Best Rochester to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Rochester to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 393 mile move from New York to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 59 Rochester to Boston 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 Rochester compared to Boston. 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 Boston 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 | 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 Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 393 miles from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA will cost on average $1,798 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Boston 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 Boston to Rochester guide.
Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Boston 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) |
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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA, getting to know your new city can be a breeze by comparing it to what you're familiar with. This guide helps you familiarize yourself with Boston by using Rochester, NY & Boston, MA local neighborhoods as a baseline. Discover which Boston neighborhoods mirror the ones in Rochester to make your transition as smooth as possible.
| Rochester | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Park Avenue | Back Bay | Vibrant mix of dining and shopping |
| East Avenue | Beacon Hill | Historic architecture, charming streets |
| Highland Park | Fenway | Rich in parks and cultural institutions |
| South Wedge | Jamaica Plain | Diverse community, arts scene |
| Swillburg | South End | Trendy eateries, old residential charm |
| Corn Hill | Charlestown | Waterfront views, historic environment |
| North Winton Village | Roslindale | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | Allston | Vibrant music and art scene |
| Browncroft | Brookline | Upscale, spacious, with a mix of urban/suburban |
| Maplewood | Dorchester | Diverse, historic homes, community-centric |
In comparing neighborhoods from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA, you'll find that each has its unique charm and characteristics that may remind you of home. For example, Park Avenue's vibrant dining and shopping scene finds its counterpart in Boston's Back Bay, known for its picturesque streets and upscale boutiques along Newbury Street. Similarly, the historic and cultured atmosphere of East Avenue is mirrored in Beacon Hill's narrow, gas-lit streets and federal-style houses. Highland Park's lush scenery and annual Lilac Festival share a spirit of community and natural beauty with Boston's Fenway neighborhood, famously home to the Fenway Park and the Back Bay Fens. By understanding these comparisons, you can more easily imagine your life in Boston, exploring new favorite spots like the Museum of Fine Arts in Fenway or enjoying a sunny afternoon at the Boston Public Garden near Back Bay.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Boston
Moving from one city to another involves weighing both the good and the bad. This comparison aims to showcase an honest reflection of what it means to relocate from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA , providing insight into how the cons of one city are balanced by the pros of the other, and vice versa. Let's take a closer look at what each city has to offer and what it lacks, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
Rochester, NY- Lesser job opportunities
- Small city vibe
- Lower nightlife variety
- Colder winters
- Fewer cultural attractions
Boston, MA- Greater career prospects
- Larger, vibrant city
- Rich nightlife scene
- Milder winters
- More cultural activities
Boston, MA- Higher living costs
- More impersonal
- Complicated navigation
- Heavier traffic
- Less green space
Rochester, NY- Lower living costs
- Community feel
- Easy navigation
- Less traffic
- More green space
While less traffic and the community feel of Rochester may appeal to those who appreciate a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle, Boston's vibrant cultural scene and better career prospects are significant draws. In Boston, neighborhoods like Back Bay and the North End offer a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, not to mention an array of top-rated restaurants like Giacomo's and cultural attractions such as the Museum of Fine Arts. Moreover, Boston's somewhat milder winters and its rich nightlife scene provide ample opportunities for year-round entertainment, contrasting with the quieter, colder months you might have grown accustomed to in Rochester.
Rochester vs. Boston Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Boston, highlighting the rich food scenes that contribute significantly to the cultural tapestry and living experience in these areas. As you prepare for your move, understanding these culinary landscapes can enrich your transition and dining adventures.
| Rochester | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef on Weck | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Zweigle's Hot Dog | Cannoli |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Scramble | Vegan Chowder |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Rochester, the Garbage Plate at Nick Tahou Hots offers a unique taste of the city's culinary quirkiness, whereas Boston's clam chowder, especially at the historic Union Oyster House, represents a staple of New England's coastal cuisine. Boston's North End neighborhood, home to Mike's Pastry, is renowned for its Italian delicacies, including the much-loved cannoli. The evolution of each city's food scene is reflected through this comparison, from Rochester's hearty, comfort-food origins to Boston's sophisticated, seafood-oriented palate, showcasing how both cities cater to a range of dietary preferences, including an increasing demand for vegan options.
Rochester vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can make settling into a new city feel like coming home. This comparison chart aims to ease the transition from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA, by helping you discover Boston counterparts to your beloved Rochester restaurants . Whether you crave high-end dining experiences or cozy, casual bites, this guide is your roadmap to culinary delights in your new city.
| Rochester | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Good Luck Restaurant | Neptune Oyster | both offer a unique dining experience with a focus on local ingredients |
| Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | Pavement Coffeehouse | celebrated for their locally roasted coffee and inviting atmosphere |
| Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Sweet Cheeks Q | Both are known for their hearty, finger-licking barbecue dishes |
| Roux | Gaslight | Serving French cuisine that gives a nod to traditional and modern recipes |
| The Revelry | The Beehive | Both spots offer vibrant ambiance and live music with great food |
| Char Steak & Lounge | Grill 23 & Bar | Premier steakhouse experience with attention to quality and detail |
| Nosh | Toro | Known for inventive and deliciously prepared dishes in a trendy setting |
| Lento | Oleana | Emphasis on farm-to-table dining, with exquisite flavors from the Mediterranean region |
| Swan Market | Bronwyn | Both are loved for their authentic European dishes in a casual, cozy environment |
| Fiorella | Picco | Casual Italian eatery known for artisanal pizzas and homemade pasta, reflecting Fiorella’s dedication to craftsmanship and quality ingredients |
If you're a fan of the communal and cozy vibe at Good Luck Restaurant in Rochester, you'll be delighted by Neptune Oyster in Boston, which similarly prides itself on a meticulously curated menu of fresh, local ingredients. Coffee aficionados leaving Joe Bean Coffee Roasters behind will find a new haven in Pavement Coffeehouse, where the passion for locally roasted coffee and the welcoming atmosphere mirror your Rochester favorite. And for those who relish the smoky flavors of a great barbecue, Sweet Cheeks Q in Boston offers a comparable culinary delight to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, ensuring your cravings for succulent, slow-cooked meats are well catered to in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate landscapes of Rochester, NY and Boston, MA is pivotal when planning a move. Comparing housing characteristics like cost, architecture, and lifestyle features helps in making an informed decision. This guide aims to reveal key differences and similarities to assist in your transition.
| Comparison | Rochester | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Federal, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, garages | Proximity to public transportation, historic charm |
When considering a move from Rochester to Boston, the stark differences in housing costs and urban lifestyle stand out. Boston's higher median home price and rent reflect its robust urban environment and historic value, notably in neighborhoods adorned with Federal and Victorian architecture. The city's walkability and bikeability scores surpass Rochester's, accommodating a more active and accessible urban lifestyle. Real estate listings in Boston frequently highlight the charm of historic homes and their proximity to the city's extensive public transport system, contrasting with Rochester's emphasis on spacious yards and parking availability. Adjusting to Boston's urban pace necessitates adaptation but offers rich cultural and lifestyle benefits.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Rochester vs. Boston Weather Considerations
If you're contemplating a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the weather in your new locale will compare. This comparison between Rochester, NY and Boston, MA aims to highlight the differences and similarities you might experience, preparing you for your transition.
Rochester, NY
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Rochester | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Snowstorms, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Rochester to Boston, you'll notice milder winters, with Boston experiencing slightly warmer temperatures. However, Boston enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which may be a welcome change. Nevertheless, be prepared for Boston's higher annual rainfall, nearly 10 inches more than Rochester. While both cities have their share of natural disaster risks, such as snowstorms, Boston's coastal location subjects it to Nor'easters, which can bring significant snow, rain, and gusty winds. Adjusting to these weather differences will be an essential part of your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Boston
Moving from one city to another often comes with financial adjustments. Understanding the cost of living and economic differences between Rochester, NY and Boston, MA is crucial for planning your move. This comparison will give you insights into what financial changes you might expect.
| Comparison | Rochester | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 6.33 to 8.82 | 5.00 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.8 | 1.7 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Education, Finance, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Comparatively Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Concerning |
Comparing Rochester and Boston, it's essential to note that while the average household income in Boston is significantly higher, so is the cost of living, reflected in a much higher index. The disparity in state income tax rates can impact your take-home pay differently in each state. However, Boston's economy, anchored by education, finance, and technology, offers lucrative opportunities for professionals in these industries. Despite high affluence in Boston, the city faces challenges with homelessness, indicating that higher incomes and cost of living do not necessarily equate to a homogeneously prosperous community.
Rochester vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA, it's important to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison offers a quick glance at the politics and religious makeup between Rochester & Boston , providing insight into the values and beliefs that shape these cities.
| Rochester | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on social equity and education | Emphasis on environmental and housing policies |
| Religion | Diverse with a significant Christian community | Diverse, includes Christians, Jews, Muslims, and non-affiliated |
If you're moving from Rochester to Boston, you'll find both cities embrace Democratic values, though Boston is known for its particularly strong Democratic leanings. In Rochester, social equity and education dominate local political discussions, reflecting the city's focus on community and fairness. Boston, however, places a higher emphasis on environmental sustainability and innovative housing policies. Religious life in both cities is rich and diverse, with significant Christian populations. However, Boston offers a broader diversity in religious practices, including larger Jewish, Muslim, and non-affiliated communities. This shift not only reflects the diverse nature of the residents but the wide range of cultural and religious institutions available to explore.
Rochester vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Rochester, NY to Boston, MA or vice versa? Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Boston is essential for anyone planning to make the transition. This quick comparison will help you grasp what to expect on a day-to-day basis as you navigate your new city.
| Comparison | Rochester | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes |
In Rochester, you'll enjoy shorter average commute times and less traffic congestion compared to Boston, making driving a relatively more pleasant experience. However, whether in Rochester or Boston, the reliance on a car varies greatly. In Rochester, it's more challenging to get by without a car due to a less extensive public transportation system. Boston, on the other hand, boasts a robust public transit system, thanks to the MBTA, including busses, subways (The T), ferries, and more, making it entirely feasible to live car-free. This difference in public transit accessibility significantly influences daily life and planning in each city.
Additional Resources
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