Best Seattle to Buffalo Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Seattle to Buffalo Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the City of Good Neighbors is an adventure packed with excitement and new beginnings. While you’ll trade Seattle’s coffee and tech scene for Buffalo’s snow-capped winters and passionate sports culture, the transition is about embracing the charm of a new community. To navigate this long-haul journey smoothly, it’s crucial you partner with trusted and reliable professional movers. We at Great Guys Moving provide you with the best movers, ensuring your relocation is handled with the utmost care.

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Best Seattle to Buffalo Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Wayfinder Moving Services 9.03AAuthorized For HHGContact
Joey Z's Moving8.92NRActiveContact
All Service Moving8.91B+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to Buffalo Moving Companies

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

John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
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 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
1
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo
Exceptional9.03/10
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 10/17/2024)

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
Superb8.92/10
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
All Service Moving Logo
Superb8.91/10
based on 5,172+ data points

About All Service Moving

All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/14/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2083124 / 1398715

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (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.

Seattle vs. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison

Transitioning from one city to another can be daunting. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Buffalo, NY, we aim to make this transition smoother. Familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by finding the Buffalo neighborhood most akin to your favorite in Seattle - turning the unknown into the familiar.

SeattleBuffaloHow They're Similar
BallardElmwood VillageVibrant, artsy vibe
Capitol HillAllentownDiverse, LGBTQ+ friendly
Queen AnneParksideHistoric homes, family-friendly
FremontHertel AvenueEclectic, artistic community
GreenwoodNorth BuffaloQuiet, residential, good schools
West SeattleSouth BuffaloCommunity feel, waterfront access
Pike-Pine CorridorChippewa StreetEntertainment, nightlife
South Lake UnionLarkinvilleIndustrial revival, innovative spaces
WallingfordDelaware DistrictCharming, walkable
Phinney RidgeSnyderSmall-town vibe in the city

For those moving from Ballard to Buffalo, Elmwood Village will feel like home with its bustling streets lined with local cafes and boutiques. If you're from Capitol Hill, Allentown’s trendy bars and inclusive atmosphere will resonate with you. Fremont’s quirkiness is matched by Hertel Avenue’s eclectic mix of shops and eateries, often bustling with local art events. Meanwhile, Queen Anne's picturesque beauty finds a counterpart in Parkside, where the manicured lawns of historic homes echo the aesthetics of Olmsted-designed parks. West Seattle’s affinity for beachfront living finds its match in South Buffalo, where the scenic beauty of Lake Erie’s waterfront beckons. Each pair of neighborhoods offers a unique blend of community vibes, aesthetic pleasures, and lifestyle amenities, ensuring you can find a slice of Seattle’s spirit in Buffalo.

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Things to Do in Buffalo

  • Explore Albright-Knox Art Gallery
  • Watch a game at Sahlen Field
  • Visit Buffalo Zoo
  • Stroll through Botanical Gardens
  • Enjoy Niagara Falls tour
  • Skate at Canalside
  • Taste wings at Anchor Bar

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Buffalo

Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. This comparison between moving from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY aims to provide an honest reflection of the advantages and disadvantages of such a relocation. The purpose of these charts is to highlight the cons compared to the pros and the pros compared to the cons, offering a balanced perspective on what to expect.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Traffic congestion
  • Competitive job market
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • More affordable housing
  • Snowy winters
  • Less traffic
  • Growing job opportunities
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Colder climate
  • Fewer outdoor options
  • Smaller music scene
  • Lesser cultural diversity
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Thriving tech sector
  • Outdoor activities
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Rich cultural experiences

Seattle and Buffalo offer contrasting living experiences shaped significantly by their weather patterns, job markets, and cultural scenes. In Seattle, you're likely familiar with the bustling tech industry, including giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Moving to Buffalo means adapting to a colder climate, but it's not without its perks. The city is known for its beloved sports teams, such as the Buffalo Bills, and vibrant events like the Buffalo Wing Festival. Buffalo's growing economy, especially in sectors like healthcare and education, presents new job opportunities. For leisure, the picturesque Delaware Park and the historic architecture of the Allentown district offer a wonderful backdrop for both daily life and exploratory weekends. Despite the smaller music scene, venues like the Buffalo Iron Works keep the city's artistic spirit alive.

Seattle vs. Buffalo Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is vital when moving to a new city, as food is an essential part of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we will make a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Buffalo, giving you a better understanding of what culinary delights await in your new home.

SeattleBuffalo
Most iconic local food itemSalmonBuffalo Wings
Most popular meat dishPhoBeef on Weck
Most popular street food itemHot DogsPizza Logs
Most popular vegan foodBuddha BowlsTofu Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Rover’s
  • Canlis
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Anchor Bar
  • 716 Food and Sport
  • Gabriel’s Gate
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you settle into Buffalo, you'll quickly discover that this city takes pride in its iconic Buffalo Wings, available at numerous locations but most notably Anchor Bar, the birthplace of this spicy delight. Another local favorite is Beef on Weck, a unique roast beef sandwich on kummelweck roll, which gems like Schwabl's have perfected. Meanwhile, the vegan scene, though smaller than Seattle's, is growing, with places like Betty's offering innovative plant-based dishes. Additionally, foodies will enjoy exploring Buffalo's evolving food truck scene, showcasing a variety of cuisines and often found during the warmer months at Larkin Square’s Food Truck Tuesdays.

Seattle vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison

Embarking on a relocation adventure means finding new go-to spots that make an area feel like home. Food plays a pivotal role in this transition. Our restaurant comparison chart between Seattle, WA, and Buffalo, NY, serves as your culinary guide, helping connect you with new favorites reminiscent of your current local haunts. Let's dive into the tastes that await in your future hometown.

SeattleBuffaloWhat You'll Love
CanlisOliver’s RestaurantElegance and upscale dining experience
Pike Place ChowderAllen Street Poutine CompanyComfort food with homey feeling
The Walrus and the CarpenterSeabarExpertly crafted seafood dishes
Salumi Artisan Cured MeatsCharcuterieArtisan meats with a local flair
Skillet DinerLake Effect DinerClassic diner experience with a twist
Matt's in the MarketGabriel’s GateMarket-fresh ingredients in historic setting
Ray's BoathouseRemington TavernWaterfront dining with fresh catches
SpinasseOsteria 166Authentic Italian that feels like home
MamnoonShish Kabab ExpressEastern flavors meet Western zest
Dahlia LoungeRue FranklinClassic meets contemporary in this upscale spot

Exploring Buffalo’s dining scene will introduce you to spots like Oliver’s Restaurant, which parallels the refined atmosphere and gourmet offerings that Canlis is known for in Seattle. Meanwhile, for those who crave the comfort and soul of Pike Place Chowder, Allen Street Poutine Company promises to deliver that sense of nostalgic warmth and satisfaction. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the craft and creativity found at Seabar, a reminder of the innovative dishes served at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Whether you're indulging in the rich, authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria 166 or savoring the carefully prepared eastern flavors at Shish Kabab Express, each meal serves as a bridge between your old and new hometowns—blending familiar tastes with local flair and hospitality.

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Seattle vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial, especially when comparing cities like Seattle, WA , and Buffalo, NY . This comparison will illuminate differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle factors to assist in making an informed decision.

ComparisonSeattleBuffalo
Typical Architecture StyleModern and CraftsmanColonial and Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Sustainability, Access to Tech JobsHistoric Details, Proximity to Niagara Falls, Affordability

In terms of housing and lifestyle, Seattle and Buffalo present vastly different opportunities. Seattle, with its higher costs of living, boasts modern and Craftsman-style homes that cater to those seeking urban living with excellent walkability and bikeability scores. Its real estate listings often highlight proximity to technology jobs and sustainable living options. On the other hand, Buffalo offers an appealing blend of affordability, historic charm with its Colonial and Victorian homes, and a slower pace of life while still providing access to urban amenities. The real estate in Buffalo often emphasizes the city's rich history and proximity to natural wonders like Niagara Falls, making it attractive to those valuing both history and nature alongside cost-effectiveness.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY

1. Elmwood Village: Known for its walkable streets and the Elmwood Village Farmers Market, where you can often find pet-friendly vendors and plenty of space for your furry friends to explore.

2. Allentown: This vibrant neighborhood not only boasts a variety of pet-friendly dining options but is also home to the Allentown Association, which organizes events that are welcoming to pets.

3. Hertel Avenue: Famous for its Hertel Avenue Poutine & Cream, which offers outdoor seating where pets are welcome, and its close proximity to several parks where you can enjoy a day out with your pet.

Seattle vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations

Moving between cities means adjusting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Seattle, WA, and Buffalo, NY compares will significantly enhance your preparation for this transition. This comparison aims to help you anticipate the differences and similarities you'll encounter, from average temperatures to the amount of sunshine and snow each city receives.

Summer icon
75° / 55°

Seattle, WA

80° / 60°

Buffalo, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47° / 37°

Seattle, WA

31° / 18°

Buffalo, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.5

Seattle, WA

40.5

Buffalo, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Seattle, WA

94.7

Buffalo, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleBuffalo
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesSnowstorms, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Seattle to Buffalo, you'll notice a striking difference in winter weather and snowfall. Buffalo experiences a much colder winter with significantly more snow, averaging about 95 inches annually compared to Seattle's mere 5 inches. This considerable change means preparing for heavier winter clothing and potentially different commuting habits during snowy months. Despite similarities in annual sunshine days and UV index, Buffalo's slighter higher rainfall and profound snowfall impact daily life and seasonal activities quite dramatically compared to Seattle's milder and wetter climate.

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding how your financial situation could change is vital. This comparison aims to shed light on the different economic landscapes of Seattle, WA, and Buffalo, NY, focusing on aspects that directly impact your wallet. By examining factors such as income, taxes, and the cost of living, you'll be better prepared for what awaits in your new city.

ComparisonSeattleBuffalo
Avg. Household Income$110,781$40,669
Cost of Living Index121.495.8
State Income Tax06.33 to 8.82
Avg. Property Tax0.992.53
Avg. Sales Tax10.18.75
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, RetailHealthcare, Education, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighLower
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessHighLower

Although the average household income in Seattle is significantly higher than in Buffalo, the Cost of Living Index suggests that your dollar stretches much further in Buffalo. State income tax in New York may eat into earnings, but the lower property and sales taxes can offset some of those costs compared to Seattle's high sales tax rate. Moreover, while Seattle boasts a thriving tech-based economy, Buffalo's economy is anchored in healthcare, education, and manufacturing, offering diverse job opportunities. Such financial and economic differences are crucial to consider for a smoother transition and better financial planning when moving from Seattle to Buffalo.

Seattle vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY, it's crucial to compare the communities you're transitioning between. This overview provides a quick, at-a-glance comparison of the politics and religion between Seattle & Buffalo , offering insight into the typical makeup of each population. Understanding these facets can help you anticipate the cultural and political environments awaiting in your new home.

SeattleBuffalo
Political Make-upProgressively liberalModerately liberal
Local PoliticsCity of SeattleCity of Buffalo
ReligionDiverse; less religious overallDiverse; higher religious participation

In moving from Seattle to Buffalo, you'll transition from an environment with a strongly progressive political orientation to one that's moderately liberal. Seattle's political scene is vibrant and deeply engaged in progressive causes, whereas Buffalo, while also leaning liberal, might present a blend of political viewpoints with a stronger presence of traditional values. On the religious front, Seattle is known for its less religious overall population compared to Buffalo, where you'll find a greater variety of religious communities and likely a higher rate of participation in religious activities. Whether these differences excite or concern you, both cities offer rich, diverse communities ready to welcome new perspectives.

Seattle vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, NY involves not just a change in scenery but also a significant adjustment in how you commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Buffalo will help you better understand what to expect in your daily commute and traffic experiences in these two cities.

ComparisonSeattleBuffalo
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2820
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Possibly, with some effortChallenging

In Seattle, the average commute time is longer, and the traffic congestion higher compared to Buffalo. This is because Seattle is a larger, more densely populated city with a robust economy that attracts a lot of commuters. Despite this, Seattle’s public transit system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, makes it somewhat feasible to get by without a car, especially within the city limits. On the other hand, Buffalo offers a quicker commute with less traffic congestion. However, its public transportation options are not as extensive, making car ownership more of a necessity for navigating the city and its suburbs effectively.

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