flavor-packed meals. Exploring neighborhoods like Midtown Detroit, you'll find a melting pot of culinary offerings, from classic diners to innovative vegan spots. Santa Rosa, nestled in the heart of wine country, offers a different vibe, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and wine pairings. Restaurants and food trucks here cater to a health-conscious crowd, with plenty of options for vegan and vegetarian diners. Neighborhoods like Downtown Santa Rosa are culinary hotspots, where you can indulge in everything from upscale dining at Willi's Wine Bar to casual eats at local food trucks serving farm-to-table fare.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison

Finding the right local eatery can turn a new city into a cozy home. This restaurant comparison between Detroit and Santa Rosa will guide you towards your next favorite dining spot. Whether you're craving something high-end, casual, or iconically local, our comparison aims to make your transition as delicious as possible.

DetroitSanta RosaWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardJohn Ash & Co.Both offer a fine dining experience with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Slows Bar BQSonoma County BBQCaptures the essence of slow-cooked barbecue with a Northern California twist.
Supino PizzeriaWild Goat BistroOffers artisanal pizzas with unique toppings, echoing Supino's quality and creativity.
Avalon International BreadsVillage BakeryBoth bakeries are cherished in their communities for delicious, freshly-baked goods.
Taqueria Lupita'sEl CoquiBoth are go-to spots for authentic, flavorful Latin cuisine in their respective cities.
Rose's Fine FoodDierk's Parkside CafeKnown for homey vibes and delectable comfort food, perfect for any meal.
Buddy's PizzaRosso Pizzeria & Wine BarWhile known for their pizza, they also blend a touch of Italian flair, similar to Buddy's iconic Detroit-style pies.
Al-AmeerEast West CafeOffers a diverse menu with Middle Eastern favorites, capturing the heart of Al-Ameer's offerings.
Rose's Fine FoodDierk's Parkside CafeEchoes Rose's commitment to quality, local ingredients and friendly service.
Grey Ghost DetroitStark’s Steak & SeafoodBoth establishments are celebrated for their exceptional meat dishes and refined atmosphere.

When you move from Detroit to Santa Rosa, you'll find that your culinary cravings can be satisfied with ease. At John Ash & Co., you'll encounter an exquisite dining experience reminiscent of Selden Standard, where the emphasis on farm-to-table ingredients stands out. For BBQ enthusiasts missing Slows Bar BQ's mouth-watering dishes, Sonoma County BBQ provides that familiar comfort with a local twist. Pizza lovers who cherished Supino Pizzeria's unique flavors will find a welcoming alternative in Wild Goat Bistro's artisanal offerings. This careful selection of Santa Rosa restaurants mirrors the diverse and vibrant food scene of Detroit, ensuring that no matter where you dine, you'll feel right at home.

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Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects when planning a move. It's crucial to understand how the real estate markets of Detroit, MI, and Santa Rosa, CA, compare. This comparison will delve into various aspects of housing to ensure you make an informed decision.

Detroit
Santa Rosa
Typical Architecture Style
Historic Brick Homes
Modern and Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Downtown
Winery Proximity, Views

Moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa will showcase a significant change in housing costs, with Santa Rosa presenting a steeper market, both regarding median home prices and monthly rent. While Detroit offers historical charm with its characteristic brick homes, Santa Rosa is more inclined towards modern architecture with craftsman influences, appealing to those who favor contemporary living spaces. The lifestyle in Santa Rosa also leans towards a more urban feel, underscored by its higher walkability and bikeability scores, which might be attractive for those looking for an active, outdoorsy lifestyle amidst California's famed vineyards.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA

1. Rincon Valley : You'll love the ample green spaces and parks for your pets to play and roam freely.

2. Bennett Valley : This neighborhood offers a welcoming community environment along with numerous pet-friendly trails and open spaces for outdoor activities.

3. West End : With its accessible pet-friendly amenities and vibrant community, you'll find it easy to meet other pet owners and their furry friends.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This comparison will shed light on the key climatic differences between your current and future homes, ensuring you're well-prepared for the transition.

Detroit
Santa Rosa
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
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good to Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 63°F
82°F / 52°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 19°F
60°F / 41°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

33"
36"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

34"
0"


In moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa, you'll find yourself enjoying more sunny days and milder winters, a pleasant change for those accustomed to harsh, snowy winters. The stark difference in the number of sunny days highlights Santa Rosa's more temperate climate. However, be mindful of the change in natural disaster risks; while leaving behind the snowstorms and occasional tornadoes of Detroit, you'll need to prepare for the possibility of earthquakes and wildfires in California. Additionally, the higher average UV index in Santa Rosa calls for a more diligent sunscreen routine to protect against stronger sun exposure.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Santa Rosa

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. How does the cost of living and the economic landscape in Detroit compare to Santa Rosa? This comparison aims to unveil crucial financial differences and similarities that could impact your decision and adaptation process.

Detroit
Santa Rosa
Avg. Household Income
$36,140
$86,459
Cost of Living Index
99.4
136.4
State Income Tax
4.25
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
2.3
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
6
8.25
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Technology, Healthcare
Wine, Technology, Healthcare
Affluence
Lower
Higher
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Notable
Moderate

The financial landscape of Detroit and Santa Rosa reveals profound disparities, critical for anyone considering a relocation. While Detroit's average household income is notably lower, it’s also paired with a significantly lower cost of living index, meaning your dollar may stretch further here than in Santa Rosa. However, Santa Rosa boasts a higher affluence level, potentially offering a higher quality of life for those who can afford it. The stark contrast in state income tax and property tax rates between the two cities further highlights the financial adjustments required when moving from Michigan to California. Lastly, despite both cities having robust healthcare and technology sectors, Santa Rosa's renowned wine industry adds a unique economic dimension you might find appealing.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can significantly shift your daily experience, especially when considering the local community's political and religious composition. This quick guide offers a comparison of the politics between Detroit & Santa Rosa, providing a snapshot of what to expect in your new neighborhood.

Detroit
Santa Rosa
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on urban development, crime reduction
Emphasis on environmental issues, housing
Religion
Diverse; strong African American churches
Varied; significant Catholic and non-denominational Christian presence

In both Detroit and Santa Rosa, you'll find communities that lean Democratic, but the local political concerns and priorities can vary significantly. Detroit has a strong focus on urban development and crime reduction, reflecting its urban landscape and challenges. In contrast, Santa Rosa's politics often center around environmental conservation and housing issues, indicative of California's broader political and social concerns. On the religious front, Detroit’s religious makeup is incredibly diverse, with strong African American church communities. Meanwhile, Santa Rosa offers a variety of religious congregations, including a significant presence of Catholic and non-denominational Christian communities. Understanding these differences can assist in smoother acclimatization to your new home.

Detroit vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Santa Rosa is essential for planning your daily commute and traffic navigations. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when making the move from Detroit, MI to Santa Rosa, CA.

Detroit
Santa Rosa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
23
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes, but challenging

In Detroit, the average commute time is slightly longer and the city experiences a higher level of traffic congestion compared to Santa Rosa. However, the availability of public transit in Santa Rosa is considered to be more accessible, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car, though it still presents its challenges. Santa Rosa's less congested roads offer a smoother commute, yet relying solely on public transport can limit access to certain areas. Overall, transitioning from Detroit's traffic dynamics to Santa Rosa's may require some adjustments, particularly in planning daily travel routes and considering the feasibility of commuting without a personal vehicle.

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