Moving from Buffalo to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Buffalo to Oakland Movers

Moving from city to city isn't just a change of address; it's an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. Transitioning from the snowy charm of Buffalo, NY, the "City of Good Neighbors," to the dynamic, tech-savvy landscapes of Oakland, CA, known for its progressive vibes and vibrant communities, means leaving behind one urban tapestry for another. Understanding this significant life move, we can’t stress enough the importance of ensuring your journey is smooth by choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring every aspect of your move is handled with precision.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Buffalo guide.

5 Best Buffalo to Oakland Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

Location DotEl Sobrante, CA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2597230 Verify

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

Location DotSan Bruno, CA
GearLocal moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3139436 Verify

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,214+ data points

Location DotBuffalo, NY
GearCheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3104397 Verify

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 >>

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top ranked movers in buffalo 2023 wayfinder moving services image
top ranked movers in buffalo 2022 wayfinder moving services image
#4
Joey Z's Moving Logo
Superb

based on 214+ data points

Location DotNorth Tonawanda, NY
GearHome & Apartment moving, Senior Moves, Business & Office moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 10/9/2022)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3348965 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in lockport 2023 joey zs moving inc image
top 10 ranked movers in lockport 2022 joey zs moving inc image
#5
Conjerti Moving Express and Storage Logo
Very Good

based on 112+ data points

Location DotLockport, NY
GearLocal Moving & Packing, Cross-country Long Distance, Corporate Office Moving & Employee Relocation See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 10/8/2022)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1397261 Verify

About Conjerti Moving Express and Storage

Conjerti Moving is a family-owned and operated business providing quality moving services to the residents of Buffalo, NY. It is highly reco...Read More >>

top 3 jamestown 2024 conjerti moving express and storage image
top 10 ranked movers in jamestown 2023 conjerti moving express and storage image
top 10 ranked movers in jamestown 2022 conjerti moving express and storage image

Relocating from Buffalo to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

To ease the transition and help you acclimate to a new city, we've devised a comparison that pairs popular Buffalo, NY & Oakland, CA neighborhoods . This guide aims to match your familiar local area in Buffalo with a similar neighborhood in Oakland, providing a baseline for exploring your new community.

BuffaloOakland
Elmwood VillageRockridge

Vibrant shopping and dining

AllentownTemescal

Diverse cultural scene

North ParkPiedmont Avenue

Cozy, with local businesses

West SideWest Oakland

Urban, artistically rich

Central ParkLake Merritt

Scenic views, community vibe

South BuffaloFruitvale

Rich cultural heritage, vibrant

Hertel AvenueGrand Avenue

Bustling, with local charm

University HeightsTemescal

Thriving academic influence

WaterfrontJack London Square

Waterfront attractions, dining

Delaware DistrictMontclair Village

Quiet, family-friendly

Interested in the artsy vibe of Buffalo's West Side? West Oakland, with its multitude of murals and art collectives like the Oakland Art Murmur, offers a similar, creatively vibrant atmosphere. For those who appreciate Elmwood Village's bustling streets and unique shops, Rockridge not only matches this charm but also introduces you to favorites like Zachary's Chicago Pizza and the independent bookstore, Pegasus Books. And, if Lake Merritt's picturesque scenery and community events attract you, you'll find Lake Merritt itself in Oakland, a popular spot for jogs and picnics alike, drawing parallels to the scenic and active lifestyle you may have enjoyed at Buffalo's Central Park area.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Buffalo to Oakland

Moving from one city to another involves a complex mix of emotions and considerations. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Buffalo, NY to Oakland, CA . By weighing the pros and cons, this decision can be navigated with greater clarity and confidence.

CONs
PROs
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Cold winters
  • Smaller city feel
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lower cost of living
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Larger urban area
  • More cultural diversity
  • Greater job market
  • Higher living expenses
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Expensive housing
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • Urban environment
  • Higher crime rate
  • Less snow activities
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Affordable housing
  • Close-knit communities
  • Accessible nature
  • Lower crime rate
  • Abundant snow activities

Moving from Buffalo to Oakland introduces you to a vibrant urban tapestry teeming with cultural diversity and economic opportunities. While Buffalo offers the charm of a smaller city with easy access to nature and a more affordable lifestyle, Oakland invites you with its milder climate and dynamic job market. Imagine trading the snowy winters for Oakland's temperate weather, allowing you to explore neighborhood parks and outdoor activities year-round. The transition might be challenging, especially considering Oakland's higher cost of living and faster pace. Yet, the city's rich mosaic of restaurants, like the famous Shakewell, and cultural sights, including the iconic Oakland Museum of California, offers an exciting new chapter for those willing to embrace the change.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Buffalo to Oakland

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Buffalo, NY, and Oakland, CA, highlighting a major aspect of what makes each city unique. Understanding the food landscape can greatly enhance your living experience, helping you dive deeper into the local culture and community.

BuffaloOakland

Most iconic local food item

Buffalo Wings
Sourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Beef on Weck
Chicken and Waffles

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Tofu Wings
Avocado Toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Anchor Bar
  • Schwabl's
  • Gabriel's Gate
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

6
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

5
8

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

6
9

While both Buffalo and Oakland offer a vibrant dining scene, each has its unique flair. In Buffalo, you can't miss trying the original Buffalo Wings at Anchor Bar, where this iconic dish was born. In contrast, Oakland's food scene is incredibly diverse, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. The city's waterfront and downtown areas are hotspots for discovering its culinary gems, from the innovative dishes at Commis to the soul-food inspired cuisine at Brown Sugar Kitchen. Whether you're craving the coziness of a traditional beef on weck or the fresh vibrancy of a California-style avocado toast, each city delivers distinctive flavors shaped by their local culture and history.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Buffalo to Oakland

Moving to a new city is an adventure, and finding the local food scene is an essential part of making anywhere feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Buffalo and their counterparts in Oakland aims to help you bridge your culinary journey from Buffalo to Oakland , ensuring you discover new favorite spots with the flavors and ambiance you've come to love.

Gabriel's GateOrdinaire

Rustic and cozy vibes similar to Gabriel’s, with a focus on high-quality, comfort food.

Anchor BarStarline Social Club

Historic space offering live music and a casual dining experience reminiscent of Anchor Bar's laid-back atmosphere.

LombardoCommis

An elevated dining experience with a focus on exquisite plating and innovative cuisine, reflecting Lombardo's reputation for fine dining.

Allen Burger VentureClove and Hoof

Known for its gourmet burgers and craft beers, offering a hip, food-focused experience similar to Allen Burger Venture.

Ted's Hot DogsCaspar's Hot Dogs

A classic, no-frills spot for hot dogs, echoing Ted’s dedication to simple, perfectly executed classics.

Paula's DonutsDonut Savant

Serving up a wide variety of creative and classic donuts, mirroring Paula's reputation for quality and innovation in every bite.

La Nova PizzeriaBoot and Shoe Service

Wood-fired pizzas and a focus on quality ingredients offering a similar artisanal approach to pizza like La Nova.

Elmwood Taco & SubsCosecha Cafe

Celebrates the best of local produce with a Mexican twist, resonating with Elmwood’s approach to fast but high-quality meals.

Marble + RyeShakewell

Modern Mediterranean dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering a dining experience akin to Marble + Rye's inventive menu.

Charlie the ButcherBelcampo

Ethical and sustainable meat focus, providing a modern but deeply traditional butchery experience akin to Charlie's commitment to quality.

Whether you're longing for the iconic wings from Gabriel's Gate or the refined dining experience of Lombardo, Oakland offers culinary gems such as Ordinaire and Commis to satisfy your cravings. For those partial to the casual yet gourmet burgers from Allen Burger Venture, Clove and Hoof in Oakland stands as a worthy counterpart, emphasizing quality and creativity. And if it's the unique donut flavors from Paula's Donuts that you miss, Donut Savant's array of inventive and classic options promise to fill that void with sweet satisfaction. This isn't merely about finding similar restaurants; it's about discovering new favorites in Oakland that resonate with your cherished Buffalo experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Buffalo to Oakland

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move. It's vital to understand how the housing markets of Buffalo, NY, and Oakland, CA compare to make an informed decision. This comparison delves into aspects such as cost, architecture, and urban lifestyle to give you a clearer picture of your potential new home.

When diving deeper into the housing comparison between Buffalo and Oakland, several key differences emerge. Buffalo's housing market is notably more affordable, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those looking for more space without breaking the bank. The city's architecture often showcases historic elements, with many homes featuring spacious yards, a testament to its rich history. In contrast, Oakland presents a more urban experience, reflected in its higher housing costs. However, Oakland compensates with its vibrant urban lifestyle, garnering a higher urban lifestyle score. It's also more walkable and bikeable, appealing to those seeking a more active and eco-conscious lifestyle. The architecture in Oakland leans towards Mid-century Modern, and listings often highlight eco-friendly updates and proximity to public transit, indicating a community that values sustainability.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Buffalo to Oakland

When planning a move from Buffalo, NY, to Oakland, CA, it's critical to grasp how weather conditions will shift. Understanding these differences helps you prepare for a new environment, ensuring a smoother transition. This comparison focuses on Buffalo and Oakland's weather patterns , offering insights into what you can expect in your new home.

Summer icon
80°F / 60°F

Buffalo, NY

73°F / 57°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 18°F

Buffalo, NY

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.5"

Buffalo, NY

23"

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
95"

Buffalo, NY

0"

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Buffalo to Oakland means trading in snowy winters for milder, wetter ones, and enjoying considerably more days of sunshine. The absence of snow in Oakland is notable, especially for those accustomed to Buffalo’s heavy snowfalls. Air quality in Oakland is generally better, beneficial for outdoor activities and overall health. However, be aware of the potential for natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires in California, a different set of challenges than Buffalo's snowstorms and blizzards. Adjusting to these changes will be essential for embracing your new home in Oakland.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another involves more than just packing your belongings. It's crucial to understand how money and finance aspects compare between Buffalo, NY and Oakland, CA. This guide will help you grasp the financial implications of your move.

When you compare Buffalo and Oakland in terms of finances, a clear picture emerges. Despite Oakland having a higher average household income than Buffalo, the cost of living in Oakland dramatically surpasses that of Buffalo. The higher income in Oakland is somewhat offset by the steeper state income and sales tax rates, alongside a significantly higher cost of living index. Additionally, each city's predominant industries reflect distinct economic landscapes. While Buffalo thrives on healthcare, education, and manufacturing, Oakland's economy is buoyed by the technology, healthcare, and trade sectors. These differences underline the importance of preparing financially for your move and understanding the economic dynamics of your new city.

Political & Religious Comparison between Buffalo, NY and Oakland, CA

Moving from Buffalo, NY to Oakland, CA offers a distinctive shift in lifestyle, especially when considering the makeup of the resident population. This quick comparison will provide an at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between Buffalo & Oakland, highlighting key differences and similarities.

BuffaloOakland

Political Make-up

Largely DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Community-based initiativesHighly active social movements

Religion

Diverse, with Christian majorityHighly diverse with fewer identifying as religious

When moving from Buffalo to Oakland, you'll notice significant contrasts in both political and religious landscapes. Buffalo's residents often participate in community-driven political initiatives, reflecting a broader Democratic leaning. In contrast, Oakland is known for its vibrant social movements and a political atmosphere that skews strongly Democratic. Religion in Buffalo presents a diverse but predominantly Christian demographic. Oakland, however, stands out for its religious diversity and a more secular populace, highlighting fewer residents identifying with a specific religion. Understanding these nuances can help you navigate your new home with more ease and insight.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Buffalo to Oakland

This section provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Buffalo & Oakland, designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these cities.

BuffaloOakland
2029.3

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

37

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible

Can you get by without a car?

In Buffalo, the average commute time is significantly shorter than in Oakland, which could be a relief for those not fond of long drives. However, Buffalo scores lower in terms of public transit availability, making it more challenging to get by without a car compared to Oakland. Oakland, despite higher traffic congestion, offers more robust public transportation options, making it possible and sometimes more convenient to forgo a personal vehicle. Additionally, navigating Oakland's busy streets might be a new experience for someone coming from Buffalo, but the Bay Area's comprehensive public transit system can ease this transition.

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