Best Philadelphia to Grand Rapids Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Grand Rapids and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 715 mile move from Pennsylvania to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia to Grand Rapids Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.519.5Authorized For Property, HHG
2Pineapple Movers9.469.62Authorized For HHG
3banning moving9.249.47Authorized 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 Philadelphia to Grand Rapids?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 715 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI will cost on average $2,389 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Grand Rapids move is roughly $5,730. 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$1,608300 ft³$5.36
1 Bedroom$2,389450 ft³$5.31
2 Bedrooms$3,945750 ft³$5.26
3 Bedrooms$5,7301100 ft³$5.21
4 Bedrooms$8,2551600 ft³$5.16
5+ Bedrooms$9,1971800 ft³$5.11
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & 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 PA to MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Philadelphia guide.

Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Grand Rapids Movers

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

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 2,789+ data points

8701 Torresdale Ave

Philadelphia, PA, 19136

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-distance Movers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Pineapple Movers Logo

Pineapple Movers

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 667+ data points

Collingswood, NJ, 08108

About Pineapple Movers

Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579435 / 1208543

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
b

banning moving

Exceptional9.24/10
based on 393+ data points

2224 Apple Way

Bensalem, PA, 19020

About banning moving

Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3350149 / 1070919

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,675 (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.

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, finding a neighborhood you love can be challenging. This guide aims to simplify that by comparing local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Grand Rapids, MI . By identifying similarities between neighborhoods in both cities, we can help you feel more at home in your new surroundings.

PhiladelphiaGrand RapidsHow They're Similar
Rittenhouse SquareHeritage HillHistoric charm, green spaces
FishtownEastownVibrant arts scene, unique eateries
ManayunkEast HillsHip, with trendy shops and cafes
Old CityHeartside DistrictRich history, cultural hotspots
University CityMidtownEducational institutions, lively community
Center CityDowntown GRUrban center, entertainment options
Northern LibertiesBelknap LookoutGrowing, with luxury developments
Chestnut HillEast Grand RapidsAffluent, suburban feel
South PhiladelphiaRoosevelt ParkDiverse community, family-friendly
West PhiladelphiaBaxterDiverse, community-oriented

In comparing neighborhoods like Rittenhouse Square and Heritage Hill, you'll find both offer a blend of historic charm with modern amenities amidst lush greenery. Heritage Hill, like Rittenhouse Square, is adorned with historic homes and is near parks such as Wilcox Park, offering a similar feel to Philadelphia's leafy streets. For those drawn to the innovative and artsy vibe of Fishtown, Eastown in Grand Rapids will feel like home with its collection of unique eateries such as That Early Bird Cafe and vibrant arts scene, highlighted by events at Wealthy Theatre. The similarity between the old-world charm of Old City and the cultural richness of Heartside District is evident in their array of galleries, museums, and historic sites, offering a seamless transition for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

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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 Philadelphia to Grand Rapids

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of what you might gain and lose by relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI. By comparing the pros and cons directly, you'll have a better foundation for making an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.

CONs
PROs
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Costly living
  • Dense traffic
  • Urban hustle
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lower crime rates
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Calmer pace
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Smaller historical scope
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer major teams
  • Lesser variety
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Richer history
  • More diversity
  • Better sports scene
  • Broader cuisine

While Philadelphia boasts a rich tapestry of history evident in landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Grand Rapids offers a quieter, yet no less rich, cultural experience with places such as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. The move from Philly's dense and bustling atmosphere to Grand Rapids' calmer, more relaxed pace might be jarring, but it also offers a more affordable living situation, with the cost of housing notably lower, allowing more room in your budget to explore Grand Rapids' burgeoning art scene, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum and local craft breweries like Founders Brewing Co. Despite a smaller sports scene, Grand Rapids has spirited local teams and offers outdoor recreational opportunities, like those around Lake Michigan, which are less accessible in Philadelphia's urban environment. Making a move to Grand Rapids can offer a refreshing change with its unique blend of small-town charm and growing urban developments.

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide

Food is a significant part of local culture and life quality in a new area. To help you become better acquainted with what awaits your palate, we'll compare the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Grand Rapids . This overview will enable you to have a clearer idea of the food scene you're moving into.

Philadelphia
Grand Rapids
Most iconic local food item
Cheesesteak
Beer Cheese Soup
Most popular meat dish
Roast Pork Sandwich
Smoked Meats
Most popular street food item
Pretzels
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Mushroom Cheesesteak
Vegan Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Zahav
  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Founders Brewing Co.
  • Marcona on the Lake
  • Sancho’s Streetside
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 Philadelphia, the iconic cheesesteak is more than just a meal; it's a local obsession that can be found in numerous venues around the city, with Pat's King of Steaks in Passyunk Square and Zahav in Society Hill being outstanding examples. Grand Rapids, on the other hand, has carved a niche in the culinary world with its craft beer scene, where places like Founders Brewing Co. combine unique brews with hearty dishes like Beer Cheese Soup. This distinction between the cities' food scenes highlights the diverse flavors and dining experiences awaiting you, from the historic streets of Philadelphia to the innovative craft beer pubs in Grand Rapids.

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to connect your love for the familiar flavors of Philadelphia with the exciting culinary scene in Grand Rapids. By comparing top restaurants from Philadelphia to their Grand Rapids counterparts , we aim to make your transition smoother and tastier, ensuring you find your new favorite spots in no time.

PhiladelphiaGrand RapidsWhat You'll Love
ZahavGroveFine dining with a commitment to exquisite plates and flavors
Pat's King of SteaksTwo Beards DeliOffers a wide variety of hearty sandwiches reminiscent of Philly's best
Federal DonutsSandy's DonutsKnown for a creative selection and quality, akin to Federal's unique offerings
Reading Terminal MarketDowntown MarketAn indoor market offering a plethora of eateries and fresh food options
Vernick Food & DrinkReserve Wine & FoodSimilar upscale experience focusing on meticulously crafted meals
La ColombeMadcap CoffeeBoth cafes are renowned for their dedication to the craft of coffee making
Di Bruno Bros.AperitivoOffers a range of gourmet cheeses and meats, echoing Di Bruno's Italian market vibe
Pizzeria BeddiaHarmony Brewing CompanyNotable for its exceptional pizzas and casual, friendly atmosphere
SurayaZoko 822A similar celebration of unique and vibrant flavors, focusing on Basque cuisine
El VezDonkey TaqueriaOffers innovative and traditional Mexican fare with a lively atmosphere

The gastronomic landscape of Grand Rapids, while diverse and vibrant, harbors cozy corners for those craving the Philadelphia taste and experience. Grove brings a piece of Zahav's Middle Eastern flair to the Midwest with its farm-to-table approach and innovative cuisine. Similarly, Sandy's Donuts fills the doughnut-shaped hole in your heart left by Federal Donuts with its inventive flavors and classic favorites. For a more casual setting that evokes the essence of Pizzeria Beddia, Harmony Brewing Company's artisanal pizzas and local craft beers create a warm, inviting atmosphere. These establishments not only serve as testament to Grand Rapids' culinary versatility but also ensure that no matter where you are, the flavors of home are never too far away.

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Ready to start your move?

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for making informed decisions. This comparison is designed to illuminate the differences in housing between Philadelphia, PA, and Grand Rapids, MI, covering aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and more, to assist in your move.

Philadelphia
Grand Rapids
Typical Architecture Style
Georgian, Federal
Mid-century Modern, Craftsman
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Historic details, proximity to public transit
Family-friendly neighborhoods, green spaces

In an in-depth look into the housing aspects of both cities, Philadelphia exhibits a higher median home price and monthly rent compared to Grand Rapids, reflecting the larger urban lifestyle and amenities that come with living in one of America's oldest cities. The architecture in Philadelphia leans towards the historic Georgian and Federal styles, resonating with its rich history, whereas Grand Rapids showcases a diverse range of Mid-century Modern and Craftsman homes, appealing to those with a taste for unique American architectural designs. The walkability and bikeability scores also favor Philadelphia, indicating a more compact urban environment suitable for those who prefer to navigate the city on foot or by bike. Interestingly, real estate listings in Philadelphia often highlight historic details and proximity to public transit, showcasing the city's heritage and connectivity. In contrast, Grand Rapids' listings tend to emphasize family-friendly neighborhoods and the abundance of green spaces, catering to those seeking a balance between urban living and access to nature.

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.

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations

When relocating from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide highlights the weather differences between Philadelphia, PA and Grand Rapids, MI to help you get accustomed to your new home’s climate. Whether it's preparing for colder winters or understanding local allergy triggers, this comparison will aid in setting realistic expectations.

Philadelphia
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
Storms, Floods
Snowstorms, Floods
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87/68
83/62
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

40/26
31/18


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47
38
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22
74


While both Philadelphia and Grand Rapids experience all four seasons, there are notable differences to consider. One significant contrast is the winter weather, with Grand Rapids seeing considerably more snowfall annually than Philadelphia. This means you should be prepared for heavier snowfall and potentially investing in snow removal equipment or services. Additionally, Grand Rapids enjoys fewer days of sunshine compared to Philadelphia, which might affect your outdoor activities, especially during the shorter days of winter. Both cities have their unique challenges concerning air quality and allergies, with Philadelphia experiencing good overall air quality and seasonal pollen allergies, while Grand Rapids faces moderate air quality and a diverse range of allergens, including mold in the fall.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, it's crucial to compare how the cost of living, taxes, and economic landscapes differ between your current and future home. This guide aims to equip you with financial insights moving from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI , ensuring you're well-prepared for the transition.

Philadelphia
Grand Rapids
Avg. Household Income
$52,899
$59,596
Cost of Living Index
126.5
90.7
State Income Tax
3.07
4.25
Avg. Property Tax
0.99
1.54
Avg. Sales Tax
8.00
6.00
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Manufacturing
Manufacturing, Health Services, Retail
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate to High
Poverty
High
Lower than Philadelphia
Homelessness
Moderate
Lower than Philadelphia

When moving from Philadelphia to Grand Rapids, you'll likely find a more favorable cost of living, with Grand Rapids scoring lower on the index and boasting a lower average sales tax. Although the average household income is higher in Philadelphia, the lower cost of living in Grand Rapids could offset this difference. It's important to note the variations in state income and property taxes, with Grand Rapids having a slightly higher state income tax but a lower sales tax rate. Both cities offer robust healthcare and manufacturing industries, promising diverse job opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances will help you make a smoother transition and manage your budget effectively.

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison

When preparing for a move from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI, understanding the comparison of the politics between Philadelphia & Grand Rapids and the religious makeup of each city provides a crucial snapshot of the new community you'll be joining. This comparison aims to give you a quick insight into what to expect in these sectors.

Philadelphia
Grand Rapids
Political Make-up
Largely Democratic
Moderately Conservative
Local Politics
Progressive Policies
Mix of Conservative and Moderate Policies
Religion
Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence
Protestant-majority, with a notable Christian Reformed community

In Philadelphia, the political atmosphere leans heavily Democratic, reflecting in progressive local policies and governance. This contrasts with Grand Rapids, where local politics show a blend of conservative and moderate views. This difference can affect local regulations, public services, and community initiatives you may experience. On the religious front, Philadelphia's diversity includes a strong Catholic community, contrasting with Grand Rapids, where Protestant faith, especially the Christian Reformed Church, plays a significant role in the community's culture and activities. Knowing these distinctions helps you to anticipate the cultural shift and engage more readily with your new neighbors.

Philadelphia vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Grand Rapids, MI requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options between these two cities.

Philadelphia
Grand Rapids
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
32
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, but limited
No, car is essential

In Philadelphia, the robust public transit system, including buses, subways, and trolleys, facilitates getting around without a car, though it might be inconvenient depending on your specific location and destination. In contrast, Grand Rapids’ less expansive public transit system makes owning a car almost essential for daily commutes and errands. Ultimately, while you might find yourself enjoying shorter average commute times in Grand Rapids, the trade-off includes a higher dependence on personal vehicles due to the limited public transportation options.

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