Best Rochester to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 285 mile move from New York to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Rochester to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Rochester compared to Pittsburgh. 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 Rochester to Pittsburgh Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
2Zippboxx9.379.16Authorized For Property, HHG
3Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized For HHG
4Interior Moving Services, Inc.8.978.99Authorized For HHG
5Reliable Movers8.948.81Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 285 miles from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $1,720 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Pittsburgh move is roughly $4,111. 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$1,159300 ft³$3.86
1 Bedroom$1,720450 ft³$3.82
2 Bedrooms$2,835750 ft³$3.78
3 Bedrooms$4,1111100 ft³$3.74
4 Bedrooms$5,9121600 ft³$3.69
5+ Bedrooms$6,5741800 ft³$3.65
*Please note: These New York to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from New York & Pennsylvania. 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 NY to PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Rochester guide.

Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Pittsburgh Movers

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

Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,121+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 310+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Reliable Movers Logo

Reliable Movers

Superb
claimed company icon
8.94/10
based on 641+ data points

159 Hardenbergh Ave

Auburn, NY, 13021

About Reliable Movers

Reliable Movers is a family-owned and operated business specializing in moves from New York to Florida. Since 1996, this Auburn-based moving...

Services

  • Residential moving, local and long distance
  • Commercial factories and offices moving
  • Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1605981 / 837987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved79,441 (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.

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & Pittsburgh, PA. This guide aims to help you find a neighborhood in Pittsburgh that feels like home, using what you love about your Rochester neighborhood as a baseline.

RochesterPittsburghHow They're Similar
Park AvenueShadysideVibrant, trendy shops and eateries
East AvenueSquirrel HillCulturally rich, diverse dining
Highland ParkPoint BreezeGorgeous parks, family-friendly
South WedgeLawrencevilleHip, energetic arts scene
ARTWalkStrip DistrictCreative, arts-centric hub
SwillburgBloomfieldClose-knit community, historic charm
Corn HillAllegheny WestHistoric architecture, waterfront parks
North Winton VillageFriendshipFriendly vibe, tree-lined streets
Ellwanger-BarryRegent SquareQuaint, with eclectic local spots
NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)GarfieldArtistic, with a community feel

If you love the vibrant and quirky vibes of Rochester's South Wedge, with its local craft beer bars like Swiftwater Brewing and vegan eateries such as Hedonistic Eats, you'll feel right at home in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville, where spots like Arsenal Cider House and B52 Café mirror that energetic arts scene and commitment to unique, local flavors. For those who appreciate the historic charm and close-knit community of Swillburg, Bloomfield offers a similar vibe, hosting Italian festivals and boasting family-owned businesses that have stood the test of time. And if you're moving away from the lush, scenic beauty of Highland Park, Point Breeze in Pittsburgh provides an almost seamless transition with its expansive parks, such as Frick Park, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh

Moving from one city to another promises a mix of experiences, and relocating from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA is no exception. By comparing the two, this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding both the advantages and challenges will equip you with a balanced perspective, making the transition as smooth as possible.

CONs
PROs
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Heavier snowfall
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Lesser job opportunities
  • Higher crime rate
  • Fewer cultural attractions
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Milder winters
  • Larger city amenities
  • More job opportunities
  • Lower crime rate
  • More cultural attractions
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Higher cost of living
  • No direct lake access
  • Less intimate communities
  • Different historical focus
  • More urban setting
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Lower cost of living
  • Access to lakes
  • Close-knit communities
  • Rich history
  • Country landscapes

Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh presents unique opportunities for both career growth and cultural experiences. Pittsburgh, with its burgeoning tech scene, offers numerous job opportunities at companies such as Google and Uber. Cultural attractions abound in Pittsburgh; notable landmarks include the Andy Warhol Museum and the historic Heinz History Center. While Rochester boasts proximity to natural wonders such as Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes, Pittsburgh counters with its beautiful riverfronts and the vibrant Neighborhoods of the Strip District and Lawrenceville, known for their eclectic dining scenes, such as Pamela's Diner for breakfast and Primanti Bros. for a taste of local cuisine. Despite the higher cost of living, Pittsburgh's blend of modern amenities amidst rich historical contexts offers a compelling new chapter for those considering the move.

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester & Pittsburgh, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the cultural vibe of a place. By comparing the food scenes, you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you in your new city.

Rochester
Pittsburgh
Most iconic local food item
Garbage Plate
Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Beef on Weck
Pierogies
Most popular street food item
Zweigle's Hot Dogs
Haluski
Most popular vegan food
Seitan "Wings"
Vegan Pierogies
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Joe Bean Coffee Roasters
  • The Playhouse//Swillburger
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • The Church Brew Works
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh, one of the most exciting changes will be in the culinary scene. In Pittsburgh, neighborhoods like Lawrenceville and the Strip District offer a vibrant mix of street food, upscale dining, and innovative vegan options, significantly highlighted by the city's adoration for Pierogies in both traditional and vegan forms. Iconic Pittsburgh establishments like Primanti Bros., known for its unique sandwich stuffed with fries and coleslaw, offer a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, newer spots like The Church Brew Works creatively blend dining with local tradition, setting the stage for a foodie adventure unlike any other. Exploring Pittsburgh's food scene will not only introduce you to new flavors but also immerse you in the city's unique blend of cultures.

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for a good meal. This restaurant comparison chart from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA is designed to help you ease into your new surroundings by mapping the flavors of your old favorites to new discoveries. Whether you're craving a casual brunch or a high-end dining experience, this guide aims to make Pittsburgh feel like home, one meal at a time.

RochesterPittsburghWhat You'll Love
Dinosaur Bar-B-QuePittsburgh Barbecue CompanyBoth heralded for their smoky, flavor-packed barbecue offerings
Good Luck RestaurantCureSimilar in their approach to inventive, locally sourced American cuisine
Highland Park DinerPamela's DinerIconic diners in their respective cities, known for hearty, classic American breakfasts
Swan MarketPenn Avenue Fish CompanyBoth offer a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality seafood
Ristorante LucanoDiAnoia's EateryRenowned for their authentic Italian dishes and cozy atmosphere
Joe Bean Coffee RoastersTazza D'OroBoth cafes are celebrated for their dedication to quality coffee and community vibe
Genesee Brew HouseChurch Brew WorksUnique spots where the craft of brewing is as important as the food and ambiance
The RevelryButcher and the RyeOffering inventive cocktails and upscale dishes in a vibrant, stylish setting
La CasaMad MexBoth are go-tos for their inventive twists on Mexican cuisine in a fun atmosphere
RouxParis 66Both excel in offering a genuine French dining experience with meticulous attention to detail

Embark on a culinary journey that bridges the gap between Rochester and Pittsburgh, bringing you closer to discovering your next dining haven. For example, while Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Rochester might have been your barbecue staple, you'll find a similar love for slow-cooked, smoky delights at Pittsburgh Barbecue Company. Or, if your Italian nights were previously spent savoring the dishes at Ristorante Lucano, you'll be pleased to know that DiAnoia's Eatery offers a similarly warm and authentic Italian experience in your new city. Each recommended Pittsburgh counterpart not only promises similar flavors and vibes but also encapsulates the spirit and community found back in Rochester, making your transition that much sweeter.

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Ready to start your move?

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, assessing real estate differences between Rochester, NY and Pittsburgh, PA is key. It's all about finding where your dream home meets your lifestyle expectations. Let's dive into how these two cities compare on several housing aspects.

Rochester
Pittsburgh
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Craftsman
Tudor, Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, Open floor plans
City views, Proximity to parks

In deeper analysis, Pittsburgh stands out for its higher urban lifestyle ranking and better walkability scores, reflecting its denser, more vibrant neighborhoods. The city's architecture, marked by beautiful Tudor and Victorian homes, adds charm and character, often highlighted in real estate listings along with mentions of stunning city views and the easy access to green spaces. On the other hand, Rochester attracts homebuyers with its more affordable housing options, both in purchasing and renting. Its real estate landscape is colored with spacious backyards and open floor plans, catering to those who prioritize space and comfort. Whether you're charmed by the lively streets of Pittsburgh or the tranquil, roomy residences of Rochester, each city has unique offerings that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Shadyside : You’ll find this neighborhood’s walkability and abundance of pet-friendly patios make it an ideal spot for both you and your furry friends.

2. Lawrenceville : With its numerous parks and dog-friendly cafes, Lawrenceville is a perfect place if you’re looking for a vibrant community that welcomes pets.

3. Squirrel Hill : This neighborhood offers a variety of local parks and green spaces, ensuring you have ample opportunities for outdoor activities with your pets.

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA, understanding the weather differences between these cities is crucial. This comparison provides insight into what weather conditions you can expect, helping you prepare for your new home environment.

Rochester
Pittsburgh
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Cold Waves
Rainstorms, Occasional Floods
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

80°F / 61°F
82°F / 62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

32°F / 18°F
37°F / 21°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

34
38
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

99
41


While both cities experience a mix of cold winters and warm summers, you'll find that Rochester tends to receive significantly more snow than Pittsburgh, with an average annual snowfall of 99 inches compared to Pittsburgh's 41 inches. This could affect your winter activities and transportation plans. Additionally, the slightly higher average humidity in Pittsburgh might make summers feel more muggy. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more readily to your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition to life in Pittsburgh.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial indicators between Rochester and Pittsburgh will impact your budget. Understanding these differences ensures you're prepared for the economic changes that come with your new location.

Rochester
Pittsburgh
Avg. Household Income
$41,980
$57,821
Cost of Living Index
100
91.5
State Income Tax
6.33 to 8.82
3.07
Avg. Property Tax
2.47
2.01
Avg. Sales Tax
8
7
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Manufacturing
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate to High
Poverty
High
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
Low

Moving from Rochester to Pittsburgh means entering a slightly higher cost of living due to variances in housing and tax rates. However, the average household income in Pittsburgh is also marginally higher, which can help offset some of these costs. The state income tax in Pennsylvania is significantly lower than New York, which could provide a notable financial relief. Considering the industries, Pittsburgh's focus on healthcare and technology presents promising career opportunities for professionals in these fields. Despite these differences, both cities offer a moderate level of affluence but diverge in terms of poverty and homelessness rates, suggesting a better economic stability in Pittsburgh.

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison

Relocating from Rochester, NY to Pittsburgh, PA presents an intriguing look into the local lifestyles and beliefs. This comparison is designed to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Rochester & Pittsburgh . Understanding these aspects can help ease the transition and foster a deeper connection with your new community.

Rochester
Pittsburgh
Political Make-up
Liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Democratic stronghold
Democratic stronghold
Religion
Diverse; notable Christian and Jewish communities
Diverse; strong Catholic presence alongside various other faiths

While both cities reflect liberal values on a broad political spectrum, they each have their unique local political environments, with a strong Democratic presence. In Rochester, you might be familiar with the emphasis on progressive values and community-based initiatives. Pittsburgh shares a similar political climate but brings its own local issues and debates to the forefront, shaped by its rich industrial history and evolving socioeconomic landscape. When it comes to religion, Rochester boasts a diverse religious landscape, which includes significant Christian and Jewish communities. Pittsburgh's religious makeup is equally diverse, with a notably strong Catholic community, reflecting the city's historical European immigrant roots. Understanding these nuances will help you connect with your new community on a deeper level.

Rochester vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Rochester & Pittsburgh is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Moving from one city to the other, it's crucial to know how your routine might change.

Rochester
Pittsburgh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
26
Traffic Congestion
3 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Difficult
Moderately Easy

In Rochester, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Pittsburgh, indicating less traffic congestion overall. However, Pittsburgh offers slightly better public transit options, making it easier to get around the city without a car. This difference is crucial for those considering a car-free lifestyle or those who prioritize environmentally friendly transit options. Furthermore, Rochester's public transit receives a lower score, suggesting that while buses and trains are available, they might not be as extensive or convenient as Pittsburgh's systems, including its light rail service known as the Port Authority.

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