Best Rochester to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Rochester to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,748 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Rochester to Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Rochester compared to Oakland. 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 Rochester to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.95 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Reliable Movers | 8.92 | 8.81 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Rochester to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,748 miles from Rochester, NY to Oakland, CA will cost on average $4,118 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Oakland move is roughly $9,956. 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 | $2,760 | 300 ft³ | 9.20 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,118 | 450 ft³ | 9.15 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,826 | 750 ft³ | 9.10 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,956 | 1100 ft³ | 9.05 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,402 | 1600 ft³ | 9.00 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,112 | 1800 ft³ | 8.95 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Rochester guide.
Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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) |
Reliable Movers
This listing has been claimed by Reliable Movers159 Hardenbergh Ave
Auburn, NY, 13021
About Reliable Movers
Reliable Movers is a family-owned and operated business specializing in moves from New York to Florida. Since 1996, this Auburn-based moving...
Services
- Residential moving, local and long distance
- Commercial factories and offices moving
- Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1605981 / 837987 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 79,441 (2023) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
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.
Rochester vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. We aim to ease this transition by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & Oakland, CA. Whether you're seeking the cultural vibrancy or the tranquility of parks, this guide is designed to help you find your new favorite neighborhood by drawing parallels to the ones you already know and love.
| Rochester | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Park Avenue | Rockridge | Lively, local shops |
| East Avenue | Piedmont Avenue | Historic charm |
| Highland Park | Montclair | Green spaces, community feel |
| South Wedge | Temescal | Diverse, artsy vibe |
| NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | West Oakland | Vibrant arts scene |
| Corn Hill | Old Oakland | Historic, walkable |
| Browncroft | Laurel District | Family-friendly, quaint homes |
| Swillburg | Dimond District | Community-centric, parks |
| North Winton Village | Glenview | Residential, local eateries |
| Ellwanger-Barry | Jack London District | Waterfront, nightlife |
Those drawn to the vibrant streets and boutique shopping of Park Avenue in Rochester might find a new home in Rockridge, Oakland, where quaint shops line the bustling streets. If Highland Park's lush green spaces and community events hold a special place in your heart, Montclair's picturesque landscapes and inviting parks could be your next haven. For the artists and creatives who thrived in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA), West Oakland's burgeoning arts scene and community-oriented spaces offer a place to both inspire and be inspired. Dining enthusiasts enjoying the variety and culinary delights of South Wedge's eateries will relish exploring Temescal's diverse food scene, which boasts an array of international cuisines. Each Oakland neighborhood carries its own unique charm and characteristics, just waiting to be explored and appreciated, akin to the beloved communities you're bidding farewell to in Rochester.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Oakland
Moving across the country from Rochester, NY to Oakland, CA, is a significant change. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation , showcasing how lifestyle, environment, and culture shift from the East Coast to the West Coast. By contrasting the cons of leaving Rochester against the pros of moving to Oakland, and vice versa, these charts offer clear insights to help you weigh your decision carefully.
Rochester, NY- Harsh winters
- Smaller job market
- Lower cultural diversity
- Smaller city vibe
Oakland, CA- Milder climate
- Bigger job opportunities
- Richer cultural scenes
- Larger, vibrant city
Oakland, CA- Higher cost of living
- Faster pace of life
- More traffic
- Less personalized
Rochester, NY- Lower living costs
- Quieter lifestyle
- Less traffic congestion
- Close-knit community
Moving to Oakland from Rochester introduces you to a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the Oakland Art Murmur and Chinatown Streetfest. These events highlight the city's rich cultural diversity and provide wonderful opportunities for community engagement. Oakland's milder climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round in stunning locations like Lake Merritt and Redwood Regional Park. The city's food scene is also worth noting, with a wide variety of restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world, such as the famous Commis restaurant and Shandong for some of the best handmade noodles. Despite the higher cost of living, living in Oakland offers access to a larger job market, especially in tech and startups, making it an exciting move for those looking to advance their careers while enjoying a rich urban lifestyle.
Rochester vs. Oakland Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is essential when relocating, as food plays a significant role in the cultural landscape of any area. In this guide, we'll offer an insightful comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Oakland, enabling you to grasp the culinary differences and delights awaiting you in your new home.
| Rochester | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | White Hots | BBQ Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Zweigle's Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you dive into Oakland's vibrant food scene, you'll quickly notice its strong vegan presence and a remarkable variety of cuisines due to its diverse population. Areas like Temescal are known for their food trucks offering everything from gourmet tacos to innovative vegan options, such as jackfruit tacos. Meanwhile, iconic restaurants like Chez Panisse in Berkeley have laid the foundation for fresh, locally-sourced Californian cuisine, influencing countless eateries throughout Oakland. In contrast, Rochester boasts its own unique culinary identity with classics like the Garbage Plate from Nick Tahou Hots, a true testament to the city's inventive comfort food scene.
Rochester vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to dine. Food can transform a foreign place into home. This guide employs a restaurant comparison to bridge Rochester and Oakland, assisting newcomers in locating their new favorite eateries based on their old favorites. Whether you crave high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic meals, we've got you covered.
| Rochester | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Owl House | Shakewell | Both known for creative American cuisine with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. |
| Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | Blue Bottle Coffee | Both celebrated for their focus on high-quality, artisanal coffee. |
| Good Luck Restaurant | Commis | Each offers an elevated dining experience with a focus on innovative, locally sourced ingredients. |
| Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Everett & Jones Barbeque | Both are institutions in their respective cities for hearty, flavorful BBQ. |
| Grappa | A16 Oakland | Italian-inspired restaurants cherished for their wine selection and pasta dishes. |
| Swan Market | Sequoia Diner | Similar in their commitment to homemade, locally sourced food with a down-to-earth feel. |
| Nick Tahou Hots | Homeroom | Both provide a comforting, nostalgic dining experience with a focus on classic American dishes. |
| Roux | Duende | Each brings a unique interpretation of European cuisine, Roux with its French dishes, and Duende with a Spanish influence. |
| Genesee Brew House | Drake's Dealership | Beloved spots for enjoying local brews along with a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Lento | Alamar | Both pride themselves in offering fresh, sustainably sourced meals that delight the sea food lovers. |
For those enamored with the cozy ambiance and creative American dishes at The Owl House, Shakewell in Oakland offers a similar vibe, ensuring you don't miss out on that cozy dining experience you've grown to love. Coffee aficionados transitioning from Joe Bean Coffee Roasters will find solace in the artisanal brews of Blue Bottle Coffee, a place that mirrors the meticulous attention to quality and detail. BBQ lovers migrating from Rochester will appreciate the smoky flavors and hearty portions at Everett & Jones Barbeque, reminiscent of the legendary feasts at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. And for a taste of nostalgia, Homeroom’s classic American cuisine fills the void left by Nick Tahou Hots, offering comforting, home-style dishes that satisfy the soul.
Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts the quality of your move, making it crucial to understand how Rochester, NY and Oakland, CA stack up in this domain. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as housing costs , architecture , and lifestyle preferences to aid your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Rochester | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Victorian | Victorian, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Detached garages | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to BART |
In your move from Rochester to Oakland, you'll encounter significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. Oakland's median home price and rent are substantially higher, reflecting the Bay Area's competitive real estate market. However, the investment comes with benefits, including greater walkability and bikeability, which enrich an urban lifestyle. Oakland's architecture beautifully blends Victorian homes with modern touches, while listings often highlight eco-friendly upgrades and access to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system for easy commuting. In contrast, Rochester homes typically feature spacious yards and detached garages, offering a different kind of value for those prioritizing space and comfort over city living perks.
Rochester vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather differs between your current city and where you plan to live. This comparison highlights the key weather differences between Rochester, NY, and Oakland, CA, to help you adapt more easily to your new environment.
Rochester, NY
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Rochester | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Ice Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When transitioning from Rochester to Oakland, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns. Oakland enjoys more sunny days and milder winters compared to Rochester's cold and snowy climate. Additionally, while Rochester battles blizzards and ice storms, Oakland's concerns include earthquakes and wildfires. This juxtaposition in climate may influence your lifestyle, especially outdoor activities. Understanding these distinctions can help you prepare for your move both practically, in terms of wardrobe and home preparations, and mentally, as you adjust to a new environmental context.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Oakland
When contemplating a move from Rochester to Oakland, it is crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between Rochester, NY and Oakland, CA will impact your finances. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Rochester | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 6.33 to 8.82 | 1 to 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.9 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Technology, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Notable | Severe |
Moving from Rochester to Oakland, you'll notice a substantial difference in the cost of living, with Oakland being significantly more expensive. This is reflected in almost every aspect of finances, from household income, which is higher in Oakland to accommodate the higher living expenses, to the cost of living index. Taxes in California can also reach higher levels than in New York, particularly for higher earners. Despite these challenges, Oakland's economy is buoyed by robust technology and healthcare industries, offering potentially higher earnings and better employment opportunities. However, it's important to consider that affluence in Oakland does not spread evenly across the board, with homelessness being a more pressing issue compared to Rochester.
Rochester vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
Moving to a new city involves many changes, one of the most interesting being the cultural and demographic shifts. This quick comparison of the politics between Rochester & Oakland provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights into the community you're about to join.
| Rochester | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Heavily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic development, education | Emphasis on social equity, environmental sustainability |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Christian presence. Notable establishments include First Assembly of God. | Highly diverse; significant Christian, Muslim, and Buddhist communities. Notable locations include Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California. |
In moving from Rochester to Oakland, you'll transition from a city with a long-standing focus on economic development and education within its local politics, to a community that places a high value on social equity and environmental sustainability. Oakland's political climate is even more heavily Democratic than Rochester's, reflecting the city's progressive ethos. The religious landscape in both cities is rich and diverse, but Oakland stands out with its significant Muslim and Buddhist communities alongside a strong Christian presence. This diversity in beliefs and practices contributes to the vibrant, inclusive culture that defines Oakland.
Rochester vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Rochester, NY, to Oakland, CA, necessitates understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Oakland is designed to prepare you for what lies ahead, whether you're navigating rush hour or planning a car-free lifestyle.
| Comparison | Rochester | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 29.5 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but challenging | Easier, especially in downtown areas |
The average commute time in Oakland is higher than in Rochester, indicating more time on the road or using public transit. This is partly due to Oakland’s higher traffic congestion level. Thankfully, Oakland compensates with better public transit options, making it more feasible to live without a car, particularly if you're in or around downtown areas. In contrast, while Rochester's traffic is lighter, its public transit offerings are not as robust, making car ownership more of a necessity for convenient mobility.
Additional Resources
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Popular Rochester to California Routes
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