Best Seattle to Buffalo Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Buffalo and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,480 mile move from Washington to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Seattle to Buffalo 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 Seattle compared to Buffalo. 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 Seattle to Buffalo Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Wayfinder Moving Services | 9.03 | 8.92 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Joey Z's Moving | 8.88 | 8.66 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Buffalo
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,480 miles from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY will cost on average $3,890 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Buffalo move is roughly $9,399. 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 | $2,608 | 300 ft³ | 8.69 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,890 | 450 ft³ | 8.64 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,446 | 750 ft³ | 8.59 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,399 | 1100 ft³ | 8.54 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,592 | 1600 ft³ | 8.49 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,201 | 1800 ft³ | 8.44 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Buffalo 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) |
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) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
Wayfinder Moving Services
75 Comet Ave
Buffalo, NY, 14216
About Wayfinder Moving Services
Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3104397 / 79366 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2022) |
Joey Z's Moving
North Tonawanda, NY, 14120
About Joey Z's Moving
Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial...
Services
- Home & Apartment moving
- Senior Moves
- Business & Office moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3348965 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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.
Seattle vs. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison
Transitioning from one city to another can be daunting. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Buffalo, NY, we aim to make this transition smoother. Familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by finding the Buffalo neighborhood most akin to your favorite in Seattle - turning the unknown into the familiar.
| Seattle | Buffalo | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Ballard | Elmwood Village | Vibrant, artsy vibe |
| Capitol Hill | Allentown | Diverse, LGBTQ+ friendly |
| Queen Anne | Parkside | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| Fremont | Hertel Avenue | Eclectic, artistic community |
| Greenwood | North Buffalo | Quiet, residential, good schools |
| West Seattle | South Buffalo | Community feel, waterfront access |
| Pike-Pine Corridor | Chippewa Street | Entertainment, nightlife |
| South Lake Union | Larkinville | Industrial revival, innovative spaces |
| Wallingford | Delaware District | Charming, walkable |
| Phinney Ridge | Snyder | Small-town vibe in the city |
For those moving from Ballard to Buffalo, Elmwood Village will feel like home with its bustling streets lined with local cafes and boutiques. If you're from Capitol Hill, Allentown’s trendy bars and inclusive atmosphere will resonate with you. Fremont’s quirkiness is matched by Hertel Avenue’s eclectic mix of shops and eateries, often bustling with local art events. Meanwhile, Queen Anne's picturesque beauty finds a counterpart in Parkside, where the manicured lawns of historic homes echo the aesthetics of Olmsted-designed parks. West Seattle’s affinity for beachfront living finds its match in South Buffalo, where the scenic beauty of Lake Erie’s waterfront beckons. Each pair of neighborhoods offers a unique blend of community vibes, aesthetic pleasures, and lifestyle amenities, ensuring you can find a slice of Seattle’s spirit in Buffalo.
Things to Do in Buffalo
Explore Albright-Knox Art Gallery- Watch a game at Sahlen Field
- Visit Buffalo Zoo
- Stroll through Botanical Gardens
- Enjoy Niagara Falls tour
- Skate at Canalside
- Taste wings at Anchor Bar
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Buffalo
Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. This comparison between moving from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY aims to provide an honest reflection of the advantages and disadvantages of such a relocation. The purpose of these charts is to highlight the cons compared to the pros and the pros compared to the cons, offering a balanced perspective on what to expect.
Seattle, WA- High cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Traffic congestion
- Competitive job market
Buffalo, NY- More affordable housing
- Snowy winters
- Less traffic
- Growing job opportunities
Buffalo, NY- Colder climate
- Fewer outdoor options
- Smaller music scene
- Lesser cultural diversity
Seattle, WA- Thriving tech sector
- Outdoor activities
- Vibrant music scene
- Rich cultural experiences
Seattle and Buffalo offer contrasting living experiences shaped significantly by their weather patterns, job markets, and cultural scenes. In Seattle, you're likely familiar with the bustling tech industry, including giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Moving to Buffalo means adapting to a colder climate, but it's not without its perks. The city is known for its beloved sports teams, such as the Buffalo Bills, and vibrant events like the Buffalo Wing Festival. Buffalo's growing economy, especially in sectors like healthcare and education, presents new job opportunities. For leisure, the picturesque Delaware Park and the historic architecture of the Allentown district offer a wonderful backdrop for both daily life and exploratory weekends. Despite the smaller music scene, venues like the Buffalo Iron Works keep the city's artistic spirit alive.
Seattle vs. Buffalo Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is vital when moving to a new city, as food is an essential part of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we will make a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Buffalo, giving you a better understanding of what culinary delights await in your new home.
| Seattle | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Buffalo Wings |
| Most popular meat dish | Pho | Beef on Weck |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Pizza Logs |
| Most popular vegan food | Buddha Bowls | Tofu Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you settle into Buffalo, you'll quickly discover that this city takes pride in its iconic Buffalo Wings, available at numerous locations but most notably Anchor Bar, the birthplace of this spicy delight. Another local favorite is Beef on Weck, a unique roast beef sandwich on kummelweck roll, which gems like Schwabl's have perfected. Meanwhile, the vegan scene, though smaller than Seattle's, is growing, with places like Betty's offering innovative plant-based dishes. Additionally, foodies will enjoy exploring Buffalo's evolving food truck scene, showcasing a variety of cuisines and often found during the warmer months at Larkin Square’s Food Truck Tuesdays.
Seattle vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison
Embarking on a relocation adventure means finding new go-to spots that make an area feel like home. Food plays a pivotal role in this transition. Our restaurant comparison chart between Seattle, WA, and Buffalo, NY, serves as your culinary guide, helping connect you with new favorites reminiscent of your current local haunts. Let's dive into the tastes that await in your future hometown.
| Seattle | Buffalo | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Oliver’s Restaurant | Elegance and upscale dining experience |
| Pike Place Chowder | Allen Street Poutine Company | Comfort food with homey feeling |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | Seabar | Expertly crafted seafood dishes |
| Salumi Artisan Cured Meats | Charcuterie | Artisan meats with a local flair |
| Skillet Diner | Lake Effect Diner | Classic diner experience with a twist |
| Matt's in the Market | Gabriel’s Gate | Market-fresh ingredients in historic setting |
| Ray's Boathouse | Remington Tavern | Waterfront dining with fresh catches |
| Spinasse | Osteria 166 | Authentic Italian that feels like home |
| Mamnoon | Shish Kabab Express | Eastern flavors meet Western zest |
| Dahlia Lounge | Rue Franklin | Classic meets contemporary in this upscale spot |
Exploring Buffalo’s dining scene will introduce you to spots like Oliver’s Restaurant, which parallels the refined atmosphere and gourmet offerings that Canlis is known for in Seattle. Meanwhile, for those who crave the comfort and soul of Pike Place Chowder, Allen Street Poutine Company promises to deliver that sense of nostalgic warmth and satisfaction. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the craft and creativity found at Seabar, a reminder of the innovative dishes served at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Whether you're indulging in the rich, authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria 166 or savoring the carefully prepared eastern flavors at Shish Kabab Express, each meal serves as a bridge between your old and new hometowns—blending familiar tastes with local flair and hospitality.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial, especially when comparing cities like Seattle, WA , and Buffalo, NY . This comparison will illuminate differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle factors to assist in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Seattle | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Colonial and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Sustainability, Access to Tech Jobs | Historic Details, Proximity to Niagara Falls, Affordability |
In terms of housing and lifestyle, Seattle and Buffalo present vastly different opportunities. Seattle, with its higher costs of living, boasts modern and Craftsman-style homes that cater to those seeking urban living with excellent walkability and bikeability scores. Its real estate listings often highlight proximity to technology jobs and sustainable living options. On the other hand, Buffalo offers an appealing blend of affordability, historic charm with its Colonial and Victorian homes, and a slower pace of life while still providing access to urban amenities. The real estate in Buffalo often emphasizes the city's rich history and proximity to natural wonders like Niagara Falls, making it attractive to those valuing both history and nature alongside cost-effectiveness.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY
1. Elmwood Village: Known for its walkable streets and the Elmwood Village Farmers Market, where you can often find pet-friendly vendors and plenty of space for your furry friends to explore.
2. Allentown: This vibrant neighborhood not only boasts a variety of pet-friendly dining options but is also home to the Allentown Association, which organizes events that are welcoming to pets.
3. Hertel Avenue: Famous for its Hertel Avenue Poutine & Cream, which offers outdoor seating where pets are welcome, and its close proximity to several parks where you can enjoy a day out with your pet.
Seattle vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations
Moving between cities means adjusting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Seattle, WA, and Buffalo, NY compares will significantly enhance your preparation for this transition. This comparison aims to help you anticipate the differences and similarities you'll encounter, from average temperatures to the amount of sunshine and snow each city receives.
Seattle, WA
Buffalo, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Buffalo, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Buffalo, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Buffalo, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Snowstorms, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Seattle to Buffalo, you'll notice a striking difference in winter weather and snowfall. Buffalo experiences a much colder winter with significantly more snow, averaging about 95 inches annually compared to Seattle's mere 5 inches. This considerable change means preparing for heavier winter clothing and potentially different commuting habits during snowy months. Despite similarities in annual sunshine days and UV index, Buffalo's slighter higher rainfall and profound snowfall impact daily life and seasonal activities quite dramatically compared to Seattle's milder and wetter climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Buffalo
When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding how your financial situation could change is vital. This comparison aims to shed light on the different economic landscapes of Seattle, WA, and Buffalo, NY, focusing on aspects that directly impact your wallet. By examining factors such as income, taxes, and the cost of living, you'll be better prepared for what awaits in your new city.
| Comparison | Seattle | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $40,669 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 95.8 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 6.33 to 8.82 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 2.53 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 8.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Lower |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | High | Lower |
Although the average household income in Seattle is significantly higher than in Buffalo, the Cost of Living Index suggests that your dollar stretches much further in Buffalo. State income tax in New York may eat into earnings, but the lower property and sales taxes can offset some of those costs compared to Seattle's high sales tax rate. Moreover, while Seattle boasts a thriving tech-based economy, Buffalo's economy is anchored in healthcare, education, and manufacturing, offering diverse job opportunities. Such financial and economic differences are crucial to consider for a smoother transition and better financial planning when moving from Seattle to Buffalo.
Seattle vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY, it's crucial to compare the communities you're transitioning between. This overview provides a quick, at-a-glance comparison of the politics and religion between Seattle & Buffalo , offering insight into the typical makeup of each population. Understanding these facets can help you anticipate the cultural and political environments awaiting in your new home.
| Seattle | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Progressively liberal | Moderately liberal |
| Local Politics | City of Seattle | City of Buffalo |
| Religion | Diverse; less religious overall | Diverse; higher religious participation |
In moving from Seattle to Buffalo, you'll transition from an environment with a strongly progressive political orientation to one that's moderately liberal. Seattle's political scene is vibrant and deeply engaged in progressive causes, whereas Buffalo, while also leaning liberal, might present a blend of political viewpoints with a stronger presence of traditional values. On the religious front, Seattle is known for its less religious overall population compared to Buffalo, where you'll find a greater variety of religious communities and likely a higher rate of participation in religious activities. Whether these differences excite or concern you, both cities offer rich, diverse communities ready to welcome new perspectives.
Seattle vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY involves not just a change in scenery but also a significant adjustment in how you commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Buffalo will help you better understand what to expect in your daily commute and traffic experiences in these two cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, with some effort | Challenging |
In Seattle, the average commute time is longer, and the traffic congestion higher compared to Buffalo. This is because Seattle is a larger, more densely populated city with a robust economy that attracts a lot of commuters. Despite this, Seattle’s public transit system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, makes it somewhat feasible to get by without a car, especially within the city limits. On the other hand, Buffalo offers a quicker commute with less traffic congestion. However, its public transportation options are not as extensive, making car ownership more of a necessity for navigating the city and its suburbs effectively.
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