Knoxville, TN to Rochester, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Knoxville to Rochester typically costs $2,700–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 751 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Knoxville to Rochester
Moving from Knoxville, TN to Rochester, NY typically costs $2,700–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 751-mile move from Knoxville 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
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $4,235 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $2,576 for a 5+ bedroom using a moving container.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $4,234 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 18, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 05, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 25, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 19, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 09, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 06, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 01, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Knoxville to Rochester
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Knoxville to Rochester might be as low as $1,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,000.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Knoxville.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $600 to $1,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Rochester, NY to Knoxville, TN guide.
Best Knoxville to Rochester movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Knoxville to Rochester
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Knoxville to Rochester, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 TN→NY movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 71 Tennessee movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Knoxville to Rochester
Overall, Knoxville and Rochester land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $2,274 in Rochester and $2,184 in Knoxville, while families in Rochester see $4,921 versus $5,200 in Knoxville.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Knoxville | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,667 | $1,527 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,210 | $2,240 |
| Average home value | $350,035 | $200,576 |
| Average income (per capita) | $61,050 | $64,214 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,184 | $2,274 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,200 | $4,921 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 9.8% |
| Sales tax | 9.25% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 10.9% |
- Good news! When moving to Rochester from Knoxville, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 30% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 43% cheaper in Rochester, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Rochester and Knoxville, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Rochester and Knoxville, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Rochester and Knoxville, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won't notice a significant change in expenses.
- The unemployment rate in Rochester exceeds that of Knoxville by about 109%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 14% lower in Rochester than Knoxville, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- New York has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Knoxville and Rochester, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Knoxville | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $215.94 | $143.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.00 | $50.69 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.06 | $3.79 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.64 | $2.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $85.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $34.67 | $50.77 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Knoxville than in Rochester.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Knoxville than in Rochester.
- Eggs cost more in Knoxville than in Rochester.
- Bread is more expensive in Knoxville than in Rochester.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Knoxville than in Rochester.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Knoxville than in Rochester.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Knoxville than in Rochester.
How life is different in Knoxville vs. Rochester
| Knoxville | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 190,740 | 211,328 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 31 | 61 |
| Bike friendliness score | 30 | 60 |
| Crime index | 42.54 | 37.54 |
| Safety index | 57.46 | 36.66 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Rochester's population is about 11% greater than Knoxville.
- Rochester's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Knoxville's score of 4.
- Rochester is more walkable than Knoxville with a score of 61 out of 100 vs Knoxville's 31 out of 100.
- With a score of 60 out of 100, Rochester is more bike-friendly than Knoxville, which has a score of 30 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Rochester's crime rate is lower than Knoxville with a score of 37.54 compared to Knoxville's 42.54. This means that Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54%.
- Rochester is considered to be less safe than Knoxville with a score of 36.66 vs Knoxville's 57.46.
- Air quality in Rochester is Good, and in Knoxville it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Knoxville to Rochester move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a New York moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in New York, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- 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 Rochester without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Rochester
Ready to relocate to The Flour City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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
Now that you've made the move to New York, it's the perfect time to explore Rochester. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Rochester include museums and art centers like the The Strong National Museum of Play, George Eastman Museum, National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, and ARTISANworks.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Seabreeze Amusement Park, Highland Park, Erie Canal Trail, and Cobbs Hill Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Rochester Americans (AHL)Roberts Wesleyan Redhawks (ECC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Knoxville to Rochester?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Knoxville to Rochester. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Knoxville.
When is the cheapest time to move from Knoxville to Rochester?
With many people choosing to move from Knoxville to Rochester in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Knoxville to Rochester take?
Covering 751 miles, the move from Knoxville, TN to Rochester, NY typically takes two to seven days. Some Knoxville movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Rochester can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Knoxville offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Knoxville can handle specialty items for my move to Rochester?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Knoxville, 6 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of TN, there are 46 piano movers and 21 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
