Best Seattle to Rochester Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Rochester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,548 mile move from Washington to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Seattle to Rochester 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 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 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 Seattle to Rochester 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 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.96 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Rochester
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,548 miles from Seattle, WA to Rochester, NY will cost on average $3,948 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Rochester move is roughly $9,541. 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 | $2,647 | 300 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,948 | 450 ft³ | 8.77 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,543 | 750 ft³ | 8.72 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,541 | 1100 ft³ | 8.67 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,797 | 1600 ft³ | 8.62 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,432 | 1800 ft³ | 8.57 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Rochester 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) |
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) |
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) |
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. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the neighborhood dynamics. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Rochester, NY. We'll match neighborhoods from your current city to those in your new city with similar vibes, amenities, and communities, helping you find your perfect new home.
| Seattle | Rochester | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Ballard | North Winton Village | Vibrant community, local shops |
| Capitol Hill | East Avenue | Artsy, historic, active nightlife |
| Queen Anne | Park Avenue | Historic homes, boutique shops |
| Fremont | South Wedge | Bohemian, eclectic eateries |
| Greenwood | Maplewood | Family-friendly, parks, and gardens |
| West Seattle | Charlotte | Beach access, laid-back atmosphere |
| Beacon Hill | Highland Park | Diverse population, parkland |
| Wallingford | Corn Hill | Quiet, riverside walks |
| Pike Place Market | Public Market | Fresh produce, local vendors |
| Central District | NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | Cultural heart, art galleries |
In comparing these neighborhoods, take Capitol Hill and East Avenue, for instance. Both areas are known for their lively atmosphere and historic touches. East Avenue, similar to Capitol Hill, is bustling with cultural happenings, including theaters and galleries like the Rochester Museum and Science Center. Meanwhile, if you're drawn to the quirky, bohemian charm of Fremont with its vintage shops and iconic Fremont Troll, you'll delight in South Wedge's eclectic eateries and bustling community events, mirroring Fremont's spirit of originality and fun. For those who appreciate the beachy, laid-back vibe of West Seattle, Charlotte in Rochester stands out with its inviting lakeside parks like Ontario Beach Park, perfect for leisurely days by Lake Ontario. Whether you're strolling through the vibrant farmers markets at Pike Place or Rochester's Public Market, you'll find that each city offers unique, yet reminiscent, flavors of community and culture.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Rochester
Moving from one city to another is a significant life event that comes with its sets of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Rochester, NY . By examining the pros and cons of Seattle versus the advantages Rochester offers, we hope to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in this transition.
Seattle, WA- High cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Heavy traffic
- Limited sunlight
Rochester, NY- More affordable housing
- Distinct seasons
- Less congested roads
- Brighter winters
Rochester, NY- Smaller job market
- Fewer outdoor options
- Less culinary variety
- Smaller cultural scene
Seattle, WA- Vibrant tech scene
- Extensive outdoor activities
- Diverse cuisine
- Rich cultural life
Seattle's bustling tech scene has drawn many to its vibrant communities, with neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Fremont offering an array of dining and cultural experiences, such as the renowned Pike Place Market. In contrast, Rochester's charm lies in its more manageable pace of life and the beauty of its seasons—winter offers picturesque snowy scenes while autumn brings a spectacular display of colors. Not to be overlooked, Rochester's Park Avenue and the historic Eastman Museum provide unique local flavors and cultural insights that resonate with residents and visitors alike. Despite a smaller job market and fewer outdoor recreational options, the close-knit community and the lower cost of living in Rochester offer new transplants a warm welcome and an easier transition.
Seattle vs. Rochester Food Guide
Exploring the local cuisine is a vibrant way to understand the essence of where you're moving. In this light, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Rochester to keep you well-informed about the culinary delights awaiting you in your new city.
| Seattle | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Garbage Plate |
| Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | White Hots |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Cauliflower Wings | Seitan Steaks |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the seafood, especially salmon, reigns supreme, reflecting the city's strong tie to its coastal location. You can find the freshest catch at restaurants like Canlis, which offers a modern take on Pacific Northwest cuisine. On the other hand, Rochester's culinary scene prides itself on the infamous Garbage Plate, a unique dish you wouldn't want to miss trying at Nick Tahou Hots. While Seattle's vibrant street food scene offers an array of international flavors, Rochester’s food trucks keep the city’s streets lively, with tacos being a crowd favorite.
Seattle vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when searching for those perfect dining spots that feel like home. This comparison will guide you in finding Rochester, NY's dining gems that mirror the culinary landscape of Seattle, WA , ensuring your transition is as delicious as it is smooth.
| Seattle | Rochester | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Char Steak & Lounge | Both offer exquisite fine dining experiences. |
| Pike Place Chowder | Palmer's Direct To You Market | Known for seafood chowders that rival those in Seattle. |
| The Pink Door | Good Luck Restaurant | Both are beloved for their unique, romantic atmospheres and Italian-American dishes. |
| Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar | Lento | Fresh, quality oysters and inventive seafood dishes make both must-visits. |
| Skillet Diner | The Owl House | Casual yet innovative dining, focusing on comfort food with a twist. |
| Matt's in the Market | Roux | Similar market-inspired, fresh local cuisine, offering an intimate dining experience. |
| Dahlia Lounge | Tournedos Steakhouse | Both excel in serving upscale, American cuisine in a sophisticated setting. |
| Frankie & Jo's | Misfit Doughnuts and Treats | Creative and health-conscious alternatives to traditional desserts. |
| Revel | SEA Restaurant | Provides a twist on traditional dishes, blending Asian flavors akin to Revel’s Korean flair. |
| Mamnoon | Cedar | Offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, capturing the spirit and flavors of Mamnoon. |
In transitioning from Seattle to Rochester, you'll find the culinary scene as rich and inviting as the one you're leaving behind. For instance, Palmer's Direct To You Market stands out for its chowders, providing a taste of the sea that rivals any bowl of Pike Place Chowder. Over at Good Luck Restaurant, the ambience and menu choices echo the beloved qualities of The Pink Door, ensuring a blend of fine dining with a cozy, inclusive atmosphere. Lento's reputation for superior oysters and seafood closely mirrors that of Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts. These comparisons not only highlight the parallels in quality and dining experience but also illuminate the rich, diverse culinary landscape awaiting you in Rochester.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate emerges as a pivotal factor, prompting a need to compare two distinct landscapes: Seattle, WA, and Rochester, NY. Gaining insight into housing costs, architectural styles, and the quality of urban living between these cities can inform your decision and smooth the transition.
| Comparison | Seattle | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Craftsman | Colonial, Cape Cod |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Eco-friendly features | Spacious lot sizes, Historic homes |
In evaluating housing between Seattle and Rochester, a striking contrast in median home prices and monthly rent figures is evident, reflecting the higher cost of living on the West Coast. Seattle's modern and Craftsman-style homes cater to an eco-conscious demographic, often highlighting sustainability features and views. In contrast, Rochester appeals with its more affordable Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes, situated on spacious lots that offer a taste of historical charm. This divergence not only reflects architectural preferences but also indicates a difference in lifestyle, with Seattle presenting a more urban, bike-friendly environment compared to Rochester's lower walkability and bikeability scores.
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.
Seattle vs. Rochester Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another involves many considerations, with weather being a significant one. Understanding how the weather in Seattle, WA compares to Rochester, NY, is essential to prepare for the changes you'll face in your new home.
Seattle, WA
Rochester, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Rochester, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Rochester, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Rochester, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Snowstorms, Ice Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Seattle to Rochester, prepare for colder winters and significantly more snowfall in Rochester. The transition might require new winter gear and perhaps a different approach to daily travel during the snowy months. Despite Rochester having more days of sunshine, it also comes with higher extremes in both summer and winter temperatures. Adjusting to these weather changes will be critical, including readiness for Rochester's humidity and season-specific allergies, which differ from those in Seattle.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Rochester
When you're considering a move from one city to another, comprehending the financial implications is vital. This comparison aims to shed light on the cost of living and other financial aspects between Seattle, WA, and Rochester, NY , helping you to anticipate the changes in your expenses and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Seattle | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $41,980 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 100 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 6.33 to 8.82 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 2.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 8.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Education, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Seattle to Rochester, you'll find a substantial difference in the cost of living, with Rochester being far more affordable. This could result in a notable decrease in daily living expenses, despite the lower average household income. State income tax does not apply in Seattle, but you'll face it in New York. However, the markedly lower property and sales taxes in Rochester can balance this to an extent. The economic environments also differ substantially; Seattle's economy is propelled by technology and aerospace, indicating a higher affluence, while Rochester leans on education and healthcare, creating diverse job opportunities but at more modest income levels.
Seattle vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from Seattle to Rochester, it's useful to get a comparison of the politics between Seattle & Rochester and understand the religious makeup of each city. This quick snapshot will help you anticipate the community vibes and maybe even predict the discussions at your new local coffee shop.
| Seattle | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Seattle City Council | Rochester City Council |
| Religion | Diverse, less religious overall | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence |
When moving from the bustling streets of Seattle to Rochester's historical landscapes, you'll find comfort in the familiarity of liberal and Democratic leanings in both cities. However, the experience in local politics might be somewhat different, as Rochester has a notable history of engaging community members in local governance, emphasizing on direct participation that can be seen through the active involvement in the Rochester City Council. Religion plays a diverse role in both places, with Seattle being known for its less religious population overall, contrasting with Rochester’s significant Catholic community amidst its diversity. Observing these aspects could enrich your adaptation to the new surroundings and expand your social circles.
Seattle vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is essential when moving from one city to another. This comparison between Seattle & Rochester will give you a better grasp of what to expect in terms of driving and transiting in these cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, with effort | More challenging |
In Seattle, you might find yourself spending more time in traffic due to the city's higher congestion level. However, the availability of public transit, including buses, light rail, and ferries, can make it somewhat easier to navigate without a personal vehicle, especially within city limits. On the other hand, Rochester offers a quicker commute on average, with less congestion but slightly fewer public transit options. Living in Rochester without a car could be more challenging, especially if your daily routine requires commuting to lesser-served areas by public transit.
Additional Resources
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