Moving from Rochester to Portland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Rochester to Portland Movers

Embarking on the journey from Rochester, NY, the Flour City, to Portland, OR, the City of Roses, marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the snowy landscapes and familiar streets of Rochester for Portland's thriving arts scene and verdant, coffee-scented avenues is no small change. Given the distance and the life transition involved, it's crucial to ensure your belongings are in trusted and reliable hands. We at Great Guys Moving emphasize the importance of hiring professional movers who genuinely merit the title of the best, making your move as seamless as possible.

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

5 Best Rochester to Portland Movers

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

#1
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 >>

top 3 rochester 2024 zippboxx image
top 10 ranked movers in amityville 2023 zippboxx image
top 10 ranked movers in farmingdale 2022 zippboxx image
#2
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

top 10 portland 2024 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#3
You Move Me Portland Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,680+ data points

Portland, OR
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2388358 Verify

About You Move Me Portland

You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this l...Read More >>

top 10 gresham 2024 you move me portland image
top 10 ranked movers in portland 2023 you move me portland image
top 10 ranked movers in portland 2022 you move me portland 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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

top 10 rochester 2024 interior moving services inc image
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 9/11/2024)

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 >>

top 10 rochester 2024 reliable movers image
top 10 ranked movers in rochester 2023 reliable movers image
top 3 ranked movers in ithaca 2022 reliable movers image

Relocating from Rochester to Portland Neighborhood Guide

Moving can feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially when relocating to an entirely different city. To ease the transition, we've crafted a guide that compares Rochester, NY & Portland, OR local neighborhoods , helping you find familiar comforts in your new surroundings. By aligning the top neighborhoods in Rochester with their Portland counterparts, we aim to make your move feel a little more like coming home.

RochesterPortland
Park AveNob Hill

Vibrant with local shops

East AvenueIrvington

Historic Homes and Streets

South WedgeHawthorne

Bohemian spirit

Highland ParkLaurelhurst

Stunning park and homes

Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA)Alberta Arts District

Cultural Hub

North Winton VillageMississippi

Quirky and eclectic

Corn HillLadds Addition

Historic and quiet

BrowncroftEastmoreland

Elegant and residential

Ellwanger-BarrySellwood-Moreland

Family-friendly with antiques vibe

SwillburgRichmond

Diverse community

In your journey from Rochester to Portland, discovering comparable neighborhoods can truly make the new city feel like home. The artistic vibes of Neighborhood of the Arts in Rochester find a close match in Portland's Alberta Arts District, a neighborhood teeming with galleries, studios, and performance spaces that encourage creative expression. If you're drawn to the historical and serene atmosphere of Corn Hill, you'll appreciate the quiet streets and beautiful rose gardens of Ladds Addition. Similarly, the urban charm and community-oriented spirit of South Wedge is mirrored in Hawthorne's bohemian ambiance, renowned for its eclectic boutiques and vibrant nightlife. These parallels not only offer a sense of familiarity but also invite new experiences and discoveries in your new home city.

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Things to Do in Portland

  • Hike in Forest Park
  • Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
  • Enjoy food carts at various locations
  • Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
  • Explore Powell's City of Books
  • Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
  • Watch a movie at Cinema 21

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Portland

Making a move from one city to another is a major decision. In considering relocating from Rochester, NY to Portland, OR, it’s essential to weigh the characteristics of both cities honestly. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Harsh winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer dining options
  • Lower public transit use
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Milder climate
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural diversity
  • Rich food scene
  • Better public transit
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher cost of living
  • Larger population
  • Fewer sunny days
  • More traffic
  • Far from beaches
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Affordable housing
  • Close-knit communities
  • Numerous local parks
  • Low traffic congestion
  • Proximity to lakes

Moving from Rochester, NY to Portland, OR, brings an exciting change in terms of climate, job opportunities, and lifestyle. Rochester’s residents are used to the severe snowfall and cold that characterizes Upstate New York winters, whereas Portland offers a milder climate conducive to year-round outdoor activities, such as exploring Forest Park and the Oregon Zoo. Portland's vibrant food scene, highlighted by establishments like Pok Pok for Thai cuisine, represents a significant leap in dining variety. However, this move also comes with drawbacks, including Portland's higher living expenses. This contrast is also evident in housing; while Rochester boasts more affordable living options, Portland's market is significantly more expensive, reflecting its expansive cultural offerings and booming job market.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Rochester to Portland

Understanding the local food scene is crucial as it greatly impacts the cultural fabric and day-to-day life in any area. In this spirit, we've designed a comparison focused on the vibrant and distinct culinary worlds of Rochester, NY, and Portland, OR. This comparison aims to help you get a taste of what's waiting for you in terms of eateries, local dishes, and the overall food atmosphere of your new city.

RochesterPortland

Most iconic local food item

Garbage PlateDonuts

Most popular meat dish

Beef on WeckPulled Pork Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Italian SausageTacos

Most popular vegan food

Tempeh ReubenJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Highland Park Diner
  • Swan Market
  • Pok Pok
  • Le Pigeon
  • Tasty n Sons

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

610

Foodie Scene

710

Vegan Friendly

79

Rochester and Portland offer distinct culinary experiences reflective of their unique local cultures. In Rochester, the infamous Garbage Plate from Nick Tahou Hots offers a taste of the city's comfort food scene. Meanwhile, Portland is renowned for its innovative food scene, exemplified by the legendary donuts from Voodoo Doughnut. Portland's focus on health and fitness is mirrored in its culinary offerings, with an abundance of vegan and vegetarian options like the jackfruit tacos found in the Alberta Arts District. Both cities boast a vibrant food truck scene, but Portland takes the lead with its extensive variety. Moreover, Iconic restaurants such as Pok Pok in Portland offer a culinary journey through its innovative use of traditional ingredients, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts moving to the city.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Rochester to Portland

Making a new city feel like home starts with discovering your go-to spots for great food. This restaurant comparison chart is specifically designed to help transition your favorite Rochester flavors into new Portland favorites, making it easier to settle in. Comparing Rochester's top eateries to Portland's equivalents helps in finding your new favorite dining spots.

Dinosaur Bar-B-QuePodnah’s Pit BBQ

Classic, slow-smoked BBQ

Good Luck RestaurantTusk

Inventive, seasonal plates

Joe Bean Coffee RoastersHeart Coffee

Exceptional espressos and coffees

Nicky's Vietnamese SandwichesBanh Mi Up

Authentic Vietnamese sandwiches

Swan MarketEdelweiss Sausage & Delicatessen

German-style lunch and meats

Ristorante LucanoNostrana

Italian cuisine with a local twist

RouxLe Pigeon

French-inspired dishes with creativity

Genesee Brew HouseHair of the Dog Brewery

Craft Brewery with a pub menu

Highland Park DinerStepping Stone Cafe

Quirky diner with all-day breakfast

Roc Brewing Co.Breakside Brewery

Innovative craft beers

For those who cherish the art of perfectly smoked meats, the transition from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Rochester to Podnah’s Pit BBQ in Portland will be seamless, as both places thrive on their mastery of barbeque. Similarly, lovers of creative and seasonal dishes will find Tusk in Portland an exciting parallel to Rochester's Good Luck Restaurant, where the menus are crafted with a focus on innovative and fresh ingredients. For coffee enthusiasts, the move from Joe Bean Coffee Roasters to Heart Coffee is almost a lateral one, with both establishments committed to offering superior quality brews and a great atmosphere for their patrons. This guide makes it easy to find your new local favorite in Portland by drawing parallels with the cherished Rochester staples.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Rochester to Portland

Real estate profoundly impacts your relocation experience, making it crucial to compare the living environments of your current and future cities. This comparison gives you a comprehensive view of what to expect from Rochester and Portland's real estate markets , highlighting aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle compatibility. This knowledge will guide your decision-making process, ensuring a smoother transition.

When comparing Rochester and Portland, the architectural styles and lifestyle features stand out significantly. Rochester homes often boast historical elements typical of Colonial and Cape Cod designs, accompanied by spacious yards that cater to family and suburban living. In contrast, Portland's real estate market emphasizes eco-friendly features within its Northwest and Craftsman style homes, reflecting the city's close relationship with nature and a strong preference for green living. The walkability and bikeability scores in Portland also suggest a city layout that favors pedestrians and cyclists, catering to residents who value sustainability and convenience in their urban lifestyle. This alignment with ecological values and urban amenities makes Portland a distinct real estate landscape compared to Rochester.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, OR

1.  Pearl District : Known for its modern, upscale vibe, the Pearl District is pet-friendly thanks to its numerous pet stores, dog-friendly restaurants, and the Fields Park, a popular spot for dog owners.

2.  Northwest District : This neighborhood offers easy access to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US, with numerous trails for you and your pet to explore, plus a variety of pet-friendly cafes and bars.

3.  Sellwood-Moreland : With a more laid-back, residential feel, Sellwood-Moreland is great for pets due to its welcoming community, several parks, and the Sellwood Riverfront Park which provides a great space for dogs to play and swim.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Portland

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare the living conditions you're about to embrace, especially the weather. This comparison between Rochester, NY, and Portland, OR, will help you understand the change in climate and weather components you should prepare for, making your transition smoother.

Summer icon
80°F / 62°F

Rochester, NY

80°F / 58°F

Portland, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Rochester, NY

47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Rochester, NY

36

Portland, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
99

Rochester, NY

4

Portland, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities enjoy similar summer temperatures, a major difference is the winter climate. Rochester experiences harsher winters with significant snowfall, making it essential to prepare for cold weather and snow activities. On the other hand, Portland offers milder winters but has a higher average humidity, leading to a different kind of cold - wet and chilly, which might require a wardrobe adjustment. Natural disasters vary between the two, with Rochester facing snowstorms and Portland susceptible to earthquakes. Air quality is generally better in Portland, providing a fresher environment due to its proximity to vast natural landscapes. Understanding these differences will help you acclimate more easily to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Rochester, NY to Portland, OR, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you'll be transitioning into. This comparison aims to illuminate the disparities in living costs, taxes, and economic environments between Rochester and Portland , providing a clearer picture of what to expect. Both cities offer unique financial climates, each influencing your lifestyle and budget in distinct ways.

Moving from Rochester to Portland, you'll encounter notable financial adjustments. Rochester offers a more affordable cost of living and significantly lower property taxes, beneficial for homeowners on a budget. However, Portland boasts a higher average household income and a thriving tech industry, presenting potentially lucrative career opportunities. The absence of a sales tax in Portland can also make day-to-day expenditures more manageable, even with its higher cost of living index. Both cities have challenges with poverty and homelessness, indicating a need for robust community support and resources.

Political & Religious Comparison between Rochester, NY and Portland, OR

This quick comparison aims to provide you with an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Rochester & Portland. Understanding these aspects will help you better anticipate the community vibes and integration process in your new city.

RochesterPortland

Political Make-up

Liberal-leaningStrongly liberal

Local Politics

City Supported InitiativesProgressive Policies

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Catholic presenceLess religious, with a notable "none" population

While both Rochester and Portland are known for their liberal political landscapes, Portland stands out for its particularly strong liberal leanings and progressive policies. You'll find that local politics in Portland often take a front seat, with the city pioneering in environmental sustainability, social equity, and other progressive initiatives. Religious makeup also differs; Rochester hosts a diverse religious landscape, including a significant Catholic community. In contrast, Portland is less religious overall, with a large portion of the population identifying with no particular religious affiliation. This might influence the social and cultural events that dominate the public spaces in Portland, making it a unique experience from Rochester.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Portland

Moving from Rochester, NY to Portland, OR, it's essential to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like, helping you navigate life in your new home more smoothly.

RochesterPortland
2226

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

57

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingEasier, with effort

Can you get by without car?

When you move from Rochester to Portland, you'll notice some significant changes in how you can navigate the city. Portland's average commute time is slightly longer, primarily due to its higher traffic congestion. However, this city compensates with more robust public transit options, scored 7 out of 10, compared to Rochester's 5 out of 10. This difference signifies Portland's investment in buses, a light rail system, and bike paths, making it feasible to live without a car. Although it's possible in Rochester, you might find it more challenging due to less frequent public transit services and a more car-dependent infrastructure.

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