Moving from Rochester to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Rochester to Oakland Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Rochester, NY, to the bustling, tech-savvy vibe of Oakland, CA, marks not just a change in scenery but an exciting leap into a new life chapter. You’re trading the snowy landscapes and Kodak moments of "The Flower City" for the diverse cultures, progressive spirit, and the Golden Gate views of "The Town." Given the distance and the life changes ahead, it's crucial to entrust this significant move to trusted and reliable professional movers. Rely on our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving to connect you with the best movers for a smooth transition.

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

5 Best Rochester to Oakland Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3139436 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
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
#4
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
top ranked movers in rochester 2022 interior moving services inc image
#5
Reliable Movers Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 693+ data points

Auburn, NY
Residential moving, local and long distance, Commercial factories and offices moving, Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 1605981 Verify

About Reliable Movers

Reliable Movers is a family-owned and operated business specializing in moves from New York to Florida. Since 1996, this Auburn-based moving...Read More >>

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Relocating from Rochester to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. We aim to ease this transition by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & Oakland, CA. Whether you're seeking the cultural vibrancy or the tranquility of parks, this guide is designed to help you find your new favorite neighborhood by drawing parallels to the ones you already know and love.

RochesterOakland
Park AvenueRockridge

Lively, local shops

East AvenuePiedmont Avenue

Historic charm

Highland ParkMontclair

Green spaces, community feel

South WedgeTemescal

Diverse, artsy vibe

NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)West Oakland

Vibrant arts scene

Corn HillOld Oakland

Historic, walkable

BrowncroftLaurel District

Family-friendly, quaint homes

SwillburgDimond District

Community-centric, parks

North Winton VillageGlenview

Residential, local eateries

Ellwanger-BarryJack London District

Waterfront, nightlife

Those drawn to the vibrant streets and boutique shopping of Park Avenue in Rochester might find a new home in Rockridge, Oakland, where quaint shops line the bustling streets. If Highland Park's lush green spaces and community events hold a special place in your heart, Montclair's picturesque landscapes and inviting parks could be your next haven. For the artists and creatives who thrived in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA), West Oakland's burgeoning arts scene and community-oriented spaces offer a place to both inspire and be inspired. Dining enthusiasts enjoying the variety and culinary delights of South Wedge's eateries will relish exploring Temescal's diverse food scene, which boasts an array of international cuisines. Each Oakland neighborhood carries its own unique charm and characteristics, just waiting to be explored and appreciated, akin to the beloved communities you're bidding farewell to in Rochester.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Oakland

Moving across the country from Rochester, NY to Oakland, CA, is a significant change. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation , showcasing how lifestyle, environment, and culture shift from the East Coast to the West Coast. By contrasting the cons of leaving Rochester against the pros of moving to Oakland, and vice versa, these charts offer clear insights to help you weigh your decision carefully.

CONs
PROs
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Harsh winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower cultural diversity
  • Smaller city vibe
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Bigger job opportunities
  • Richer cultural scenes
  • Larger, vibrant city
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Faster pace of life
  • More traffic
  • Less personalized
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Lower living costs
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Close-knit community

Moving to Oakland from Rochester introduces you to a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the Oakland Art Murmur and Chinatown Streetfest. These events highlight the city's rich cultural diversity and provide wonderful opportunities for community engagement. Oakland's milder climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round in stunning locations like Lake Merritt and Redwood Regional Park. The city's food scene is also worth noting, with a wide variety of restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world, such as the famous Commis restaurant and Shandong for some of the best handmade noodles. Despite the higher cost of living, living in Oakland offers access to a larger job market, especially in tech and startups, making it an exciting move for those looking to advance their careers while enjoying a rich urban lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Rochester to Oakland

Understanding local cuisine is essential when relocating, as food plays a significant role in the cultural landscape of any area. In this guide, we'll offer an insightful comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Oakland, enabling you to grasp the culinary differences and delights awaiting you in your new home.

RochesterOakland

Most iconic local food item

Garbage PlateSourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

White HotsBBQ Brisket

Most popular street food item

Zweigle's Hot DogsTacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan WingsJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Nick Tahou Hots
    2. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
    3. The Little Theatre
    1. Chez Panisse
    2. Commis
    3. Shakewell

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

68

Abundance of Food Trucks

59

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

69

As you dive into Oakland's vibrant food scene, you'll quickly notice its strong vegan presence and a remarkable variety of cuisines due to its diverse population. Areas like Temescal are known for their food trucks offering everything from gourmet tacos to innovative vegan options, such as jackfruit tacos. Meanwhile, iconic restaurants like Chez Panisse in Berkeley have laid the foundation for fresh, locally-sourced Californian cuisine, influencing countless eateries throughout Oakland. In contrast, Rochester boasts its own unique culinary identity with classics like the Garbage Plate from Nick Tahou Hots, a true testament to the city's inventive comfort food scene.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Rochester to Oakland

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to dine. Food can transform a foreign place into home. This guide employs a restaurant comparison to bridge Rochester and Oakland, assisting newcomers in locating their new favorite eateries based on their old favorites. Whether you crave high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic meals, we've got you covered.

The Owl HouseShakewell

Both known for creative American cuisine with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Joe Bean Coffee RoastersBlue Bottle Coffee

Both celebrated for their focus on high-quality, artisanal coffee.

Good Luck RestaurantCommis

Each offers an elevated dining experience with a focus on innovative, locally sourced ingredients.

Dinosaur Bar-B-QueEverett & Jones Barbeque

Both are institutions in their respective cities for hearty, flavorful BBQ.

GrappaA16 Oakland

Italian-inspired restaurants cherished for their wine selection and pasta dishes.

Swan MarketSequoia Diner

Similar in their commitment to homemade, locally sourced food with a down-to-earth feel.

Nick Tahou HotsHomeroom

Both provide a comforting, nostalgic dining experience with a focus on classic American dishes.

RouxDuende

Each brings a unique interpretation of European cuisine, Roux with its French dishes, and Duende with a Spanish influence.

Genesee Brew HouseDrake's Dealership

Beloved spots for enjoying local brews along with a vibrant atmosphere.

LentoAlamar

Both pride themselves in offering fresh, sustainably sourced meals that delight the sea food lovers.

For those enamored with the cozy ambiance and creative American dishes at The Owl House, Shakewell in Oakland offers a similar vibe, ensuring you don't miss out on that cozy dining experience you've grown to love. Coffee aficionados transitioning from Joe Bean Coffee Roasters will find solace in the artisanal brews of Blue Bottle Coffee, a place that mirrors the meticulous attention to quality and detail. BBQ lovers migrating from Rochester will appreciate the smoky flavors and hearty portions at Everett & Jones Barbeque, reminiscent of the legendary feasts at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. And for a taste of nostalgia, Homeroom’s classic American cuisine fills the void left by Nick Tahou Hots, offering comforting, home-style dishes that satisfy the soul.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Rochester to Oakland

Real estate significantly impacts the quality of your move, making it crucial to understand how Rochester, NY and Oakland, CA stack up in this domain. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as housing costs , architecture , and lifestyle preferences to aid your decision-making process.

In your move from Rochester to Oakland, you'll encounter significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. Oakland's median home price and rent are substantially higher, reflecting the Bay Area's competitive real estate market. However, the investment comes with benefits, including greater walkability and bikeability, which enrich an urban lifestyle. Oakland's architecture beautifully blends Victorian homes with modern touches, while listings often highlight eco-friendly upgrades and access to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system for easy commuting. In contrast, Rochester homes typically feature spacious yards and detached garages, offering a different kind of value for those prioritizing space and comfort over city living perks.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Oakland

Moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather differs between your current city and where you plan to live. This comparison highlights the key weather differences between Rochester, NY, and Oakland, CA, to help you adapt more easily to your new environment.

Summer icon
82°F / 62°F

Rochester, NY

75°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Rochester, NY

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.4

Rochester, NY

23.5

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
99

Rochester, NY

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When transitioning from Rochester to Oakland, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns. Oakland enjoys more sunny days and milder winters compared to Rochester's cold and snowy climate. Additionally, while Rochester battles blizzards and ice storms, Oakland's concerns include earthquakes and wildfires. This juxtaposition in climate may influence your lifestyle, especially outdoor activities. Understanding these distinctions can help you prepare for your move both practically, in terms of wardrobe and home preparations, and mentally, as you adjust to a new environmental context.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from Rochester to Oakland, it is crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between Rochester, NY and Oakland, CA will impact your finances. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of what to expect.

Moving from Rochester to Oakland, you'll notice a substantial difference in the cost of living, with Oakland being significantly more expensive. This is reflected in almost every aspect of finances, from household income, which is higher in Oakland to accommodate the higher living expenses, to the cost of living index. Taxes in California can also reach higher levels than in New York, particularly for higher earners. Despite these challenges, Oakland's economy is buoyed by robust technology and healthcare industries, offering potentially higher earnings and better employment opportunities. However, it's important to consider that affluence in Oakland does not spread evenly across the board, with homelessness being a more pressing issue compared to Rochester.

Political & Religious Comparison between Rochester, NY and Oakland, CA

Moving to a new city involves many changes, one of the most interesting being the cultural and demographic shifts. This quick comparison of the politics between Rochester & Oakland provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights into the community you're about to join.

RochesterOakland

Political Make-up

Primarily DemocraticHeavily Democratic

Local Politics

Focus on economic development, educationEmphasis on social equity, environmental sustainability

Religion

Diverse, with a strong Christian presence. Notable establishments include First Assembly of God.Highly diverse; significant Christian, Muslim, and Buddhist communities. Notable locations include Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California.

In moving from Rochester to Oakland, you'll transition from a city with a long-standing focus on economic development and education within its local politics, to a community that places a high value on social equity and environmental sustainability. Oakland's political climate is even more heavily Democratic than Rochester's, reflecting the city's progressive ethos. The religious landscape in both cities is rich and diverse, but Oakland stands out with its significant Muslim and Buddhist communities alongside a strong Christian presence. This diversity in beliefs and practices contributes to the vibrant, inclusive culture that defines Oakland.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Oakland

Moving from Rochester, NY, to Oakland, CA, necessitates understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Oakland is designed to prepare you for what lies ahead, whether you're navigating rush hour or planning a car-free lifestyle.

RochesterOakland
2229.5

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

37

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

58

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingEasier, especially in downtown areas

Can you get by without a car?

The average commute time in Oakland is higher than in Rochester, indicating more time on the road or using public transit. This is partly due to Oakland’s higher traffic congestion level. Thankfully, Oakland compensates with better public transit options, making it more feasible to live without a car, particularly if you're in or around downtown areas. In contrast, while Rochester's traffic is lighter, its public transit offerings are not as robust, making car ownership more of a necessity for convenient mobility.

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