Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Rochester typically costs $2,300–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 602 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Rochester
Moving from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY typically costs $2,300–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 602-mile move from Chicago to Rochester, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $2,189 for a 3 bedroom using a moving container.
- AB Moving recently quoted $3,977 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $5,882 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 29, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 15, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 09, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 05, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 31, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 17, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 10, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 02, 2025
Key factors that influence moving costs from Chicago to Rochester
Your total cost will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,500, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $8,600.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($500–$1,300) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Rochester, NY to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Rochester movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Rochester
If you want to simplify your interstate move from Chicago to Rochester, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IL→NY movers
At moveBuddha, our specialists conducted a thorough evaluation of 100 Illinois moving companies, identifying the leading ones by examining client satisfaction, reviews, and value.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Errors happen in moving. The best companies acknowledge them quickly and take real steps to resolve any problems for their customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): Within the moving field, the company has earned respect and regularly engages in conferences and trade groups.
- Online reputation (15%): The organization ensures its website is reliable and actively addresses online customer inquiries in a professional manner.
- Service options (10%): Top movers provide versatile offerings including packing, storage, special-item handling, and the option for faster delivery when needed.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Rochester
Many movers find Rochester easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 38% less for singles and 47% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,274 for one person in Rochester versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $4,921 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,527 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,240 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $200,576 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $64,214 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,274 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $4,921 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 9.8% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 10.9% |
- 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.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Chicago and Rochester:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $143.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $50.69 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $3.79 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $2.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $50.77 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in Rochester.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Rochester.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Rochester.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Rochester.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Rochester.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Rochester.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Rochester
| Chicago | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 211,328 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 61 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 60 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 37.54 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 36.66 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- 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.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Rochester move
- 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.
Where to live in Rochester
Now that you've decided to make the move to The Flour City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Rochester.
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.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Rochester?
The best time to move from Chicago to Rochester is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Rochester?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Chicago to Rochester, 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 Chicago to Rochester take?
Moving from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY covers 602 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Chicago movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Rochester.
Which movers in Chicago give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 2 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Chicago?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 54 movers in Chicago advertise piano moving expertise. 40 movers in Chicago provide antique moving services. State totals show 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,296 and 1,463.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
