Best Boston to Rochester Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Rochester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 393 mile move from Massachusetts to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 59 Boston to Rochester moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Rochester. 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.
Best Boston to Rochester Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.96 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Rochester
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 393 miles from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY will cost on average $1,798 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Rochester move is roughly $4,302. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,211 | 300 ft³ | 4.04 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,798 | 450 ft³ | 4.00 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,965 | 750 ft³ | 3.95 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,302 | 1100 ft³ | 3.91 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,189 | 1600 ft³ | 3.87 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,886 | 1800 ft³ | 3.83 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Rochester Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |
Zippboxx
923 Motor Pkwy
Hauppauge, NY, 11788
About Zippboxx
Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both locally...
Services
- Local movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3077817 / 1043860 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |
Interior Moving Services, Inc.
This listing has been claimed by Interior Moving Services, Inc.157 La Grange Ave
Rochester, NY, 14613
About Interior Moving Services, Inc.
Located in Rochester, New York, Interior Moving Services has close to three decades of moving expertise, serving both residential and commercial...
Services
- Local residential moving
- Local commercial moving
- Long-distance residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1498819 / 600823 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
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.
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.
Boston vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison
If you're moving from Boston, MA, to Rochester, NY, use this comparison of neighborhoods to help you familiarize yourself with your new city. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in *Boston, MA* with *Rochester, NY* so you can find your closest equivalent.
| Boston | Rochester | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | East Avenue | Upscale with historic mansions and trendy spots |
| Beacon Hill | Cobbs Hill | Historic charm with a community feel |
| South End | Park Avenue | Diverse, artistic, and packed with dining options |
| Cambridge | Corn Hill | Cultural hub with historical elements |
| Fenway-Kenmore | South Wedge | Young, vibrant, with access to nightlife |
| Jamaica Plain | Highland Park | Ethnically diverse, green spaces |
| North End | Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) | Rich in culture, Italian influence |
| Charlestown | Charlotte | Historic waterfront area |
| Seaport District | Corn Hill Landing | Modern, waterfront development |
| Allston-Brighton | Swillburg | Student and young professional community |
If you love the sophistication and historic mansions of Back Bay, you'll feel at home in Rochester's East Avenue area, where upscale residences and trendy spots like Good Luck restaurant are abundant. Fans of the South End's diversity and culinary variety will enjoy Park Avenue, which boasts popular eateries such as Jines Restaurant. Those accustomed to Cambridge's cultural vibes and historic flavor will find a new sanctuary in Corn Hill, featuring places like The Corn Hill Navery. Lastly, if you're intrigued by Jamaica Plain's community gardens and green patches, Highland Park, known for its diversity and natural beauty, will feel just right with the serene presence of Highland Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Rochester
Moving from one city to another allows us to weigh the different aspects of each location. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY, highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks to give you a full picture.
Boston, MA- Higher Cost of Living
- Heavy Traffic
- Harsh Winters
- Less Green Space
Rochester, NY- More Affordable
- Less Congestion
- Similar Winters
- More Parks
Rochester, NY- Smaller Arts Scene
- Car Dependent
- Fewer Dining Options
- Fewer Higher Ed Options
Boston, MA- Richer Cultural Scene
- Better Public Transit
- Diverse Restaurants
- Top-tier Universities
Relocating from Boston to Rochester offers a chance to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life in a city where your dollar stretches further. Rochester's abundant green spaces like Highland Park and Genesee Valley Park offer respite not as readily found in Boston's urban environment. While Boston's dining scene is hard to match, Rochester holds its own with gems such as Dinosaur BBQ and the unique culinary scene at the Public Market. Rochester's cultural footprint, including landmarks like the George Eastman Museum, though smaller, is deeply impactful, providing residents and visitors with a rich sense of community and history.
Boston vs. Rochester Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Rochester to help you understand the unique food scene you're moving into. Food plays a vital role in the cultural experience of a city, and we aim to equip you with insights into what each location offers.
| Boston | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Garbage Plate |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | White Hot |
| Most popular street food item | Cannoli | Zweigle's Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you settle into your new home in Rochester, you'll find the legendary Garbage Plate at Nick Tahou Hots, a must-try for any food adventurer. For a local twist on hot dogs, Zweigle's at Dogtown reflects Rochester's unique culinary character. Vegan options are blossoming, too, with joints like The Red Fern offering creative alternatives like the Tempeh Reuben. Rochester's evolving food scene is notable not just in its downtown area but also in neighborhoods like Park Avenue and the South Wedge, where food trucks and eateries celebrate the city's diverse tastes and culinary innovation.
Boston vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home is a journey flavored by local culinary experiences. This restaurant comparison guide is dedicated to helping you transition from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY, by matching your beloved Boston eateries with Rochester's finest. Discover your next favorite place to dine as we bridge Boston's iconic food scene with Rochester's culinary diversity.
| Boston | Rochester | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Oleana | Roux | Inventive French cuisine in a cozy setting |
| Neptune Oyster | Restaurant Good Luck | Great for fresh seafood dishes |
| Union Oyster House | The Revelry | Offers a modern twist on classic dishes |
| Mike's Pastry | Genesee Bakery & Deli | Known for desserts and baked goods |
| Toro | Tapastry at the Market | Spanish Tapas with a local twist |
| Coppa | Fiamma Centro | Authentic Italian in a vibrant atmosphere |
| Giulia | Ristorante Lucano | Italian dining focusing on quality ingredients |
| Mistral | Avvino | Contemporary American cuisine with Mediterranean influences |
| Sarma | Cedar Mediterranean Restaurant | Middle Eastern fare that feels familiar |
| Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Village Bakery & Cafe | Perfect for a cozy breakfast or lunch |
Exploring the culinary landscape of Rochester, you'll find places that echo the familiar vibes and flavors of Boston's dining scene. Roux stands out for its take on French cuisine, offering a cozy atmosphere that might remind you of Oleana's approach to Mediterranean dishes. Seafood lovers transitioning from Neptune Oyster will appreciate Restaurant Good Luck's fresh and inventive seafood offerings, ensuring the maritime tradition continues. For those mornings when you miss the pastries of Mike's Pastry, Genesee Bakery & Deli in Rochester is your go-to for exceptional baked goods and sweets. Moving cities doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love; it's an opportunity to discover new favorites that reflect the quality and diversity of your old haunts.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly influences your moving experience. Understanding how Boston, MA and Rochester, NY compare in terms of housing can better prepare you for the transition. This comparison addresses costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle compatibility.
| Comparison | Boston | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Colonial Revival, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transit, historic charm | Family-friendly neighborhoods, spacious backyards |
Housing affordability and lifestyle vary significantly between Boston and Rochester. You might find Boston's high cost of living and historical architecture charming but the city's urban buzz comes with a price tag. In contrast, Rochester offers more budget-friendly housing options, larger living spaces, and a pace of life that might appeal to those looking for a quieter, more spread-out environment. The architectural styles also differ, with Boston favoring more Colonial and Federal styles, whereas Rochester is rich in Colonial Revival and Craftsman homes. Despite the lower walkability and bikeability scores in Rochester, its family-friendly neighborhoods and spacious backyards are significant draws for those moving from more congested urban centers.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY
1. Park Avenue: This neighborhood is brimming with outdoor cafes and stores that welcome pets, making it an ideal spot for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry friends.
2. Highland Park: Known for its expansive park of the same name, Highland Park offers plenty of green space for dogs to play and trails for long walks, including Highland Park itself, making it a haven for pet owners.
3. North Winton Village: This community-focused neighborhood features pet-friendly housing and several parks, along with the Bark Park at Cobbs Hill, where your pets can socialize and play off-leash.
Boston vs. Rochester Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the difference in weather conditions is crucial. Moving from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY demands an awareness of how climatic changes can impact your lifestyle. This comparison will shed light on weather variations to help you prepare for what lies ahead.
Boston, MA
Rochester, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Rochester, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Rochester, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Rochester, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters, Blizzards | Lake Effect Snow, Blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In moving from Boston to Rochester, you'll find both cities experience a range of weather conditions, but there are notable differences to prepare for. Rochester witnesses more snowfall and fewer days of sunshine compared to Boston, which could affect activities and your daily commute in winter months. Additionally, Rochester's slightly higher humidity levels might make the already cold winters feel even chillier. Understanding these nuances is key in adapting to your new environment seamlessly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Rochester
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding financial aspects like the cost of living between Boston, MA and Rochester, NY is crucial. These insights help you prepare for the economic differences you'll encounter. Let's explore how these cities compare financially.
| Comparison | Boston | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $41,980 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 100 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 6.33 to 8.82 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.22 | 2.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Education, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Higher | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Moderate to High |
The average household income in Boston is substantially higher than in Rochester, reflecting a significant disparity in economic conditions. This difference is further emphasized by the cost of living index, with Boston's being notably higher. While state income tax in New York varies by income bracket, potentially affecting Rochester residents more, the overall lower cost of living may compensate for this. The higher average sales tax and property tax rates in Rochester also play a crucial role in the financial equation. Understanding these variances can help you better prepare for financial adjustments following your move.
Boston vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison aims to offer a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Boston & Rochester , focusing on the political and religious makeup of these two cities. Get a glimpse of where residents stand on the political spectrum, and the religious landscape, providing insight into the community you are moving into or away from.
| Boston | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Strong emphasis on education and healthcare | Focus on economic development and social welfare |
| Religion | Majorly Catholic, with a mix of other Christian denominations | Diverse religious landscape with Christianity being predominant |
Both Boston and Rochester share a liberal or Democratic leaning when it comes to their political makeup, rooted in a history of progressive values. However, the local emphasis differs, with Boston placing a strong focus on education and healthcare reforms, likely due to its rich academic presence including universities such as Harvard. Rochester, on the other hand, prioritizes economic development and social welfare, reflecting its industrial roots and efforts towards community support. When it comes to religion, Boston has a significant Catholic population alongside other Christian denominations, reflective of its colonial heritage. Rochester presents a more varied religious scene but maintains Christianity as the predominant faith, showcasing the region's diverse cultural fabric.
Boston vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making the move from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY? Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in these cities is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Boston & Rochester will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like.
| Comparison | Boston | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, easily | More challenging |
In Boston, the MBTA offers extensive public transportation options, making it possible to live without a car. The average commute time is longer, and traffic congestion is higher compared to Rochester, reflecting the city's dense layout and bustling activity. Meanwhile, Rochester, with its lower congestion levels, presents a somewhat smoother driving experience. However, the public transit system in Rochester is less extensive, potentially making a car necessary for some. While each city offers unique challenges and benefits in terms of commuting, understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move.
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