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($1,266) Cost to Move From San Diego, CA to Rochester, NY

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,618 miles from San Diego to Rochester is generally between $1,564 and $7,543. The trip duration should be approximately seven–21 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from San Diego to Rochester

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from San Diego to Rochester

When it comes to handling your interstate move from San Diego 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.

In San Diego, you have a choice of 25 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Rochester smoothly and with confidence.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from San Diego to Rochester

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,618-mile move from San Diego to Rochester using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,398 – $5,424
  • Moving Container $1,769 – $3,570
  • Rental Truck $1,459 – $2,825
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,623 – $7,543
  • Moving Container $2,317 – $4,922
  • Rental Truck $1,564 – $3,267
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,675 – $11,795
  • Moving Container $3,033 – $6,372
  • Rental Truck $1,938 – $4,087
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
Coronado, CA Hilton, NY
Studio apartment
Nov 08, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Escondido, CA Fairport, NY
3 Bedrooms
Oct 24, 2025
BLVD Moving
Valley Center, CA Farmington, NY
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 19, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hillcrest, CA Brighton, NY
3 Bedrooms
Oct 06, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
La Mesa, CA Conesus Lake, NY
4 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
Roadway Moving
Encinitas, CA Brockport, NY
4 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Safeway Moving
Solana Beach, CA Penfield, NY
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
United Van Lines
Lakeside, CA Arcadia, NY
Studio apartment
Sep 08, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
San Diego, CA Clifton Springs, NY
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Del Mar, CA Irondequoit, NY
Studio apartment
Sep 04, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Rochester, NY to San Diego, CA guide.

Top local movers for San Diego to Rochester moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in San Diego that also provides long-distance services to Rochester can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 29 local movers in San Diego who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from San Diego to Rochester.

  1. One Stop Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Dominant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. McCarthy Transfer & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.8% of all reviews were positive
22.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
One Stop Moving & Storage stands out for its efficient, professional service, with a remarkable 76% of customer feedback describing a positive experience. Out of 628 reviews, most customers report quick moves, careful handling of belongings, polite staff, and clear communication—qualities that set this company above many competitors. Many mention moving day being stress-free thanks to a hardworking team skilled at protecting furniture and executing moves seamlessly. Pricing is usually transparent and estimates tend to be accurate compared to other movers. On the downside, about 23% of feedback details more serious problems: some moves resulted in furniture damage, missing items, or unexpected charges, and customers who experienced these issues struggled to get satisfactory help after the fact. A few reviews also describe poor claims handling and communication gaps. While most people recommend One Stop Moving & Storage for careful, professional relocations, anyone booking a move should confirm all terms and insurance coverage in writing to help avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (858) 633-8600

Company Info

State license #: 0190616

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1956864

Alternate Names: One Stop Moving & Storage Inc , San Diego Expert Movers , Quick San Diego Movers , Coastal Movers , Manpower Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.4% of all reviews were positive
21.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic’s track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.2% of all reviews were positive
16.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dominant Moving Company stands out in San Diego’s moving industry for fast, careful, and professional crews. Of the 360 feedback entries reviewed, more than 82% came from highly satisfied customers praising efficient service, polite staff, and impressive price-to-quality value. Clients emphasize how movers protect belongings, communicate well, and finish jobs on schedule. Affordable rates and careful handling of items set Dominant apart from many competitors. Some negative input highlights recurring issues: damage to furniture or property, slow or late arrivals, and unsatisfactory responses to complaints. A few clients report unresolved claims for damage or difficulty contacting management after a problem. While delays and breakage occasionally impact experiences, most people say their moves were smooth and cost-effective—attributes that help Dominant edge out local rivals in reliability and value. The company’s reputation is built on speed, care, and affordability, but future customers should clarify damage procedures and timing expectations before booking.
Get a Quote (855) 699-2299

Company Info

State license #: 191165

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2718191

Alternate Names: Velorom LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.4% of all reviews were positive
8.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCarthy Transfer & Storage’s professionalism and efficiency. Out of 221 feedback entries, over 91% praise the team’s politeness, careful handling, prompt communication, and quick moving process, reporting moves completed with speed and concern for personal property. Input frequently emphasizes courteous, skilled crews and services handled with respect for homes and belongings. Some note that the company regularly exceeds experiences with other movers—especially for military relocations—earning more trust for reliability and staff friendliness. A small portion of feedback points out issues such as damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or unexpected extra charges, particularly during military moves. Despite these isolated problems, most customer feedback compares McCarthy Transfer favorably to other moving companies for dependability and quality service.
Get a Quote (619) 596-2594

Company Info

State license #: 0154190

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 2059504

Alternate Names: McCarthy Transfer & Storage Incorporated

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from San Diego to Rochester?

Movers in California generally charge an average of $128 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,266 – $5,484 $1,306 – $3,086 $1,417 – $2,798
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,623 – $7,543 $2,317 – $4,922 $1,564 – $3,267
4+ bedrooms $6,675 – $11,795 $3,033 – $6,372 $1,938 – $4,087
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,618-mile move from San Diego to Rochester, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from San Diego to Rochester

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from San Diego to Rochester typically costs between $1,266 and $5,484. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,623 and $7,543 when moving from San Diego to Rochester. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from San Diego to Rochester, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,675 up to $11,795.

Cost of moving containers from San Diego to Rochester

If you’re relocating from San Diego to Rochester, you’ll typically spend between $1,306 and $3,086 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,317 up to $4,922. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,033 and $6,372. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Diego to Rochester

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a San Diego to Rochester move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,417 and $2,798. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,564 to $3,267. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,938 and $4,087.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from San Diego to Rochester

The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from San Diego to Rochester might be as low as $2,515, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,511.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in San Diego.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,417 to $3,621 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from San Diego to Rochester

Many movers find Rochester easier on the wallet than San Diego – roughly 32% less for singles and 36% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,274 for one person in Rochester versus $3,346 in San Diego. For a family of four, it’s $4,921 compared with $7,719.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

San Diego Rochester
Average 1 BR rent $2,704 $1,527
Average 3 BR rent $4,914 $2,240
Average home value $1,003,444 $200,576
Average income (per capita) $72,963 $64,214
Cost of living (single) $3,346 $2,274
Cost of living (family of four) $7,719 $4,921
Unemployment rate 6.6% 9.8%
Sales tax 7.75% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 10.9%
  • Good news! When moving to Rochester from San Diego, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 57% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 80% cheaper in Rochester, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 12% lower in Rochester than in San Diego.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Rochester. The cost of living for a single person is 32% less compared to San Diego.
  • Relocating to Rochester could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 36% lower than in San Diego.
  • The unemployment rate in Rochester exceeds that of San Diego by about 48%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes are effectively the same in Rochester and San Diego (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
  • Income taxes are 18% lower in New York than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between San Diego and Rochester, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense San Diego Rochester
Basic utilities $277.55 $143.37
Cell phone plan $66.79 $50.69
Dozen eggs $5.26 $3.79
Loaf of bread $4.50 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $90.00
Gym membership $65.68 $50.77
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Diego than in Rochester.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Diego than in Rochester.
  • Eggs cost more in San Diego than in Rochester.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Diego than in Rochester.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in San Diego than in Rochester.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Diego than in Rochester.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Diego than in Rochester.

How life is different in San Diego vs. Rochester

San Diego Rochester
Population 1,386,932 211,328
Transportation score 6 6
Walkability score 53 61
Bike friendliness score 43 60
Crime index 39.83 37.54
Safety index 60.17 36.66
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Rochester’s population is about 85% less than San Diego.
  • Rochester’s public transportation score is within about 5% of San Diego, making them very similar.
  • Rochester is more walkable than San Diego with a score of 61 out of 100 vs San Diego’s 53 out of 100.
  • With a score of 60 out of 100, Rochester is more bike-friendly than San Diego, which has a score of 43 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 San Diego with a score of 37.54 compared to San Diego’s 39.83. This means that Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
  • Rochester is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 36.66 vs San Diego’s 60.17.
  • Air quality in Rochester is Good, and in San Diego it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Diego 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 San Diego to Rochester?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Diego to Rochester. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Diego.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Rochester?

With many people choosing to move from San Diego 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 San Diego to Rochester take?

Covering 2,618 miles, the move from San Diego, CA to Rochester, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some San Diego movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Rochester can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in San Diego offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in San Diego offer AAA member savings. 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 San Diego can handle specialty items for my move to Rochester?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In San Diego, 21 movers can handle pianos. 16 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,300 and 1,465 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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