Moving from Reno to Rochester

Rochester sits on Lake Ontario and its snowfall is the largest in the Census and NOAA records used for this route set. Its homes cost a fraction of Reno's, and nearly two of every three city households rent. This page covers the arrival end: snow, housing, New York's 30 day rules and how O'Brien's plans the shipment.

Housing in a renter city

The American Community Survey shows 61.9 percent of Rochester city households renting, against 32.7 percent across the metro. Median home value is $139,600 in the city and $204,600 in the metro, and median gross rent is $1,081 and $1,143. Reno's metro medians are $502,300 for a home and $1,592 for rent.

Median household income is $47,213 in the city and $76,284 in the metro. Medians describe areas and not any one house, and the space between city and metro numbers shows how much the suburb chosen shapes the budget.

The snow record

NOAA's 1991-2020 normals for the Greater Rochester International Airport list a January high of 33.4 degrees with a low of 19.0, and a July high of 82.5 with a low of 62.2. Snow averages 102 inches a year and total precipitation is 35.09 inches. Reno's January high is 47.7.

A winter unload needs clear access, salt on the walk and a mat plan for the entry. If your date is flexible, late spring through early fall is simpler for everyone.

New York rules and taxes

New York DMV says to register an out-of-state vehicle within 30 days of becoming a resident, and to exchange an out-of-state license within 30 days. The wording on DMV pages can change, so check the agency before your visit.

New York's income tax is graduated, and the 10.9 percent rate applies to income over $25 million for 2026. The state sales tax is 4 percent, and cities, counties and school districts can add local rates. Nevada has no individual income tax, so ask an accountant about the move year.

How the move works with O'Brien's

The booking is with O'Brien's. An estimator walks your Reno or Sparks home for a free, no-obligation in-home estimate, hands over 10 free heavy-duty boxes and writes an itemized written estimate. The shipment travels through the Bekins Van Lines network, and your written estimate sets the delivery window. See how an interstate move works with a Bekins agent.

Many Rochester arrivals start in a rental. A wooden vault in our Sparks warehouse, from $40 per month, holds the household until you call for it, on about 2 to 3 weeks of notice.