Des Moines, IA to Rochester, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Des Moines to Rochester typically costs $2,700–$6,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 919 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Des Moines to Rochester
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Rochester, NY typically costs $2,700–$6,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 919-mile move from Des Moines to Rochester, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- PODS recently quoted $3,832 for a 5+ bedroom using a moving container.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,426 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $6,283 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
5+ Bedrooms
Mar 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Mar 01, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 20, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 05, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 21, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 19, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 16, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 09, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 05, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 11, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Rochester might be as low as $2,200, 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 Des Moines.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $700 to $2,000 — 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 Des Moines, IA guide.
Best Des Moines to Rochester movers by type
Professional
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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Rochester
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines 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 IA→NY movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Iowa 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 Des Moines to Rochester
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Rochester runs about 20% higher for singles and 12% higher for families than Des Moines.
Singles spend around $2,274 in Rochester versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $4,921 compared with $4,380.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Des Moines | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $1,527 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $2,240 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $200,576 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $64,214 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $2,274 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $4,921 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 9.8% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 10.9% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 9% higher in Rochester than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Rochester and Des Moines differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Rochester than in Des Moines, 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 20% greater than in Des Moines. 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 12% more than it is in Des Moines.
- The unemployment rate in Rochester exceeds that of Des Moines by about 66%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Rochester exceed those in Des Moines by 14%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 148% higher in New York than in Iowa. 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 Des Moines and Rochester, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $143.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $50.69 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $3.79 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $2.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 | $50.77 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Des Moines than in Rochester.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Des Moines than in Rochester.
- Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Rochester.
- Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Rochester.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Rochester.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Rochester.
- Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Rochester.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Rochester
| Des Moines | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 211,328 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 61 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 60 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 37.54 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 36.66 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Rochester's population is about 70% less than Des Moines.
- Rochester's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines's score of 5.
- Rochester is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 61 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
- With a score of 60 out of 100, Rochester is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Rochester's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 37.54 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Rochester is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 36.66 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
- Air quality in Rochester is Good, and in Des Moines it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Rochester?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Rochester. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Des Moines.
When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Rochester?
With many people choosing to move from Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Rochester take?
Covering 919 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Rochester, NY typically takes two to seven days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Rochester can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Rochester?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Des Moines, 10 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
