Best Seattle to Rochester Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Seattle to Rochester Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the Flower City is not just a change of address; it's an exciting journey into a new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind Seattle's iconic Space Needle and coffee culture for Rochester's rich history, snowy winters, and the renowned Lilac Festival. For such a significant 2,500-mile trek, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. That's where we come in, making sure you're matched with the best, using our unbiased ranking algorithm, ensuring your move is as seamless as the transition you're embarking on.

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Best Seattle to Rochester Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Seattle Moves & More9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
Zippboxx9.36NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Interior Moving Services, Inc.8.96A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to Rochester 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
Zippboxx Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,089+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3077817 / 1043860

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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 12/17/2024)

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
4
Interior Moving Services, Inc. Logo
Superb
claimed company icon
8.96/10
based on 1,144+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1498819 / 600823

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
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. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the neighborhood dynamics. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Rochester, NY. We'll match neighborhoods from your current city to those in your new city with similar vibes, amenities, and communities, helping you find your perfect new home.

SeattleRochesterHow They're Similar
BallardNorth Winton VillageVibrant community, local shops
Capitol HillEast AvenueArtsy, historic, active nightlife
Queen AnnePark AvenueHistoric homes, boutique shops
FremontSouth WedgeBohemian, eclectic eateries
GreenwoodMaplewoodFamily-friendly, parks, and gardens
West SeattleCharlotteBeach access, laid-back atmosphere
Beacon HillHighland ParkDiverse population, parkland
WallingfordCorn HillQuiet, riverside walks
Pike Place MarketPublic MarketFresh produce, local vendors
Central DistrictNOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)Cultural heart, art galleries

In comparing these neighborhoods, take Capitol Hill and East Avenue, for instance. Both areas are known for their lively atmosphere and historic touches. East Avenue, similar to Capitol Hill, is bustling with cultural happenings, including theaters and galleries like the Rochester Museum and Science Center. Meanwhile, if you're drawn to the quirky, bohemian charm of Fremont with its vintage shops and iconic Fremont Troll, you'll delight in South Wedge's eclectic eateries and bustling community events, mirroring Fremont's spirit of originality and fun. For those who appreciate the beachy, laid-back vibe of West Seattle, Charlotte in Rochester stands out with its inviting lakeside parks like Ontario Beach Park, perfect for leisurely days by Lake Ontario. Whether you're strolling through the vibrant farmers markets at Pike Place or Rochester's Public Market, you'll find that each city offers unique, yet reminiscent, flavors of community and culture.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Rochester

Moving from one city to another is a significant life event that comes with its sets of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Rochester, NY . By examining the pros and cons of Seattle versus the advantages Rochester offers, we hope to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in this transition.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited sunlight
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • More affordable housing
  • Distinct seasons
  • Less congested roads
  • Brighter winters
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer outdoor options
  • Less culinary variety
  • Smaller cultural scene
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Extensive outdoor activities
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Rich cultural life

Seattle's bustling tech scene has drawn many to its vibrant communities, with neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Fremont offering an array of dining and cultural experiences, such as the renowned Pike Place Market. In contrast, Rochester's charm lies in its more manageable pace of life and the beauty of its seasons—winter offers picturesque snowy scenes while autumn brings a spectacular display of colors. Not to be overlooked, Rochester's Park Avenue and the historic Eastman Museum provide unique local flavors and cultural insights that resonate with residents and visitors alike. Despite a smaller job market and fewer outdoor recreational options, the close-knit community and the lower cost of living in Rochester offer new transplants a warm welcome and an easier transition.

Seattle vs. Rochester Food Guide

Exploring the local cuisine is a vibrant way to understand the essence of where you're moving. In this light, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Rochester to keep you well-informed about the culinary delights awaiting you in your new city.

SeattleRochester
Most iconic local food itemSalmonGarbage Plate
Most popular meat dishTeriyakiWhite Hots
Most popular street food itemHot DogsFood Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodCauliflower WingsSeitan Steaks
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Paseo
  • The Pink Door
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Joe Bean Coffee Roasters
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Seattle, the seafood, especially salmon, reigns supreme, reflecting the city's strong tie to its coastal location. You can find the freshest catch at restaurants like Canlis, which offers a modern take on Pacific Northwest cuisine. On the other hand, Rochester's culinary scene prides itself on the infamous Garbage Plate, a unique dish you wouldn't want to miss trying at Nick Tahou Hots. While Seattle's vibrant street food scene offers an array of international flavors, Rochester’s food trucks keep the city’s streets lively, with tacos being a crowd favorite.

Seattle vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when searching for those perfect dining spots that feel like home. This comparison will guide you in finding Rochester, NY's dining gems that mirror the culinary landscape of Seattle, WA , ensuring your transition is as delicious as it is smooth.

SeattleRochesterWhat You'll Love
CanlisChar Steak & LoungeBoth offer exquisite fine dining experiences.
Pike Place ChowderPalmer's Direct To You MarketKnown for seafood chowders that rival those in Seattle.
The Pink DoorGood Luck RestaurantBoth are beloved for their unique, romantic atmospheres and Italian-American dishes.
Taylor Shellfish Oyster BarLentoFresh, quality oysters and inventive seafood dishes make both must-visits.
Skillet DinerThe Owl HouseCasual yet innovative dining, focusing on comfort food with a twist.
Matt's in the MarketRouxSimilar market-inspired, fresh local cuisine, offering an intimate dining experience.
Dahlia LoungeTournedos SteakhouseBoth excel in serving upscale, American cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
Frankie & Jo'sMisfit Doughnuts and TreatsCreative and health-conscious alternatives to traditional desserts.
RevelSEA RestaurantProvides a twist on traditional dishes, blending Asian flavors akin to Revel’s Korean flair.
MamnoonCedarOffers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, capturing the spirit and flavors of Mamnoon.

In transitioning from Seattle to Rochester, you'll find the culinary scene as rich and inviting as the one you're leaving behind. For instance, Palmer's Direct To You Market stands out for its chowders, providing a taste of the sea that rivals any bowl of Pike Place Chowder. Over at Good Luck Restaurant, the ambience and menu choices echo the beloved qualities of The Pink Door, ensuring a blend of fine dining with a cozy, inclusive atmosphere. Lento's reputation for superior oysters and seafood closely mirrors that of Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts. These comparisons not only highlight the parallels in quality and dining experience but also illuminate the rich, diverse culinary landscape awaiting you in Rochester.

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Seattle vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate emerges as a pivotal factor, prompting a need to compare two distinct landscapes: Seattle, WA, and Rochester, NY. Gaining insight into housing costs, architectural styles, and the quality of urban living between these cities can inform your decision and smooth the transition.

ComparisonSeattleRochester
Typical Architecture StyleModern, CraftsmanColonial, Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Eco-friendly featuresSpacious lot sizes, Historic homes

In evaluating housing between Seattle and Rochester, a striking contrast in median home prices and monthly rent figures is evident, reflecting the higher cost of living on the West Coast. Seattle's modern and Craftsman-style homes cater to an eco-conscious demographic, often highlighting sustainability features and views. In contrast, Rochester appeals with its more affordable Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes, situated on spacious lots that offer a taste of historical charm. This divergence not only reflects architectural preferences but also indicates a difference in lifestyle, with Seattle presenting a more urban, bike-friendly environment compared to Rochester's lower walkability and bikeability scores.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Seattle vs. Rochester Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another involves many considerations, with weather being a significant one. Understanding how the weather in Seattle, WA compares to Rochester, NY, is essential to prepare for the changes you'll face in your new home.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

82°F / 62°F

Rochester, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

32°F / 18°F

Rochester, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.49

Seattle, WA

34.27

Rochester, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6

Seattle, WA

99.5

Rochester, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

When moving from Seattle to Rochester, prepare for colder winters and significantly more snowfall in Rochester. The transition might require new winter gear and perhaps a different approach to daily travel during the snowy months. Despite Rochester having more days of sunshine, it also comes with higher extremes in both summer and winter temperatures. Adjusting to these weather changes will be critical, including readiness for Rochester's humidity and season-specific allergies, which differ from those in Seattle.

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

When you're considering a move from one city to another, comprehending the financial implications is vital. This comparison aims to shed light on the cost of living and other financial aspects between Seattle, WA, and Rochester, NY , helping you to anticipate the changes in your expenses and lifestyle.

ComparisonSeattleRochester
Avg. Household Income$110,781$41,980
Cost of Living Index121.4100
State Income Tax06.33 to 8.82
Avg. Property Tax0.992.87
Avg. Sales Tax10.18.0
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, RetailEducation, Manufacturing, Healthcare
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Seattle to Rochester, you'll find a substantial difference in the cost of living, with Rochester being far more affordable. This could result in a notable decrease in daily living expenses, despite the lower average household income. State income tax does not apply in Seattle, but you'll face it in New York. However, the markedly lower property and sales taxes in Rochester can balance this to an extent. The economic environments also differ substantially; Seattle's economy is propelled by technology and aerospace, indicating a higher affluence, while Rochester leans on education and healthcare, creating diverse job opportunities but at more modest income levels.

Seattle vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from Seattle to Rochester, it's useful to get a comparison of the politics between Seattle & Rochester and understand the religious makeup of each city. This quick snapshot will help you anticipate the community vibes and maybe even predict the discussions at your new local coffee shop.

SeattleRochester
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsSeattle City CouncilRochester City Council
ReligionDiverse, less religious overallDiverse, with a significant Catholic presence

When moving from the bustling streets of Seattle to Rochester's historical landscapes, you'll find comfort in the familiarity of liberal and Democratic leanings in both cities. However, the experience in local politics might be somewhat different, as Rochester has a notable history of engaging community members in local governance, emphasizing on direct participation that can be seen through the active involvement in the Rochester City Council. Religion plays a diverse role in both places, with Seattle being known for its less religious population overall, contrasting with Rochester’s significant Catholic community amidst its diversity. Observing these aspects could enrich your adaptation to the new surroundings and expand your social circles.

Seattle vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is essential when moving from one city to another. This comparison between Seattle & Rochester will give you a better grasp of what to expect in terms of driving and transiting in these cities.

ComparisonSeattleRochester
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2821
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Possibly, with effortMore challenging

In Seattle, you might find yourself spending more time in traffic due to the city's higher congestion level. However, the availability of public transit, including buses, light rail, and ferries, can make it somewhat easier to navigate without a personal vehicle, especially within city limits. On the other hand, Rochester offers a quicker commute on average, with less congestion but slightly fewer public transit options. Living in Rochester without a car could be more challenging, especially if your daily routine requires commuting to lesser-served areas by public transit.

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