Best Durham to Grand Rapids Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Grand Rapids and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 781 mile move from North Carolina to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Durham 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham 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 Durham to Grand Rapids Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
2Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
3Capital Moving & Storage9.279.47Authorized For HHG
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 Durham to Grand Rapids?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 781 miles from Durham, NC to Grand Rapids, MI will cost on average $2,445 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Grand Rapids move is roughly $5,868. 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$1,645300 ft³$5.48
1 Bedroom$2,445450 ft³$5.43
2 Bedrooms$4,038750 ft³$5.38
3 Bedrooms$5,8681100 ft³$5.33
4 Bedrooms$8,4551600 ft³$5.28
5+ Bedrooms$9,4221800 ft³$5.23
*Please note: These North Carolina to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & 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 NC to MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Grand Rapids Movers

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 856+ data points

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 3,932+ data points

6601 Hillsborough St # 111

Raleigh, NC, 27606

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,367+ data points

3450 Bush St Suite 245

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
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.

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison

Making a move to a new city can feel daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've prepared a guide to help you find areas in Grand Rapids, MI that share the ambiance and amenities of your favorite Durham, NC locales. Through this comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Grand Rapids, MI, you'll be better equipped to find a new place that feels like home.

DurhamGrand RapidsHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkHeritage HillHistoric homes, vibrant community
Old West DurhamEastownEclectic shops, diverse dining
RockwoodFulton HeightsClose-knit, community-focused
Hope ValleyEast Grand RapidsUpscale, peaceful with parks
WoodcroftForest HillsFamily-friendly, great schools
Watts-HillandaleCrestonHistorical charm, active community
SouthpointByron CenterModern amenities, shopping hubs
American Tobacco DistrictHeartsideUrban living, arts and culture
BrightleafMidtownNightlife, young professional scene
TreyburnAdaLuxurious, spacious homes

In moving from Durham's beloved Trinity Park with its historic homes and tree-lined streets, you'll find a similar sense of community and architectural grace in Grand Rapids' Heritage Hill. Both neighborhoods boast a rich history, preserved in the elegance of their homes. For those who relish the diverse dining and unique shopping experiences of Old West Durham, Eastown in Grand Rapids offers an eclectic and vibrant atmosphere. East Grand Rapids parallels the upscale and leisurely lifestyle of Hope Valley, where serene parks such as Reeds Lake offer a peaceful retreat. Meanwhile, the cultural vibrancy and urban renewal seen in the American Tobacco District in Durham is mirrored in Grand Rapids’ Heartside, where arts, entertainment, and dining converge. Each of these neighborhoods provides its own unique charm and amenities, ensuring that you can find a new home in Grand Rapids that resonates with the lifestyle you cherished in Durham.

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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 Durham to Grand Rapids

Moving from one city to another always comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Durham, NC to Grand Rapids, MI . Below are charts designed to help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, helping you make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • More traffic
  • Longer summers
  • Fewer snow days
  • Less diverse seasons
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lower humidity
  • Less traffic
  • Cooler summers
  • More snow activities
  • Distinct seasons
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Different job market
  • Less diversity in cuisine
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Colder winters
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Rich culture
  • Strong job market
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Warmer winters

When considering the transition from Durham to Grand Rapids, you'll find changes in climate and lifestyle. Durham is known for its DPAC events and diverse dining options, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. In contrast, Grand Rapids offers a distinct seasonal experience, with activities tailored to each, such as winter sports at Cannonsburg Ski Area. Grand Rapids boasts less traffic, making daily commutes more manageable, and its unique attractions, like the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, offer an engaging blend of art, nature, and tranquility, setting it apart from Durham's vibrant, yet busier lifestyle.

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide

Food is a crucial part of understanding local culture and what life is like in a new city. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI to help you get acquainted with what culinary delights await you in your new home.

Durham
Grand Rapids
Most iconic local food item
North Carolina BBQ
Michigan Cherry Pie
Most popular meat dish
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Beer Brats
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Hot Dogs
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Poole's Diner
  • Bull City Burger and Brewery
  • Grub Durham
  • Sanchez Bistro
  • Founders Brewing Co.
  • Marie Catrib's of Grand Rapids
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 Durham, the food scene is vibrant, with a notable affection for BBQ and innovative vegan options like BBQ Jackfruit that speak to the city's diverse culinary landscape. For instance, diners can explore traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist at places like Poole's Diner, or enjoy Durham's take on street tacos in various food trucks scattered across the city. Conversely, Grand Rapids offers a cozy Midwestern culinary experience, highlighted by its famous Michigan Cherry Pie and an array of craft beers at Founders Brewing Co. The city prides itself on a mix of traditional American and international cuisines, making it a welcoming place for food enthusiasts.

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your go-to spots for dining out. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease the transition for someone moving from Durham, NC to Grand Rapids, MI by identifying counterpart eateries. Let's find those new favorites that make a place feel like home.

DurhamGrand RapidsWhat You'll Love
Mateo Bar de TapasSan Chez BistroA blend of Spanish tapas and global flavors, promising a similar communal dining experience.
Pizzeria ToroHarmony Brewing CompanyKnown for wood-fired pizzas and a cozy, artistic atmosphere reminiscent of Pizzeria Toro.
Bull City Burger and BreweryBrewery VivantOffers farm-to-table burgers and craft beer, capturing the essence of a local brewpub.
Mothers & Sons TrattoriaOsteria RossaCasual yet refined Italian dining with handmade pasta, echoing the authentic touch of Mothers & Sons.
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenField & Fire CaféOffers European-style baked goods and café fare in a setting that rivals the charm of Guglhupf.
M SushiMaru Sushi & GrillHigh-quality sushi and a modern dining experience that parallels M Sushi's excellence.
Juan Luna's Rotisserie and GrillDonkey TaqueriaWhile focusing on Mexican cuisine, it provides a unique twist on traditional dishes much like Juan Luna's.
Backyard BBQ PitTwo Scotts BarbecueAuthentic smoky flavors and a down-to-earth vibe that barbecue enthusiasts in Durham cherish at Backyard BBQ Pit.
Dashi RamenThe SøvengårdOffers a menu with Scandinavian influence but includes dishes that satisfy ramen lovers, reminiscent of Dashi's spirit.
NanaSteakChop House Grand RapidsDelivers an upscale steakhouse experience, focusing on quality and ambiance akin to NanaSteak.

For those who consider themselves food enthusiasts, transitioning from Durham's eclectic dining scene to Grand Rapids doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. A visit to Harmony Brewing Company offers not just a slice of gourmet pizza but an ambiance that might remind you of evenings spent at Pizzeria Toro. Similarly, Brewery Vivant is not just about enjoying a burger and beer; it’s about the sense of community and shared values that echo Bull City Burger and Brewery's ethos. And for those special nights out, Chop House Grand Rapids provides a steakhouse experience where the quality of food and attention to detail could very well make you nostalgic for NanaSteak back in Durham. Exploring these Grand Rapids alternatives can offer more than just a meal—it’s a way to discover the city's unique character and maybe, just maybe, find a new place that feels like "your" spot.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight key aspects of housing between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI. Knowing these details will assist in making an informed decision. Compare housing in Durham and Grand Rapids to see what fits your needs best.

Durham
Grand Rapids
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial Revival
Mid-Century Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, hardwood floors
Proximity to breweries, open-concept layouts

Housing preferences can vary widely, but comparing Durham and Grand Rapids sheds light on unique offerings. In Durham, homes often come with spacious yards and classic hardwood floors, reflecting a preference for traditional settings. On the other hand, Grand Rapids boasts a more modern edge, with many listings highlighting proximity to local breweries and preference for open-concept layouts, appealing to those who value a mix of urban lifestyle and home comfort. With Grand Rapids scoring higher in walkability and bikeability, it caters more to those seeking an active, urban lifestyle compared to Durham's more laid-back, spacious living arrangements.

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.

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations

When preparing for a move, it's essential to understand the climate changes you'll face. This comparison highlights the differences in weather between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI , providing a clear perspective on what to expect in your new home.

Durham
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
Hurricanes, Storms
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/71
82/62
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

52/32
31/18


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43
38
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

6
74


The switch from Durham's milder winters to Grand Rapids' more intense cold and significant snowfall is a key point for potential movers. While both cities enjoy four distinct seasons, Grand Rapids experiences notably fewer days of sunshine and much higher annual snowfall, indicating a need for preparedness in winter driving and home maintenance. Moreover, the contrast in natural disaster risks—from hurricanes in Durham to snowstorms and occasional tornadoes in Grand Rapids—underscores the importance of understanding local emergency protocols and insurance considerations.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move between different locations, it's vital to weigh the economic and financial differences you'll encounter. This comparison between Durham, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI, focuses on essential money matters. Understanding these can help make your transition smoother and prevent any financial surprises.

Durham
Grand Rapids
Avg. Household Income
$71,343
$59,596
Cost of Living Index
96.6
90.7
State Income Tax
5.25
4.25
Avg. Property Tax
0.84
1.58
Avg. Sales Tax
7.5
6
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health, Tech
Manufacturing, Health Care, Education
Affluence
Reasonably affluent
Modestly affluent
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
Low to moderate

Moving from Durham to Grand Rapids could be advantageous for those seeking a more affordable cost of living without compromising the quality of life. Although the average household income in Durham is higher, Grand Rapids offers a lower cost of living index and a more favorable state income tax rate. This could mean that despite a seemingly lower income, your dollar stretches further in Grand Rapids. Additionally, the contrasting property and sales tax rates between the two cities are crucial for long-term financial planning, especially for homeowners and frequent shoppers. Both cities prioritize health care and education in their top industries, suggesting stable employment opportunities in these sectors.

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents you will find in Durham, NC & Grand Rapids, MI . Understanding these aspects can provide insights into the community vibes and values that await you in your new city.

Durham
Grand Rapids
Political Make-up
Strongly Democratic
Moderately Republican
Local Politics
Progressive Policies
Conservative with pockets of progressivism
Religion
Varied, with a notable number of non-religious residents
Significant Christian influence, local churches and denominations

Moving from Durham, NC, to Grand Rapids, MI, you'll notice a shift not just in weather but also in the political and religious landscapes. Durham's political atmosphere is quite progressive, reflecting in its local governance and public policies. In contrast, Grand Rapids has a more conservative stance, though it's sprinkled with progressive communities, reflecting a more diverse political viewpoint. Religion plays a stronger, more visible role in the day-to-day life of Grand Rapids, with a significant Christian presence and numerous active local churches compared to Durham, where you'll find a broader spectrum of beliefs, including a larger community of non-religious residents. This comparison reflects the diverse tapestry of America and highlights the unique character each city offers.

Durham vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving to a new city can be exciting, yet adapting to a different commute can be a bit of a curveball. This section is aimed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Grand Rapids . Whether you're driving or relying on public transport, knowing what to expect will make your transition smoother.

Durham
Grand Rapids
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
21
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
Fairly feasible

In Durham, while the average commute time is slightly longer, the difference is marginal. Traffic congestion is generally low, but Durham's public transit scores are lower than Grand Rapids. This suggests that while investing in a GoDurham pass might be beneficial, owning a car could be more necessary for navigating Durham efficiently. In contrast, Grand Rapids, with its slight edge in public transit availability and less dependency on a car, highlights the city's effort in providing more The Rapid transit options and bike-friendly routes for its residents, making getting by without a car fairly feasible. Understanding these nuances in both cities will assist you in planning your daily commute, whether you prefer driving or using public transit.

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