Best Boston to Rochester Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Boston to Rochester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 393 mile move from Massachusetts to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 55 Boston to Rochester 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Rochester. 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 Boston to Rochester Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Stairhopper Movers9.679.62Authorized For HHG
2Centaur Moving9.619.79Authorized For HHG
3Intelligent labor & Moving9.529.55Authorized For Property, HHG
4Zippboxx9.379.16Authorized For Property, HHG
5Interior Moving Services, Inc.8.978.99Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Boston to Rochester?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 393 miles from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY will cost on average $1,798 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Rochester move is roughly $4,302. 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$1,211300 ft³$4.04
1 Bedroom$1,798450 ft³$4.00
2 Bedrooms$2,965750 ft³$3.95
3 Bedrooms$4,3021100 ft³$3.91
4 Bedrooms$6,1891600 ft³$3.87
5+ Bedrooms$6,8861800 ft³$3.83
*Please note: These Massachusetts to New York moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Massachusetts & 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 MA to NY mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Boston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Boston to Rochester Movers

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 8,823+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.61/10
based on 1,518+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo

Intelligent labor & Moving

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 1,835+ data points

18 Beck Rd

Arlington, MA, 2476

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Zippboxx Logo

Zippboxx

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,003+ data points

923 Motor Pkwy

Hauppauge, NY, 11788

About Zippboxx

Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both locally...

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
4
Interior Moving Services, Inc. Logo

Interior Moving Services, Inc.

Superb
claimed company icon
8.97/10
based on 970+ data points

157 La Grange Ave

Rochester, NY, 14613

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 commercial...

Services

  • Local residential moving
  • Local commercial moving
  • Long-distance residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

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.

Boston vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison

If you're moving from Boston, MA, to Rochester, NY, use this comparison of neighborhoods to help you familiarize yourself with your new city. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in *Boston, MA* with *Rochester, NY* so you can find your closest equivalent.

BostonRochesterHow They're Similar
Back BayEast AvenueUpscale with historic mansions and trendy spots
Beacon HillCobbs HillHistoric charm with a community feel
South EndPark AvenueDiverse, artistic, and packed with dining options
CambridgeCorn HillCultural hub with historical elements
Fenway-KenmoreSouth WedgeYoung, vibrant, with access to nightlife
Jamaica PlainHighland ParkEthnically diverse, green spaces
North EndNeighborhood of the Arts (NOTA)Rich in culture, Italian influence
CharlestownCharlotteHistoric waterfront area
Seaport DistrictCorn Hill LandingModern, waterfront development
Allston-BrightonSwillburgStudent and young professional community

If you love the sophistication and historic mansions of Back Bay, you'll feel at home in Rochester's East Avenue area, where upscale residences and trendy spots like Good Luck restaurant are abundant. Fans of the South End's diversity and culinary variety will enjoy Park Avenue, which boasts popular eateries such as Jines Restaurant. Those accustomed to Cambridge's cultural vibes and historic flavor will find a new sanctuary in Corn Hill, featuring places like The Corn Hill Navery. Lastly, if you're intrigued by Jamaica Plain's community gardens and green patches, Highland Park, known for its diversity and natural beauty, will feel just right with the serene presence of Highland Park.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Rochester

Moving from one city to another allows us to weigh the different aspects of each location. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY, highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks to give you a full picture.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Harsh Winters
  • Less Green Space
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • More Affordable
  • Less Congestion
  • Similar Winters
  • More Parks
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Smaller Arts Scene
  • Car Dependent
  • Fewer Dining Options
  • Fewer Higher Ed Options
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Richer Cultural Scene
  • Better Public Transit
  • Diverse Restaurants
  • Top-tier Universities

Relocating from Boston to Rochester offers a chance to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life in a city where your dollar stretches further. Rochester's abundant green spaces like Highland Park and Genesee Valley Park offer respite not as readily found in Boston's urban environment. While Boston's dining scene is hard to match, Rochester holds its own with gems such as Dinosaur BBQ and the unique culinary scene at the Public Market. Rochester's cultural footprint, including landmarks like the George Eastman Museum, though smaller, is deeply impactful, providing residents and visitors with a rich sense of community and history.

Boston vs. Rochester Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Rochester to help you understand the unique food scene you're moving into. Food plays a vital role in the cultural experience of a city, and we aim to equip you with insights into what each location offers.

Boston
Rochester
Most iconic local food item
Clam Chowder
Garbage Plate
Most popular meat dish
Lobster Roll
White Hot
Most popular street food item
Cannoli
Zweigle's Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Dogtown
  • Schaller's Drive-In
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

As you settle into your new home in Rochester, you'll find the legendary Garbage Plate at Nick Tahou Hots, a must-try for any food adventurer. For a local twist on hot dogs, Zweigle's at Dogtown reflects Rochester's unique culinary character. Vegan options are blossoming, too, with joints like The Red Fern offering creative alternatives like the Tempeh Reuben. Rochester's evolving food scene is notable not just in its downtown area but also in neighborhoods like Park Avenue and the South Wedge, where food trucks and eateries celebrate the city's diverse tastes and culinary innovation.

Boston vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison

Making a new city feel like home is a journey flavored by local culinary experiences. This restaurant comparison guide is dedicated to helping you transition from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY, by matching your beloved Boston eateries with Rochester's finest. Discover your next favorite place to dine as we bridge Boston's iconic food scene with Rochester's culinary diversity.

BostonRochesterWhat You'll Love
OleanaRouxInventive French cuisine in a cozy setting
Neptune OysterRestaurant Good LuckGreat for fresh seafood dishes
Union Oyster HouseThe RevelryOffers a modern twist on classic dishes
Mike's PastryGenesee Bakery & DeliKnown for desserts and baked goods
ToroTapastry at the MarketSpanish Tapas with a local twist
CoppaFiamma CentroAuthentic Italian in a vibrant atmosphere
GiuliaRistorante LucanoItalian dining focusing on quality ingredients
MistralAvvinoContemporary American cuisine with Mediterranean influences
SarmaCedar Mediterranean RestaurantMiddle Eastern fare that feels familiar
Tatte Bakery & CafeVillage Bakery & CafePerfect for a cozy breakfast or lunch

Exploring the culinary landscape of Rochester, you'll find places that echo the familiar vibes and flavors of Boston's dining scene. Roux stands out for its take on French cuisine, offering a cozy atmosphere that might remind you of Oleana's approach to Mediterranean dishes. Seafood lovers transitioning from Neptune Oyster will appreciate Restaurant Good Luck's fresh and inventive seafood offerings, ensuring the maritime tradition continues. For those mornings when you miss the pastries of Mike's Pastry, Genesee Bakery & Deli in Rochester is your go-to for exceptional baked goods and sweets. Moving cities doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love; it's an opportunity to discover new favorites that reflect the quality and diversity of your old haunts.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences your moving experience. Understanding how Boston, MA and Rochester, NY compare in terms of housing can better prepare you for the transition. This comparison addresses costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle compatibility.

Boston
Rochester
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Federal
Colonial Revival, Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to public transit, historic charm
Family-friendly neighborhoods, spacious backyards

Housing affordability and lifestyle vary significantly between Boston and Rochester. You might find Boston's high cost of living and historical architecture charming but the city's urban buzz comes with a price tag. In contrast, Rochester offers more budget-friendly housing options, larger living spaces, and a pace of life that might appeal to those looking for a quieter, more spread-out environment. The architectural styles also differ, with Boston favoring more Colonial and Federal styles, whereas Rochester is rich in Colonial Revival and Craftsman homes. Despite the lower walkability and bikeability scores in Rochester, its family-friendly neighborhoods and spacious backyards are significant draws for those moving from more congested urban centers.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY

1. Park Avenue : You'll find this neighborhood particularly pet-friendly due to its proximity to Cobbs Hill Park, offering ample green space and trails for dogs to enjoy.

2. South Wedge : This vibrant area boasts several pet-friendly cafes and shops, making it easy for you to bring your furry friend along for a day out.

3. Highland Park : Known for the beautiful Highland Botanical Park, this neighborhood provides plenty of open spaces and pet-friendly trails for you and your pet to explore.

Boston vs. Rochester Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the difference in weather conditions is crucial. Moving from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY demands an awareness of how climatic changes can impact your lifestyle. This comparison will shed light on weather variations to help you prepare for what lies ahead.

Boston
Rochester
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Nor'easters, Blizzards
Lake Effect Snow, Blizzards
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 66°F
80°F / 62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

36°F / 22°F
32°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43.8"
34.4"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

48"
99"


In moving from Boston to Rochester, you'll find both cities experience a range of weather conditions, but there are notable differences to prepare for. Rochester witnesses more snowfall and fewer days of sunshine compared to Boston, which could affect activities and your daily commute in winter months. Additionally, Rochester's slightly higher humidity levels might make the already cold winters feel even chillier. Understanding these nuances is key in adapting to your new environment seamlessly.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding financial aspects like the cost of living between Boston, MA and Rochester, NY is crucial. These insights help you prepare for the economic differences you'll encounter. Let's explore how these cities compare financially.

Boston
Rochester
Avg. Household Income
$79,283
$41,980
Cost of Living Index
132.5
100
State Income Tax
5
6.33 to 8.82
Avg. Property Tax
1.22
2.76
Avg. Sales Tax
6.25
8
Top 3 Industries
Education, Healthcare, Finance
Education, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Affluence
Higher
Moderate
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Moderate
Moderate to High

The average household income in Boston is substantially higher than in Rochester, reflecting a significant disparity in economic conditions. This difference is further emphasized by the cost of living index, with Boston's being notably higher. While state income tax in New York varies by income bracket, potentially affecting Rochester residents more, the overall lower cost of living may compensate for this. The higher average sales tax and property tax rates in Rochester also play a crucial role in the financial equation. Understanding these variances can help you better prepare for financial adjustments following your move.

Boston vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison aims to offer a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Boston & Rochester , focusing on the political and religious makeup of these two cities. Get a glimpse of where residents stand on the political spectrum, and the religious landscape, providing insight into the community you are moving into or away from.

Boston
Rochester
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Strong emphasis on education and healthcare
Focus on economic development and social welfare
Religion
Majorly Catholic, with a mix of other Christian denominations
Diverse religious landscape with Christianity being predominant

Both Boston and Rochester share a liberal or Democratic leaning when it comes to their political makeup, rooted in a history of progressive values. However, the local emphasis differs, with Boston placing a strong focus on education and healthcare reforms, likely due to its rich academic presence including universities such as Harvard. Rochester, on the other hand, prioritizes economic development and social welfare, reflecting its industrial roots and efforts towards community support. When it comes to religion, Boston has a significant Catholic population alongside other Christian denominations, reflective of its colonial heritage. Rochester presents a more varied religious scene but maintains Christianity as the predominant faith, showcasing the region's diverse cultural fabric.

Boston vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Making the move from Boston, MA to Rochester, NY? Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in these cities is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Boston & Rochester will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like.

Boston
Rochester
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
20
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Yes, easily
More challenging

In Boston, the MBTA offers extensive public transportation options, making it possible to live without a car. The average commute time is longer, and traffic congestion is higher compared to Rochester, reflecting the city's dense layout and bustling activity. Meanwhile, Rochester, with its lower congestion levels, presents a somewhat smoother driving experience. However, the public transit system in Rochester is less extensive, potentially making a car necessary for some. While each city offers unique challenges and benefits in terms of commuting, understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move.

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