Moving from Rochester to San Jose?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Rochester to San Jose Movers

Moving from Rochester, NY to San Jose, CA embodies an exhilarating leap towards a new chapter in life. You're transitioning from the Flour City, known for its rich history and snowy winters, to the heart of Silicon Valley, a land of innovation and endless sunshine. Recognizing the significance of this long journey, it's crucial to entrust your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a smooth transition to your new adventure.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Rochester guide.

5 Best Rochester to San Jose Movers

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

#1
All Stars Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,557+ data points

Location DotSan Jose, CA
GearLOCAL MOVING SERVICES, LONG DISTANCE MOVING SERVICES, BUSINESS MOVING SERVICES See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2971368 Verify

About All Stars Movers

All Stars Movers is a San Jose moving company fully licensed and insured in the state of California. This locally owned business provides th...Read More >>

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#2
Zippboxx Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,089+ data points

Location DotHauppauge, NY
GearLocal movers, Long Distance Movers, Storage See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3077817 Verify

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 >>

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#3
D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,789+ data points

Location DotCampbell, CA
GearCheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 7/23/2023)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2706648 Verify

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 busin...Read More >>

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#4
Interior Moving Services, Inc. Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 1,144+ data points

Location DotRochester, NY
GearLocal residential moving, Local commercial moving, Long-distance residential moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1498819 Verify

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 >>

top 10 rochester 2024 interior moving services inc image
top ranked movers in rochester 2023 interior moving services inc image
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#5
Reliable Movers Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 693+ data points

Location DotAuburn, NY
GearResidential moving, local and long distance, Commercial factories and offices moving, Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1605981 Verify

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...Read More >>

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Relocating from Rochester to San Jose Neighborhood Guide

Moving between cities can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To help you ease into this transition, we've taken the liberty of comparing popular neighborhoods between Rochester, NY & San Jose, CA . This comparison is designed to help you find a neighborhood in San Jose that feels like home, by drawing parallels with Rochester neighborhoods you might already know and love.

RochesterSan Jose
Park AvenueWillow Glen

Charming, walkable

East AvenueRose Garden

Historic, serene

Highland ParkAlmaden Valley

Scenic, community-focused

South WedgeThe Alameda

Trendy, diverse

Corn HillLos Gatos

Upscale, quaint

NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts)Soho

Artsy, vibrant

Ellwanger-BarryBerryessa

Family-friendly, peaceful

BrowncroftEvergreen

Spacious, residential

North Winton VillageCambrian Park

Suburban, accessible

MaplewoodWillow Glen

Historic homes, community

In Willow Glen, similar to Rochester's Park Avenue, you'll be delighted to find a plethora of charming coffee shops like Bellano Coffee and unique boutiques that line its walkable streets, comparable to Park Ave's artisan atmosphere. For a taste of greenery and outdoor activities reminiscent of Highland Park, Almaden Valley offers beautiful parks such as Almaden Quicksilver County Park, ideal for hiking and enjoying California's sunny weather. If vibrant arts and culture pique your interest, similar to NOTA in Rochester, San Jose's Soho area (although not an official neighborhood, its spirit can be felt in areas like South First Area or SOFA District) teems with galleries, theaters, and lively cafes that cater to the artistically inclined. Each of these neighborhoods in San Jose brings a slice of familiarity, mirroring the essence of Rochester's beloved communities, making your transition to the West Coast a little easier.

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Things to Do in San Jose

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to San Jose

Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Rochester, NY to San Jose, CA . By laying out the cons alongside the pros, and vice versa, this guide offers a balanced view to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Cold winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower diversity
  • Fewer entertainment options
  • Limited public transit
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Thriving tech industry
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Abundant outdoor activities
  • Improved public transit
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less greenery
  • More impersonal
  • Fewer historical landmarks
  • Expensive dining
Rochester, NY iconRochester, NY
  • Lower cost of living
  • Lush green summers
  • Close-knit community feel
  • Rich historical sites
  • Quality local eateries

Moving from Rochester, NY to San Jose, CA, you'll trade snowy winters for the sun-drenched streets around Almaden Lake Park, a popular spot for picnics and paddleboarding. The flourishing job market in tech, spearheaded by companies in Silicon Valley, offers vast career opportunities compared to Rochester. While you might miss the close-knit community feel and the rich history seen in landmarks like the George Eastman Museum in Rochester, San Jose counters with vibrant cultural diversity and a plethora of entertainment options from hiking in Alum Rock Park to dining at renowned restaurants like Adega. However, be prepared for the higher cost of living in San Jose, where housing and dining at top-tier establishments like Adega can stretch your budget more than Rochester's more modest offerings.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Rochester to San Jose

When contemplating a move, it’s crucial to consider the flavors of your future home as food is an essential part of local culture. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester and San Jose to help you understand the culinary scene awaiting in your new city.

RochesterSan Jose

Most iconic local food item

Garbage Plate
Phở

Most popular meat dish

Beef on Weck
Carne Asada

Most popular street food item

Zweigle's Hot Dog
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan
Tofu Phở

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Nick Tahou Hots
  • Joe Bean Coffee Roasters
  • Highland Park Diner
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Manresa Bread

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

6
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

4
9

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

5
8

When moving from Rochester to San Jose, you’ll transition from the hearty, comfort-focused fare such as the famous Garbage Plate of Nick Tahou Hots, to the vibrant and diverse flavors of Vietnamese, Mexican and other global cuisines pulsating through San Jose’s streets. San Jose stands out for its health-conscious options and a booming food truck scene, offering a plethora of vegan and vegetarian options, notably the tofu phở from many local Vietnamese eateries. Food lovers will appreciate the shift to a city where the food scene is integral to daily life, with areas like San Pedro Square featuring a wide array of gourmet choices, from Original Joe's to Falafel's Drive-In, symbolizing the city's rich culinary landscape.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Rochester to San Jose

As you prepare to move from Rochester, NY, to San Jose, CA, finding culinary spots that feel like home is crucial. This restaurant comparison between Rochester and San Jose is designed to guide you towards new favorite eateries that mirror the flavors and ambiance you cherished back home. Let's dive into the flavors of your new city through the lens of your old favorites.

Dinosaur Bar-B-QueSmoking Pig BBQ

Offers a similar vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering BBQ dishes.

DiBella's SubsIke's Love & Sandwiches

Known for its wide variety of unique sandwiches, matching DiBella's quality and creativity.

Ristorante LucanoPaesano Ristorante Italiano

Authentic Italian dining experience reminiscent of Ristorante Lucano.

Highland Park DinerBill's Café

A cozy diner spot with a comparable menu and beloved by locals for breakfast and brunch.

Good Luck RestaurantOrchard City Kitchen

Both offer an innovative and upscale dining experience with a focus on American cuisine.

Joe Bean Coffee RoastersAcademic Coffee

Shares the same commitment to quality, small-batch coffee roasting and a cozy atmosphere.

RouxLe Papillon

Though more upscale, it offers a French dining experience that rivals Roux's beloved flavors.

Swan MarketLudwig's German Table

Both provide an authentic European dining experience, focusing on German cuisine.

Genesee Brew HouseGordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant

Similar brewpub vibe with a great selection of in-house beers and hearty meals.

DogtownHappiness Café

For a casual eatery with comfort food, offering an experience similar to Dogtown but with a San Jose twist.

San Jose’s dining scene offers a wide range of culinary experiences that cater to fans of Rochester's varied flavors. For instance, BBQ enthusiasts moving from Rochester will find a new haven at Smoking Pig BBQ, which rivals the beloved tastes of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. On the other hand, those missing the nostalgic Italian dining from Ristorante Lucano will feel right at home at Paesano Ristorante Italiano, where the ambiance and dishes offer a slice of Italy in California. Moreover, coffee aficionados will appreciate the artistry and ambiance at Academic Coffee, mirroring Joe Bean Coffee Roasters' commitment to quality and community. Each establishment in San Jose brings a piece of Rochester into its heart, ensuring you never feel too far from home.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Rochester to San Jose

Real estate significantly impacts the decision to move. Understanding how Rochester, NY, and San Jose, CA compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle is crucial for making an informed decision.

Moving from Rochester to San Jose drastically changes your living environment, especially in terms of housing costs and lifestyle. Rochester's housing market offers affordability with its median home price significantly lower than San Jose's. This difference reflects in the median monthly rent as well. Moreover, Rochester is known for its historic Colonial and Victorian-style homes with large yards, emphasizing a spacious and relaxed lifestyle. In contrast, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, boasts modern architectural styles and smart home features in its listings, catering to tech-savvy individuals and those seeking proximity to major tech companies. The urban lifestyle score is higher in San Jose, complemented by better walkability and bikeability, which facilitates a more active and urban-centric lifestyle.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Rochester to San Jose

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences between Rochester, NY and San Jose, CA is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes you might need to make in terms of clothing, activities, and even your daily routine.

Summer icon
80°F/60°F

Rochester, NY

82°F/58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F/18°F

Rochester, NY

60°F/42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Rochester, NY

15

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
99

Rochester, NY

0

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from Rochester's cooler, more variable climate to San Jose's mild, sunny weather involves adjustments beyond just swapping snow boots for sandals. Rochester residents are accustomed to preparing for significant snowfall and embracing indoor warmth during long winters. In contrast, San Jose's generous sunshine and minimal rainfall permit outdoor activities year-round, but also bring challenges like higher UV exposure and distinct seasonal allergies. Understanding these differences can help you adapt more comfortably to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, key financial aspects play a crucial role in understanding what awaits. This comparison of Rochester, NY, and San Jose, CA sheds light on vital money and finance differences to anticipate, ensuring you're well-informed on how cost of living, taxes, and income may affect your lifestyle adjustment.

Transitioning from Rochester to San Jose entails adjusting to a stark financial and economic landscape. The jump in average household income in San Jose reflects the high cost of living and the influence of the thriving tech industry, though it's crucial to weigh this against the state's highest tier of income tax. Rochester's more moderate affluence and higher poverty levels contrast with San Jose's stark homelessness issue against its backdrop of wealth. Additionally, understanding these contrasts helps anticipate the need for financial planning related to higher living expenses and taxes in San Jose, amidst its booming economy.

Political & Religious Comparison between Rochester, NY and San Jose, CA

Moving from one city to another can bring a wave of changes, especially when it comes to the community you'll be joining. This comparison between Rochester, NY & San Jose, CA aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the dynamics of your new home.

RochesterSan Jose

Political Make-up

Democratic-leaningDemocratic-leaning

Local Politics

Active community engagementTechnologically progressive policies

Religion

Diverse religious communitiesSignificant non-religious population

Both Rochester and San Jose lean Democratic, reflecting their residents' progressive values. However, the heart of local politics in Rochester thrives on active community engagement, whereas San Jose emphasizes technologically progressive policies, embracing its position in Silicon Valley. Religion in Rochester mirrors its diversity, with various communities present. In contrast, San Jose stands out for its significant non-religious population, reflecting a broader trend towards secularism in the Bay Area. Understanding these nuances will help you integrate into your new community more seamlessly.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Rochester to San Jose

Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in Rochester, NY vs San Jose, CA is crucial for anticipating what your daily commute might look like. This comparison aims to provide insight into traffic, public transportation availability, and the overall feasibility of living without a car in both cities.

RochesterSan Jose
2230

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible but challengingFeasible, especially in urban areas

Can you get by without car?

In Rochester, the average commute time is significantly shorter than in San Jose, which might be attributed to lower traffic congestion levels. However, San Jose boasts a better public transit system, making it more feasible to live there without a personal vehicle, particularly in urban areas where transit hubs are more concentrated. While it's possible to get by without a car in Rochester, doing so might pose more of a challenge, largely due to a public transit system that doesn't cover as extensively or operate as frequently as San Jose's.

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