($1,080) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY

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4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Rochester

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Rochester will cost between $1,080 and $3,351. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Chicago to Chicago will range from $1,993 to $5,213, and a large move from Chicago to Rochester will cost from $3,758 to $7,568.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Rochester

If you’re moving from Chicago to Rochester, expect to pay between $689 and $1,749 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,219 up to $2,493. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,594 and $3,286. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Rochester

Renting a moving truck from Chicago to Rochester 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 $440 and $839. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $480 and $1,067. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $593 up to $1,251 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

• If you’re heading to Rochester from Chicago, you’ll find that rent is roughly 39% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
• Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 32% less in Rochester than in Chicago.
• Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 10% lower in Rochester compared to Chicago.
• Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Rochester. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 38% lower than in Chicago.
• Choosing to move to Rochester can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 47% less than in Chicago.
• In Rochester, the unemployment rate is approximately 9% higher than in Chicago, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
• Sales taxes drop 22% in Rochester compared to Chicago, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
• Income taxes are 120% higher in New York than in Illinois, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

• Rochester’s population is about 92% less than Chicago.
• Rochester’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Rochester is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 61 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Rochester has a bike-friendliness score of 60 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Rochester’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 37.54 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Rochester is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 36.66 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Rochester is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
• State regulator: You can verify a New York moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: New York doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
• Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Rochester. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• East Avenue
• Swillburg
• South Wedge
• Park Avenue
• Downtown
• Strong
• Ellwanger-Barry

Best neighborhoods for families

• Cobbs Hill
• Upper Monroe
• Strong
• Swillburg
• Browncroft
• Park Avenue

Things to do in Rochester

Once you’re settled into your new home in New York, it’s time to get out and discover what Rochester has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

• Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Rochester, such as the The Strong National Museum of Play, George Eastman Museum, National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, and ARTISANworks.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Seabreeze Amusement Park, Highland Park, Erie Canal Trail, and Cobbs Hill Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
• Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Rochester Americans (AHL)Roberts Wesleyan Redhawks (ECC) game.