Quick answer: A typical 2,686-mile move from Buffalo to San Jose runs $2,001–$8,174 and takes seven to 21 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from San Jose to Buffalo guide.

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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Buffalo to San Jose

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Buffalo to San Jose isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies in Buffalo

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  2. Sheridan Brothers Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Interior Moving Services Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Wayfinder Moving Services : 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/bellhopmoving?lang=en
20% of all reviews were positive
80% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving feedback tells a clear story: out of 10 recent reviews, only 20% are positive while 80% express serious issues. Happy customers highlight efficient service, organization, affordable pricing, friendliness, and quick moves—qualities that stand out compared to many moving companies. Unfortunately, the majority of feedback points to crews arriving unprepared, inexperience among movers, and property damage.
Complaints also detail missing equipment, inadequate packing, late arrivals, and incomplete jobs, resulting in extra costs and disrupted plans. While a few clients were pleased with affordability and a seamless process, most experienced frustration, unreliability, or damages—much higher than typically seen in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/SheridanBrothersMoving/, https://twitter.com/sheridanbros
71% of all reviews were positive
28% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sheridan Brothers Moving stands out for their swift service, professional staff, and consistent care in handling belongings. Analyzing 291 pieces of feedback, about 71% of customers detailed positive experiences, often highlighting polite movers, efficient teamwork, and careful attention to property. Many clients mention that their moves finished faster than expected and rates were transparent.
Still, nearly 28% of input describes issues such as damaged belongings, unfriendly or inattentive staff, and difficulties reaching the company for follow-up or claims—complaints that are more frequent here than with some top-rated national competitors. While most customers praise the team's courteous attitude and work ethic, a notable share express frustration with damage claims being unresolved or interactions that felt disrespectful. Sheridan Brothers excels at delivering prompt and friendly moves, but reliability around damage handling and communication would improve customer trust.
Show more
Get a Quote (585) 254-9000

Company Info

State license #: 34026

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2256609


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/InteriorMovingServices/?ref=hl, https://twitter.com/InteriorMoving1
94% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day becomes a breeze for most clients who choose Interior Moving Services Inc, based on 256 pieces of input. A remarkable 94% describe positive experiences—much higher than typical for the moving industry. Customers frequently mention efficient service, professional and courteous staff, careful handling of belongings, quick moving times, and genuinely friendly crews as standouts.
Many appreciate how movers arrive prepared, communicate clearly, and handle even tricky items with skill and respect. Although most feedback celebrates seamless moves and competitive pricing, several clients highlight shortcomings like damage to belongings, higher bills than expected, and rare unprofessional conduct. Some mention slow work or equipment issues as negatives. Compared to other companies, Interior Moving Services earns impressive loyalty and frequent recommendations, with only a small fraction reporting unreliable or unsatisfactory experiences. Their consistent track record of punctual, personable service and safe, efficient moves clearly sets them apart.
Show more
Get a Quote (585) 288-8000

Company Info

State license #: 32014

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1498819


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/WayfinderMoving/, https://twitter.com/wayfindermoving
92% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Wayfinder Moving Services receives glowing feedback in 91.6% of the 227 reviews analyzed. Customers frequently praise the professionalism of the staff, speedy moves, careful item treatment, and clear communication. Many say their crews are friendly, efficient, and take time to protect belongings.
Wayfinder stands out by delivering consistently well-organized and courteous service, with jobs often completed quickly and at or below the quoted price. Some reviews mention affordable rates and a stress-free process. Negative input, though rare, points to damage to items, high or inaccurate estimates for certain moves, and a few cases of delayed arrivals or lack of response when issues arise. Neutral feedback highlights missed expectations for care or timing on specific jobs. Compared with other movers, Wayfinder is described as more reliable and more professional, but a few customers recommend monitoring high-value items and clarifying estimates and policies. Most found Wayfinder exceeded expectations, but details matter for the few with problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (716) 832-6683

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
https://www.facebook.com/TMTBUFFALONY/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenAndATruck?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
79% of all reviews were positive
21% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently praised for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earns strong feedback from those seeking reliable movers. Out of 246 customer reviews analyzed, nearly 79% were positive, reflecting above-average satisfaction compared to similar companies. Clients frequently highlight quick moves, polite teams, and clear communication.
Many mention staff going the extra mile—protecting fragile items, accommodating changes, and delivering on timing. A smaller portion of feedback centers on problems such as damaged belongings, unexpected additional charges, or difficulty reaching the company regarding concerns. The most frequent issues involve property damage and dissatisfaction with billing. Customers expecting transparent costs and responsive complaint handling may encounter challenges. Positive input, however, overwhelmingly notes prompt, respectful service and movers’ attention to detail, which stands out in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (716) 245-4275

Company Info

State license #: 40835

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Bulldog Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Buffalo to San Jose?

Buffalo movers charge $200 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,425 - $5,913 $1,723 - $4,417 $1,883 - $3,759
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,039 - $8,174 $2,906 - $6,188 $2,001 - $4,474
4+ bedrooms $7,835 - $13,190 $4,090 - $9,032 $2,554 - $5,281
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,686 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from New York to California

Planning a move from New York to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,425 and $5,913. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,039 and $8,174 for the same journey (NY to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,835 to $13,190.

Cost of moving containers from New York to California

When you’re heading from New York to California, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,723 and $4,417. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,906 and $6,188. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,090 to $9,032. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from New York easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York to California

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,883 and $3,759. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $2,001 and $4,474. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,554 up to $5,281 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Buffalo to San Josetoggle

The cost of Buffalo movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Buffalo to San Jose can be as low as $1,425 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $12,093.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Buffalo so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,883 to $4,581. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Buffalo to San Jose

Moving from Buffalo to San Jose comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since San Jose is generally more expensive than Buffalo, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Buffalo San Jose
Average rent cost $1,200 $3,095
Average home value $213,418 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $63,443 $83,421
Cost of living (single person) $2,589 $3,674
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,720 $8,354
Unemployment rate 9.5% 6.6%
Sales tax 8.75% 9.38%
State income tax 10.9% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Jose, since prices are typically 158% higher than in Buffalo.
  • The home prices in San Jose are 581.1% higher than in Buffalo, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You’re likely to make a higher income living in San Jose, where incomes are, on average, 31.5% higher than in Buffalo. Major employers in San Jose include Cisco Systems, Western Digital, and Infineon Technologies.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Jose, since the cost of living for a single person in San Jose is 41.9% higher than in Buffalo. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to San Jose, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 46.0% higher than in Buffalo.
  • The unemployment rate in San Jose is 30.53% lower than in Buffalo.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in San Jose, since its sales taxes are 7.20% higher than what you are paying in Buffalo.
  • State income taxes in San Jose are 22.02% higher than in Buffalo.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,257.24 in San Jose to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Buffalo.

How life is different in Buffalo vs. San Jose

San Jose Buffalo
Population 971,233 278,349
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 7 7
Walkability score 51 67
Bike friendliness score 62 63
Crime Index 47.73 8.0
Safety Index 52.27 53.55
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • San Jose's population is about 249% greater than Buffalo.
  • San Jose's public transportation has a similar score to Buffalo.
  • San Jose is less walkable than Buffalo with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Buffalo's 67 out of 100.
  • Both San Jose and Buffalo have the same bike-friendliness score of 63 out of 100, meaning San Jose is about as safe for cyclists as Buffalo. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
  • San Jose's crime rate is higher than Buffalo with a score of 47.73 compared to Buffalo's 8.0. This means that San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
  • San Jose and Buffalo are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in San Jose is moderate, and in Buffalo it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Buffalo vs. San Jose move

  • Weather: San Jose, like most of the Bay Area, has warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. The city is somewhat more sheltered from rain, giving it a semi-arid feel
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While California doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to San Jose without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in San Jose

Now that you've chosen Man Jose as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in San Jose to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what San Jose has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: San Jose features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children's Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, and New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an San Jose Barracuda (AHL), San Jose Earthquakes (MLS), San Jose Giants (California League), or San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Buffalo to San Jose?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Buffalo to San Jose. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Buffalo.

When is the cheapest time to move from Buffalo to San Jose?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Buffalo to San Jose moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Buffalo to San Jose take?

Covering 2,686 miles, the move from Buffalo, NY to San Jose, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Buffalo movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Jose can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources