Local moving companies in Iowa
When making the move from Iowa to Rochester, NY, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 32 Iowa movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Rochester, NY.
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 70719
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 299154
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2991947
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Iowa to Rochester, NY
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Iowa to Rochester, NY, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,081 – $4,422 | $757 – $1,784 | $572 – $1,158 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,311 – $5,732 | $1,345 – $2,800 | $624 – $1,364 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,092 – $7,927 | $1,866 – $3,527 | $830 – $1,672 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 903-mile move from Iowa to Rochester, NY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Iowa to Rochester, NY
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Iowa to Rochester, NY, you can expect prices to land between $1,081 and $4,422. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,311 to $5,732. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,092 and $7,927.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Rochester, NY
Moving containers from Iowa to Rochester, NY, will cost you $757 to $1,784 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,345 to $2,800. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,866 to $3,527. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Rochester, NY
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $572 and $1,158 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Iowa to Rochester, NY with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $624 to $1,364. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $830 to $1,672.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Iowa to Rochester, NY
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Action Moving & Storage, Inc. | × | ✓ | × | × |
| White Glove Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,179 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Iowa movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Iowa | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 40% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Iowa to Rochester, NY
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Rochester, NY stacks up against Iowa. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Rochester, NY
| Iowa | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $1,250 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $200,576 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $64,214 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 9.8% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 10.9% |
Rochester sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 37% more expensive in Rochester than in Iowa, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- Moving to Rochester means you’ll spend about 9% less on housing compared to Iowa, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Rochester are typically about 9% lower than in Iowa. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Rochester runs 227% above Iowa, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes in New York are 148% higher than in Iowa, leaving you with less take-home pay to cover expenses or save.
How life is different in Rochester from Iowa
| Rochester | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 211,328 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-38 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 33″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 77″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 37.54 | 16.18 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Rochester voted Democratic and Iowa voted Republican.
- Summers in Rochester typically reach highs of 82ºF, which is comparable to the average 84ºF in Iowa. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Rochester generally drop to around 17ºF, while Iowa can get as cold as 10ºF. Moving to Rochester means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- You can expect about 33 inches of rain each year in Rochester, almost the same as the 35 inches you’d encounter in Iowa. Even though the annual rainfall is similar, different weather patterns and rainfall timing might still change up your daily routine.
- In Rochester, it snows about 77 inches annually while Iowa gets only about 30 inches. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
- Crime rates in Rochester are higher than in Iowa, with a crime index of 37.54 versus 16.18. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Rochester
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Rochester can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Rochester
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- George Eastman Museum
- National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
- ARTISANworks
- Rochester Museum & Science Center
Parks in Rochester
- Seabreeze Amusement Park
- Highland Park
- Erie Canal Trail
- Cobbs Hill Park
- Ontario Beach Park
Sports teams in Rochester
- Rochester Americans (AHL)
- Roberts Wesleyan Redhawks (ECC)
Universities in Rochester
- University of Rochester
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- St. John Fisher College
- Nazareth College of Rochester
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Other considerations when moving to Rochester, NY
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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 your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your New York moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to New York, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to New York. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Iowa to Rochester take?
The time it takes to move from Iowa to Rochester, NY varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Rochester from northern Iowa, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Iowa to Rochester typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Iowa to Rochester?
Because of the 903-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Iowa to Rochester as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Rochester, NY?
With summer temperatures reaching 82°F and winter nights dipping to 17°F, most people make the move from Iowa to Rochester in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
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