Top-rated movers to make your Buffalo to Tampa move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Buffalo that offers long-distance services to Tampa can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed five top local movers in Buffalo who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Buffalo to Tampa.
- Wayfinder Moving Services : 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Best Buffalo Movers : 3.98 out of 5 stars
- Pryority Movers : 4.02 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 40318
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3104397
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 779
Years in Business: 97
DOT #: 77949
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 40835
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Bulldog Movers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 28
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Safes
Company Info
State license #: 41063
Years in Business: 6
Alternate Names: Pryority Delivery Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Buffalo to Tampa?
In New York, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,013 – $4,238 | $896 – $2,130 | $794 – $1,458 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,301 – $5,543 | $1,525 – $3,162 | $785 – $1,769 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,246 – $7,300 | $2,262 – $4,404 | $1,018 – $2,199 |
Cost to hire movers from Buffalo to Tampa
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Tampa from Buffalo, you can expect prices to land between $1,013 and $4,238. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,301 to $5,543 for the trip from Buffalo to Tampa. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,246 and $7,300.
Cost of moving containers from Buffalo to Tampa
Moving containers from Buffalo to Tampa will cost you $896 to $2,130 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,525 to $3,162. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,262 to $4,404. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Buffalo to Tampa
Renting a moving truck from Buffalo to Tampa typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $794 and $1,458 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $785 to $1,769. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,018 to $2,199.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Buffalo to Tampa move
The cost of Buffalo movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,199 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,488 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Buffalo.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $794 to $1,915, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Buffalo to Tampa
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tampa runs about 25% higher for singles and 42% higher for families than Buffalo.
Singles spend around $3,232 in Buffalo versus $2,589 in Buffalo; families pay $8,108 compared with $5,720.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Buffalo | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,567 | $1,967 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,075 | $3,616 |
| Average home value | $213,418 | $371,271 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,443 | $66,802 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,589 | $3,232 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,720 | $8,108 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.5% | 5.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.75% | 6.5% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 0.0% |
- Planning a move to Tampa? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 61% higher than in Buffalo, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Tampa are about 74% higher than those in Buffalo.
- In terms of average income, Tampa and Buffalo are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Tampa, as living costs for a single person are 25% higher than in Buffalo. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Tampa, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Tampa is 42% higher than in Buffalo.
- The unemployment rate in Tampa is about 47% lower than in Buffalo. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 26% less in Tampa relative to Buffalo. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Florida has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Buffalo and Tampa:
| Living Expense | Buffalo | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $251.62 | $239.17 |
| Cell phone plan | $46.65 | $71.60 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.96 | $4.59 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.89 | $4.09 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $30.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $85.00 | $95.00 |
| Gym membership | $33.67 | $38.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Buffalo than in Tampa.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Buffalo than in Tampa.
- Eggs are less expensive in Buffalo than in Tampa.
- Bread costs less in Buffalo than in Tampa.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Buffalo than in Tampa.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Buffalo than in Tampa.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Buffalo than in Tampa.
How life is different in Buffalo vs. Tampa
| Buffalo | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 278,349 | 403,364 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 67 | 51 |
| Bike friendliness score | 63 | 51 |
| Crime index | 8.0 | 46.15 |
| Safety index | 53.55 | 53.85 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Tampa’s population is about 45% greater than Buffalo.
- Tampa’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Buffalo’s score of 7.
- Tampa is less walkable than Buffalo with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Buffalo’s 67 out of 100.
- Tampa has a bike-friendliness score of 51 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Buffalo, which has a score of 63.
- Tampa’s crime rate is higher than Buffalo with a score of 46.15 compared to Buffalo’s 8.0. This means that Tampa neighborhoods are safer than 46.15% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
- Tampa and Buffalo have a similar safety level, with scores of 53.85 and 53.55.
- Air quality in Tampa is Good, and in Buffalo it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Buffalo to Tampa move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Florida’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Florida does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Tampa. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Tampa
Planning your move to The Big Guava? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Tampa.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Channel District
- Courier City-Oscawana
- Downtown
- Historic Ybor
- North Hyde Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bayshore Beautiful
- Bayshore Gardens
- Beach Park
- Oakford Park
- Sunset Park
Things to do in Tampa
After settling into your new Florida home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Tampa has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Tampa features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Glazer Children’s Museum, Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa Bay History Center, and Museum of Science and Industry.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Lettuce Lake Regional Park, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Sparkman Wharf, and Ballast Point Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)Tampa Bay Vipers (XFL)Tampa Bay Titans (TBL)Tampa Bay Rowdies (XFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Buffalo to Tampa?
Planning your move from Buffalo to Tampa? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Buffalo.
When is the cheapest time to move from Buffalo to Tampa?
Because most people are moving from Buffalo to Tampa in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Buffalo to Tampa take?
The 1,233-mile journey from Buffalo, NY to Tampa, , typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Buffalo offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Tampa.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Buffalo?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Buffalo, 4 movers can manage piano relocations. By comparison, New York has 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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