Moving from Washington to Rochester?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Washington to Rochester Movers

Embarking on a move from one city to another is not just a change of address, but an exciting adventure that opens a new chapter in your life. Leaving behind DC's political heartbeat for Rochester's charm, known as "The Flower City," requires adjusting to a new mix of food, neighborhoods, and people. Recognizing the critical role of trusted and reliable professional movers in this long journey, we at Great Guys Moving ensure you’re matched with the best, making your transition as smooth and worry-free as possible.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Washington guide.

5 Best Washington to Rochester Movers

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

#1
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 6,631+ data points

Hyattsville, MD
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT: 2005212 Verify

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in washington dc 2023 bookstore movers image
top ranked movers in washington dc 2022 bookstore movers image
#2
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,108+ data points

Washington DC, DC
Local Move, Long Distance Moving, Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2474176 Verify

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in gaithersburg 2023 mics moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington dc 2022 mics moving image
#3
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo
Exceptional

based on 361+ data points

Alexandria, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT: 3338902 Verify

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in buchanan 2023 ap pro moving llc image
#4
Zippboxx Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,089+ data points

Hauppauge, NY
Local movers, Long Distance Movers, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 3077817 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in amityville 2023 zippboxx image
top 10 ranked movers in farmingdale 2022 zippboxx image
#5
Interior Moving Services, Inc. Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 1,144+ data points

Rochester, NY
Local residential moving, Local commercial moving, Long-distance residential moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1498819 Verify

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 >>

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top ranked movers in rochester 2023 interior moving services inc image
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Relocating from Washington to Rochester Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming. To ease this transition, we're here to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings in Rochester, NY, by drawing parallels with what you know and love about Washington DC, DC. This guide highlights a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Rochester, NY, aiming to match you with areas that resonate with your lifestyle and preferences.

WashingtonRochester
Dupont CircleEast Avenue

Historic charm, vibrant nightlife

GeorgetownCorn Hill

Picturesque, riverfront living

Adams MorganSouth Wedge

Diverse, vibrant community

Capitol HillPark Avenue

Family-friendly, close to parks

Logan CircleNOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)

Artsy, walkable area

Columbia HeightsSwillburg

Historic homes, community-centric

Foggy BottomUniversity of Rochester Area

College-life vibe, riverside

Navy YardCharlotte

Waterfront activities, newer development

ShawUpper Monroe

Eclectic, up-and-coming

PetworthNorth Winton Village

Quiet, residential character

For those familiar with the bustling streets and historic charm of Dupont Circle in Washington, DC, you'll find a similar allure within East Avenue in Rochester, known for its grand mansions and vibrant cultural scene. If the waterfront lifestyle and cobblestone walks of Georgetown have captured your heart, you'll appreciate Corn Hill in Rochester, where scenic river views meet classic architecture. Meanwhile, arts enthusiasts who revel in the Logan Circle area's creative buzz might find a new home in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts, brimming with galleries, studios, and public art. Not to be overlooked, the community-centric spirit of Columbia Heights mirrors that of Swillburg in Rochester, with both neighborhoods boasting historic homes and a tight-knit community vibe.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington to Rochester

Moving from one city to another brings both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Rochester, NY . By understanding both sides, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Humid summers
  • Political saturation
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Cooler summers
  • Community-focused
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Less green space
  • More limited dining
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Abundance of parks
  • Diverse dining options

While moving from Washington DC to Rochester may mean leaving behind some of the capital's vibrant nightlife and cultural richness, such as the plethora of museums, galleries, and dining options ranging from high-end restaurants like José Andrés' establishments to the diverse offers of Adams Morgan, it also opens up a new chapter of benefits. Rochester welcomes you with its collection of community-focused events, lower overall living costs, and less congestion, making your daily life less stressful and more budget-friendly. Coastal gems, such as Ontario Beach Park, and culinary delights like the iconic Nick Tahou Hots, introduce you to new traditions and neighborhood charm. This move might mean fewer impromptu museum visits, but the friendly, tight-knit communities and beautiful natural surroundings of upstate New York offer a different quality of life that's equally enriching.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Washington to Rochester

When considering a move, the local food scene is a vibrant expression of a city's culture. Through this comparison, we aim to highlight the differences and similarities in the culinary landscapes, allowing you to grasp what awaits in your new home. Here, we focus on a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Rochester to offer a taste of what each city offers.

WashingtonRochester

Most iconic local food item

Half-SmokeGarbage Plate

Most popular meat dish

Mumbo Sauce WingsBeef on Weck

Most popular street food item

Jumbo Slice PizzaWhite Hots

Most popular vegan food

Kimchi Tofu StewRochester-style Seitan

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rasika
  • Le Diplomate
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Rocco

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

86

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

95

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

97

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

87

In Washington DC, the Half-Smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl epitomizes local cuisine, while Rochester prides itself on the unique Garbage Plate, best experienced at Nick Tahou Hots. DC's vibrant street food scene and high health consciousness are reflected in the abundance of food trucks and vegan options, such as the popular Kimchi Tofu Stew found in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill. Rochester, with a more laid-back foodie vibe, offers comforting dishes like Beef on Weck and innovative vegan dishes like Rochester-style Seitan, found in eclectic eateries across neighborhoods like South Wedge. The food scene in each city offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences, mirroring their unique cultural landscapes.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Washington to Rochester

Discovering your next favorite dining spot is crucial when moving to a new city. This restaurant comparison guide between Washington DC and Rochester aims to ease your transition by helping you find eateries that resonate with your tastes from back home. Whether you’re in search of an upscale evening out or a casual lunch, we’ve got you covered.

ZaytinyaRadio Social

Offers a Middle Eastern-inspired menu in a vibrant, social setting.

Le DiplomateFrench Quarter Café

Brings Parisian bistro vibes and classic French dishes to Rochester.

RasikaThali of India

Known for its diverse and flavorful Indian cuisine, mirroring Rasika's celebrated dishes.

Ben's Chili BowlDogtown

Iconic for its unique hot dogs and chili, offering a taste akin to Ben's comfort food.

Fiola MareEdibles Restaurant & Bar

Provides an upscale dining experience with a focus on seafood and inventive cuisine.

Founding FarmersThe Owl House

Emphasizes farm-to-table dining with a focus on sustainability, much like Founding Farmers.

Blue Duck TavernGood Luck Restaurant

Offers an elevated American dining experience with a concentration on locally sourced ingredients.

Rose's LuxuryRelish

Celebrated for its innovative and eclectic menu, providing a dining adventure similar to Rose's Luxury.

Bad SaintKhong

Delivers a unique take on Filipino cuisine with a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabTournedos Steakhouse

Known for its high-end meats and seafood, echoing the quality and atmosphere of Joe's.

In moving from the bustling city life of Washington DC to Rochester, you'll find culinary gems that echo the flavors and atmospheres you've grown to love. Radiosocial in Rochester offers a communal dining experience reminiscent of Zaytinya's richness in Middle Eastern cuisine, while Edibles Restaurant & Bar's championing of seafood and sophistication finds a counterpart in DC's Fiola Mare. The Owl House in Rochester mirrors Founding Farmers' commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the ethos behind your meals aligns with your values. Discovering these parallels allows for a smoother transition, embedding the comfort of familiar tastes within a new cityscape, making Rochester feel increasingly like home.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Washington to Rochester

Real estate significantly influences one's moving experience. Understanding how housing in Washington DC compares with Rochester, NY, is crucial in making an informed decision. This comparison emphasizes cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

When comparing Washington DC to Rochester, the difference in housing costs is quite stark. In Washington DC, the median home price is significantly higher, which mirrors its high cost of living and urban lifestyle. The city's architecture is rich with Federal and Victorian styles, enhancing its historic appeal. Rochester, known for its affordable living and Colonial Revival architecture, presents a more laid-back lifestyle with its family-friendly neighborhoods and abundance of green spaces. Both cities offer unique attributes, but Rochester emerges as a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality of life.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Washington to Rochester

When contemplating a move from Washington DC to Rochester, NY, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Washington DC and Rochester will impact your daily life. Differences in climate can affect everything from your wardrobe to your activities, making this comparison an essential aspect of your relocation planning.

Summer icon
88/71

Washington, DC

80/61

Rochester, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/29

Washington, DC

32/18

Rochester, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8

Washington, DC

34.4

Rochester, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4

Washington, DC

99.5

Rochester, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from Washington DC to Rochester entails adapting to colder winters and more snowfall, with Rochester experiencing an average of 99.5 inches of snow annually compared to Washington's 15.4 inches. This significant difference influences not just daily winter routines but also the need for winter-specific wardrobe and gear. Moreover, while summer temperatures in Rochester are typically milder, the lesser number of sunny days per year can impact outdoor activity planning. Both cities have similar annual humidity levels and face their own sets of natural disaster risks, including hurricanes and floods in Washington DC, and snowstorms in Rochester, making regional preparedness strategies an essential part of your relocation plan.

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's pivotal to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income potentials compare. This guide offers a financial snapshot to help you gauge the differences between living in Washington DC and Rochester, NY. By scrutinizing these financial categories, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your relocation.

While both Washington DC and Rochester present unique opportunities, their financial landscapes vary greatly. The average household income in DC far exceeds that of Rochester, reflecting the higher cost of living and concentration of high-paying industries like government and professional services. Conversely, Rochester's more modest average income aligns with its lower cost of living and a robust manufacturing sector. However, taxes in DC tend to be lower than in New York state overall, which may offset some of the cost differences. These financial factors are essential for planning your budget and lifestyle in your new city.

Political & Religious Comparison between Washington, DC and Rochester, NY

When preparing for a move from Washington DC to Rochester, NY, understanding the community you're about to join can greatly ease the transition. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on the differences between the politics of Washington DC & Rochester . Explore the local landscape to see where you might find your niche.

WashingtonRochester

Political Make-up

Heavily DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

Focus on federal and international issuesFocus on local and state issues

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Catholic presenceDiverse, with strong Protestant and Catholic communities

In both Washington DC and Rochester, you'll find politically active communities that lean toward Democratic values, though the scale and focus of political engagement may vary. Washington DC's political scene is deeply influenced by its status as the nation's capital, emphasizing federal and international politics. In contrast, Rochester's local politics tend to center around state and local issues, reflecting its community's immediate needs and concerns. Regarding religious makeup, both cities boast diverse religious communities. However, whereas Washington DC has a notable Catholic presence partly due to its historical and political significance, Rochester prides itself on a balanced Protestant and Catholic community, reflecting the city's rich tapestry of cultural and religious identities.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Washington to Rochester

To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, this guide provides a comparative look at driving and transiting in Washington DC & Rochester. Moving from one city to another brings with it a wave of changes, particularly when it comes to getting around. Here's how the two cities stack up.

WashingtonRochester
34.421.5

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

7.54.2

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

8.56.0

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planningMore challenging, but possible

Can you get by without car?

In comparing your future daily experiences in Washington DC and Rochester, it's clear that each city presents unique commuting landscapes. Washington DC, known for its heavy traffic congestion, still offers excellent public transit options like the Metro and buses, allowing residents to navigate the city reasonably well without a car. On the other hand, Rochester's shorter average commute time and less congestion create a more relaxed driving experience. However, due to its lower public transit availability, a car might be more necessary to move around efficiently in Rochester. These distinctions in transit availability and traffic congestion highlight the importance of understanding your new city's infrastructure, as it can significantly affect your daily routines and mobility.

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