Best Buffalo to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Buffalo to Seattle Movers

Embarking on a move from the snowy landscapes of Buffalo, NY, to the lush vistas of Seattle, WA, symbolizes not just a change in scenery but a thrilling leap into a new chapter of your life. You're trading the Queen City's cozy winters and fiery wings for the Emerald City's misty mornings and booming tech scene. In navigating this long distance move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. With Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're paired with the best movers, making your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Best Buffalo to Seattle Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Seattle Moves & More9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Wayfinder Moving Services 9.03AAuthorized For HHGContact
Joey Z's Moving8.90NRActiveContact
Conjerti Moving Express and Storage8.25NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Buffalo guide.

5 Best Buffalo to Seattle Moving Companies

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

S
Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 1,214+ data points

About Wayfinder Moving Services

Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in customer ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3104397 / 79366

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Joey Z's Moving Logo
Superb8.90/10
based on 214+ data points

About Joey Z's Moving

Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial moves. It is a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Home & Apartment moving
  • Senior Moves
  • Business & Office moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/9/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3348965 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Conjerti Moving Express and Storage Logo
Very Good8.25/10
based on 112+ data points

About Conjerti Moving Express and Storage

Conjerti Moving is a family-owned and operated business providing quality moving services to the residents of Buffalo, NY. It is highly reco...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving & Packing
  • Cross-country Long Distance
  • Corporate Office Moving & Employee Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/8/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1397261 / 574726

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved147,261 (2021)
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.

Buffalo vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, getting to know your new environment can start with what's already familiar. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Buffalo, NY & Seattle, WA , helping you find a slice of home in a new place. By aligning neighborhoods from each city, we provide a foundation to explore Seattle with the comfort of known Buffalo territories.

BuffaloSeattleHow They're Similar
AllentownCapitol HillVibrant nightlife and diverse community
Elmwood VillageBallardBustling with shops, restaurants, and arts
North ParkGreenwoodCommunity-focused with local businesses
ParksideWallingfordFamily-friendly, near parks and zoos
WaterfrontSouth Lake UnionWater activities and tech hubs
West SideFremontQuirky, with a mix of culture and dining
Hertel AvenueQueen AnneHistoric with spectacular city views
Delaware DistrictMadison ParkUpscale, tranquil with beach access
South BuffaloColumbia CityDiverse and family-oriented
University HeightsUniversity DistrictYouthful, educational hub

In exploring these neighborhoods, Seattle offers a rich tapestry of experiences reminiscent of Buffalo but with its unique Northwest flair. Ballard, akin to Elmwood Village, brims with trendy shops, dining spots like The Walrus and the Carpenter, and a thriving arts scenery. Meanwhile, Green Lake in Wallingford mirrors Delaware Park's role in Parkside, providing a beloved urban oasis for families and outdoors enthusiasts alike. The historic charm of Queen Anne closely matches that of Hertel Avenue, offering panoramic views of Seattle's skyline and Puget Sound, much like the restored grandeur found in North Buffalo's architectural gems. Each Seattle neighborhood distills elements familiar to Buffalo residents, crafted into the unique cultural and natural landscape of the Pacific Northwest.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Buffalo to Seattle

Moving across the country is a monumental step, packed with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Buffalo, NY to Seattle, WA by juxtaposing the cons associated with leaving Buffalo against the pros of moving to Seattle, and vice versa. It's designed to help you weigh your options thoroughly.

CONs
PROs
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Smaller city vibe
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Milder climate
  • Larger tech industry
  • More diverse culture
  • Abundant outdoor activities
  • Bigger city feel
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Possible social isolation
  • Higher traffic volume
  • Far from natural wonders
  • Higher property taxes
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Affordable housing
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lower traffic congestion
  • Access to Niagara Falls
  • Lower property taxes

While Buffalo prides itself on its affordable living and close-knit communities, Seattle offers a different appeal with its booming tech industry and a more diverse cultural landscape. The milder climate and access to scenic mountains and coastlines in Seattle contrast sharply with Buffalo's harsh winters and its renowned access to Niagara Falls. Seattle's vibrant neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Fremont are adorned with inventive restaurants like Canlis and outdoor hubs such as Green Lake Park, encouraging an active and socially engaging lifestyle. However, this comes at a cost, with Seattle's living expenses dwarfing those in Buffalo, posing the biggest challenge for newcomers. Navigating this change requires careful consideration of not just the financial implications but also the lifestyle adjustments needed to thrive in Seattle's bustling environment.

Buffalo vs. Seattle Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Buffalo & Seattle, highlighting how food is an integral part of local culture and what living in these areas is like. By understanding the food scenes, you'll be better prepared for your move.

BuffaloSeattle
Most iconic local food itemBuffalo WingsSalmon
Most popular meat dishBeef on WeckPacific Northwest Clam Chowder
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosFood Truck Pho
Most popular vegan foodBuffalo Cauliflower WingsQuinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Anchor Bar
  • Schwabl's
  • Teddy's
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Salumi
  • Canlis
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In both Buffalo and Seattle, the food scenes are vibrant and reflective of each city's culture and history. Buffalo is famous for its wings, with Anchor Bar being the reputed birthplace of this iconic dish. Apart from its renowned wings, the city's love for hearty meat dishes is evident in its embrace of Beef on Weck. On the other side, Seattle's cuisine is heavily influenced by its access to fresh seafood, with Salmon and Pacific Northwest Clam Chowder standing out as local favorites. The food truck culture is thriving in both cities, yet Seattle takes the lead with its abundance and diversity, including trucks serving up delicious Pho. Vegan-friendly options are increasingly available, with Seattle particularly notable for its healthier, plant-based offerings.

Buffalo vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart directly links Buffalo to Seattle, helping you find your new favorite spots based on your past experiences. From high-end dining to casual eats, we've carefully aligned top choices across these cities to bridge your culinary journey from one beloved locale to another.

BuffaloSeattleWhat You'll Love
Gabriel's GateUnicornEclectic decor with a funky menu to match, capturing Gabriel's unique atmosphere.
Anchor BarPike's Pit Bar-B-QueFamous for its own iconic dish, offers a laid-back feel reminiscent of Anchor Bar.
Schwabl'sThe Berliner Döner KebabOffers a taste of tradition and comfort food, similar to Schwabl's classic offerings.
Allen Burger VentureLil Woody'sFor the burger enthusiast, embracing local flavors and high-quality ingredients like Allen Burger Venture.
Lombardo RistoranteIl Terrazzo CarmineBoth specialize in sophisticated Italian cuisine, providing a fine dining experience.
Ted's Hot DogsMonster DogsBoth are perfect for a casual bite, with each having its own take on classic American fast food.
Mulberry Italian RistoranteTutta Bella Neapolitan PizzeriaShares a commitment to authentic Italian cuisine, echoing Mulberry's homey vibes.
Paula's DonutsTop Pot DoughnutsBoth are acclaimed for their sweet treats, making any morning start right.
La NovaBig Mario's PizzaA go-to for pizza lovers seeking an experience similar to La Nova’s widely beloved pies.
Marotto's RestaurantCanlisFor those special occasions, both offer a refined setting and exquisite menus for a memorable dining experience.

Exploring the culinary scene is a delightful way to discover the essence of a new city. For instance, stepping into Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria in Seattle can transport you back to Buffalo through its reminiscent aromas and flavors, much like those at Mulberry Italian Ristorante. Likewise, Seattle's Top Pot Doughnuts stands out not just for its coffee but also for its artisanal doughnuts, offering a taste of comfort and familiarity akin to what Paula's Donuts provides. These eateries not only mirror the culinary variety but also embody the spirit and community vibe of their respective cities, making the transition from Buffalo to Seattle smoother and tastier.

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Ready to start your move?

Buffalo vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, exploring the real estate landscape is crucial in setting expectations and making informed decisions. This comparison aims to provide a clear understanding of what awaits in terms of housing when moving from Buffalo, NY to Seattle, WA. By examining various housing aspects, this guide helps in making your relocation smoother.

ComparisonBuffaloSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, ColonialModern, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Historic charmViews, Eco-friendly features

When comparing Buffalo and Seattle, the stark contrast in the median home price and monthly rent is immediately evident, reflecting Seattle's booming tech industry's impact on real estate prices. Seattle's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more compact urban layout, facilitating easier access to amenities and work without the reliance on a car. The architectural styles also highlight the cities' different historical and cultural influences, with Buffalo showcasing classic designs and Seattle embracing modern and eco-friendly living. Seattle's emphasis on views and sustainable features in its real estate listings mirrors its residents' appreciation for natural beauty and environmental stewardship.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Buffalo vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Buffalo, NY to Seattle, WA, understanding how the weather compares between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight different climatic conditions you'll experience, helping you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
79/60

Buffalo, NY

75/55

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/19

Buffalo, NY

47/37

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.5

Buffalo, NY

37.5

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
94.7

Buffalo, NY

4.8

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBuffaloSeattle
Air QualityGenerally GoodGood, occasional Smog
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, BlizzardsEarthquakes, Landslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Buffalo to Seattle, you'll find winters are milder, with less extreme cold and snowfall. Seattle's notorious for its rainy reputation, but it actually receives less annual rainfall than Buffalo. Before moving, consider potential natural disaster risks like earthquakes and landslides in Seattle opposed to snowstorms and blizzards in Buffalo. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your lifestyle and prepare for the new weather patterns you'll encounter.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Buffalo to Seattle

When relocating, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be impacted. This comparison between Buffalo, NY and Seattle, WA highlights key economic factors including income, taxes, and living costs. It's designed to give you a clear picture of what to expect financially in your new city.

ComparisonBuffaloSeattle
Avg. Household Income$40,669$110,781
Cost of Living Index95.8121.4
State Income Tax6.33 to 8.820
Avg. Property Tax2.530.99
Avg. Sales Tax8.7510.1
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Aerospace, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertySignificantModerate
HomelessnessNotableSubstantial

Moving from Buffalo to Seattle, you're stepping into a significantly different financial landscape. The average household income in Seattle is notably higher, which is in line with its steeper cost of living index. While Washington State doesn’t impose an income tax, Seattle's higher sales and lower property taxes reflect its affluent status but also indicate the cost pressures residents face. The distinct economic backbones of each city—from Buffalo’s focus on manufacturing to Seattle’s technology-driven economy—point to different job market landscapes. Keep these contrasts in mind as you plan your move.

Buffalo vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

Planning your move from Buffalo, NY to Seattle, WA? Here's a quick, at-a-glance snapshot providing a comparison of the politics between Buffalo & Seattle alongside the religious makeup of their residents. This comparison aims to give you a better understanding of what to expect in your new city.

BuffaloSeattle
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on economic revitalizationEmphasis on environmental and social policies
ReligionChristianity dominant, diverse religious presenceLess religiously affiliated, high diversity in faith

While both Buffalo and Seattle lean Democratic, Seattle's political environment is known for its strong commitment to progressive values, particularly in environmental and social policies. This can be a significant shift if you're coming from Buffalo, where local politics often center around economic issues. Religion also plays a different role in both cities. In Buffalo, Christianity is more prevalent, but there's still a good mix of faiths. Seattle, however, is known for its lower rate of religious affiliation, reflecting its broader spectrum of beliefs and practices. This shift can influence community events and societal norms you'll encounter in your new home.

Buffalo vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Buffalo, NY to Seattle, WA? Understand the differences in daily commute and traffic between Buffalo & Seattle to better navigate your new surroundings.

ComparisonBuffaloSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2128
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingEasier, especially in city center

When comparing the commutes between Buffalo and Seattle, it's clear Seattle presents more challenges due to higher traffic congestion, affecting the average commute time. However, Seattle makes up for this with its better public transit system, rated 8 out of 10, including buses, light rail, and ferries, making it easier to navigate without a car, especially within the city center. In Buffalo, while the commute times are shorter and traffic less congested, reliance on a car might be greater due to its public transit system providing somewhat limited coverage.

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