Best Columbus to Rochester Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Columbus to Rochester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 395 mile move from Ohio to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Columbus to Rochester 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Columbus compared to Rochester. 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 Columbus to Rochester Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.95 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Moyer's Movers | 8.93 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Columbus to Rochester
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 395 miles from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY will cost on average $2,117 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Rochester move is roughly $5,065. 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 | $1,426 | 300 ft³ | 4.75 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,117 | 450 ft³ | 4.70 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,491 | 750 ft³ | 4.65 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,065 | 1100 ft³ | 4.60 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,288 | 1600 ft³ | 4.55 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,109 | 1800 ft³ | 4.50 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Columbus guide.
Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Rochester Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Blue Men Moving LLC
10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW
Pickerington, OH, 43147
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3544037 / 1184394 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,500 (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) |
Manifest Shipping Llc
501 Southwick Pl
Trenton, OH, 45067
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3050908 / 49758 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 46,740 (2022) |
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) |
Moyer's Movers
Newark, OH, 43055
About Moyer's Movers
Moyer’s Movers has been moving families and businesses across Ohio since 2004. This locally owned company can handle all types of...
Services
- Residential and commercial moving
- Long-distance moves across Ohio
- Full pack and unpack services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2523566 / 885535 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 58,800 (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.
Columbus vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be filled with uncertainties, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we're offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Columbus, OH & Rochester, NY. This guide will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline, identifying neighborhoods with similar vibes, amenities, and community feel.
| Columbus | Rochester | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| German Village | Corn Hill | Historic charm, walkable streets |
| Short North | Park Avenue | Bustling arts scene, diverse dining |
| Clintonville | North Winton Village | Family-friendly, community-focused |
| Grandview Heights | East Avenue | Upscale, trendy with a mix of old & new |
| Brewery District | South Wedge | Vibrant nightlife, community engagement |
| Victorian Village | NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | Cultural hub, historic homes |
| Italian Village | Park Avenue | Walkable neighborhood with unique charm |
| Old Town East | Highland Park | Historic homes, lush greenery |
| Downtown | East End | Urban living, entertainment options |
| Franklinton | Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) | Artistic community, innovative spirit |
If you're drawn to the historic charm and cobblestone streets of German Village in Columbus, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Corn Hill in Rochester, renowned for its architectural treasures and vibrant community events like the Corn Hill Arts Festival. Art lovers and foodies who appreciate the eclectic ambiance and diverse culinary options of Short North will feel right at home on Park Avenue in Rochester, where the blend of art galleries, local boutiques, and restaurants create a dynamic neighborhood. Meanwhile, family-oriented individuals who relish the community vibe of Clintonville will find a similar sense of belonging in North Winton Village, with its mix of residential comfort and easy access to local parks and eateries like The Playhouse / Swillburger. For those who admire the upscale yet trendy surroundings of Grandview Heights, East Avenue in Rochester offers a delightful mix of historic properties and modern conveniences, epitomized by landmarks like the George Eastman Museum. Transitioning from Columbus to Rochester can be an exciting journey, discovering neighborhoods that resonate with the familiar yet open avenues to new experiences and communities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Rochester
Moving across states presents both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision and prepare you for the changes you'll encounter in your new home.
Columbus, OH- Higher crime rate
- Less snowy winters
- More cultural diversity
- Bigger city vibe
- Warmer summers
Rochester, NY- Lower crime rate
- More snowy winters
- Less cultural diversity
- Smaller city charm
- Cooler summers
Rochester, NY- Fewer job opportunities
- Quieter nightlife
- More limited dining options
- Smaller metro area
- Less extensive public transit
Columbus, OH- More job opportunities
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse dining options
- Larger metro area
- Better public transit
Moving from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY, you'll trade the vibrant, diverse atmosphere of a larger city for the charming, more manageable pace of a smaller town. While Columbus boasts a dynamic culinary scene with gems like The Thurman Café and an extensive public transportation network, Rochester offers a cozier vibe with unique local spots like Rochester Public Market and beautiful natural attractions such as Highland Park. Although Columbus residents might miss the lively nightlife and the warmth of their familiar community, they'll find Rochester's cooler summers, snowy winters, and the allure of its smaller city charm an equally valuable trade-off. Each city has its advantages, depending on what you're looking for in your next chapter.
Columbus vs. Rochester Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus & Rochester sheds light on the unique food culture of these cities, helping you appreciate the culinary scene of your new home.
| Columbus | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candies | Garbage Plate |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | White Hots |
| Most popular street food item | Taco trucks | Rochester-style hot dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Cauliflower wings | Seitan steak |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring Columbus, you'll quickly notice an eclectic mix of street food, with taco trucks on many corners. The city takes pride in its unique dessert, the Buckeye candy, a delightful treat that’s hard to miss. For a taste of the local flavor, The Thurman Café and Schmidt’s Sausage Haus offer dishes that embody the city’s culinary spirit. On the flip side, Rochester is renowned for its Garbage Plate, a must-try for anyone moving there. This dish and others can be enjoyed at iconic spots like Nick Tahou Hots and Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. Whether you're indulging in Columbus's cauliflower wings or Rochester's seitan steak, both cities cater to a range of dietary preferences, making them exciting places to explore the local food scene.
Columbus vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding that new favorite spot to eat can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Columbus, OH, and Rochester, NY, is designed to ease the transition by guiding you to dining spots in Rochester that echo the flavors and experiences you loved back in Columbus. Whether you're seeking upscale dining or a casual eatery, this guide aims to match you with your new go-to spot.
| Columbus | Rochester | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro | Char Steak & Lounge | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on fine wines and elegant dishes. |
| Northstar Café | Good Luck Restaurant | Both are casual yet trendy, with a focus on local, organic ingredients. |
| Lindey's | The Revelry | Both provide a chic dining atmosphere with a menu that highlights American cuisine with a twist. |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | The Playhouse//Swillburger | While focusing on burgers, it offers a nostalgic and fun vibe similar to Hot Chicken’s approach to fast-casual dining. |
| Thurman Cafe | Swan Market | Swan offers a unique dining experience that, while known for its German cuisine, captures the essence of a local, iconic eatery like Thurman Cafe. |
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Pittsford Dairy | Both spots are beloved for their high-quality, handcrafted ice creams with unique flavors. |
| Wolf's Ridge Brewing | The Gate House | Both are celebrated for their excellent craft beer selection and hearty, delicious meals that complement the brews. |
| Katzinger's Delicatessen | Harry G's New York Deli & Cafe | Offering a similar deli experience with an array of sandwiches and sides that remind one of Katzinger's. |
| Mitchell's Ocean Club | Seafood Harbor | Offering a luxury seafood dining experience akin to Mitchell's Ocean Club, with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. |
| Los Guachos Taqueria | John's Tex-Mex Eatery | Although focusing on Tex-Mex rather than purely Mexican cuisine, John's shares the same commitment to authenticity and flavor. |
For those seeking an evening of upscale dining reminiscent of Columbus's The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro, Rochester's Char Steak & Lounge beckons with its sophisticated atmosphere and curated wine list. When the craving for something casual yet emblematic strikes, the experience at Good Luck Restaurant in Rochester mirrors the essence of Northstar Café, offering dishes crafted from local, organic ingredients that comfort the soul. And for the ice cream enthusiasts, a visit to Pittsford Dairy will evoke the unique, handcrafted flavors that Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams lovers have come to cherish. These Rochester establishments not only promise a delightful meal but also a seamless transition to your new culinary landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal consideration in any move. Understanding the differences in housing affordability, style, and accessibility between Columbus, OH, and Rochester, NY can greatly impact your relocation decisions. Let's compare these two cities to help you make an informed choice.
| Comparison | Columbus | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Colonial | Colonial and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Parks and Green Spaces | Historical Significance |
When comparing Columbus and Rochester, it's evident that each city offers distinct advantages depending on your preferences and lifestyle. Columbus, with its slightly higher cost of living, offers modern housing options and has been increasingly recognizing the value of parks and green spaces in real estate listings. In contrast, Rochester presents a more affordable housing market with a rich architectural tapestry, notably its Victorian homes. The city's emphasis on historical significance appeals to those valuing character in their homes. Moreover, Rochester edges out Columbus in terms of walkability and bikeability, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY
1. Park Avenue: This neighborhood is brimming with outdoor cafes and stores that welcome pets, making it an ideal spot for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry friends.
2. Highland Park: Known for its expansive park of the same name, Highland Park offers plenty of green space for dogs to play and trails for long walks, including Highland Park itself, making it a haven for pet owners.
3. North Winton Village: This community-focused neighborhood features pet-friendly housing and several parks, along with the Bark Park at Cobbs Hill, where your pets can socialize and play off-leash.
Columbus vs. Rochester Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison aims to illustrate how the climate and weather-related factors such as sunshine days, humidity, and severe weather patterns between Columbus and Rochester may impact your daily life and preparations for each season.
Columbus, OH
Rochester, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Rochester, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Rochester, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Rochester, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Columbus to Rochester, you'll notice changes specifically in winter weather conditions and snowfall. Rochester experiences significantly more snow, averaging about 99 inches annually compared to Columbus's 22 inches, which means more snow-related activities but also more shoveling and winter driving considerations. The shorter, cooler summers and amount of sunshine days can affect year-round outdoor plans, but similar humidity levels mean that adjusting to summertime shouldn't be overly difficult. Understanding these weather differences can help you prepare better for your new home in Rochester.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Rochester
When planning a move from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be affected. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions in Columbus vs. Rochester.
| Comparison | Columbus | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $41,980 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 100 |
| State Income Tax | 4.798 | 6.33 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.69 | 3.46 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
When comparing the financial landscapes of Columbus and Rochester, a few key points stand out distinctly. The average household income is significantly higher in Columbus than in Rochester, reflecting differences in economic opportunities. Moreover, despite the lower cost of living in Rochester, the state income and property taxes are higher, which could offset some of the savings gained from the lower everyday expenses. The top industries in both cities include education and healthcare, highlighting stable employment sectors, though Rochester also has a strong manufacturing presence. Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for your move, with insights into potential employment opportunities and budget adjustments needed.
Columbus vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY, it's helpful to understand who your neighbors will be. This quick comparison provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Columbus & Rochester, giving you a sense of the community values and prevailing ideologies in each city.
| Columbus | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with liberal leanings in urban areas | Progressively liberal, especially in urban centers |
| Religion | Christianity dominant, diverse interfaith communities | Christianity prevalent, with a significant presence of Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities |
Both Columbus and Rochester have a Democratic-leaning political makeup, which might make your transition smoother if you share similar values. However, it's worth noting that Rochester's local politics tend to be more liberal than Columbus, particularly in urban policy and social issues. Religion plays an important role in both cities, with Christianity being the dominant faith. Yet, Rochester stands out for its notable Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, offering a vibrant interfaith dialogue and cultural diversity. This rich tapestry of beliefs and political perspectives could provide a welcoming environment for you, fostering connections in your new home.
Columbus vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY? This guide aims to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic differences between these two cities. Whether you're driving or using public transit, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Columbus | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
When relocating from Columbus to Rochester, you'll find that both cities present unique commuting experiences. Columbus often experiences moderate traffic congestion, but its public transit options, while available, might not meet everyone's needs; having a car could be seen as almost a necessity. In contrast, Rochester offers somewhat lighter traffic and a slightly better public transit system, making the option to forgo a vehicle more feasible. Rochester's manageable size and efficient public transportation options, including buses and an accessible downtown area, often make getting around without a private vehicle easier than in sprawling Columbus.
Additional Resources
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