Best Grand Rapids to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,208 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Grand Rapids to Irvine 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 Terry Moving & Storage), 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 Grand Rapids compared to Irvine. 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 Grand Rapids to Irvine Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
2Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For Property
3MASS Movers9.049.15Authorized For Property, HHG
4Kingsley Moving Systems8.999.19Authorized For HHG
5Powell Relocation Group8.907.27Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Irvine?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,208 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,659 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Irvine move is roughly $8,834. 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$2,454300 ft³$8.18
1 Bedroom$3,659450 ft³$8.13
2 Bedrooms$6,061750 ft³$8.08
3 Bedrooms$8,8341100 ft³$8.03
4 Bedrooms$12,7691600 ft³$7.98
5+ Bedrooms$14,2761800 ft³$7.93
*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 Irvine to Grand Rapids guide.

Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Irvine Movers

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

Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 2,011+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,022+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
Powell Relocation Group Logo

Powell Relocation Group

Superb8.90/10
based on 548+ data points

4937 Starr St SE

Grand Rapids, MI, 49546

About Powell Relocation Group

Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not need to...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Services
  • Corporate Relocation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

261884 / 176235

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers50
Total Annual Miles Moved900,000 (2021)
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.

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be an adventure, especially when you find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Irvine, CA, helping you familiarize yourself with new surroundings using what you know and love about your current city as a baseline. Let's find your new neighborhood!

Grand RapidsIrvineHow They're Similar
EastownWoodbridgeVibrant, community-centric
Heritage HillTurtle RockHistoric, scenic views
MidtownUniversity ParkDiverse, youthful vibe
Riverside ParkNorthwoodFamily-friendly, green spaces
HeartsideQuail HillArtistic, upscale living
Fulton HeightsWestparkQuiet, residential charm
Cherry HillWoodburyCozy, welcoming community
Michigan OaksStonegatePeaceful, well-maintained
BeltlineIrvine SpectrumDynamic, business district
Wealthy StreetPortola SpringsUnique shopping, dining

In comparing these neighborhoods, consider the unique blend each offers. For instance, Eastown Grand Rapids is known for its vibrant arts scene and local eateries, akin to Irvine's Woodbridge, where community events and local parks, like Woodbridge Community Park, foster a strong sense of community. Riverside Park's extensive green spaces and outdoor activities mirror those of Northwood in Irvine, where families enjoy Northwood Community Park's spacious areas. Irvine's Quail Hill, comparable to Heartside, offers a refined aesthetic with access to cultural hotspots like the Quail Hill Trailhead, perfect for those who appreciate an artistic and upscale living environment. For the bustling urban energy of Beltline in Grand Rapids, Irvine's Spectrum provides endless entertainment and shopping options, much like the lively Irvine Spectrum Center. This comparison should give you a starting point to explore what Irvine has to offer based on what you've cherished in Grand Rapids.

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Things to Do in Irvine

  • Hike at Irvine Regional Park
  • Explore the Orange County Great Park
  • Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
  • Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
  • Study at Irvine Public Libraries
  • Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
  • Relax at Newport Beach

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Irvine

Moving from one city to another comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the positives and negatives when relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Irvine, CA. By presenting a concise view of the cons and pros, you can weigh your options more effectively and make the transition smoother.

CONs
PROs
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Harsh winters
  • Smaller airport
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower job market
  • Less cultural venues
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Better flight options
  • Varied dining options
  • Stronger job market
  • More cultural venues
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Less water bodies
  • More crowded
  • Higher living cost
  • Less personal connection
  • Fewer historical landmarks
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lakes and rivers
  • Cozy small city
  • Lower living cost
  • Close-knit communities
  • Rich history

While Irvine promises a mild climate avoiding the harsh winters of Grand Rapids, it also brings a higher cost of living – a crucial factor to consider. However, Irvine's diverse dining scene, including places like Din Tai Fung for world-renowned dumplings or the variety of options at Diamond Jamboree, more than compensates. Employment opportunities in Irvine, particularly in tech and academia with the proximity of the University of California, Irvine, present a promising future. On the downside, the dense population can affect the sense of community some might cherish about Grand Rapids, known for its cozy and close-knit neighborhoods like Eastown or Heritage Hill. Regardless, the cultural venues like the Irvine Barclay Theatre, and outdoor spaces such as the Orange County Great Park, offer enriching experiences for new arrivals.

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Food Guide

Embarking on a move offers a prime opportunity to dive into the culinary heart of your new locale. Understanding this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Irvine will help you navigate the vibrant food scenes of these cities, ensuring you’re well-informed about where you'll soon call home.

Grand Rapids
Irvine
Most iconic local food item
Wet Burrito
Asian Fusion Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Smoked Brisket
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Banh Mi
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa Salad
Vegan Ramen
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Founder's Brewing Co.
  • San Chez Bistro
  • The Rowster
  • Cafe Habana
  • EMC Seafood & Raw Bar
  • Din Tai Fung
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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Upon arriving in Irvine, you're entering a vibrant culinary landscape marked by its diversity and innovation. In neighborhoods like Irvine Spectrum and the Diamond Jamboree, you'll find a rich array of dining options, from the Korean BBQ at Gen Korean BBQ House to vegan delights at Phans 55. Irvine's love for Asian fusion is evident with locales like Din Tai Fung, where the Taiwanese dumplings pull crowds. The city’s high health consciousness score is supported by a plethora of vegan and vegetarian dining choices, ensuring you can always find something to suit your lifestyle.

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison

When you're moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to Irvine, CA, finding your new go-to restaurants is essential for feeling at home. This Grand Rapids to Irvine restaurant comparison will help you discover places where you can enjoy familiar tastes or explore new ones that could become your next favorite.

Grand RapidsIrvineWhat You'll Love
San Chez BistroCasablanca The RestaurantOffers a fusion of flavors reminiscent of San Chez's tapas.
GroveSeasons 52Both focus on farm-to-table, seasonal menus.
The Chop HouseRuth's Chris Steak HouseHigh-end steaks and service that echo The Chop House's luxurious dining experience.
Maru Sushi & GrillHamamori Restaurant & Sushi BarBoth offer exquisite sushi and Japanese cuisine.
Electric CheetahUrban PlatesCasual dining with a focus on wholesome, inventive dishes.
Two Beards DeliMendocino FarmsSandwiches and salads with a creative twist that match the unique offerings of Two Beards Deli.
Leo's Seafood Restaurant & BarBear Flag Fish Co.Known for fresh seafood, paralleling the quality and variety of Leo's.
Amore Trattoria ItalianaNorth ItaliaAuthentic Italian dishes that taste like home, similar to Amore's handmade approach.
Brewery VivantThe BrueryWhile focusing on Belgian and experimental beers, it offers a similar craft beer exploration experience.
Madcap CoffeePortola Coffee RoastersBoth are coffee connoisseurs' havens with a dedication to quality and sustainability.

Notably, the culinary transition from Grand Rapids to Irvine involves discovering establishments that provide a slice of home while introducing you to local flavors. For example, the farm-to-table ethos that characterizes Grove finds its counterpart in Irvine's Seasons 52, where the menu changes with the season, promising fresh, flavorful dishes all year round. On the sushi front, Maru Sushi & Grill enthusiasts will feel right at home at Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar, where the artfully presented dishes and the quality of fish rival the best of Grand Rapids. Both cities boast vibrant food scenes that cater to a range of tastes, from the hearty and traditional to the innovative and eclectic. Whether you're in the mood for a steakhouse experience reminiscent of The Chop House or seeking the craft beer culture Brewery Vivant offers, Irvine's culinary landscape holds something that will resonate with your gastronomic preferences.

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Ready to start your move?

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is crucial in transitioning to a new environment. Understanding how Grand Rapids and Irvine contrast in aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle is vital. This comparison will outline the key differences in real estate between these cities to aid in your move.

Grand Rapids
Irvine
Typical Architecture Style
Midwest Traditional
Modern and Spanish Influence
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Great Lakes, Family-Friendly
Safety, Top-Tier Schools, Proximity to Tech Hubs

When comparing Grand Rapids and Irvine, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rent reflects the broader cost of living differences between these cities. Irvine's homes often showcase a mix of modern and Spanish-inspired architecture, echoing California's coastal and cultural influences. This, combined with its high urban lifestyle score, indicates a dynamic environment often associated with proximity to tech hubs and top-tier educational institutions, like the University of California, Irvine. In contrast, Grand Rapids offers a more traditional Midwest living experience, with a focus on family-friendly communities and access to the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region. While Irvine scores higher in bikeability, suggesting a more developed infrastructure for cyclists, Grand Rapids provides a slightly more walkable environment, perhaps due to its less dense urban layout.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

1. Woodbridge : You'll love the numerous dog-friendly parks and walking trails that make it easy to enjoy the outdoors with your pet.

2. University Park : This area offers plenty of green spaces and dog-friendly amenities that cater to an active lifestyle with pets.

3. Quail Hill : With its large open areas and scenic hiking trails, it's perfect for taking your furry friend on a fun adventure.

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Weather Considerations

When contemplating a move from one city to another, appreciating the variance in climate conditions is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to shed light on what you can expect weather-wise, moving from Grand Rapids to Irvine. Understanding the differences will better prepare you for your new environment.

Grand Rapids
Irvine
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
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 61°F
83°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31°F / 18°F
68°F / 47°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38
13
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

75
0


When moving from Grand Rapids to Irvine, you'll notice a significant difference in weather patterns. The substantially higher number of sunny days in Irvine offers more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. However, it's essential to prepare for the mild winters and hot summers, along with the potential for humidity and UV exposure which are comparatively higher in Irvine. Awareness about seasonal allergies and the local natural disaster risks such as earthquakes and wildfires can help you acclimate more comfortably to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your financial well-being. Understanding how your cost of living and economic environment in Grand Rapids, MI, compares to Irvine, CA, is crucial. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect in terms of finance and economy, helping you make an informed decision.

Grand Rapids
Irvine
Avg. Household Income
$59,596
$105,774
Cost of Living Index
90.7
136.4
State Income Tax
4.25
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
1.54
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
6
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Health Care, Education
Technology, Education, Health Services
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Moderate
Low

Moving from Grand Rapids to Irvine, you'll notice a significant jump in the cost of living, nearly double, according to the index. Irvine boasts a higher average household income, which is essential to accommodate the city's higher expenses across housing, taxes, and general living costs. The state income tax in California is also notably higher than in Michigan, which is something to consider when planning your finances. However, Irvine's affluence reflects in its lower poverty and homelessness rates, and the thriving technology and health services industries offer robust job opportunities. Adjusting to the economic environment in Irvine would require careful financial planning but could provide a comfortable lifestyle in a vibrant, prosperous community.

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Irvine, CA, it's essential to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the politics between Grand Rapids & Irvine to give you a better understanding of your potential new hometown.

Grand Rapids
Irvine
Political Make-up
Moderately Conservative
Lean Liberal
Local Politics
Emphasis on community development
Focus on environmental policies
Religion
Strong Christian community<
Diverse religious beliefs

In Grand Rapids, the political climate tends to be moderately conservative, reflecting the city's strong Christian community influences, with many local politics revolving around community development. This can be seen in various Grand Rapids organizations and initiatives that aim to strengthen the city's social and economic fabrics. Moving to Irvine, you'll find a lean towards more liberal views, especially noticeable in local governance prioritizing environmental policies. This green focus aligns with California’s overall environmental goals. Additionally, Irvine hosts a more religiously diverse population, which is reflected in the range of places of worship and religious organizations across the city. Understanding these differences can help ease the transition to your new community.

Grand Rapids vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Irvine is essential if you're planning to move. This comparison aims to give you insight into what your daily commute and traffic life could look like in these distinct cities.

Grand Rapids
Irvine
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
21.5
25.4
Traffic Congestion
3 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Depends

The average commute time in Grand Rapids is slightly less than in Irvine, suggesting a difference in daily life's pace and perhaps the compactness of the city. Traffic congestion in Irvine rates higher, reflecting its more extensive metropolitan area and busier roads. Interestingly, public transit is more accessible in Irvine, a boon if you prefer to avoid the hassle of driving. The ease of living in either city without a car varies, with Grand Rapids being more car-dependent, while Irvine offers a bit more flexibility due to its better transit options and more developed infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

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