Factors influencing moving costs from Rochester to Iowa

The cost of Rochester movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have โ€” as well as your home size and layout โ€” will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Rochester, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

What to know before moving from Rochester, NY, to Iowa

If youโ€™re moving to Iowa from Rochester, NY, youโ€™ll want to compare what life will be like.

Compare cost of living: Rochester vs. Iowa

Rochester, NY Iowa
Average rent cost $1,250 $914
Average home cost $200,576 $220,277
Average income (per capita) $64,214 $70,571
Unemployment rate 9.8% 3.0%
State income tax 10.9% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 22% less expensive in Iowa than in Rochester.
  • Home prices are about 4.1% higher in Iowa than in Rochester.
  • The average income is about 7.8% higher in Iowa than in Rochester.
  • Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than Rochester by about 154.5%.
  • Income taxes are 59.63% lower in Iowa than in Rochester.

How life is different in Rochester, NY, from Iowa

Rochester, NY Iowa
Population 211,328 3,207,004
Political leaning Democratic 59-38 Republican 53-45
Summer high 82ยบF 84ยบF
Winter low 17ยบF 10ยบF
Annual rain 33" 35"
Annual snow 77" 30"
Crime index 37.54 16.18
  • The population of Iowa is approximately 1,418% greater than the population of Rochester.
  • In the last presidential election, Iowa voted Republican and Rochester voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in Iowa is 84ยบ F and in Rochester, itโ€™s 82ยบ F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Iowa reaches the temperature of 10ยบ F and Rochester gets down to 17ยบ F.
  • You can expect about 35 inches of annual rainfall in Iowa vs. 33 inches of rainfall in Rochester.
  • In Iowa, it snows about 30 inches annually vs. 77 inches of snow in Rochester.

Other considerations when moving to Iowa from Rochester

  • Weather: Iowa has a humid continental climate throughout the state. Snowfall is common in Iowa. Spring brings in severe weather season. Iowa has about 50 thunderstorm days per year and has a tornado season. Iowa is known for hot and humid summers. Be sure to check the weather before your move, especially during the springtime..
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, youโ€™ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means theyโ€™ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know youโ€™ve got everything covered.

Things to do in Iowa

Whether youโ€™re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, youโ€™ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Iowa.

Museums in Iowatoggle

  • National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
  • Figge Art Museum
  • National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
  • The Putnam Museum & Science Center
  • Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
  • Union Pacific Railroad Museum
  • Buffalo Bill Museum
  • John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum
  • Old Capitol Museum
  • Okoboji Classic Cars
  • Des Moines Art Center
  • Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum
  • Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail and Museum
  • Sioux City Public Museum
  • State Historical Museum

Parks in Iowatoggle

  • Vander Veer Botanical Park
  • Gray's Lake Park
  • Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Eagle Point Park
  • Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
  • Clear Lake State Park
  • Mines of Spain Recreation Area
  • Eagle Point Park
  • Raccoon River Park
  • Big Woods Lake Recreation Area
  • West Lake Park
  • Centennial Park
  • Effigy Mounds National Monument
  • Rand Park
  • Bayliss Park

Sports Teams in Iowatoggle

  • Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
  • Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
  • Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
  • Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
  • Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)

Universities in Iowatoggle

  • Iowa State University
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Northern Iowa
  • Maharishi International University
  • Grinnell College
  • Drake University
  • Luther College
  • Cornell College
  • Wartburg College
  • St. Ambrose University
  • Dordt University
  • Central College
  • Coe College
  • Simpson College
  • Buena Vista University

FAQs

How long does a move from Rochester to Iowa take?

The time it takes to move from Rochester, NY, to Iowa depends on the moving method you choose. A DIY move with a rental truck can take a day or two, depending on your exact destination and how much you stop along the way. If youโ€™re using professional movers or a moving container company, delivery times can range from a few days to two weeks, depending on demand. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

What is the best way to get a car from Rochester to Iowa?

Need to get your car from Rochester to Iowa? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Rochester to Iowa car shippers.

Why are people moving from Rochester to Iowa?

Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Rochester?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Rochester.

Helpful moving resources