Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,292) Cost to Move From Portland, ME to Rochester, NY

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 490 miles from Portland to Rochester is generally between $437 and $5,557. The trip duration should be approximately one–four days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Portland 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 Portland to Rochester

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Portland 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 Portland, you have a choice of 7 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 Portland to Rochester

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 490-mile move from Portland to Rochester using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 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 $1,349 – $4,218
  • Moving Container $936 – $1,592
  • Rental Truck $382 – $771
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,267 – $5,557
  • Moving Container $1,162 – $2,334
  • Rental Truck $437 – $837
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,844 – $8,296
  • Moving Container $1,515 – $2,908
  • Rental Truck $538 – $1,050
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.
Safeway Moving
Falmouth, ME Spencerport, NY
Studio apartment
Oct 05, 2025
North American Van Lines
Sanford, ME Chili, NY
Studio apartment
Sep 29, 2025
Roadway Moving
Kennebunk, ME Rochester, NY
3 Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Westbrook, ME Newark, NY
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
York, ME Arcadia, NY
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Bath, ME Canandaigua, NY
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 04, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Windham, ME Wyoming, NY
Studio apartment
Aug 25, 2025
United Van Lines
Saco, ME Hilton, NY
4 Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
American Van Lines
Gorham, ME Shortsville, NY
4 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Biddeford, ME East Rochester, NY
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 09, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Rochester, NY to Portland, ME guide.

Top local movers for Portland to Rochester moves

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

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

  1. Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  5. Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
67.7% of all reviews were positive
31.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Speedy, professional, and genuinely careful are the words customers use most in their feedback on Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine. After examining 226 reviews, about 68% share positive experiences—much higher than is typical for movers in the region. People rave about swift, effective service and consistently polite team members who treat belongings with respect. Many mention efficient booking, clear communication, and how movers save clients time and hassle, sometimes accomplishing in hours what others would take all day. Several positive comments highlight movers arriving on time, providing status updates, and making sure each item is placed carefully. Costs are often seen as fair and up-front, which sets the company apart from others that add surprise charges. Negative feedback, making up 31%, commonly centers on items being damaged, some crews arriving hours late or even canceling at the last minute, and a handful of customers describing confrontations with management and unprofessional interactions. These customers report frustrations with complaint handling and say unpleasant experiences weren’t sufficiently resolved. Some mention lost property or property damage, with unsatisfactory follow-through on claims. Neutral comments are rare but generally point to issues with quotes or communication rather than performance. Compared to other moving companies, Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine stands out for its efficiency and consistent professionalism during moves, but recurring complaints about item damage and customer service on difficult days should be weighed carefully when booking.
Get a Quote (207) 890-7475

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1846942

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving fans lead the chorus for Two Men and a Truck, with 244 reviews analyzed and 95.5% offering glowing feedback. Customers most often mention the team’s efficiency, professionalism, and care when handling belongings. Movers consistently show up on time, work fast, remain friendly, and treat items with respect, setting them apart from many companies in the moving industry. The staff’s politeness and strong communication earn repeated praise. A small number of complaints highlight issues such as item damage, rude or unhelpful office staff, and higher final charges than quoted. Even though only 4.5% of the feedback is negative, these reviews describe serious incidents with damaged goods or disappointing customer service—concerns not uncommon in this sector but flagged more harshly by affected customers. Compared to most movers, Two Men and a Truck receive far more high marks for service quality, reliability, and the pleasant attitude of their teams, with only isolated negative experiences amid a sea of positive reports.
Get a Quote (207) 536-3452

Company Info

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.3% of all reviews were positive
25.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently strong service sets Bisson Moving & Storage apart in the industry. Analyzing 87 reviews, about 71% of feedback highlights careful handling, professional staff, fast moving, and proactive communication. Customers often praise efficiency and care with belongings, noting prompt, polite crews who minimize moving stress. Pricing and timing are usually clear and reliable. Some clients describe issues, with 25% of feedback citing property damage, lack of communication, or unexpected charges—issues other movers face but mentioned less here. Neutral feedback is rare. Bisson rates above average among moving companies for professionalism, communication, and the courtesy of its team, though a few negative experiences involve poor follow-up and damaged goods.
Get a Quote (207) 591-1000

Company Info

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 125550

Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company , Bisson I & R Commercial Services , Bisson I & R Document Security , Bisson Transportation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.1% of all reviews were positive
13.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews set Allen & Coles Moving Systems apart with most feedback praising their professional, efficient, and friendly moving crews. Across 194 reviews, 86% express satisfaction, highlighting the team’s skillful handling, clear communication, and swift process. Movers consistently impress by protecting belongings and maintaining a courteous attitude. Customers frequently mention on-time arrivals, proactive communication, and the careful way staff handle property, which keeps moves stress-free and earns high recommendations. A small number of customers, about 13%, report issues like a lack of communication, damages, or surprise charges—mostly related to scheduling or billing confusion. These concerns also involve delayed responses or trouble resolving claims. While negative feedback does appear, especially regarding responsiveness or unexpected costs, Allen & Coles stands out in the moving industry for reliability and personal service, as shown by the volume of glowing input compared to the limited setbacks described.
Get a Quote (207) 370-6323

Company Info

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines , Allen & Coles Moving System

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.6% of all reviews were positive
23.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Tiny Tim’s Moving stands out for efficiency, competitive rates, and friendly movers who arrive on time and handle items with care. Many point out quick, stress-free moves and transparent pricing, features that set this company apart from larger competitors. Professional attitudes, affordability, and problem-solving earn high praise. Some feedback points to issues like damaged items, lack of accountability for property damage, slow or delayed crews, and poor responses from management when claims arise. While most experiences are positive, a noticeable portion of negative input focuses on professionalism and responsibility for customer property.
Get a Quote (207) 828-6575

Company Info

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 626233

Alternate Names: Tiny Tims Moving & Trucking, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Portland to Rochester?

Movers in Maine generally charge an average of $225 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 $1,292 – $3,671 $657 – $1,658 $390 – $713
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,267 – $5,557 $1,162 – $2,334 $437 – $837
4+ bedrooms $3,844 – $8,296 $1,515 – $2,908 $538 – $1,050
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 490-mile move from Portland to Rochester, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 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 Portland to Rochester

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Portland to Rochester typically costs between $1,292 and $3,671. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,267 and $5,557 when moving from Portland to Rochester. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Portland to Rochester, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,844 up to $8,296.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to Rochester

If you’re relocating from Portland to Rochester, you’ll typically spend between $657 and $1,658 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,162 up to $2,334. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,515 and $2,908. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to Rochester

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Portland 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 $390 and $713. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $437 to $837. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $538 and $1,050.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Portland to Rochester

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Portland to Rochester might be as low as $1,690, while a four-bedroom could reach $7,022.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Portland.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $390 to $994 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Portland to Rochester

Many movers find Rochester easier on the wallet than Portland – roughly 9% less for singles and 19% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,274 for one person in Rochester versus $2,491 in Portland. For a family of four, it’s $4,921 compared with $6,060.

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

Portland Rochester
Average 1 BR rent $1,925 $1,527
Average 3 BR rent $3,500 $2,240
Average home value $542,001 $200,576
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $64,214
Cost of living (single) $2,491 $2,274
Cost of living (family of four) $6,060 $4,921
Unemployment rate 5.2% 9.8%
Sales tax 5.5% 8.0%
State income tax 5.8% 10.9%
  • Good news! When moving to Rochester from Portland, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 37% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 63% 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 Portland, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Rochester. The cost of living for a single person is 9% less compared to Portland.
  • 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 19% lower than in Portland.
  • The unemployment rate in Rochester exceeds that of Portland by about 88%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes in Rochester exceed those in Portland by 45%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 88% higher in New York than in Maine. 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 Portland and Rochester, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Portland Rochester
Basic utilities $203.15 $143.37
Cell phone plan $54.88 $50.69
Dozen eggs $4.26 $3.79
Loaf of bread $3.62 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $90.00
Gym membership $65.00 $50.77
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Portland than in Rochester.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Portland than in Rochester.
  • Eggs cost more in Portland than in Rochester.
  • Bread is more expensive in Portland than in Rochester.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Rochester.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Portland than in Rochester.

How life is different in Portland vs. Rochester

Portland Rochester
Population 68,408 211,328
Transportation score 6 6
Walkability score 62 61
Bike friendliness score 68 60
Crime index 32.16 37.54
Safety index 67.84 36.66
Air quality Good Good
  • Rochester’s population is about 209% greater than Portland.
  • Rochester’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Portland, making them very similar.
  • Rochester and Portland are similarly walkable.
  • Rochester has a bike-friendliness score of 60 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68.
  • Rochester’s crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 37.54 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • Rochester is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 36.66 vs Portland’s 67.84.
  • Air quality in Rochester is Good, and in Portland it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Portland 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 Portland to Rochester?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Rochester?

With many people choosing to move from Portland 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 Portland to Rochester take?

Covering 490 miles, the move from Portland, ME to Rochester, typically takes one to four days. Some Portland movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Rochester can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Portland can handle specialty items for my move to Rochester?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Portland, 9 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of ME, there are 13 piano movers and 7 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle