Moving from Durham to Rochester?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Durham to Rochester Movers

Moving from the Bull City to the Flower City is an adventure filled with new beginnings and exciting challenges. You’re leaving behind Durham's renowned research hub and vibrant food scene for Rochester's rich history, snowy winters, and warm community. For such a significant transition, it's crucial to have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, which is why we dedicate ourselves to connecting you with the best. Ensuring your move is seamless and stress-free is our top priority.

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

5 Best Durham to Rochester Movers

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

#1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#2
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
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#3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
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#4
R
Exceptional

based on 512+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Long Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2815544 Verify

About RDU Delivered

RDU Delivered is a professional moving and relocation company that has been in business since 2013. They specialize in long distance moves a...Read More >>

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#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 9/5/2024)

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 Durham to Rochester Neighborhood Guide

When moving from one city to another, getting to know your new surroundings can be both exciting and overwhelming. We've created a guide that directly compares local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Rochester, NY , aiming to make this transition smoother. By using familiar neighborhoods from Durham as a baseline, we hope to help you find a comparable area in Rochester, giving you a taste of home in a new city.

DurhamRochester
TreyburnBrowncroft

Historic homes, tree-lined streets

American VillageNorth Winton Village

Vibrant community, local dining

Hope ValleyEast Avenue

Upscale, historic district

Old West DurhamSouth Wedge

Eclectic, artsy vibe

Trinity ParkPark Avenue

Charming, walkable neighborhood

BrightleafNOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)

Cultural hub, unique shops

Warehouse DistrictHigh Falls

Industrial aesthetic, vibrant nightlife

Duke ParkMaplewood

Spacious parks, community-centric

Forest HillsCorn Hill

Historic, picturesque community

West EndPlymouth-Exchange

Historical significance, revitalized area

For those who cherish the historic charm and vibrant community of Durham's Old West Durham, discovering Rochester's South Wedge could be a welcome surprise. This eclectic neighborhood mirrors the artistic and open-minded spirit of Old West Durham, boasting a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants such as Solera Wine Bar and the vegetarian-friendly Hedonist Eatery. Similarly, if you're moving from Durham's American Village, known for its community feel and local dining options, you'll find a kindred spirit in Rochester's North Winton Village. With establishments like The Cavern that underscore the neighborhood's vibrant local scene, it’s easy to feel at home. Both cities offer unique neighborhoods full of character, making your transition an adventure waiting to be explored.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Rochester

Making a move from Durham, NC to Rochester, NY involves weighing both the advantages and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of what you can expect, highlighting the transition's positive and negative aspects. Let's delve into the specifics to ensure you make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Hot summers
  • Less snow
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Fewer colleges
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Cooler summers
  • More snow activities
  • Larger tech community
  • More educational options
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Smaller food scene
  • Harsh winters
  • Less greenery
  • Different culture
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Vibrant food scene
  • Mild winters
  • Lush greenery
  • Rich history

While Durham is known for its vibrant food scene with establishments like Pizzeria Toro, a treasure trove of gourmet pizzas, Rochester counters with its own culinary delights, including the famous Nick's Original House of Ribs. Rochester also hosts numerous snow activities, with spots like Bristol Mountain offering skiing opportunities that Durham simply can't match due to its milder winters. However, Durham's milder winters could be seen as a pro to those not fond of Rochester's harsher climate. Educationally, Rochester boasts a wider range of options with institutions like the Rochester Institute of Technology, attracting students globally. Each city has its unique cultural and recreational offerings, making them both desirable depending on personal preferences.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Durham to Rochester

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Rochester to help you grasp the culture of food that's intertwined with living in either city. This deep dive into the culinary scene will make your transition tastier and more informed.

DurhamRochester

Most iconic local food item

Carolina-style BBQGarbage Plate

Most popular meat dish

Pulled porkWhite Hots

Most popular street food item

Food Truck TacosMeat Hot Sauce

Most popular vegan food

Sweet Potato BowlSeitan Garbage Plate

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Poole's Diner
    2. Saltbox Seafood Joint
    3. Nana's of Durham
    1. Nick Tahou Hots
    2. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
    3. ROC Burger on Main

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

86

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

87

In Durham, the culinary scene is vibrant, deeply rooted in tradition yet always innovating. Carolina-style BBQ and food truck tacos showcase the city's love for hearty flavors and street food culture, perfect for exploration in neighborhoods like Downtown and the Brightleaf District. Meanwhile, in Rochester, the iconic Garbage Plate from Nick Tahou Hots personifies the city's unique culinary contribution, with variations like the Seitan Garbage Plate catering to vegan residents as well. Blessed with a flourishing foodie scene, both Durham's Saltbox Seafood Joint and Nana's, and Rochester's Dinosaur Bar-B-Que and ROC Burger on Main, offer quintessential tastes that are a must-try for anyone moving to these cities.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Durham to Rochester

When relocating, it's essential to anchor yourself in a new area by discovering places where you can feel at home. A significant part of settling in involves enjoying local dining experiences. This restaurant comparison from Durham, NC to Rochester, NY will help you find your new favorite dining spots by leveraging your current culinary preferences.

NanaSteakTournedos Steakhouse

Offers high-end steaks and a comprehensive wine list resembling NanaSteak’s elegant dining experience.

Pizzeria ToroFiorella

Delivers artisanal wood-fired pizzas with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, much like Pizzeria Toro.

Bull City Burger and BreweryThe Gate House

Known for their high-quality burgers and craft beer selection, echoing Bull City’s commitment to local sourcing.

Mateo Bar de TapasTapas 177 Lounge

Offers a variety of tapas and a cozy, lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Mateo Bar de Tapas.

Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenSwan Market

Though more of an old-world German deli, its authenticity and European-inspired dishes bring a similar charm.

Dame's Chicken & WafflesPeppa Pot

Specializes in Jamaican cuisine but offers that unique blend of sweet and savory flavors Dame’s is loved for.

LocoPopsRead’s Ice Cream

A local favorite for handcrafted ice creams and unique flavors that match LocoPops’ inventive spirit.

Foster's MarketPublic Market Café

A spot that boasts of a local market vibe providing fresh, casual eats and a sense of community.

Elmo's DinerJim's on Main

An all-American diner experience known for hearty breakfasts and a homey feel similar to Elmo's.

Backyard BBQ PitSticky Lips BBQ

Captures the authentic BBQ experience with a focus on smoked meats and homestyle sides like Backyard BBQ Pit.

Exploring new dining experiences is an excellent way to start feeling at home in a new city. For example, if you're missing the homely and comforting meals from Durham's Elmo's Diner, Jim's on Main in Rochester will wrap you in a similar warmth with its classic American diner fare. Meanwhile, those lamenting the absence of Dame's unique Chicken & Waffles can find solace in Peppa Pot’s intriguing blend of sweet and savory flavors, despite its primary focus on Jamaican cuisine. It's these unique, local eateries, from Tournedos Steakhouse’s elegant offerings reminiscent of NanaSteak to Fiorella's artisanal, wood-fired pizzas mirroring the quality of Pizzeria Toro, that stitch the fabric of a community. By trying out these recommended spots, you'll not only satiate your culinary cravings but also weave yourself into the vibrant tapestry of Rochester's dining scene.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Durham to Rochester

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future homes is crucial. This guide provides a concise comparison of Durham, NC and Rochester, NY to help you understand their housing markets.

In considering a move from Durham to Rochester, you'll find significant differences in housing affordability and urban lifestyle. Rochester, with its lower median home prices and rent, offers a more affordable living situation. The city scores higher in walkability and bikeability, reflecting a layout that encourages less reliance on a car. Rochester's architecture is rich in historic details, often highlighted in real estate listings, along with the city's multitude of parks. This contrasts with Durham's focus on newer constructions with open floor plans and emphasis on green spaces. Both cities offer their unique charms, but Rochester's lower cost of living and more urban environment might appeal to those seeking a blend of historical ambiance and contemporary conveniences.

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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 Durham to Rochester

If you're moving, it's crucial to consider how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. Understanding the differences in climate can help you prepare for life in a new location. This comparison focuses on the weather conditions in Durham, NC, and Rochester, NY, providing a foundational insight into what to expect year-round.

Summer icon
89/67

Durham, NC

80/60

Rochester, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

32/18

Rochester, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Durham, NC

34

Rochester, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Durham, NC

99

Rochester, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Durham to Rochester, you'll notice significant changes, particularly in the winter weather. Durham experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers, whereas Rochester's winters are significantly colder with substantial snowfall, averaging nearly 100 inches per year. This marked difference highlights the importance of preparing for harsh winter conditions in Rochester. Additionally, while both cities face their own set of natural disasters, the types of threats diverge, emphasizing the need to adapt to new preemptive measures against local weather-related challenges.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Durham, NC to Rochester, NY, understanding how your financial situation will be affected is crucial. This comparison provides insights on key financial aspects in both cities. Compare money and finance between Durham and Rochester to make an informed relocation decision.

Moving from Durham to Rochester, you'll notice a considerable difference in the cost of living - Rochester being more affordable in this aspect due to its lower index. However, the average household income in Durham significantly surpasses that of Rochester, potentially offsetting the benefits of a lower cost of living. Rochester's higher property tax rate could impact long-term housing decisions, despite the state income tax being slightly higher in New York than in North Carolina. The dominant industries in both cities are education and technology, indicating potential employment opportunities in these sectors regardless of where you decide to move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Durham, NC and Rochester, NY

In preparing for your move from Durham, NC, to Rochester, NY, understanding the community you're moving into can be quite enlightening. This comparison aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering a glimpse into the cities' cultural landscapes. Specifically, this section presents a comparison of the politics between Durham & Rochester , highlighting key aspects of each city's character.

DurhamRochester

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democratic majorityDemocratic majority

Religion

Diverse, with a significant presence of Christian and non-Christian faithsDiverse, with a strong historical foundation in Christianity

Both Durham and Rochester have a notably liberal political makeup, with local politics dominated by the Democratic party. This might make your transition smoother if you lean towards these political views yourself. Durham is celebrated for its diversity in religious beliefs, hosting a wide array of faith communities that range from Christian to non-Christian traditions. Similar to Durham, Rochester's population also prizes diversity, though it has a strong historical foundation in Christianity, seen in its many historic churches. Understanding these nuances can help in anticipating the social and cultural environment of your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Durham to Rochester

Moving from Durham, NC to Rochester, NY? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Rochester will help you better understand what to expect in terms of your daily commute and traffic situations, making your transition smoother.

DurhamRochester
2422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

43

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

56

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, but limited

Can you get by without car?

Both cities offer unique challenges and conveniences when it comes to commuting. Durham, with an average commute time of 24 minutes and moderate traffic congestion, tends to be slightly more car-dependent than Rochester. Public transit in Durham is available but might not cover all areas comprehensively, making some commutes without a car challenging. Rochester, on the other hand, boasts a slightly more efficient public transit system and marginally better traffic conditions, leading to a somewhat shorter average commute time. Despite these differences, both cities present scenarios where having access to a car enhances mobility, though Rochester offers a bit more flexibility for those preferring or needing to rely on public transit.

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