Portland, ME to Rochester, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Portland to Rochester typically costs $2,500–$6,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 490 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Portland to Rochester
Moving from Portland, ME to Rochester, NY typically costs $2,500–$6,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 490-mile move from Portland 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 $1,483 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,803 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,246 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Mar 02, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 26, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 24, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 26, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 20, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 02, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Portland 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 Portland to Rochester might be as low as $1,500, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,900.
- 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 $400 to $1,200 — 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 Portland, ME guide.
Best Portland to Rochester movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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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.
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 ME→NY movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 15 Maine 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 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, NY 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 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
