Best San Jose to Buffalo Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Jose to Buffalo and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,703 mile move from California to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 San Jose to Buffalo moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose compared to Buffalo. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best San Jose to Buffalo Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1D&L Movers9.359.36Active
2Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
3Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC9.269.14Active
4Wayfinder Moving Services 9.058.92Authorized For HHG
5Joey Z's Moving8.928.66Active
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Jose to Buffalo?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,703 miles from San Jose, CA to Buffalo, NY will cost on average $4,080 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Buffalo move is roughly $9,863. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,735300 ft³$9.12
1 Bedroom$4,080450 ft³$9.07
2 Bedrooms$6,762750 ft³$9.02
3 Bedrooms$9,8631100 ft³$8.97
4 Bedrooms$14,2661600 ft³$8.92
5+ Bedrooms$15,9591800 ft³$8.87
*Please note: These California to New York moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & New York. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to NY mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to San Jose guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Buffalo Movers

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

D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC Logo

Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,646+ data points

San Carlos, CA, 94070

About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3184868 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo

Wayfinder Moving Services

Exceptional9.05/10
based on 1,098+ data points

75 Comet Ave

Buffalo, NY, 14216

About Wayfinder Moving Services

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

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

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
4
Joey Z's Moving Logo

Joey Z's Moving

Superb8.92/10
based on 188+ data points

North Tonawanda, NY, 14120

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...

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
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.

San Jose vs. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison

Embarking on a move can often feel like stepping into the unknown. To ease this transition, this guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Buffalo, NY, providing a familiar base for those relocating. By aligning neighborhoods of similar vibe and character, we offer a bridge to understanding your new surroundings through the lens of your old ones.

San JoseBuffaloHow They're Similar
Willow GlenElmwood VillageHistoric charm, vibrant retail scene
Almaden ValleyNorth ParkQuiet residential area, community-oriented
Silver CreekPark MeadowAffluent, well-maintained properties
Downtown San JoseAllentownArtsy, bustling nightlife
Los GatosDelaware ParkUpscale, near parks and museums
Rose GardenLincoln ParkwayGorgeous historical homes, lush landscapes
Cambrian ParkKenmoreFamily-friendly, strong sense of community
Santana RowElmwood StripPremier shopping and dining, lively atmosphere
JapantownWest SideDiverse, rich cultural history
EvergreenSnyderSuburban feel, good schools

For instance, if you adore the bustling, cultured streets of Downtown San Jose with its array of dining, shopping, and nightlife options, you'll find a similar spirit in Buffalo's Allentown. This neighborhood thrives with an artsy vibe, featuring venues like the Allentown Music Hall where live music is a staple. On the quieter side, Almaden Valley's serene, community-focused environment mirrors North Park in Buffalo, which celebrates a tight-knit community atmosphere, emphasized by local gatherings at North Park. Those moving from San Jose's Willow Glen, known for its historic homes and vibrant main street, will find a nostalgic echo in Elmwood Village's lively and scenic streets dotted with shops and cafes like the famed Elmwood Ave. This comparison not only showcases the structural and atmospheric parallels but also invites you to explore and immerse yourself in the new yet familiar locale of Buffalo, NY.

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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

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Jose to Buffalo

Relocating from one city to another brings a mix of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from San Jose, CA to Buffalo, NY . By examining the pros and cons side by side, you can make an informed decision about this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • Longer commutes
  • Less snow
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • More affordable housing
  • Less congestion
  • Shorter commutes
  • Four seasons
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Harsh winters
  • Fewer dining options
  • Less outdoor diversity
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Tech job opportunities
  • Mild winters
  • Vibrant dining scene
  • Outdoor activities

Moving from San Jose, CA, to Buffalo, NY, involves a significant shift in lifestyle and environment. In San Jose, places like Downtown San Jose offer a vibrant urban experience with numerous tech companies and a bustling dining scene featuring establishments such as ADEGA and San Pedro Square Market. On the other hand, Buffalo welcomes newcomers with its charming Canalside and the historic Albright-Knox Art Gallery, offering a dense cultural experience and four distinct seasons that allow for a range of activities from snow sports in winter to vibrant foliage tours in the fall. While the transition may involve adapting to harsher winters and fewer tech job opportunities, the move also promises a more affordable lifestyle, shorter commutes, and a community known for its hearty embrace of all seasons.

San Jose vs. Buffalo Food Guide

Understanding local cuisine is a key part of immersing yourself in a new city's culture. This comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Buffalo will enlighten you about the distinct food scenes, helping you better navigate your culinary journey in your new home.

San Jose
Buffalo
Most iconic local food item
Pho
Buffalo Wings
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Beef on Weck
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Hot Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Farm-to-Table Salads
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Manresa
  • Original Joe's San Jose
  • Adega
  • Anchor Bar
  • Charlie the Butcher
  • Ted's Hot Dogs
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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When you move to Buffalo, you'll discover a culinary scene deeply rooted in comfort and tradition, with iconic dishes like Buffalo wings originating from the Anchor Bar. The city's love for meat is further showcased in the beloved Beef on Weck, available at local favorites like Charlie the Butcher. Despite its wintry reputation, Buffalo's food scene is dynamic, featuring an evolving selection of vegan and vegetarian options, such as the inventive Buffalo Cauliflower Wings that mirror the city's iconic dish without the meat. The city welcomes food lovers with a mix of traditional eateries, modern restaurants, and a gradually growing number of food trucks, especially during the warmer months.

San Jose vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison

When you're making a big move, settling into your new home means finding those perfect spots to eat. This restaurant comparison will guide you from San Jose to Buffalo , helping you discover your next favorite eateries by connecting your current favorites in San Jose with their Buffalo counterparts. Let's dive into the flavors that make each city unique, and guide you home one meal at a time.

San JoseBuffaloWhat You'll Love
Le PapillonOsteria 166Similar upscale dining experience with a focus on exquisite plates.
Original Joe's San JoseGabriel's GateBoth offer a historical dining experience with classic, comforting dishes.
ManresaHutch'sComparable high-end dining focusing on local and innovative cuisine.
La Foret RestaurantRistorante LombardoBoth have a romantic ambiance and offer meticulously prepared Italian cuisine.
Back A YardCaribbean ExperienceOffers a similar laid-back vibe with authentic Caribbean flavors.
Pedro's Restaurant & CantinaCantina LocoBoth are popular for their vibrant atmosphere and delicious Mexican food.
Dia de PescaLake Effect DinerSimilar casual and inviting spaces with a focus on comfort food, though Lake Effect Diner leans more towards diner classics with a local twist.
Santouka RamenSATO RamenSATO offers an authentic ramen experience reminiscent of Santouka's beloved bowls.
Henry's Hi-LifeBlackthorn Restaurant & PubBoth have a casual yet iconic status with a focus on hearty meat dishes.
Ludwig's German TableHofbrauhaus BuffaloOffers a similar German dining experience with shared community tables and traditional Bavarian food and brews.

Finding a new favorite eatery that reminds you of what you loved in San Jose won't be hard in Buffalo. Places like Osteria 166 and Hutch's marry the upscale dining experience of Le Papillon and Manresa with Buffalo's unique flair, offering dishes that delight both in presentation and taste. For those longing for the cozy and authentic experiences of Dia de Pesca and Santouka Ramen, eateries like Lake Effect Diner and SATO Ramen provide comfort food and authentic ramen that resonate with the flavors back in San Jose. Whether you're craving German feasts or Caribbean vibes, Buffalo's diverse culinary scene welcomes you to explore new dining horizons that feel just like home.

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Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, evaluating the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will focus on key housing aspects to help you understand how San Jose and Buffalo differ. Such insights are invaluable for making an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle needs. Let's delve into the specifics of housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle .

San Jose
Buffalo
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Spanish Influence
Historical and Colonial
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Smart home features, eco-friendly designs
Classic designs, proximity to landmarks

While San Jose boasts a more modern and tech-savvy environment, reflected in its higher median home prices and rental rates, Buffalo offers a more affordable living with a rich historical essence in its architecture. San Jose's urban lifestyle is slightly more vibrant, attributed to its Silicon Valley influence, showcasing modern and eco-friendly homes. In contrast, Buffalo's real estate listings often highlight classic designs and proximity to cultural landmarks, such as the renowned Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Buffalo's higher walkability score suggests a more pedestrian-friendly environment, making it ideal for those who enjoy city explorations on foot.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY

1. Elmwood Village : You'll love this vibrant area for its abundance of pet-friendly parks and eclectic shops that welcome your furry friends.

2. Allentown : Known for its quirky charm, Allentown offers plenty of walkable spaces and pet-friendly cafes where you and your pet can enjoy a leisurely day out.

3. North Buffalo : With its expansive Delaware Park and numerous pet-friendly community activities, North Buffalo provides ample outdoor spaces for your pet to play and socialize.

San Jose vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the climate differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in San Jose and Buffalo will differ, to better prepare you for your relocation. Knowing these differences is key to adjusting your lifestyle and wardrobe appropriately.

San Jose
Buffalo
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Floods
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
80°F / 60°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60°F / 42°F
31°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.82
40.47
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
94.7


Moving from San Jose to Buffalo introduces significant weather changes, particularly in winter. In San Jose, winters are mild with an average low of 42°F, while Buffalo experiences cold, snowy winters with averages down to 18°F. Additionally, Buffalo sees nearly three times the annual snowfall compared to San Jose's practically nonexistent snow. Preparing for the reduced number of sunny days and substantially higher annual rainfall in Buffalo will help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to understand how money and finance compare between San Jose, CA, and Buffalo, NY. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in your cost of living and financial planning.

San Jose
Buffalo
Avg. Household Income
$126,377
$40,669
Cost of Living Index
156.1
95.8
State Income Tax
13.3
8.82
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
1.68
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
8.75
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
Affluence
Very High
Moderate
Poverty
Low
Higher
Homelessness
Noticeable
Moderate

Moving from San Jose to Buffalo, you'll experience a significant shift in the cost of living and taxation. The average household income in San Jose is more than double that of Buffalo, reflecting the city's high-paying tech sector. However, San Jose's cost of living is nearly three times higher than Buffalo's. State and property taxes are also lower in Buffalo, stretching your dollar further. While San Jose boasts a very affluent population with lower poverty rates, Buffalo offers a more moderate standard of living with higher poverty rates. Understanding these financial implications will help you better prepare for your move.

San Jose vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from San Jose, CA, to Buffalo, NY, it's essential to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of residents in San Jose & Buffalo , helping you acclimate to your new surroundings.

San Jose
Buffalo
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Primarily Democratic
Local Politics
Liberal, with strong emphasis on tech and environment
Liberal, with a focus on economic revitalization and social services
Religion
Diverse, with Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam
Predominantly Christian, with Catholicism being the most prevalent

In both San Jose and Buffalo, you'll find a political landscape that leans heavily Democratic, reflective of urban centers with a strong inclination towards liberal policies. However, the local focus shifts—San Jose's politics are deeply intertwined with Silicon Valley's tech industry and environmental issues, while Buffalo's political scene is more centered on the city's economic rejuvenation and enhancing social welfare programs. Religious diversity is broader in San Jose, housing a dynamic mix including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, partly due to its significant immigrant population. In contrast, Buffalo's religious makeup is more homogenous, with a strong Catholic presence shaping community events and culture.

San Jose vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Jose, CA to Buffalo, NY? It's crucial to compare the traffic and transportation options between these two cities to better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This comparison will help you adjust to your new city with ease.

San Jose
Buffalo
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
20
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Easier

In San Jose, your daily commute might be longer due to higher traffic congestion, rated 7 out of 10, making it crucial to plan your travel timings carefully. The city's public transit system, although available, might not cover all areas thoroughly, making it somewhat challenging to depend solely on public transport. On the other hand, Buffalo offers a somewhat more relaxed scenario with lower traffic congestion and slightly lower availability of public transit. Yet, getting around without a car in Buffalo is generally easier compared to San Jose, allowing more flexibility in your daily commute options.

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