Rochester, NY to Portland, ME Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Rochester to Portland typically costs $1,900–$4,900 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 Rochester to Portland
Moving from Rochester, NY to Portland, ME typically costs $1,900–$4,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 490-mile move from Rochester to Portland, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 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
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $1,618 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $1,667 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $2,199 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 09, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 05, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 04, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 02, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 21, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 22, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 06, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 26, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Rochester to Portland
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Rochester to Portland might be as low as $1,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $7,400.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Rochester.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Portland, ME to Rochester, NY guide.
Best Rochester to Portland movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Rochester to Portland
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Rochester to Portland, 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 NY→ME movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 148 New York 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 Rochester to Portland
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Portland runs about 10% higher for singles and 23% higher for families than Rochester.
Singles spend around $2,491 in Portland versus $2,274 in Rochester; families pay $6,060 compared with $4,921.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Rochester | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,527 | $1,925 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,240 | $3,500 |
| Average home value | $200,576 | $542,001 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,214 | $64,171 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,274 | $2,491 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,921 | $6,060 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.8% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 5.5% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 5.8% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 59% higher in Portland than in Rochester, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 170% higher in Portland than in Rochester.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Portland and Rochester, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Portland, as the cost of living for a single person in Portland is 10% greater than in Rochester. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Portland, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 23% more than it is in Rochester.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 47% lower than Rochester, Portland boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 31% lower in Portland than Rochester, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 47% lower in Maine than in New York. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Rochester and Portland, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Rochester | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $143.37 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.69 | $54.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.79 | $4.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.94 | $3.62 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $50.77 | $65.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Rochester than in Portland, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Rochester than in Portland.
- Eggs are less expensive in Rochester than in Portland.
- Bread costs less in Rochester than in Portland.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Rochester than in Portland.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Rochester than in Portland.
How life is different in Rochester vs. Portland
| Rochester | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 211,328 | 68,408 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 61 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 60 | 68 |
| Crime index | 37.54 | 32.16 |
| Safety index | 36.66 | 67.84 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Portland's population is about 68% less than Rochester.
- Portland's public transportation score is within about 5% of Rochester, making them very similar.
- Portland and Rochester are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 68 out of 100, Portland is more bike-friendly than Rochester, which has a score of 60 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Portland's crime rate is lower than Rochester with a score of 32.16 compared to Rochester's 37.54. This means that Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Rochester neighborhoods are safer than 37.54%.
- Portland is considered to be safer than Rochester with a safety index of 67.84 vs Rochester's 36.66.
- Air quality in Portland is Good, and in Rochester it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Rochester to Portland 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: Although a local license is not required in Maine, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Maine moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Maine, 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 Portland 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. Consider cost-free Released Value Protection from movers in Maine, offering basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. If you seek full-value protection, discuss alternative options with your chosen 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 Portland
Ready to relocate to The Forest City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Portland.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- East End
- West End
- West Bayside
- Parkside
- Downtown
- Oakdale
- Back Cove
- Valley Street
Best neighborhoods for families
- Deering Center
- East End
- Rosemont
- West End
- Valley Street
- North Deering
- Back Cove
- East Deering
- Oakdale
Things to do in Portland
Now that you've made the move to Maine, it's the perfect time to explore Portland. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Portland include museums and art centers like the Portland Museum of Art, Victoria Mansion, 5th Maine Museum, and The Wadsworth-Longfellow House.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Eastern Promenade Trail, Back Cove Trail, Deering Oaks Park, and Quarry Run Dog 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 Maine Celtics (G League)Maine Mariners (ECHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Rochester to Portland?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Rochester to Portland. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Rochester.
When is the cheapest time to move from Rochester to Portland?
With many people choosing to move from Rochester to Portland 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 Rochester to Portland take?
Covering 490 miles, the move from Rochester, NY to Portland, ME typically takes one to four days. Some Rochester movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Portland can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Rochester can handle specialty items for my move to Portland?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Rochester, 7 movers can handle pianos. 4 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NY, there are 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
