Best Oakland to Buffalo Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Oakland to Buffalo Movers

Moving from the vibrant energy of Oakland, CA to the historic charm of Buffalo, NY is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. You're leaving behind the sunny landscapes and iconic Bay Area life for Buffalo's renowned architecture, passionate sports culture, and the inviting allure of the "City of Good Neighbors." To ensure this significant life transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. With our expertise, we'll help you navigate this long-distance move, allowing you to focus on the exciting journey ahead.

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Best Oakland to Buffalo Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Wayfinder Moving Services 9.03AAuthorized For HHGContact
Rock 'n Roll Moving9.03NRActiveContact
Joey Z's Moving8.92NRActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Buffalo Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo
Exceptional9.03/10
based on 1,214+ data points

About Wayfinder Moving Services

Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in customer ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3104397 / 79366

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 304+ data points

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Packing and unpacking service
  • Dismantling and reassembling service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277673 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Joey Z's Moving Logo
Superb8.92/10
based on 214+ data points

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 moves. It is a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Home & Apartment moving
  • Senior Moves
  • Business & Office moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/9/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3348965 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
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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.

Oakland vs. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be challenging, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we compare popular neighborhoods in Oakland, CA with the closest similar neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY. This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city using your existing city as a baseline. Let's dive into the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Buffalo, NY to find your new home.

OaklandBuffaloHow They're Similar
RockridgeElmwood VillageVibrant arts scene and eclectic dining
MontclairParksideQuiet streets, family-friendly vibe
TemescalAllentownBustling nightlife, diverse community
Piedmont AvenueHertel AvenueThriving local businesses and walkable
Grand LakeDelaware DistrictProximity to parks and cultural attractions
Jack London SquareCanalsideWaterfront activities and entertainment
West OaklandBlack RockHistoric district with a strong sense of community
Lake MerrittElmwood VillageGreen spaces and a vibrant community atmosphere
North OaklandNorth BuffaloResidential with a mix of local shops and eateries
Old OaklandCentral ParkHistoric homes and architectural gems

In Buffalo's Elmwood Village, similar to Oakland's Rockridge, you'll find a vibrant arts scene along with an eclectic mix of dining, much like the variety of restaurants on College Avenue. Parkside, reflecting Montclair's quiet, family-friendly vibe, is surrounded by lush parks such as Delaware Park, mirroring the green spaces near Montclair. For those who enjoy the bustling nightlife and diverse community of Temescal, Allentown in Buffalo offers a similar experience with its array of bars, live music venues like Nietzsche's, and diverse dining options. Lastly, those moving from Piedmont Avenue will appreciate Hertel Avenue in Buffalo for its thriving local businesses, with places like Mes Que offering a cozy spot for soccer enthusiasts.

Things To Do background image

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 Oakland to Buffalo

Moving across the country can be a daunting task, and comparing the pros and cons of leaving Oakland, CA for Buffalo, NY helps provide an honest reflection of such a significant change. This comparison aims to highlight the lifestyle differences you may encounter and to assist in making the transition smoother.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Earthquake risk
  • Dense traffic
  • Urban hustle
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Lower living costs
  • Safer seismically
  • Less traffic
  • Slower pace of life
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less tech jobs
  • Less natural diversity
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Diverse culture
  • Robust tech scene
  • Scenic landscapes

Moving from Oakland to Buffalo offers a unique set of lifestyle changes. While Oakland is famed for its mild climate and diverse culture, Buffalo boasts a rich history and vibrant community life, albeit with colder winters. Buffalo's Canalside and Delaware Park provide ample green spaces and waterfront activities, contrasting with Oakland’s urbanized Lake Merritt and Redwood Regional Park. Additionally, Buffalo's lower cost of living allows for a more comfortable lifestyle, with popular areas like Elmwood Village showcasing unique local restaurants and shops that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. This transition may mean saying goodbye to the Bay Area’s tech hub and scenic coastlines but welcomes the charm and historic architecture of Buffalo, emphasizing a community-centric lifestyle.

Oakland vs. Buffalo Food Guide

As you plan your move, understanding the local culture is crucial—and that includes what people eat! In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Oakland & Buffalo to give you a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new home.

OaklandBuffalo
Most iconic local food itemSour Sourdough BreadBuffalo Wings
Most popular meat dishBarbecue RibsBeef on Weck
Most popular street food itemTacosBuffalo-style pizza
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • ShakeWell
  • Tamarindo Antojeria
  • Anchor Bar
  • Gabriel's Gate
  • Ted's Hot Dogs
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring Oakland and Buffalo through their cuisines reveals a fascinating contrast in food culture. In Oakland, the vibrant street food scene, including an impressive variety of tacos, mirrors the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their foodie vibe, hosting a plethora of food trucks and vegan options that highlight the city's health-conscious ethos. Meanwhile, Buffalo, famous for inventing Buffalo wings at the Anchor Bar, takes pride in its hearty, meat-focused dishes such as Beef on Weck. Buffalo's food scene is also characterized by its unique Buffalo-style pizza and a growing number of spots catering to vegan tastes, though it's more traditional compared to Oakland's cutting-edge culinary experimentation. Whether you're indulging in Oakland's innovative vegan cuisine or savoring Buffalo's iconic comfort foods, each city offers a unique taste of local flavors.

Oakland vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new culinary home is an essential part of settling into a new city. This comparison between Oakland’s top eateries and their Buffalo, NY counterparts aims to help you discover your next favorite dining spots by using familiar flavors from your current locale as a guide.

OaklandBuffaloWhat You'll Love
CommisTempo RestaurantFine dining with a focus on meticulous preparation and presentation
ShakewellTappoVibrant atmosphere with a mix of Mediterranean and Italian flavors
Brown Sugar KitchenCarla's Crumby CreationsComfort food with a creative twist, highlighting soulful flavors
Zachary's Chicago PizzaLa NovaIconic for its Buffalo-style pizza, a taste reminiscent of Zachary’s deep dish
Cholita LindaCantina LocoFresh Mexican cuisine with a similar focus on street-style eats
The WolfHutch'sOffers a refined dining experience with a dynamic, seasonally inspired menu
Fentons CreameryAnderson's Frozen CustardA local favorite for ice cream and sweet treats with a long-standing tradition
MuaAllen Burger VentureKnown for its eclectic menu and buzzing atmosphere, echoing Mua’s vibe
Nyum BaiPho Lantern RestaurantAuthentic flavors that take inspiration from traditional Cambodian cuisine
PizzaioloJay's Artisan PizzaCraft pizzeria focusing on quality ingredients and wood-fired pies

When making the culinary transition from Oakland, CA, to Buffalo, NY, you'll find vibrant and diverse flavors awaiting you. Tappo in Buffalo mirrors Shakewell's Mediterranean flair, serving dishes that blend Italian and Spanish cuisine with a lively atmosphere. For those who relish the unique, soulful flavors of Brown Sugar Kitchen, Carla's Crumby Creations offers an inventive take on comfort food that resonates with warmth and creativity. Exploring these establishments will not only satiate your appetite but also foster a sense of community and belonging in Buffalo, just as your Oakland favorites have done.

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Ready to start your move?

Oakland vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in relocating, highlighting the necessity to compare the housing characteristics of Oakland, CA and Buffalo, NY . This comparison aims to enlighten you on what to expect from each city, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

ComparisonOaklandBuffalo
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, CraftsmanColonial, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to San Francisco, public transit optionsHistorical architecture, affordable living

The contrast in housing costs between Oakland and Buffalo is stark; with Oakland's median home prices and rent significantly higher, this reflects the broader cost of living and economic dynamics of the two cities. Buffalo's allure lies in its more affordable housing market and rich historical architecture, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a lower cost of living without sacrificing cultural heritage. Oakland, while pricier, offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with its proximity to San Francisco, diverse architecture ranging from Victorian to Craftsman styles, and robust public transit options, illustrating the trade-offs between these two distinct urban environments.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Oakland vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another significantly impacts your daily life, and understanding how the weather varies between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison between Oakland, CA and Buffalo, NY, emphasizes the weather differences to help you prepare for what's ahead.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

79°F / 62°F

Buffalo, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

31°F / 18°F

Buffalo, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23 inches

Oakland, CA

40 inches

Buffalo, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0 inches

Oakland, CA

95 inches

Buffalo, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonOaklandBuffalo
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesSnowstorms, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When relocating from Oakland to Buffalo, you'll notice a significant shift in your weather experience. Oakland's milder climate with more sunny days transitions to Buffalo's distinct seasons, featuring cold, snowy winters. Additionally, Buffalo experiences more humidity and rainfall, contributing to its lush summers but also heavy snowfall in winter, which is a stark contrast to Oakland's virtually snow-free climate. Moreover, understanding the prevalence of different natural disasters and top seasonal allergies in each region can help you prepare better for the local environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Buffalo

When moving from Oakland, CA to Buffalo, NY, understanding how aspects related to money and finance in both cities will impact your expenses is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge the economic differences and prepare for a smooth transition.

ComparisonOaklandBuffalo
Avg. Household Income$82,236$40,669
Cost of Living Index139.195.8
State Income Tax9.3%6.85%
Avg. Property Tax0.79%2.67%
Avg. Sales Tax9.25%8.75%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Health Care, RetailEducation, Health Services, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerately affluentModerately
PovertyHighHigh
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Oakland to Buffalo, you'll notice significant differences in the cost of living and average household income. While the income in Buffalo might be lower, the cost of living is considerably less, offering a potentially similar standard of living. State income tax and sales tax rates are lower in Buffalo, providing slight relief in taxes. However, be prepared for a higher property tax rate in Buffalo compared to Oakland. Also, the economic landscape is diverse, with Buffalo having a focus on education, health services, and manufacturing, which contrasts with Oakland's strong technology and retail sectors. Considering these factors can aid in your financial planning and adjustments.

Oakland vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a transformative journey, not just in terms of geography but also in the cultural, political, and spiritual environments you'll immerse yourself in. This guide provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Oakland & Buffalo, aiming for you to better understand the fabric of the communities you're transitioning between.

OaklandBuffalo
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive policies, strong advocacy on social issuesHistorically Democratic, with a focus on economic revitalization
ReligionDiverse, with no single denomination dominatingMajorly Christian, with significant Catholic and Protestant populations

Both Oakland and Buffalo share a tendency towards liberal politics, though the issues at the forefront can vary. Oakland is well-known for its progressive stance on social issues, reflecting its diverse population's aspirations. Buffalo, while also Democratic, has been more focused on economic issues and revitalization projects. Religiously, you'll find Oakland incredibly diverse, with a variety of faiths practiced across the city. Buffalo's religious landscape is predominantly Christian, with a significant presence of Catholic and Protestant communities. This comparison illustrates not just differences but also the shared ideals and challenges in these communities.

Oakland vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Oakland, CA, to Buffalo, NY, necessitates understanding the differences in commuting experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Buffalo will outline what you can expect regarding daily commute times, traffic congestion, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a car in both cities.

ComparisonOaklandBuffalo
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)29.321.4
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingYes, with planning

While the average commute time in Oakland is longer than in Buffalo, it's not just about the numbers. Oakland's traffic congestion is significantly higher, which means you might often find yourself stuck in traffic. However, Oakland benefits from a slightly better public transit system, thanks to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and bus services that connect various neighborhoods efficiently. Living without a car in Oakland is feasible, especially if you work and live within the city core or close to BART stations. In contrast, Buffalo's less congested roads make driving more pleasant. Despite a lower public transit score, Buffalo's Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) provides comprehensive bus and rail services that make getting around without a car possible with some planning.

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