Quick answer: A typical 395-mile move from Columbus to Rochester runs $478–$6,312 and takes one to four days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Rochester to Columbus guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Columbus to Rochester

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Columbus to Rochester isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your OH to NY movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 68 Ohio movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies in Columbus

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  3. MVM Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. All American Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/bellhopmoving?lang=en
58% of all reviews were positive
40% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When timing and professionalism count, Bellhop Moving stands out in customer feedback. Of the 38 reviews assessed, almost 58% delivered positive sentiment, while almost 40% reflected dissatisfied experiences. Customers highlight consistent professionalism, efficiency, careful attention to belongings, and approachable movers.
Friendly attitudes and reliable performance under tough conditions, like bad weather, set Bellhop apart from many low-cost alternatives. Reports of fast, careful moves and easy booking are frequent. On the downside, damaged items, delayed or canceled moves, and unexpected extra charges surface often. Some clients experienced property damage or last-minute cancellations that created major issues, and several found the compensation process unsatisfactory if things went wrong. Compared to other movers, Bellhop is more frequently praised for politeness and efficiency but criticized more than average for inconsistent arrival and resolution of complaints.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving, Bellhops, Inc., Bellhops


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/LeadersMoving/, https://twitter.com/LeadersMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers who hustle for you—customer feedback on Leaders Moving & Storage Co. shows why many choose them over the competition. Out of 369 reviews, 84% are positive, highlighting outstanding efficiency, professional and polite crews, careful handling, quick move times, and strong communication. Customers repeatedly mention pleasant, energetic staff who deliver moves faster than expected and care for items and property.
Pricing transparency, flexible options, and true-to-estimate billing set Leaders apart from many other movers. Negative input, making up 14%, focuses on damaged items, slow or unhelpful claims handling, and occasional late arrivals. Customers reporting issues describe damaged or mishandled items, and say resolution for complaints or claims can be frustratingly slow or inadequate compared to what industry leaders deliver. A small number of customers also mention unprofessional or unreliable crews, and a lack of follow-up from management. Still, positive feedback vastly outnumbers complaints, with most reviewers highly recommending Leaders for an easy, stress-free moving experience.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 885-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00136562

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

Alternate Names: Leaders Moving, Leaders Moving & Storage Co., L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co., Leaders Moving And Storage Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/mvmcolumbus/, https://twitter.com/mvmcolumbus?lang=en
97% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple — that’s what customers consistently report after hiring MVM Moving & Storage. Out of 257 customer reviews, an impressive 96.9% express satisfaction. MVM’s team stands out for being efficient, professional, and attentive, with many mentioning careful treatment of their belongings and quick, well-organized moves.
Communication is seamless at every step, from booking to delivery. Feedback sharply contrasts these strengths with a handful of dissatisfied customers. The most significant complaints center around damaged items, inaccurate estimates, and rare instances of unprofessional or rude staff. Despite isolated issues, MVM earns more praise for speed, staff demeanor, and the care taken with property than nearly any competitor in the industry. Their approach creates a noticeably smooth and stress-free moving experience that sets a high bar for local moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 230-0667

Company Info

State license #: 156647

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1444491

Alternate Names: MVM Columbus, MVM Columbus Incorporated.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/AllAmericanMovingStorageandDelivery, https://twitter.com/AllAmericanMvg?ref_src=twsrctfw&ref_url=httpwww.all-americanmoving.com
90% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Choosing the right moving company matters, and customers say All American Moving and Storage rises above most. Analysis of 251 pieces of feedback shows that 90% of customers praised courteous, professional movers, efficient service, careful handling, and good communication. Many highlighted how quickly and safely their belongings were moved, often noting better experiences compared to other moving companies in the area.
Customers especially valued staff professionalism and the care shown to fragile or valuable items. About 9% voiced major concerns, pointing to damage to items during moves, final costs far higher than original quotes, and infrequent complaints about delays or missed appointments. Only two neutral reviews were found, indicating rare middle-ground input and suggesting most customers felt strongly about their experiences. Positive feedback outpaces negative by a significant margin, placing All American well ahead of many competitors in satisfaction, but those considering their services should pay close attention to estimate details and clarify expectations to avoid the main downsides experienced by some.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 224-0077

Company Info

State license #: 147426

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1239401

Alternate Names: American Moving & Storage, Ltd., All American Moving & Storage of Columbus, All American Moving and Storage, All American Delivery, Daniel R Dragin All American Moving, Storage and Delivery Prime Agent for Arpin Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/EEwardMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/eewardmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage stands out for its remarkable record with customers, earning 92% positive feedback from 256 reviews. Many praised the professional and polite staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient service, excellent communication, and the speed of the moving process.
Customers also highlighted how team members accommodated last-minute changes and consistently treated property with respect. In contrast, some highlighted concerns mainly about damage to items, misplacement or loss during moves, and difficulties with after-move communication or claims resolution. Issues like denied insurance claims or delayed responses were the chief negatives, though these were comparatively rare. In terms of reliability, professionalism, and customer care, E.E. Ward ranks among the best in the industry, with significantly fewer negative experiences than typical moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (614) 401-6796

Company Info

State license #: 11470

Years in Business: 143

DOT #: 1222904

Alternate Names: E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC, E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

Columbus movers charge $145 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,243 - $3,900 $822 - $1,838 $453 - $776
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,325 - $6,312 $1,487 - $2,575 $478 - $901
4+ bedrooms $3,503 - $8,914 $1,877 - $3,561 $560 - $1,194
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 395 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Ohio to New York

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ohio to New York typically costs between $1,243 and $3,900. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,325 and $6,312 when moving from OH to NY. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Ohio to New York, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,503 up to $8,914.

Cost of moving containers from Ohio to New York

Moving containers from Ohio to New York will cost you $822 to $1,838 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,487 to $2,575. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,877 to $3,561. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ohio.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio to New York

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 $453 and $776 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $478 to $901. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $560 to $1,194.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbus to Rochester movetoggle

The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Columbus to Rochester can be as low as $1,243 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,570.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbus so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $453 to $1,088. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Columbus to Rochester

Moving from Columbus to Rochester means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Columbus than in Rochester, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Columbus compares to Rochester so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Columbus Rochester
Average rent cost $1,441 $1,250
Average home value $238,832 $200,576
Average income (per capita) $65,075 $64,214
Cost of living (single person) $2,784 $2,274
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,249 $4,921
Unemployment rate 5.7% 9.8%
Sales tax 7.5% 8.0%
State income tax 3.5% 10.9%
  • Rent prices in Rochester are 13% lower than in Columbus, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Rochester.
    Home prices in Rochester are 16.0% lower than in Columbus.
  • Income in Rochester is 1.3% lower than in Columbus, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Rochester — including Wegmans Food Markets, Paychex, and Bausch + Lomb — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Rochester. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 18.3% lower than in Columbus.
  • A move to Rochester can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 32.1% less than what it costs in Columbus.
  • The unemployment rate in Rochester is 71.93% higher than in Columbus.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Rochester, since its sales taxes are 6.67% higher than what you are paying in Columbus.
  • State income taxes in Rochester are 211.43% higher than in Columbus.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,450.43 in Rochester to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Columbus.

How life is different in Columbus vs. Rochester

Rochester Columbus
Population 211,328 905,748
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 5
Walkability score 61 41
Bike friendliness score 60 48
Crime Index 37.54 49.65
Safety Index 36.66 50.35
Air Quality Good Good
  • Rochester might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 77% less than Columbus.
  • Rochester offers better access to buses and trains than Columbus, based on public transportation ratings. Rochester has a transit score of 6 out of 10 compared to 5 in Columbus. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Rochester means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Columbus. Rochester is considered more walkable than Columbus, with a score of 61 out of 100 versus 41 out of 100 in Columbus. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Rochester is considered more bike-friendly than Columbus in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Rochester has a bike-friendliness score of 60 out of 100, while Columbus is rated as 48 out of 100.
  • Rochester has a lower crime rate than Columbus based on scores of 37.54 and Columbus's 49.65, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Rochester. With a crime index of 36.66, Rochester ranks lower in overall safety than Columbus, whose index is 50.35. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Rochester and Columbus is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Columbus vs. Rochester move

  • Weather: The cold weather and snow might be a challenge if you're planning to relocate to Rochester, NY during January and February. August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Rochester.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a New York moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: New York doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Rochester. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Rochester

With your sights set on Flour City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Rochester.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • East Avenue
  • Swillburg
  • South Wedge
  • Park Avenue
  • Ellwanger-Barry

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Cobbs Hill
  • Strong
  • Swillburg
  • Browncroft
  • Park Avenue

Things to do in Rochester

After getting comfortable in your new New York home, it's time to see what Rochester is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Rochester features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Strong National Museum of Play, George Eastman Museum, National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, ARTISANworks, and Rochester Museum & Science Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Seabreeze Amusement Park, Highland Park, Erie Canal Trail, and Cobbs Hill Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Rochester Americans (AHL) and Roberts Wesleyan Redhawks (ECC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbus to Rochester?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Columbus to Rochester. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Columbus.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Columbus to Rochester moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Columbus to Rochester take?

Covering 395 miles, the move from Columbus, OH to Rochester, NY typically takes one to four days. Some Columbus movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Rochester can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources