Best Rochester to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Rochester to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,540 mile move from New York to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Rochester to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Rochester compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | 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 |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Rochester to Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,540 miles from Rochester, NY to Seattle, WA will cost on average $3,941 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Seattle move is roughly $9,524. 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 | $2,642 | 300 ft³ | 8.81 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,941 | 450 ft³ | 8.76 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,531 | 750 ft³ | 8.71 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,524 | 1100 ft³ | 8.66 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,773 | 1600 ft³ | 8.61 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,405 | 1800 ft³ | 8.56 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Rochester guide.
Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially to a city you're not familiar with. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & Seattle, WA . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Seattle that shares the vibe and amenities you love in your Rochester neighborhood.
| Rochester | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Park Avenue | Ballard | Vibrant nightlife, indie shops |
| East Avenue | Capitol Hill | Historic, artsy community |
| Highland Park | Green Lake | Park-centric, active lifestyle |
| South Wedge | Fremont | Eclectic, strong sense of community |
| North Winton Village | Wallingford | Family-friendly, bustling local commerce |
| Browncroft | Queen Anne | Quiet, picturesque residential area |
| Swillburg | Greenwood | Cozy, with a neighborly vibe |
| Corn Hill | Madrona | Leafy, historic homes |
| Upper Monroe | Phinney Ridge | Balance of nature and city living |
| Ellwanger-Barry | Ravenna | Quiet, community-focused |
If you're moving from the eclectic and communal atmosphere of South Wedge in Rochester, you'll find a similar spirit in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, known for its iconic Fremont Troll sculpture and the bustling Fremont Sunday Market. Meanwhile, the park-centric lifestyle of Highland Park finds its counterpart in Seattle's Green Lake, where the path around the lake buzzes with joggers, picnickers, and families enjoying the outdoors. For those who cherish the vibrant nightlife and indie scene of Park Avenue, Ballard in Seattle will feel like home with its unique bars, live music venues like Tractor Tavern, and indie boutiques. Each Seattle neighborhood mirrors its Rochester counterpart not just in amenities and vibe but in fostering a sense of belonging and community among its residents.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Seattle
Moving from one city to another is a major life decision, fraught with both upsides and downsides. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection comparing Rochester, NY, and Seattle, WA , helping you weigh the good against the bad of this relocation. The forthcoming charts will juxtapose the pros and cons, offering you a clear view of what to expect from your new home in Seattle as opposed to what you're leaving behind in Rochester.
Rochester, NY- Harsh winters
- Smaller job market
- Less cultural diversity
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer outdoor options
Seattle, WA- Milder climate
- Larger job market
- More cultural diversity
- Vibrant nightlife
- Abundant outdoor activities
Seattle, WA- Higher living costs
- More impersonal
- Heavier traffic
- Steeper learning curve
- Higher crime rate
Rochester, NY- Affordable housing
- Community feel
- Less traffic
- Easy navigation
- Lower crime rate
Moving from Rochester to Seattle introduces you to new cultural, social, and professional landscapes. Seattle's renowned for its Pike Place Market, vibrant arts scene, and tech industry giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Neighborhood parks such as Green Lake Park offer ample outdoor activities that suit a variety of interests. Food enthusiasts will love exploring Seattle's diverse culinary scene, which includes everything from fresh seafood at The Pink Door to innovative vegan cuisine. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard boast of nightlife that's rich with live music and craft breweries, making Seattle a city that's truly alive day and night. Though the transition may come with a steeper learning curve and increased living expenses, the diverse experiences and opportunities available in Seattle make the move worthwhile for many.
Rochester vs. Seattle Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Seattle is crafted to enlighten you on the pivotal role food plays in the local culture and living experience of these areas. Delve into this comparison to better acquaint yourself with the food scene of your new home.
| Rochester | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Seafood, especially Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef on Weck | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Zweigle's Hot Dog | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Pho Chay |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Rochester, the iconic Garbage Plate from Nick Tahou Hots reflects the city's love for hearty, comforting foods. You'll find an interesting mix of flavors in this unique dish, a true testament to Rochester's diverse culinary scene. Moving over to Seattle, the abundant access to fresh seafood, particularly salmon, showcases the city's strong ties to its maritime environment. Establishments like Canlis and Pike Place Chowder are iconic, offering scenic views and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that highlight the Pacific Northwest's bounty. Seattle’s emphasis on health and fitness is also mirrored in its food options, with a variety of outdoor markets and food trucks, like those in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, showcasing a wealth of vegan and vegetarian options.
Rochester vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can stir a mix of emotions, especially when leaving behind familiar spots. Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. This side-by-side comparison of top Rochester and Seattle restaurants will aid in transitioning your taste buds and finding comfort in a new city's culinary scene. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, let this guide be your roadmap to delicious discoveries.
| Rochester | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Jack's BBQ | Authentic southern barbecue with a devoted following. |
| Ristorante Lucano | Il Terrazzo Carmine | Traditional Italian dishes in an elegant setting. |
| Swan Market | Bavarian Meats | Authentic German deli and lunch spot with a similar homely feel. |
| Highland Park Diner | The 5 Point Cafe | A classic diner with a quirky Seattle twist, serving comfort food round the clock. |
| Roux | Cajun & Creole | Marcela's Creole Cookery: rich in flavors and mirrors Roux’s southern influence. |
| Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | Seattle Coffee Works | Focused on direct trade coffee and exceptional brews. |
| The Revelry | Canon | Ambience and innovative craft cocktails for a sophisticated night out. |
| Nosh | Market House Meats | For sandwiches and smoked meats recalling Nosh’s hearty fare. |
| Genesee Brew House | Fremont Brewing | A local brewery with a wide selection of craft beers and outdoor seating. |
| Nick Tahou Hots | Shake Shake | Both offer iconic regional dishes that have garnered devoted fans. |
Exploring the dining scene is a delightful way to immerse yourself in Seattle's culture, reminiscent of Rochester's own diverse culinary offerings. For example, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que and Jack's BBQ share a passion for traditional, slow-cooked meats that will satisfy any barbecue aficionado's cravings. Similarly, coffee lovers transitioning from Joe Bean Coffee Roasters will find solace in Seattle Coffee Works, where the emphasis on quality and direct trade brews parallels Rochester's famed coffee scene. These establishments not only replicate the flavors you've grown to love but also introduce you to the unique character and vibrant community that Seattle has to offer.
Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences and similarities in housing between Rochester, NY and Seattle, WA . Knowing the cost, styles, and living dynamics of each city can fundamentally shape your relocation experience.
| Comparison | Rochester | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, historic details | Eco-friendly features, city views |
Exploring the housing landscapes of Rochester and Seattle reveals striking contrasts and unique appeals. In Rochester, the housing market is significantly more accessible, with a median home price that makes homeownership attainable for many. The city offers a blend of Colonial and Craftsman-style homes, often featuring spacious backyards and historic details—a nod to its rich history. On the other hand, Seattle's housing market is notably pricier, reflecting its booming tech industry and desirability among professionals. Homes in Seattle frequently boast eco-friendly features and stunning city views, aligning with the urban lifestyle and environmental consciousness of its residents. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Seattle also underscore a more active, urban-centric lifestyle compared to Rochester's quieter, more spread-out living arrangements.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Rochester vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather in Rochester, NY compares to Seattle, WA is essential for smoothing your transition and setting realistic expectations. This comparison will help you prepare for the climate differences you’ll experience.
Rochester, NY
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Rochester | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Ice | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing Rochester and Seattle, one significant difference you'll notice is in their winter temperatures; Rochester experiences colder winters with substantial snowfall, while Seattle enjoys milder winters with very little snow. This could impact your day-to-day living and the type of outdoor activities you engage in during winter months. While both cities have a similar average UV index, managing allergies might be different due to the predominance of tree pollen in Seattle and the addition of mold. Also noteworthy is Seattle's higher humidity and slightly more annual rainfall, which contributes to its lush, green landscape compared to Rochester.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Seattle
When relocating from one city to another, it's essential to grasp how financial aspects like cost of living and average income will shift, especially when moving from Rochester to Seattle. This comparison will offer you a clearer picture of the economic landscape you're stepping into.
| Comparison | Rochester | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.33 to 8.82 | 0 (However, WA state has a capital gains tax) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.87 | 0.99 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 10.1 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Technology, Aerospace, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Notable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Rochester to Seattle, you'll notice a significant jump in the average household income, which aligns with the higher cost of living in Seattle. The absence of state income tax in Washington may seem appealing, but it's balanced by higher sales and capital gains taxes. The economic environment in Seattle is buoyed by thriving technology and aerospace industries, suggesting plentiful job opportunities in these sectors. However, be prepared for the challenges of a higher cost of living and increased homelessness, which are part of the city's socioeconomic climate.
Rochester vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Rochester & Seattle, two cities with distinct cultures and demographics. Understanding these aspects can help in grasping the community vibes you’re moving into.
| Rochester | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal, Democratic majority | Very Liberal, Strong Democratic presence |
| Local Politics | Focus on community development and education | Emphasis on sustainability and social justice |
| Religion | Mix of Catholic and Protestant with emerging diverse religious communities | Less religious overall, with a notable segment of non-religious residents |
As you transition from Rochester to Seattle, you'll find yourself moving from a city with a liberal, Democratic majority to one where progressive and Democratic ideologies are even more pronounced. Local politics in Seattle have a strong emphasis on sustainability and social justice, echoing the city's commitment to environmentalism and equality. While Rochester has its roots in diverse religious traditions, Seattle stands out for its larger population of non-religious individuals. This distinction highlights the broader cultural shift you might experience, capturing Seattle's progressive spirit and the importance it places on forward-thinking values.
Rochester vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Rochester, NY to Seattle, WA? Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Seattle will help you better prepare for your new city life.
| Comparison | Rochester | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 29 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While the average commute time in Seattle might be longer, the city offers a more robust public transit system, making it easier to navigate without a car. Rochester, with lower traffic congestion, still poses challenges for those looking to depend solely on public transportation. Seattle's higher score in public transit availability indicates a diverse set of options like buses, light rail, and ferries that facilitate movement around the city and its suburbs, catering well to those without personal vehicles.
Additional Resources
Rochester Moving Services
Popular Rochester to Washington Routes
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