Best San Francisco to Rochester Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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San Francisco to Rochester Movers

Moving from the tech-hub bustle of San Francisco, CA, to the cultural mosaic of Rochester, NY, signifies an exciting shift in scenery and lifestyle. While you're trading the iconic Golden Gate for the Genesee River's charm, remember that both cities offer unique experiences from the Fog City's tech-savvy streets to the Flower City's historical allure. Ensuring your transition is smooth and stress-free hinges on selecting trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we've used our unbiased ranking algorithm to identify the best in the business for a move of this magnitude.

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Best San Francisco to Rochester Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Zippboxx9.36NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.32DAuthorized For HHGContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
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 San Francisco guide.

5 Best San Francisco 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 12/17/2024)

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
Zippboxx Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
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
2
B
Exceptional9.32/10
based on 634+ data points

About Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Long-distance moving
  • Small relocation
  • Full packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo
Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
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 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1498819 / 600823

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
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.

San Francisco vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Rochester, NY. By leveraging familiar areas in San Francisco as a baseline, we hope to help you find a comparable neighborhood in Rochester that suits your lifestyle.

San FranciscoRochesterHow They're Similar
Marina DistrictPark AvenueVibrant, young professionals
CastroSouth WedgeDiverse, LGBTQ+-friendly
Haight-AshburyNOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)Bohemian, arts scene
Mission DistrictEast EndEclectic food scene, nightlife
Nob HillEast AvenueHistoric homes, upscale
Pacific HeightsCorn HillExclusive, architecturally rich
SOMA (South of Market)Neighborhood of PlayContemporary, tech hub
North BeachCharlotteBeachfront, lively dining
Richmond DistrictMaplewoodFamily-friendly, close to nature
Financial DistrictHigh FallsBusiness district, historic mills

In San Francisco's Marina District, known for its bustling atmosphere and appeal to young professionals, Rochester's Park Avenue neighborhood provides a similar vibe, with a plethora of cafes, boutiques, and a vibrant young community. Similarly, the Castro's inclusivity and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere finds its match in South Wedge, a neighborhood celebrated for its diversity and welcoming environment. For those who enjoy the bohemian and artsy flair of Haight-Ashbury, Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) offers an eclectic blend of galleries, live music, and public art that captures the bohemian spirit remarkably well. Meanwhile, San Francisco's Nob Hill, with its grandeur and historic charm, aligns closely with Rochester's East Avenue, where architectural splendor and a touch of sophistication abound. Exploring these neighborhoods further could lead you to discover cherished local spots like the Memorial Art Gallery in NOTA or the vibrant culinary scene along Park Avenue.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Rochester

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, warranting a close examination of the advantages and drawbacks. This comparison aims to shed light on the upsides and downsides of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Rochester, NY, offering an honest reflection of what to expect. Through detailed charts, we uncover how the shift impacts aspects of daily life, making your transition as smooth as possible.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Frequent fog
  • Tight housing market
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • More sunny days
  • Easier home-buying
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Smaller job market
  • Less diversity
  • No ocean nearby
  • Harsh winters
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Cultural diversity
  • Ocean access
  • Mild winters

Moving from San Francisco's bustling tech hubs and diverse cultural landscape to Rochester's more laid-back, affordable setting can be a significant shift. In Rochester, you might miss the proximity to the ocean and the mild winters of the Bay Area. However, the ease of finding a home in neighborhoods like Park Avenue or the South Wedge, each known for its unique restaurants and shops such as The Little Theatre and Parkleigh, can be quite appealing. The less congested streets also mean exploring local sights like the Memorial Art Gallery or the historic George Eastman Museum becomes more leisurely. Though the winters may be harsher, the scenic beauty of snow-covered landscapes and winter sports in places like Bristol Mountain Winter Resort adds a new dimension to outdoor activities.

San Francisco vs. Rochester Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between San Francisco & Rochester will give you a better understanding of how food reflects the local culture and what life in your new city will be like. This comparison will help you dive into the culinary scenes of your current and future home.

San FranciscoRochester
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadGarbage Plate
Most popular meat dishMission BurritoWhite Hots
Most popular street food itemFood Trucks OfferingsBeef on Weck
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastCauliflower Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Boulevard Café
  • Zuni Café
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Highland Park Diner
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In San Francisco, the culinary scene is vast and diverse, reflecting the city's rich cultural tapestry. You can enjoy iconic sourdough bread from historic bakeries in the Mission district or indulge in a Mission Burrito, a local take on the Mexican classic that's been a staple of the city for decades. The vegan scene is particularly vibrant, with establishments like Tartine Bakery offering innovative plant-based options. In contrast, Rochester’s down-to-earth vibe is perfectly embodied in its love for the Garbage Plate, a late-night staple you'll find at Nick Tahou Hots. The city also boasts a hearty selection of meat dishes, including white hots, a variation of the hot dog that's unique to the area. Both cities offer a rich culinary experience, but each has its distinct flavor influenced by local culture and history.

San Francisco vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting journey, but discovering new favorite dining spots can transform any new city into a comforting home. This comparative chart on top restaurants aims to bridge the culinary gap for those moving from San Francisco to Rochester , making the transition smoother and tastier.

San FranciscoRochesterWhat You'll Love
Zuni CaféThe Owl HouseCozy ambiance with an eclectic, gourmet twist
Tartine BakeryFlour City Bread Co.Artisanal breads and pastries, capturing the spirit of Tartine
La TaqueriaJohn's Tex-Mex EateryAuthentic and affordable Tex-Mex flavors
State Bird ProvisionsGood Luck RestaurantInnovative dishes in a unique, shared-dining experience
Gary DankoChar Steak & LoungeUpscale dining with a focus on exquisite service and fine cuisine
Swan Oyster DepotLentoFresh, sustainably sourced seafood in a casual setting
Mission Chinese FoodChen GardenBold flavors and creative Chinese cuisine
NopaThe RevelryA blend of rustic and modern dishes with a lively atmosphere
Foreign CinemaThe Little Theatre CaféMovies, music, and bistro-style eats for a cultured night out
BenuNext Door by WegmansInnovative and high-quality dishes aiming for a memorable dining experience

Exploring Rochester's dining scene through the lens of San Francisco's diverse culinary landscape offers an exciting adventure. For instance, the transition from the iconic Tartine Bakery to Flour City Bread Co. promises a seamless experience for lovers of artisanal breads and pastries, ensuring that the warmth of freshly baked goods continues to be a part of your weekly routine. Similarly, a visit to Lento will evoke the fresh seafood ambiance of Swan Oyster Depot, albeit with a unique Rochester twist. Each Rochester establishment has been handpicked not only for their culinary equivalence but for their atmosphere and service, promising to fill more than just the void of relocation.

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Ready to start your move?

San Francisco vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role in planning a relocation. Understanding the key differences in housing between San Francisco, CA, and Rochester, NY ensures you make an informed decision suited to your lifestyle and budget needs.

ComparisonSan FranciscoRochester
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and ModernColonial and Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, amenitiesYard size, schools

When you compare San Francisco and Rochester, the striking difference in median home prices and rents stands out. While San Francisco offers stunning Victorian and modern architecture with unparalleled walkability and a vibrant urban lifestyle, it commands a premium. On the other hand, Rochester presents an attractive proposition with its affordable Colonial and Cape Cod homes, larger yards, and emphasis on local schools. The city may offer less in terms of walkability and bikeability compared to San Francisco, but it provides a more relaxed and budget-friendly environment. Deciding between these contrasting settings will largely depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle needs.

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.

San Francisco vs. Rochester Weather Considerations

When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather is crucial. This comparison specifically highlights how the climate in San Francisco contrasts with that of Rochester, offering insights on what changes to expect and prepare for.

Summer icon
68°F / 53°F

San Francisco, CA

82°F / 62°F

Rochester, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

32°F / 18°F

Rochester, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23

San Francisco, CA

34

Rochester, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

99

Rochester, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan FranciscoRochester
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesSnowstorms, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from San Francisco to Rochester, you're trading mild, foggy summers for hotter ones, and relatively warm winters for snowy, cold conditions. The significant increase in snowfall, from none in San Francisco to an average of 99 inches in Rochester, might require adjustments in winter attire and transportation. Additionally, Rochester experiences fewer days of sunshine, which might affect your outdoor activities and vitamin D intake. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for the seasonal changes and ensure a smoother transition to your new home environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications. Comparing the costs and economic conditions between your current and future homes can greatly impact your decision-making. This chart aims to illuminate the key financial differences between moving from San Francisco to Rochester, focusing on aspects such as income, taxes, and living expenses.

ComparisonSan FranciscoRochester
Avg. Household Income$121,826$41,980
Cost of Living Index164100
State Income Tax13.3%8.82%
Avg. Property Tax0.6%2.8%
Avg. Sales Tax8.5%8%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Finance, HealthcareEducation, Manufacturing, Healthcare
AffluenceVery HighModerate
PovertyLowHigher
HomelessnessHighModerate

When comparing San Francisco and Rochester, the stark contrast in average household incomes stands out, with San Francisco's being significantly higher. However, this comes with a much higher cost of living index; a factor that might balance out the income discrepancy for many. State income and sales taxes are slightly more favorable in Rochester. For those looking to invest in property, Rochester presents higher average property taxes, likely a reflection of different local government funding structures. The dominant industries in each city hint at the job market and economic activity differences, potentially guiding your employment opportunities post-move. Additionally, the description of affluence and poverty levels between the two cities provides a broader picture of socio-economic environments you would be transitioning into.

San Francisco vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Rochester, NY, it's helpful to understand the local characteristics of each city. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup of San Francisco & Rochester , offering a glance at the differing political landscapes and religious communities you'll encounter.

San FranciscoRochester
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticModerately Liberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsCity GovernmentCity Government
ReligionDiverse; less religious overallDiverse; more religious participation

San Francisco is known for its liberal political stance, with a majority of residents identifying as Democratic. This contrasts with Rochester which, while still leaning Democratic, offers a more moderate political environment. The local politics in both cities are accessible online, providing resources and engagement opportunities for residents. When it comes to religion, San Francisco is characterized by its diversity and lower overall religious participation, unlike Rochester, where there's a noticeable higher level of religious engagement among its residents. This difference in the religious landscape is something to consider as you make your move.

San Francisco vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Rochester is essential for anyone considering a move from the bustling Bay Area to the tranquil landscapes of Upstate New York. This guide will give you a clearer picture of what to expect on the roads and when using public transit in both cities.

ComparisonSan FranciscoRochester
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

Moving from San Francisco to Rochester, you'll find a significant difference in your daily commute, especially in terms of time spent and reliance on a car. San Francisco, with a high traffic congestion rating and an equally high public transit score, allows residents to comfortably navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Systems like the BART and Muni connect various neighborhoods, making it convenient for daily commutes. On the other hand, Rochester's lower traffic congestion and average commute time reflect a more laid-back approach. However, its public transit score indicates a city less served by public transportation, suggesting a greater need for a personal vehicle to navigate effectively.

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