Best Portland to Rochester Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the eclectic vibes of Portland, OR to the historical charm of Rochester, NY, is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting discoveries. You're trading the City of Roses for the Flower City, leaving behind Portland's artisanal coffee scenes and rain-soaked streets for Rochester's rich cultural history and snowy winters. Recognizing the distance and complexity of this move, it’s crucial to trust your belongings with professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we ensure you’re paired with the best, making this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Best Portland to Rochester Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zippboxx | 9.37 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| You Move Me Portland | 9.27 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.96 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Portland guide.
5 Best Portland to Rochester Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
Services
- Local movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Storage
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 >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service MovingAbout All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
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 >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
This listing has been claimed by Interior Moving Services, Inc.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 >>
Services
- Local residential moving
- Local commercial moving
- Long-distance residential moving
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.
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.
Portland vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially if you're heading to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Rochester, NY, aiming to match you with a new area that feels like home. By aligning the vibes, amenities, and communities of each, this guide will help you quickly resonate with Rochester by referencing your Portland favorites.
| Portland | Rochester | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Park Avenue | artsy, walkable area with vibrant cafes |
| Alberta Arts District | South Wedge | eclectic shops, diverse dining options |
| Mississippi Avenue | NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | trendy, artistic hub |
| Nob Hill | East Avenue | historic homes, close to cultural sites |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Corn Hill | quiet, family-friendly with river views |
| Hawthorne Boulevard | Monroe Avenue | bohemian vibe, unique boutiques |
| Laurelhurst | Brighton | lush parks, community-centric atmosphere |
| Northwest District | Highland Park Neighborhood | scenic, with historic charm |
| Eastmoreland | Pittsford | affluent, with prestigious schools |
| Ladd's Addition | Maplewood | distinctive homes, garden-like setting |
Each neighborhood's unique character can greatly influence your experience in a new city. For example, if you're drawn to the Pearl District for its thriving arts scene, you'll likely find Park Avenue in Rochester equally engaging with its collection of galleries and cafes like Glen Edith Coffee Roasters. Similarly, those who adore the historic and cozy ambiance of Nob Hill might appreciate East Avenue's stately homes and proximity to cultural institutions such as the George Eastman Museum. Meanwhile, Mississippi Avenue's vibrant nightlife and indie spirit have a counterpart in Rochester's NOTA, where spots like Memorial Art Gallery and Rochester Brainery offer engaging encounters. These parallels not only smooth your transition but also enrich your urban exploration, promising a seamless move full of discovery and familiarity.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Rochester
Moving from one city to another comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the pros and cons of relocating from Portland, OR to Rochester, NY , helping you weigh the good against the bad. Whether it's the change in weather or different cultural amenities, this comparison will guide you through what to expect in your new locale.
Portland, OR- High housing costs
- Frequent rainfall
- Heavy traffic
- Less snow
Rochester, NY- More affordable housing
- Less precipitation
- Less traffic congestion
- Enjoyable snowy winters
Rochester, NY- Smaller art community
- Fewer dining options
- Less immediate natural locales
- Colder, longer winters
Portland, OR- Vibrant art scene
- Trendy restaurants
- Access to nature
- Mild winters
In Portland, places like Portland Art Museum and the bustling Pearl District are widely recognized for their vibrant culture and trendy dining spots. However, in Rochester, you will discover unique offerings such as the renowned Memorial Art Gallery and the historic George Eastman Museum. While Rochester might have fewer restaurants, establishments like Dinosaur Barb-B-Que provide a dining experience that is both unique and mouthwatering. Despite the fact that Rochester experiences colder winters, areas such as Mendon Ponds Park offer stunning winter landscapes and outdoor activities that are not as commonly found in Portland's milder climate.
Portland vs. Rochester Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Rochester is essential for understanding the unique culinary landscapes of each city. Food is a vital aspect of local culture, influencing daily life and social gatherings. This comparison will help you get acquainted with what awaits in your new home.
| Portland | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Doughnuts | Garbage Plate |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Beef on Weck |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts | White Hot |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Bowl | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, the food cart scene in neighborhoods like Hawthorne Boulevard and Mississippi Avenue offers an eclectic range of global cuisines, making it a haven for food lovers. Popular dishes such as doughnuts from local gems emphasize the city's embrace of quirky and artisanal foods. On the other hand, Rochester is renowned for its unique invention, the Garbage Plate, traditionally found at Nick Tahou Hots. This dish is a testament to the city’s unpretentious and hearty culinary offerings. Both cities have strong foodie scenes, but Portland stands out for its health consciousness and vegan options, mirroring the city's lifestyle focus.
Portland vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a vital role in making a new city feel like home. Whether you're a foodie or just enjoy a good meal, finding your new favorite eatery can be a delicious adventure. This comparison chart aims to ease your transition from Portland, OR, to Rochester, NY, by matching top restaurants in your current hometown with equivalent spots in your new city.
| Portland | Rochester | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Rooney's Restaurant | Known for its inventive and upscale dining experience |
| Pok Pok | Sapori Café & Catering | Offers authentic and creative takes on international cuisine |
| Tasty n Daughters | The Revelry | A go-to for creative American dishes in a trendy atmosphere |
| Ken’s Artisan Pizza | Fiorella | Crafts Neapolitan pizzas with a focus on local ingredients and flavors |
| Salt & Straw | Ugly Duck Coffee | Infamous for unique flavors in both coffee and locally sourced ice cream |
| Blue Star Donuts | Ridge Donut Cafe | Famous for a wide variety of doughnuts, echoing Blue Star's artisanal approach |
| Nong’s Khao Man Gai | Flavors of Asia | Celebrated for its authentic Asian dishes, bringing a taste of Thailand to Rochester |
| Apizza Scholls | Acme Pizza & Wing Co | Delivers on the promise of high-quality, New York-style pizzas |
| Screen Door | JB's Smokehouse | Offers Southern-style comfort food, reminiscent of Screen Door's beloved dishes |
| Pine State Biscuits | James Brown's Place | Known for hearty breakfasts and lunches, with a nod to soulful Southern cooking |
While exploring Rochester's dining scene, you'll discover that places like Rooney's Restaurant provide an upscale dining experience reminiscent of Portland's Le Pigeon, albeit with its own unique flair. At Fiorella, you can indulge in Neapolitan pizzas that echo the artisan spirit and quality of Ken’s Artisan Pizza, but with a taste that’s unmistakably Rochester. Meanwhile, Ugly Duck Coffee's selection of locally sourced ice creams offers an innovative twist on traditional dessert flavors, reminiscent of Salt & Straw's imaginative approach. Each of these Rochester eateries, while unique in their own rights, share a common bond with their Portland counterparts: a commitment to quality, creativity, and community. This guide aims to not only introduce you to your new favorite spots but also to highlight the rich, culinary connections between your old and new home.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts
Moving homes is a big decision and a pivotal moment in your life. Understanding the real estate landscape of your destination city is crucial. In this comparison, we'll dive into the significant aspects of Portland, OR, and Rochester, NY , focusing on housing to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Portland | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Craftsman | Colonial, Cape Cod |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Green spaces, Proximity to breweries | Historical neighborhoods, Proximity to universities |
When diving deeper into the housing aspects of Portland, OR, and Rochester, NY, several interesting contrasts emerge. Portland, with its higher median home price and rent, caters to those looking for modern and Craftsman-style homes surrounded by green spaces and close to vibrant breweries. This city scores high in walkability and bikeability, making it ideal for an active urban lifestyle. Rochester offers a different appeal with its more affordable housing, characterized by Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes, and its rich historical neighborhoods. Though it presents a slightly more suburban lifestyle with lower walkability and bikeability scores, it's notably close to several renowned universities, drawing a mix of academics and students. The comparison underscores the lifestyle and financial considerations at play, offering distinct options for different preferences and priorities.
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.
Portland vs. Rochester Weather Considerations
Considering a move from Portland, OR to Rochester, NY? Understanding how the weather compares in these cities is crucial in preparing for what lies ahead. This comparison will illuminate the differences in climate you should expect, helping to ensure a smooth transition.
Portland, OR
Rochester, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Rochester, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Rochester, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Rochester, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Though both cities share a relatively mild summer, winters in Rochester are significantly colder and snowier than in Portland, with nearly 100 inches of snow annually compared to Portland's modest 4 inches. Rochester's higher number of sunny days per year may be appealing, but those moving should prepare for its heavier snowfall and colder winter temperatures. Air quality and humidity also vary, with Portland experiencing higher humidity levels. This detailed climate comparison highlights crucial adjustments you may need to make, especially in winter attire and home heating solutions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Rochester
When planning a move from Portland, OR to Rochester, NY, it's crucial to juxtapose the financial climates of both cities. This comparison will reveal how your expenses, taxation, and economic environment between Portland and Rochester might adjust, impacting your budget and lifestyle directly.
| Comparison | Portland | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $41,980 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 100 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 6.33 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 2.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Education, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Comparatively high | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
As you consider moving from Portland to Rochester, it's evident that Rochester boasts a significantly lower cost of living and more favorable state income and sales taxes, despite its average household income being notably lower than Portland's. This economic landscape is further complicated by Rochester's higher property tax rate. Additionally, both cities share a strong presence in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors, highlighting potential employment opportunities regardless of your destination. However, the level of homelessness and poverty presents a contrasting picture, with Rochester facing a higher poverty rate but less homelessness when compared to Portland.
Portland vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Portland & Rochester offers a quick glance at the typical political and religious makeup of their residents, aiding in understanding the community characteristics of your potential new home.
| Portland | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, strong emphasis on environmental and social issues | Progressive with a focus on economic revitalization and social justice |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated, with a variety of faith-based communities | Diverse faith communities, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and others |
Both Portland and Rochester share liberal political leanings, but you'll find some differences in how this translates into local governance and community activism. Portland is well-known for its strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and social equity, which is reflected in its local policies. Rochester, while also progressive, has been focusing its efforts on economic revitalization and addressing social justice issues. In terms of religion, both cities host diverse faith communities, though Portland is generally considered to be less religiously affiliated. Moving from Portland to Rochester, you'll discover that, despite these similarities and differences, each city has a unique blend of culture and community values.
Portland vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Portland, OR to Rochester, NY, understanding the differences in the daily commute and traffic is crucial. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Rochester will help you better gauge what to expect in your daily travels.
| Comparison | Portland | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some difficulty | Yes, but a car is highly recommended |
In both Portland and Rochester, the daily commute and transportation options offer distinct experiences. Portland enjoys a relatively high availability of public transit, such as the TriMet buses and the MAX Light Rail, making it more feasible to get by without a car, though it may come with some difficulty. Rochester, while having a shorter average commute time, has less comprehensive public transit options, making owning a car more of a necessity for ease of travel. Additionally, Portland's slightly higher traffic congestion score reflects its denser urban environment compared to Rochester. Understanding these differences can play a significant role in planning your daily commute and transportation needs after your move.
Popular Portland, OR to New York Moving Routes
