Best Rochester to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Rochester to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 397 mile move from New York to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Rochester to Washington DC 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 Bookstore 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 Rochester compared to Washington DC. 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 Washington DC Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.96 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Reliable Movers | 8.93 | 8.81 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Rochester to Washington DC
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 397 miles from Rochester, NY to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,801 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Washington DC move is roughly $4,309. 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 | $1,213 | 300 ft³ | 4.04 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,801 | 450 ft³ | 4.00 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,970 | 750 ft³ | 3.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,309 | 1100 ft³ | 3.92 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,200 | 1600 ft³ | 3.87 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,898 | 1800 ft³ | 3.83 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Rochester guide.
Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Washington DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
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) |
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. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Making a move to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. Our comparison between Rochester, NY & Washington DC, DC neighborhoods will help to bridge that gap. By using your current city as a baseline, you can find a new neighborhood in your future city that feels like home.
| Rochester | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Park Avenue | Dupont Circle | Vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining |
| East Avenue | Kalorama | Historic homes, affluent community |
| Highland Park | Cleveland Park | Green spaces, family-friendly |
| South Wedge | Capitol Hill | Diverse, community-centric with local shops |
| North Winton Village | Petworth | Growing, vibrant with a strong sense of community |
| Corn Hill | Georgetown | Historic, cobblestone streets with upscale boutiques |
| Charlotte | Anacostia | Waterfront views, rich in history |
| Maplewood | Bloomingdale | Historic, diverse, with strong family ties |
| Upper Monroe | Adams Morgan | Nightlife, diverse cuisine, cultural diversity |
| Susan B. Anthony District | Shaw | Rich in history, eclectic, dynamic community |
For those drawn to the bustling, artsy vibe of Park Avenue in Rochester, Dupont Circle in Washington DC offers an equally vibrant nightlife and a variety of dining options. The historic homes and affluent atmosphere of East Avenue find their match in Kalorama, known for its prestigious residents and stunning architecture. Highland Park's community and green spaces resonate well with Cleveland Park's family-friendly environment and abundant parkland, perfect for weekend picnics or leisurely strolls. On the other hand, South Wedge's dedication to diversity and local businesses is mirrored in Capitol Hill's community-centric approach, where markets, cafes, and bookstores highlight the local culture. For those who appreciate the tight-knit community and growing energy of North Winton Village, Petworth offers a similar vibe, with an emphasis on community events and local eateries. Understanding the unique qualities of these neighborhoods can ease the transition, making a new city feel like home.
Things to Do in Washington DC
Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.- Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
- Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
- Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
- Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
- Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
- Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Washington DC
Moving between cities is a big decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Rochester, NY to Washington DC, DC , laying out the challenges and benefits you might face. Recognizing the contrasts and similarities helps in understanding the shift in lifestyle, opportunities, and environment. Let’s explore both sides to help you make a well-informed decision.
Rochester, NY- Harsher winters
- Smaller job market
- Lower diversity
- Less cultural venues
Washington DC, DC- Milder winters
- Larger job market
- Higher diversity
- More cultural venues
Washington DC, DC- Higher cost of living
- Faster pace
- Denser population
- Urban-centric
Rochester, NY- Affordable housing
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Close-knit communities
- Easy nature access
Moving from Rochester, NY to Washington, DC introduces you to a vibrant urban lifestyle with access to an array of cultural venues such as the Smithsonian museums and the Kennedy Center, highlighting the city's rich diversity and dynamic job market. However, this comes with the trade-off of a higher cost of living and a faster-paced life. In contrast, Rochester offers a more laid-back lifestyle with affordable housing and easy access to nature, such as the beautiful Genesee Valley Park. Nevertheless, you may find the winters in Rochester significantly harsher compared to DC's milder climate, and the job market in Washington, DC offers broader opportunities, especially in sectors like technology, politics, and international affairs. Making the move opens up a new chapter filled with diverse experiences, from exploring historic neighborhoods like Georgetown to enjoying the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin.
Rochester vs. Washington DC Food Guide
When deciding to move, local food culture is a significant aspect of what it's like to live in a new city. With this in mind, we have prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Washington DC to give you a better idea of the gastronomical landscape you're moving into.
| Rochester | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Half-Smoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef on Weck | Mumbo Sauce Wings |
| Most popular street food item | Zweigle's Hot Dog | Korean Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan 'meat' dishes | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Rochester, the Garbage Plate from Nick Tahou Hots stands as a testament to the city's unique culinary culture. If you're moving to Washington DC, prepare to indulge in the city's celebrated Half-Smoke, available at iconic spots like Ben's Chili Bowl. The nation's capital also offers a dynamic vegan scene, with innovative dishes like Jackfruit Tacos that you can savor in vibrant neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Shaw. With its higher fitness and health conscientiousness score, Washington DC's food scene beautifully marries culinary indulgence with healthy living.
Rochester vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Finding the perfect spot to dine can turn any new city into a place that feels like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Rochester to Washington DC is designed to help you discover your next favorite eatery. By using your current favorites as a guide, you'll soon be exploring the best of what your new hometown offers in culinary delights.
| Rochester | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Hill Country Barbecue Market | Authentic smokehouse flavor. |
| Good Luck Restaurant | Zaytinya | Offers a unique blend of eclectic and cozy dining atmosphere. |
| Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | Compass Coffee | Similar in their focus on quality and community. |
| Roux | Le Diplomate | Both excel in their French cuisine offerings. |
| Swan Market | Old Europe | Old-world charm with authentic German food. |
| DiBella's Subs | Bub and Pop's | Known for hearty subs and sandwiches. |
| Char Steak & Lounge | BLT Steak | Both renown for distinctive steak experiences. |
| Genesee Brew House | Bluejacket Brewery | Craft beer focus with a historical touch. |
| The Revelry | Founding Farmers | A farm-to-table experience rooted in American cuisine. |
| Highland Park Diner | Ted's Bulletin | Classic American dining with a nostalgic atmosphere. |
For those missing the iconic smokehouse flavors of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Rochester, Hill Country Barbecue Market in DC offers a similar rustic vibe along with brisket and ribs that could easily become your new go-to. If it's the unique blend of culinary creativity and atmosphere you enjoyed at Good Luck Restaurant, Zaytinya's blend of Mediterranean flavors served in an eye-catching setting will not disappoint. For the coffee enthusiasts who've made Joe Bean Coffee Roasters a part of their Rochester routine, Compass Coffee in Washington DC presents a compelling blend of quality brews and community spirit, promising to fuel both your day and your sense of belonging in this vibrant new city.
Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's essential to understand the nuances of real estate. Comparing Rochester, NY to Washington DC, DC in aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly inform your decision. This side-by-side will illuminate the key differences and similarities to help guide your choice.
| Comparison | Rochester | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Federal, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Spacious yards | Proximity to metro, Rooftop decks |
Delving deeper into the housing characteristics of Rochester and Washington DC, you'll find stark contrasts in living costs and lifestyle. Washington DC boasts a much higher median home price and rent, reflecting its status as a bustling capital with a dense urban environment conducive to an active lifestyle. Popular real estate listings in DC often highlight convenience to public transportation and unique amenities like rooftop decks that cater to an urbane living experience. In contrast, Rochester's real estate market offers more affordable housing, with listings frequently emphasizing traditional, spacious homes and larger lots. The city's lower walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more car-dependent lifestyle compared to Washington DC's vibrant, pedestrian-friendly streets.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington DC, DC
1. Adams Morgan: Known for its vibrant street life and diverse culture, Adams Morgan is extremely pet-friendly, offering numerous pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks like the Walter Pierce Park where your furry friends can play.
2. Capitol Hill: Aside from the iconic U.S. Capitol and historic ambiance, Capitol Hill features spacious parks such as the Congressional Cemetery, which doubles as a dog park, providing a unique space for you and your pet to explore.
3. Dupont Circle: This neighborhood boasts a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, with several pet-friendly parks like the Dupont Circle Fountain, and businesses that cater to your pet's needs, making it an ideal place for pet lovers.
Rochester vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can greatly affect your daily comfort and activities, primarily due to the change in weather patterns between Rochester, NY, and Washington DC, DC. Understanding these differences is crucial in preparing for your new environment.
Rochester, NY
Washington DC, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Washington DC, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Washington DC, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Washington DC, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Rochester | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Heavy Snow, Ice Storms | Heatwaves, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When examining the weather difference between Rochester and Washington DC, several factors stand out. Significantly, Washington DC enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters compared to Rochester, but experiences higher summer temperatures. This might necessitate a wardrobe adjustment, especially for the summer heat and lighter winter attire. Moreover, moving from Rochester means experiencing less snowfall but potentially more frequent encounters with severe weather conditions such as hurricanes. Ultimately, these climatic differences can impact daily life, from transportation choices to outdoor activities, making it vital to prepare accordingly for your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Washington DC
When planning to move, understanding how the cost of living and financial aspects between Rochester, NY, and Washington DC will impact your budget is crucial. This comparison will guide you through important money matters, helping ensure no financial surprises await in your new locale.
| Comparison | Rochester | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $90,088 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 140.1 |
| State Income Tax | 6.33 to 8.82 | 4.00 to 8.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.87 | 0.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
| Affluence | Less affluent | More affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Moving from Rochester to Washington DC, you should prepare for a significant cost of living adjustment; the index more than doubles. Washington DC's average household income is notably higher, reflecting its more affluent demographic and the presence of high-paying government and professional service jobs. However, this higher income is needed to manage the higher cost of living, including housing. State and sales taxes are somewhat more favorable in Washington DC, potentially offset the higher expenditures in other areas. Understanding these financial nuances will be vital for a smooth transition and financial stability in your new home.
Rochester vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
Understanding the social fabric of your current and future home is essential. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Rochester & Washington DC . It's designed to help you gauge the community dynamics you're moving from and to.
| Rochester | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with a focus on local issues | Highly political, with national and international implications |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population | Religiously diverse, with notable Christian, Jewish, Muslim communities |
In your move from Rochester to Washington DC, you'll transition from a community where political leanings are moderately democratic to one that is a stronghold of democratic values with a much higher focus on national politics due to its status as the nation's capital. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, offering welcoming communities for a variety of faiths. However, in Washington DC, the presence of significant Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities is more pronounced, reflecting the city's international and multicultural character. This rich diversity in religious and political makeup will likely make your transition an enriching experience.
Rochester vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Rochester, NY, and Washington DC, DC is crucial for anyone planning a move. This comparison aims to illuminate what daily commutes and traffic conditions are like in each city, helping you better prepare for your new life.
| Comparison | Rochester | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
The average commute time in Rochester is significantly shorter than in Washington DC, reflecting lower traffic congestion levels. With Rochester scoring a 4 out of 10 and Washington DC a 7, expect your daily drive in DC to be more challenging. However, this is offset by Washington DC's excellent public transit system, rated at 9 out of 10, making it much easier to get around without a car compared to Rochester, where relying on a car is almost a necessity. This factor thoroughly changes the dynamics of daily life, from planning for extra commute time in DC to considering living closer to metro lines or bus routes for ease of travel.
Additional Resources
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