Montgomery, AL to Rochester, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Montgomery to Rochester typically costs $2,900–$7,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,051 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Montgomery to Rochester
Moving from Montgomery, AL to Rochester, NY typically costs $2,900–$7,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,051-mile move from Montgomery 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
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $4,023 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $3,835 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $2,262 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 14, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 04, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 28, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 17, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 27, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 14, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Montgomery 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 Montgomery to Rochester might be as low as $2,500, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,800.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Montgomery.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $700 to $2,200 — 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 Montgomery, AL guide.
Best Montgomery to Rochester movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Montgomery to Rochester
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Montgomery 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 AL→NY movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 46 Alabama 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 Montgomery to Rochester
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Rochester runs about 38% higher for singles and 38% higher for families than Montgomery.
Singles spend around $2,274 in Rochester versus $1,651 in Montgomery; families pay $4,921 compared with $3,569.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Montgomery | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,232 | $1,527 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,567 | $2,240 |
| Average home value | $140,563 | $200,576 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,989 | $64,214 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,651 | $2,274 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,569 | $4,921 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.8% | 9.8% |
| Sales tax | 10.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 5.0% | 10.9% |
- Switching from Montgomery to Rochester won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 43% higher in Rochester than in Montgomery.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 28% higher in Rochester than in Montgomery, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Rochester, as the cost of living for a single person in Rochester is 38% greater than in Montgomery. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Rochester, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 38% more than it is in Montgomery.
- The unemployment rate in Rochester exceeds that of Montgomery by about 69%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 20% lower in Rochester than Montgomery, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 118% higher in New York than in Alabama. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Montgomery and Rochester, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Montgomery | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $180.00 | $143.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.33 | $50.69 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.99 | $3.79 |
| Loaf of bread | $1.57 | $2.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.50 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $51.49 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $37.50 | $50.77 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Montgomery than in Rochester.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Montgomery than in Rochester.
- Eggs cost more in Montgomery than in Rochester.
- Bread costs less in Montgomery than in Rochester.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Montgomery than in Rochester.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Montgomery than in Rochester.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Montgomery than in Rochester.
How life is different in Montgomery vs. Rochester
| Montgomery | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 200,603 | 211,328 |
| Transportation score | 2 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 26 | 61 |
| Bike friendliness score | 33 | 60 |
| Crime index | 65.25 | 37.54 |
| Safety index | 34.75 | 36.66 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Rochester's population is within about 5% of Montgomery, so they’re very similar in size.
- Rochester's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Montgomery's score of 2.
- Rochester is more walkable than Montgomery with a score of 61 out of 100 vs Montgomery's 26 out of 100.
- With a score of 60 out of 100, Rochester is more bike-friendly than Montgomery, which has a score of 33 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 Montgomery with a score of 37.54 compared to Montgomery's 65.25. This means that Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Montgomery neighborhoods are safer than 65.25%.
- Rochester and Montgomery have a similar safety level, with scores of 36.66 and 34.75.
- Air quality in Rochester is Good, and in Montgomery it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Montgomery 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 Montgomery to Rochester?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Montgomery to Rochester. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Montgomery.
When is the cheapest time to move from Montgomery to Rochester?
With many people choosing to move from Montgomery 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 Montgomery to Rochester take?
Covering 1,051 miles, the move from Montgomery, AL to Rochester, NY typically takes two to eight days. Some Montgomery movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Rochester can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Montgomery offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Montgomery can handle specialty items for my move to Rochester?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Montgomery, 4 movers can handle pianos. 3 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of AL, there are 34 piano movers and 15 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.
