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Phoenix to Detroit Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from the sun-drenched deserts of Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun, to Detroit, the vibrant Motor City, marks an exciting journey in your life. While leaving behind Phoenix's sprawling landscapes for Detroit's rich cultural tapestry and booming automotive industry, it's a change that promises new adventures and opportunities. Understanding the monumental task ahead, it’s crucial to have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, and that’s where we come into play, ensuring your transition is as smooth and efficient as possible.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

#1
Sterling Interstate LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 2,279+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 7/17/2024)

USDOT: 3006713 Verify

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>

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#2
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo
Exceptional

based on 991+ data points

Peoria, AZ
Long Distance Moves, Local Moves, Business Relocation See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT: 3656946 Verify

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>

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#3
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,091+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 7/17/2024)

USDOT: 1877603 Verify

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>

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#4
Ultimate Movers LLC Logo
Superb

based on 1,244+ data points

Brownstown Charter Twp, MI
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Residential moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT: 2970010 Verify

About Ultimate Movers LLC

Ultimate Movers LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Taylor, MI, with 12 years of experience in the industry. It specialize...Read More >>

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#5
Professional Movers.com Logo
Fabulous

based on 270+ data points

Detroit, MI
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, International Relocation See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 266582 Verify

About Professional Movers.com

With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in sta...Read More >>

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Relocating from Phoenix to Detroit Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Phoenix, AZ & Detroit, MI . We'll match top neighborhoods in Phoenix with their closest equivalents in Detroit, helping you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings using what you already know.

PhoenixDetroit
ArcadiaIndian Village

Historic homes, charming streets

Roosevelt RowMidtown

Cultural, artistically vibrant

Downtown PhoenixDowntown Detroit

Urban core, sports and entertainment

CoronadoCorktown

Historic, tight-knit community

Desert RidgePalmer Woods

Family-friendly, spacious homes

Ahwatukee FoothillsSherwood Forest

Quiet, upscale residential area

EncantoBoston Edison

Historic elegance, spacious properties

North ScottsdaleBloomfield Hills

Luxury, premier living

Paradise ValleyGrosse Pointe

Waterfront, exclusive community

TempeFerndale

Young, energetic, with nightlife

For those who enjoy the artistic vibe and cultural richness of Roosevelt Row in Phoenix, Detroit's Midtown offers a comparable urban canvas ripe with galleries, theaters, and murals. Similarly, if you're drawn to the historic charm and tight-knit community of Coronado, Corktown in Detroit will welcome you with its beautifully preserved homes and a strong sense of community. Outdoor enthusiasts moving from the sprawling landscapes of Desert Ridge in Phoenix will find a serene getaway in Detroit's Palmer Woods, known for its leafy streets and spacious, architecturally significant homes. Each Detroit neighborhood, from the bustling urbanity of Downtown Detroit to the serene, upscale residential areas like Sherwood Forest, embodies a unique character that mirrors Phoenix's diverse districts, offering newcomers an array of choices to find their new home.

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Things to Do in Detroit

  • Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
  • Visit the Belle Isle Park
  • Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
  • Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
  • Discover the Henry Ford Museum
  • Experience the Motown Museum
  • Try local eats at Eastern Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

Moving cities is a significant decision that brings with it a mix of opportunities and drawbacks. This guide seeks to provide a balanced view of relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Detroit, MI , highlighting the pros and cons in dual charts for an honest reflection of what awaits you . It's designed to assist you in weighing your options carefully, ensuring you're well-informed about both the challenges and advantages of this move.

CONs
PROs
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Extreme heat
  • Scorpions
  • Sparse rainfall
  • High cost of living
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Milder summers
  • Rich in history
  • Lakes and rivers
  • Affordable housing
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Colder winters
  • Higher crime rate
  • Less sunshine
  • Higher property tax
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Outdoor activities
  • Sunny days
  • Low property tax

Transitioning from the endlessly sunny skies of Phoenix to Detroit's four distinct seasons brings a change of pace that can be refreshing. While Phoenix boasts a vibrant nightlife and abundant outdoor activities in places like Camelback Mountain and South Mountain Park, Detroit offers its rich history and cultural tapestry within its downtown area. Neighborhood parks such as Belle Isle and the revitalized waterfront district along the Detroit River invite exploration and leisure, contrasting with Phoenix’s desert landscapes. Detroit's dining scene flourishes with renowned establishments like Slows Bar BQ and Sister Pie, offering experiences unavailable in Phoenix's culinary circuit. This mix of urban revival and scenic natural resources in Detroit provides a compelling allure for those seeking a blend of affordability, history, and waterfront living.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

This comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & Detroit shines a light on the rich food cultures of both cities. Food plays a crucial role in understanding what life is like in a new area, and this overview aims to give you a taste of what to expect in your new home.

PhoenixDetroit

Most iconic local food item

TacosConey Dog

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaDetroit-style Pepperoni Pizza

Most popular street food item

Sonoran Hot DogShawarma

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosVegan Coney

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Durant's
  • FnB

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

86

Foodie Scene

87

Vegan Friendly

97

Phoenix and Detroit both offer vibrant and distinct culinary scenes, reflective of their cultural diversities. In Phoenix, the Sonoran Desert influences a unique blend of Mexican and American cuisines, with tacos and Sonoran Hot Dogs standing out as beloved local staples. Notably, the city scores high in vegan friendliness, with innovative dishes like Jackfruit Tacos. Key dining spots like Pizzeria Bianco showcase the artisanal side of Phoenix's food scene. On the flip side, Detroit's hearty meals, including the famed Coney Dog and Detroit-style Pizza, speak to the city's rich automotive and multicultural history. Detroit prides itself on a burgeoning foodie scene with institutions like American Coney Island, offering a taste of the city's culinary heart. Each city’s food culture not only satisfies the palate but also narrates the story of its people and past.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

Finding your next favorite eatery is crucial when moving to a new city as food plays a pivotal role in feeling at home. This guide compares top restaurants in Phoenix to their Detroit equivalents, helping you transition seamlessly into your new surroundings.

Binkley's RestaurantSelden Standard

Both offer creative, upscale dishes in a refined atmosphere.

Pizzeria BiancoSupino Pizzeria

Known for their thin crust pizzas and exceptional quality ingredients.

La Grande Orange Grocery & PizzeriaOttava Via

Casual yet chic, offering pizza along with diverse Italian staples.

Barrio CaféEl Barzon

Blending Mexican and Italian cuisines to create unique dishes.

FnBSelden Standard

Championing farm-to-table dining and seasonal menus.

Durant'sLondon Chop House

Both provide a traditional steakhouse experience with premium meats and classic sides.

Rusconi's American KitchenIridescence

Modern American cuisine with a focus on innovation and quality ingredients.

Nobuo at Teeter HouseIma

Offering a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, emphasizing fresh and inventive dishes.

Taco GuildImperial

Famous for their unique taco creations and a vast selection of tequilas.

Little Miss BBQSlows Bar BQ

Both specialize in slow-cooked, mouthwatering barbecue and have garnered a dedicated following.

Exploring Detroit's dining scene will reveal surprises that resonate with what you loved about Phoenix's top restaurants. Selden Standard, for example, stands out for its commitment to seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, reminiscent of Phoenix's FnB, albeit with a unique Michigan twist. Meanwhile, taco enthusiasts transitioning from Taco Guild to Imperial will find a refreshing take on classic flavors, elevating the simple taco to something extraordinary. Detroit's culinary landscape is as rich and diverse as Phoenix's, ensuring you'll discover spots that feel both new and familiar.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

Real estate greatly influences the moving process, making it crucial to understand how Phoenix and Detroit compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle . This comparison sheds light on what to expect when transitioning from one city to the other.

When moving from Phoenix to Detroit, you'll find significant differences in the real estate landscape. Phoenix's higher home prices reflect its booming economy and growth, while Detroit offers more affordable options, often highlighting the city's rich history with mentions of historic properties. The lifestyle in Detroit ranks slightly higher in urbanity, perhaps due to its dense, revitalized downtown areas like Midtown. Whereas Phoenix prioritizes outdoor living amenities in its listings, reflecting its warm climate. Both cities offer unique architectural styles, with Phoenix favoring Spanish Colonial and Detroit leaning towards Colonial Revival, which could influence your living experience based on personal style preferences.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI

1. Midtown: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Midtown is ideal for you and your pets due to its numerous parks and green spaces, along with pet-friendly cafes and grooming salons.

2. Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly restaurants and the popular Roosevelt Park, perfect for afternoon walks.

3. Woodbridge: With its quiet, tree-lined streets and close-knit community, Woodbridge offers a peaceful environment for pets, including easy access to spacious parks and the Michigan Humane Society for your pet’s needs.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

When moving from Phoenix, AZ to Detroit, MI, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two cities. This information will help you prepare for the climate differences and plan accordingly for your relocation. Phoenix and Detroit offer vastly different weather patterns, from average temperatures to annual precipitation levels. Let's explore how these cities differ climatically.

Summer icon
106°F / 83°F

Phoenix, AZ

83°F / 63°F

Detroit, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 46°F

Phoenix, AZ

35°F / 22°F

Detroit, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
8

Phoenix, AZ

33

Detroit, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Phoenix, AZ

42

Detroit, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from the sun-drenched deserts of Phoenix to the seasonally diverse climate of Detroit will be a significant change. In Detroit, you'll experience four distinct seasons, including cold, snowy winters and mild, pleasant summers, a stark contrast to Phoenix's hot, dry conditions year-round. The higher humidity in Detroit can make the air feel more oppressive during summer and chillier in the winter than the dry climate of Phoenix. Preparing for Detroit's winter requires a good set of warm clothing and possibly snow removal equipment, which is a non-issue in Phoenix. Understanding these differences can help you adjust more quickly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a change. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between Phoenix and Detroit, providing a comprehensive overview of what you can expect in your new home city.

While the average household income in Phoenix far exceeds that of Detroit, the cost of living index in Detroit is significantly lower, making everyday expenses more affordable. However, it’s important to consider the higher average property and sales taxes in Detroit, which could offset some of those savings. The industries that dominate each city's economy are somewhat similar, with technology and healthcare being important in both, but the automotive industry remains a cornerstone in Detroit. Despite these economic differences, understanding the specific financial landscape of your destined city will aid in a smoother transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between Phoenix, AZ and Detroit, MI

Considering a move from Phoenix, AZ to Detroit, MI? It's important to understand the communities you're entering and leaving. This comparison gives you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Phoenix & Detroit . Dive into the local culture and see what changes you might expect.

PhoenixDetroit

Political Make-up

Mixed, with a slight lean towards liberal in urban areasStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

City Government tends to have a balanced mix of viewsCity Government largely Democratic

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Christian populationPredominantly Christian, with historical black churches having a strong presence

While both Phoenix and Detroit have rich and diverse cultures, moving from Phoenix to Detroit, you might notice a shift in the political landscape. Detroit is known for its strong Democratic leanings, a contrast to Phoenix's more balanced political makeup. This has implications for local policy, community initiatives, and even daily conversations. Detroit's religious scene, much like Phoenix's, is predominantly Christian, but with a notable influence of historical black churches which play a crucial role in the city's community life and social activism. This change in political and religious atmosphere could offer a new and enriching community experience for you.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Detroit

Moving from one city to another is always a change, but understanding how your daily commute and traffic experience will shift is crucial. This guide offers a bold comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & Detroit, to help you better gauge what your daily travel might look like in your new city.

PhoenixDetroit
2524

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

57

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Not easilyIt's challenging

Can you get by without car?

In both Phoenix and Detroit, you'll find that getting around might entail grappling with certain challenges. While Phoenix offers a slightly less congested drive, the city's public transit scores lower, making it harder to rely solely on buses and light rail for your commute. On the other hand, Detroit, with its slightly better public transit system, still presents challenges for those wishing to forgo a car entirely. This difference underscores the importance of planning your living and working locations in each city to minimize reliance on extensive daily travel. Remember, while both cities have their transportation nuances, adapting your commute can significantly impact your overall satisfaction and time management in your new home.

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