Best Oakland to Rochester Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Oakland to Rochester Movers

Moving from the bustling energy of Oakland, CA, to the historic charm of Rochester, NY, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with endless possibilities. Swapping the Bay Area's sun-kissed hills and tech havens for Rochester's snow-draped landscapes and the fervor of the Flower City introduces a thrilling contrast in lifestyle and scenery. Recognizing the challenges of such a long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust this journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible—allow us at Great Guys Moving to guide you every step of the way.

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Best Oakland to Rochester Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Zippboxx9.37NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Rock 'n Roll Moving9.03NRActiveContact
Interior Moving Services, Inc.8.96A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Rochester 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
Zippboxx Logo
Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,089+ data points

About Zippboxx

Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both l...Read More >>

Services

  • Local movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3077817 / 1043860

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
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
Interior Moving Services, Inc. Logo
Superb
claimed company icon
8.96/10
based on 1,144+ data points

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 commer...Read More >>

Services

  • Local residential moving
  • Local commercial moving
  • Long-distance residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1498819 / 600823

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
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. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you’ve grown accustomed to your local haunts. To ease the transition, we present a detailed comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Rochester, NY . By aligning neighborhoods from Oakland with their Rochester counterparts, we aim to help you find a new community with the familiar vibe you've come to love.

OaklandRochesterHow They're Similar
RockridgePark AvenueVibrant, trendy area
MontclairBrowncroftFamily-friendly, suburban
TemescalSouth WedgeEclectic, close-knit community
Piedmont AvenueEast AvenueHistoric, artsy
Jack London SquareCorn HillRiverside, dining and entertainment
Grand LakeHighland ParkGreen spaces, cultural events
West OaklandNeighborhood of the Arts (NOTA)Industrial, artistic
Dimond DistrictMaplewoodDiverse, community involvement
Lake MerrittCobbs HillPicturesque, recreational activities
ClaremontEast RochesterHistoric, quiet residential

If you're making the transition from Oakland to Rochester and are fond of the trendy, bustling vibe of Rockridge, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Park Avenue, known for its vibrant arts scene and array of cafes. Admirers of Montclair's family-friendly, suburban feel will feel right at home in Browncroft, with its welcoming community and charming homes. For those drawn to the eclectic mix of restaurants and indie shops in Temescal, South Wedge offers an equally engaging and close-knit community, highlighted by landmarks like Historic South Wedge. The transformative energy of West Oakland finds its counterpart in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA), where industrial spaces have been repurposed for artistic endeavors, and locations like the Memorial Art Gallery serve as cultural beacons.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Rochester

Moving from one city to another is a decision that brings a whirlwind of change, impacting your daily life and surroundings in numerous ways. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Rochester, NY , helping to set realistic expectations and prepare for the transition.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less snowfall
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Seasonal weather
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller scene
  • Less tech jobs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Vibrant culture
  • Tech hub

While Oakland is known for its vibrant culture and bustling tech scene, with neighborhoods like Temescal and Jack London Square offering an array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, you'll find Rochester has its own unique charm. In Rochester, neighborhoods such as Park Avenue and the South Wedge are filled with quaint cafes, boutiques, and eateries like The Playhouse/Swillburger, offering a cozy community vibe. The cost of living in Rochester is significantly more affordable, allowing for a potentially higher quality of life. However, it's important to note that Rochester experiences more pronounced seasonal changes, with cold winters that are perfect for snow sports enthusiasts but might be a challenge for those accustomed to Oakland's milder winters. This move offers an exciting opportunity to experience the best of both worlds: a vibrant community life in Rochester, against a backdrop of accessible nature and historical sights such as the George Eastman Museum.

Oakland vs. Rochester Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Rochester to give you a sense of the food culture you'll be stepping into. Understanding the culinary landscape is key to immersing yourself fully in the local culture and lifestyle of your new home.

OaklandRochester
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadGarbage Plate
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsWhite Hots
Most popular street food itemTacosMeat Hot Sauce
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosVegan Garbage Plate
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Mama's Royal Café
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Good Luck Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Oakland, the vibrant street food scene, symbolized by tacos available throughout the city, particularly in the Fruitvale district, embodies the city's rich cultural diversity. Similarly, Rochester offers a unique culinary experience with its infamous Garbage Plate, best enjoyed at its origin, Nick Tahou Hots. Both cities boast a thriving food scene, albeit with distinct local flavors. Oakland's emphasis on organic and vegan options, such as the inventive jackfruit tacos, highlights the city's health-conscious ethos. Conversely, Rochester combines tradition and innovation, offering vegan versions of local specialties, indicating a growing adaptability in its culinary scene.

Oakland vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison charts aim to ease your transition from Oakland to Rochester by identifying your new favorite eateries. Let's dive into the dining scene of both cities to uncover gems that remind you of home or inspire new culinary adventures.

OaklandRochesterWhat You'll Love
CommisChar Steak & LoungeBoth offer exquisite fine dining experiences
ShakewellRadio SocialEclectic menus and vibrant atmospheres make them standouts
HomeroomThe Playhouse//SwillburgerFor a playful take on American classics
Burma SuperstarSEA RestaurantBoth specialize in flavorful, authentic Asian cuisine
PizzaioloCasa Larga Vineyards & WineryCasual Italian dining paired with local wines
Dona TomasItacateShare the passion for Mexican cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients
Brown Sugar KitchenCharlies Frog PondBoth are beloved for their hearty, comfort food staples
Everett and Jones BarbequeDinosaur Bar-B-QueSynonymous with high-quality, smoked meats and soulful vibes
MuaGood Luck RestaurantBoth are known for their dynamic spaces and innovative dishes
Wood TavernLentoFarm-to-table freshness in cozy settings illustrates their commitment to local sourcing

While you might miss the bustling, vibrant food scene of Oakland, Rochester has its own culinary delights that are sure to make you feel right at home. Places like Radio Social and The Playhouse//Swillburger bring unique dining and entertainment experiences similar to what Shakewell offers back in California, blending great food with a fun atmosphere. For those who appreciate farm-to-table dining, Lento bears a striking resemblance to Wood Tavern in its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and cozy settings. These establishments not only mirror the diverse Oakland dining scene but also promise new favorites in your Rochester adventures.

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Oakland vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, delving into the real estate market is crucial. It informs your choice ensuring a smooth transition and satisfaction with your new home. This comparison between Oakland, CA , and Rochester, NY , emphasizes the housing landscape, offering insights into costs, architecture, and lifestyle features critical to making informed decisions.

ComparisonOaklandRochester
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, CraftsmanColonial, Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, Bay viewsLarge backyards, Proximity to parks

With Oakland's real estate market, the allure includes Victorian and Craftsman homes that capture the city's unique cultural diversity and artistic vibe. Despite higher living costs, its urban lifestyle rating is strong, boosted by excellent views and open floor plans often mentioned in listings. On the other hand, Rochester offers a more affordable entry into homeownership or renting, with a preference for Colonial and Cape Cod styles. While its urban lifestyle score is lower, Rochester's charm is found in its large backyards and the close proximity to parks, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of city and suburban living. Both cities offer distinct advantages, depending on personal lifestyle preferences and financial considerations.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Oakland vs. Rochester Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another profoundly affects your day-to-day life, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the weather in Oakland, CA and Rochester, NY compares will prepare you for the adjustments you'll need to make. From average temperatures to the number of sunny days, this comparison aims to highlight the significant climatic differences between these two cities.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

80°F / 62°F

Rochester, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

32°F / 18°F

Rochester, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23 inches

Oakland, CA

34 inches

Rochester, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0 inches

Oakland, CA

99 inches

Rochester, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonOaklandRochester
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesSnowstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year260 days165 days
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Oakland to Rochester, you're transitioning from a mild, Mediterranean climate to a more extreme, continental one. The stark difference in average winter temperatures and annual snowfall — with Oakland seeing hardly any snow and Rochester averaging around 99 inches — can be quite an adjustment. Furthermore, the significant decrease in days of sunshine may affect your outdoor activities and mood. Preparing for Rochester's higher humidity and understanding the impact of its colder winters on daily life, such as the potential need for snow tires and a robust winter wardrobe, are crucial steps in making a smooth transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, it’s crucial to understand how Oakland, CA and Rochester, NY will impact your finances. This comparison will help you see which costs might go up, which might go down, and how your overall living expenses will change.

ComparisonOaklandRochester
Avg. Household Income$82,236$41,980
Cost of Living Index139.1100
State Income Tax1-13.3%4-8.82%
Avg. Property Tax0.78%2.87%
Avg. Sales Tax9.25%8%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, RetailEducation, Manufacturing, Healthcare
AffluenceMore affluentLess affluent
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessMore pronouncedLess pronounced

While the average household income in Oakland is notably higher than in Rochester, the cost of living there is also significantly more expensive. Despite a higher state income tax bracket in California, property taxes in Rochester are markedly higher, which might affect long-term homeownership costs. Meanwhile, the prevalence of technology and healthcare industries in Oakland points to a potentially more dynamic job market compared to Rochester's focus on education and manufacturing. This contrast in affluence and industry could significantly impact your lifestyle and employment opportunities after your move.

Oakland vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison offers a quick snapshot, helping you understand the comparison of the politics between Oakland & Rochester alongside a glance at religious orientation. This guide aims to provide insights into what to expect in terms of political and religious makeup as you plan your move.

OaklandRochester
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsFocused on progressive social policiesEngagement in urban revitalization
ReligionDiverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, JudaismDiverse; Predominantly Christian, with historical pockets of Judaism and growing Islamic communities

While both Oakland and Rochester share a liberal political stance, the nature of local politics and community engagement can vary. Oakland's political scene is notably vibrant, often focusing on progressive social issues and policies aimed at inclusivity and diversity. The city supports a range of religious beliefs with various institutions catering to diverse faiths, such as the Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California in Oakland. Rochester, while also liberal, tends to focus more on urban development and revitalization efforts, with a historical emphasis on education and health services. Like Oakland, it's home to a wide array of religious communities, including a significant presence of Christianity and pockets of Judaism and Islam that add to the city's cultural fabric.

Oakland vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Preparing for a move from Oakland, CA, to Rochester, NY? Understanding the differences between driving/transiting in Oakland & Rochester will better prepare you for what daily commute and traffic is like, making the transition smoother.

ComparisonOaklandRochester
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3221
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with effortChallenging

In Oakland, CA, you may find yourself spending a bit more time in your vehicle or on public transit, with average commute times around 32 minutes. The city scores well in terms of public transit availability, making it feasible, though at times inconvenient, to live without a car. On the other hand, Rochester, NY, presents a different scenario, with significantly lower traffic congestion and shorter average commute times, but with a public transit system that isn't as robust as Oakland's. Getting around without a car in Rochester could prove to be more challenging, underlining the necessity of owning a vehicle for more convenient daily travel.

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