Best Rochester to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 285 mile move from New York to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Rochester to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Rochester compared to Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
3 | Meta Movers | 9.11 | 9.43 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.95 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Reliable Movers | 8.92 | 8.81 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Rochester to Pittsburgh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 285 miles from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $1,720 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Pittsburgh move is roughly $4,111. 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 | $1,159 | 300 ft³ | 3.86 |
1 Bedroom | $1,720 | 450 ft³ | 3.82 |
2 Bedrooms | $2,835 | 750 ft³ | 3.78 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,111 | 1100 ft³ | 3.74 |
4 Bedrooms | $5,912 | 1600 ft³ | 3.69 |
5+ Bedrooms | $6,574 | 1800 ft³ | 3.65 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Rochester guide.
Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Pittsburgh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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) |

Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |

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

159 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. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & Pittsburgh, PA. This guide aims to help you find a neighborhood in Pittsburgh that feels like home, using what you love about your Rochester neighborhood as a baseline.
Rochester | Pittsburgh | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Park Avenue | Shadyside | Vibrant, trendy shops and eateries |
East Avenue | Squirrel Hill | Culturally rich, diverse dining |
Highland Park | Point Breeze | Gorgeous parks, family-friendly |
South Wedge | Lawrenceville | Hip, energetic arts scene |
ARTWalk | Strip District | Creative, arts-centric hub |
Swillburg | Bloomfield | Close-knit community, historic charm |
Corn Hill | Allegheny West | Historic architecture, waterfront parks |
North Winton Village | Friendship | Friendly vibe, tree-lined streets |
Ellwanger-Barry | Regent Square | Quaint, with eclectic local spots |
NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | Garfield | Artistic, with a community feel |
If you love the vibrant and quirky vibes of Rochester's South Wedge, with its local craft beer bars like Swiftwater Brewing and vegan eateries such as Hedonistic Eats, you'll feel right at home in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville, where spots like Arsenal Cider House and B52 Café mirror that energetic arts scene and commitment to unique, local flavors. For those who appreciate the historic charm and close-knit community of Swillburg, Bloomfield offers a similar vibe, hosting Italian festivals and boasting family-owned businesses that have stood the test of time. And if you're moving away from the lush, scenic beauty of Highland Park, Point Breeze in Pittsburgh provides an almost seamless transition with its expansive parks, such as Frick Park, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh
Moving from one city to another promises a mix of experiences, and relocating from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA is no exception. By comparing the two, this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding both the advantages and challenges will equip you with a balanced perspective, making the transition as smooth as possible.
- Heavier snowfall
- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser job opportunities
- Higher crime rate
- Fewer cultural attractions
- Milder winters
- Larger city amenities
- More job opportunities
- Lower crime rate
- More cultural attractions
- Higher cost of living
- No direct lake access
- Less intimate communities
- Different historical focus
- More urban setting
- Lower cost of living
- Access to lakes
- Close-knit communities
- Rich history
- Country landscapes
Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh presents unique opportunities for both career growth and cultural experiences. Pittsburgh, with its burgeoning tech scene, offers numerous job opportunities at companies such as Google and Uber. Cultural attractions abound in Pittsburgh; notable landmarks include the Andy Warhol Museum and the historic Heinz History Center. While Rochester boasts proximity to natural wonders such as Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes, Pittsburgh counters with its beautiful riverfronts and the vibrant Neighborhoods of the Strip District and Lawrenceville, known for their eclectic dining scenes, such as Pamela's Diner for breakfast and Primanti Bros. for a taste of local cuisine. Despite the higher cost of living, Pittsburgh's blend of modern amenities amidst rich historical contexts offers a compelling new chapter for those considering the move.
Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Pittsburgh, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the cultural vibe of a place. By comparing the food scenes, you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you in your new city.
Rochester | Pittsburgh | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Primanti Bros. Sandwich |
Most popular meat dish | Beef on Weck | Pierogies |
Most popular street food item | Zweigle's Hot Dogs | Haluski |
Most popular vegan food | Seitan "Wings" | Vegan Pierogies |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh, one of the most exciting changes will be in the culinary scene. In Pittsburgh, neighborhoods like Lawrenceville and the Strip District offer a vibrant mix of street food, upscale dining, and innovative vegan options, significantly highlighted by the city's adoration for Pierogies in both traditional and vegan forms. Iconic Pittsburgh establishments like Primanti Bros., known for its unique sandwich stuffed with fries and coleslaw, offer a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, newer spots like The Church Brew Works creatively blend dining with local tradition, setting the stage for a foodie adventure unlike any other. Exploring Pittsburgh's food scene will not only introduce you to new flavors but also immerse you in the city's unique blend of cultures.
Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for a good meal. This restaurant comparison chart from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA is designed to help you ease into your new surroundings by mapping the flavors of your old favorites to new discoveries. Whether you're craving a casual brunch or a high-end dining experience, this guide aims to make Pittsburgh feel like home, one meal at a time.
Rochester | Pittsburgh | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Pittsburgh Barbecue Company | Both heralded for their smoky, flavor-packed barbecue offerings |
Good Luck Restaurant | Cure | Similar in their approach to inventive, locally sourced American cuisine |
Highland Park Diner | Pamela's Diner | Iconic diners in their respective cities, known for hearty, classic American breakfasts |
Swan Market | Penn Avenue Fish Company | Both offer a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality seafood |
Ristorante Lucano | DiAnoia's Eatery | Renowned for their authentic Italian dishes and cozy atmosphere |
Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | Tazza D'Oro | Both cafes are celebrated for their dedication to quality coffee and community vibe |
Genesee Brew House | Church Brew Works | Unique spots where the craft of brewing is as important as the food and ambiance |
The Revelry | Butcher and the Rye | Offering inventive cocktails and upscale dishes in a vibrant, stylish setting |
La Casa | Mad Mex | Both are go-tos for their inventive twists on Mexican cuisine in a fun atmosphere |
Roux | Paris 66 | Both excel in offering a genuine French dining experience with meticulous attention to detail |
Embark on a culinary journey that bridges the gap between Rochester and Pittsburgh, bringing you closer to discovering your next dining haven. For example, while Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Rochester might have been your barbecue staple, you'll find a similar love for slow-cooked, smoky delights at Pittsburgh Barbecue Company. Or, if your Italian nights were previously spent savoring the dishes at Ristorante Lucano, you'll be pleased to know that DiAnoia's Eatery offers a similarly warm and authentic Italian experience in your new city. Each recommended Pittsburgh counterpart not only promises similar flavors and vibes but also encapsulates the spirit and community found back in Rochester, making your transition that much sweeter.

Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, assessing real estate differences between Rochester, NY and Pittsburgh, PA is key. It's all about finding where your dream home meets your lifestyle expectations. Let's dive into how these two cities compare on several housing aspects.
Comparison | Rochester | Pittsburgh |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Tudor, Victorian |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, Open floor plans | City views, Proximity to parks |
In deeper analysis, Pittsburgh stands out for its higher urban lifestyle ranking and better walkability scores, reflecting its denser, more vibrant neighborhoods. The city's architecture, marked by beautiful Tudor and Victorian homes, adds charm and character, often highlighted in real estate listings along with mentions of stunning city views and the easy access to green spaces. On the other hand, Rochester attracts homebuyers with its more affordable housing options, both in purchasing and renting. Its real estate landscape is colored with spacious backyards and open floor plans, catering to those who prioritize space and comfort. Whether you're charmed by the lively streets of Pittsburgh or the tranquil, roomy residences of Rochester, each city has unique offerings that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA
1. Lawrenceville: This neighborhood boasts a vibrant community with easy access to dog parks and pet-friendly restaurants like The Vandal, making it perfect for you and your furry friend.
2. Shadyside: Known for its walkable streets and a welcoming atmosphere for pets, Shadyside offers numerous pet stores such as Petagogy and outdoor areas, ideal for keeping your pet healthy and happy.
3. Squirrel Hill: With its close proximity to Frick Park, Squirrel Hill provides endless trails and green spaces for you and your pet to explore, alongside pet-friendly cafes and community activities.
Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA, understanding the weather differences between these cities is crucial. This comparison provides insight into what weather conditions you can expect, helping you prepare for your new home environment.
Rochester, NY
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Rochester | Pittsburgh |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Rainstorms, Occasional Floods |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities experience a mix of cold winters and warm summers, you'll find that Rochester tends to receive significantly more snow than Pittsburgh, with an average annual snowfall of 99 inches compared to Pittsburgh's 41 inches. This could affect your winter activities and transportation plans. Additionally, the slightly higher average humidity in Pittsburgh might make summers feel more muggy. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more readily to your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition to life in Pittsburgh.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial indicators between Rochester and Pittsburgh will impact your budget. Understanding these differences ensures you're prepared for the economic changes that come with your new location.
Comparison | Rochester | Pittsburgh |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $57,821 |
Cost of Living Index | 100 | 91.5 |
State Income Tax | 6.33 to 8.82 | 3.07 |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.47 | 2.01 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 7 |
Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Healthcare, Education, Technology |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Poverty | High | Moderate |
Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh means entering a slightly higher cost of living due to variances in housing and tax rates. However, the average household income in Pittsburgh is also marginally higher, which can help offset some of these costs. The state income tax in Pennsylvania is significantly lower than New York, which could provide a notable financial relief. Considering the industries, Pittsburgh's focus on healthcare and technology presents promising career opportunities for professionals in these fields. Despite these differences, both cities offer a moderate level of affluence but diverge in terms of poverty and homelessness rates, suggesting a better economic stability in Pittsburgh.
Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA presents an intriguing look into the local lifestyles and beliefs. This comparison is designed to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Rochester & Pittsburgh . Understanding these aspects can help ease the transition and foster a deeper connection with your new community.
Rochester | Pittsburgh | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
Local Politics | Democratic stronghold | Democratic stronghold |
Religion | Diverse; notable Christian and Jewish communities | Diverse; strong Catholic presence alongside various other faiths |
While both cities reflect liberal values on a broad political spectrum, they each have their unique local political environments, with a strong Democratic presence. In Rochester, you might be familiar with the emphasis on progressive values and community-based initiatives. Pittsburgh shares a similar political climate but brings its own local issues and debates to the forefront, shaped by its rich industrial history and evolving socioeconomic landscape. When it comes to religion, Rochester boasts a diverse religious landscape, which includes significant Christian and Jewish communities. Pittsburgh's religious makeup is equally diverse, with a notably strong Catholic community, reflecting the city's historical European immigrant roots. Understanding these nuances will help you connect with your new community on a deeper level.
Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Pittsburgh is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Moving from one city to the other, it's crucial to know how your routine might change.
Comparison | Rochester | Pittsburgh |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 26 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Moderately Easy |
In Rochester, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Pittsburgh, indicating less traffic congestion overall. However, Pittsburgh offers slightly better public transit options, making it easier to get around the city without a car. This difference is crucial for those considering a car-free lifestyle or those who prioritize environmentally friendly transit options. Furthermore, Rochester's public transit receives a lower score, suggesting that while buses and trains are available, they might not be as extensive or convenient as Pittsburgh's systems, including its light rail service known as the Port Authority.



Additional Resources
Rochester Moving Services
Popular Rochester to Pennsylvania Routes
Popular Moving Resources