Best Chicago to Rochester Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Rochester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 603 mile move from Illinois to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Chicago to Rochester moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Zippboxx), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Rochester. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Chicago to Rochester Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.96 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Rochester
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 603 miles from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY will cost on average $2,294 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Rochester move is roughly $5,498. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,544 | 300 ft³ | 5.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,294 | 450 ft³ | 5.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,786 | 750 ft³ | 5.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,498 | 1100 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,916 | 1600 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,816 | 1800 ft³ | 4.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Rochester Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Zippboxx
923 Motor Pkwy
Hauppauge, NY, 11788
About Zippboxx
Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both locally...
Services
- Local movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3077817 / 1043860 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
Interior Moving Services, Inc.
This listing has been claimed by Interior Moving Services, Inc.157 La Grange Ave
Rochester, NY, 14613
About Interior Moving Services, Inc.
Located in Rochester, New York, Interior Moving Services has close to three decades of moving expertise, serving both residential and commercial...
Services
- Local residential moving
- Local commercial moving
- Long-distance residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1498819 / 600823 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Chicago vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating, the familiarity of neighborhoods can turn a daunting move into an exciting adventure. This guide leverages your knowledge of Chicago, IL & Rochester, NY neighborhoods to ease the transition. Discover which areas in Rochester share the essence of your favorite Chicago locales, making it easier to find your new favorite spots.
| Chicago | Rochester | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Park Avenue | Vibrant mix of dining and entertainment |
| Wicker Park | South Wedge | Artsy, eclectic vibe |
| Gold Coast | East Avenue | Historic, upscale atmosphere |
| Loop | Downtown Rochester | Business hub with cultural institutions |
| Hyde Park | Highland Park | Educational and cultural similarities |
| Andersonville | NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) | Strong community, arts focused |
| Lakeview | Charlotte | Near water, relaxed lifestyle |
| Logan Square | Corn Hill | Historic homes, lively community events |
| River North | East End | Nightlife and dining hotspot |
| Bucktown | Maplewood | Diverse, with an array of shops and cafes |
If you're drawn to the historic and upscale ambience of Chicago's Gold Coast, you'll find a similar vibe in Rochester's East Avenue area, known for its prestigious homes and cultural venues like the George Eastman Museum. Those who enjoy the lively urban environment of Wicker Park, famous for its music venues and boutique shops, will appreciate South Wedge's artsy atmosphere and unique eateries, such as the Swiftwater Brewing Company. Similarly, if the eclectic and community-oriented spirit of Andersonville appeals to you, NOTA (Neighborhood of the Arts) in Rochester, with its numerous galleries and annual festivals, provides an equally engaging and creative environment to explore and settle into.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Rochester
Moving can be a major life decision, and it's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully. Here, we present a comparison designed to reflect the honest pros and cons of relocating from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY . This guide aims to provide you with a clear understanding of what you're leaving behind and what awaits you in your new city.
Chicago, IL- Higher crime rate
- Expensive cost of living
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Extreme winters
Rochester, NY- Lower crime rate
- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Milder winters
Rochester, NY- Smaller cultural scene
- Limited public transit
- Fewer dining options
- No lakefront amenities
Chicago, IL- Vibrant cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse dining options
- Lakefront amenities
While weighing the decision to move from Chicago to Rochester, consider the lifestyle changes. Living in Rochester means enjoying more affordable living, with plenty of neighborhood parks like Highland Park, known for its annual Lilac Festival, and Genesee Valley Park. Rochester offers a closer-knit community vibe but with fewer dining options compared to Chicago's world-renowned restaurant scene. However, establishments like Char Broil provide a local taste that residents love. Additionally, while Rochester lacks the extensive lakefront amenities of Chicago's Lake Michigan shoreline, its own waterfronts along Lake Ontario and the Genesee River offer beautiful alternatives for leisure and recreation.
Chicago vs. Rochester Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of any locale, reflecting its culture and lifestyle. This guide endeavors to shed light on what you can expect in terms of gastronomy when relocating. We'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Rochester to ensure you have a savory preview of your new home.
| Chicago | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Garbage Plate |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | White Hots |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Zweigle's Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Tofu Scramble |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Chicago to Rochester, you'll transition from the indulgent deep-dish pizzas and iconic Chicago-style hot dogs to the unique Garbage Plate and Zweigle's, a Rochester staple. Within Rochester's culinary scene, places like Nick Tahou Hots offer a taste of the city's most renowned dish, the Garbage Plate, a must-try for any newcomer. Meanwhile, the thriving food truck scene, slightly more prominent in Chicago, still offers a variety of eats in Rochester, from gourmet to vegan. Rochester’s Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, situated in the heart of downtown, provides a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy nationally acclaimed barbecue. Whether you’re a foodie or health-conscious eater, both cities cater to your preferences, albeit with distinct local flavors.
Chicago vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison
Comparing Chicago's top dining spots with Rochester's finest eateries showcases the purpose of finding a new culinary home when moving from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY. Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to help you discover your new favorite dining destinations, drawing parallels with your current favorites in Chicago.
| Chicago | Rochester | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Roux | Sophisticated dining experience |
| Girl & The Goat | The Owl House | Innovative and eclectic menu |
| Portillo's | Swan Dive | Iconic American diner experience with a twist |
| Giordano's | Pizzeria Favo | Authentic deep-dish pizzas |
| The Purple Pig | The Revelry | Modern American cuisine with a unique flair |
| Publican | Good Luck | Ambiance and hearty, shareable plates |
| Frontera Grill | Neno's | Authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients |
| Au Cheval | The Playhouse//Swillburger | Gourmet burgers and a playful setting |
| Smoque BBQ | Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Renowned for smoked meats and hearty sides |
| North Pond | Lento | Locally sourced ingredients in a fine dining atmosphere |
Exploring the culinary scenes in both cities reveals unique dining experiences that reflect local tastes and cultures. For example, Alinea's sophisticated dining in Chicago is mirrored by Roux in Rochester, which offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on complex flavors and presentation. Similarly, lovers of deep-dish pizzas who frequent Giordano's in Chicago will find comfort in Pizzeria Favo's authentic approach to pizza-making. For those seeking a casual yet trendy atmosphere reminiscent of The Purple Pig, The Revelry in Rochester serves modern American cuisine with creative twists. This careful selection shows that no matter where you are, finding culinary delights that remind you of home or inspire new favorites is always possible.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical factor to consider when planning a move. It's essential to understand how the two cities compare in terms of housing . This comparison between Chicago, IL and Rochester, NY will focus on various housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle convenience to provide a clear picture for prospective movers.
| Comparison | Chicago | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Victorian | Colonial and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to public transit, Lake views | Quiet neighborhoods, Spacious yards |
When comparing housing in Chicago and Rochester, it's clear that both cities offer distinct advantages depending on your preferences and lifestyle. Chicago, with its higher urban lifestyle score, tends to appeal to those seeking a bustling city atmosphere, highlighted by the popularity of lake views and proximity to public transit in real estate listings. In contrast, Rochester offers more affordable living options, with real estate listings often boasting about quiet neighborhoods and spacious yards, catering well to those prioritizing peace and space. The architecture styles also differ significantly between the two, with Chicago favoring modern and Victorian styles, whereas Rochester leans towards Colonial and Craftsman, reflecting the historical backbone of each city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY
1. Park Avenue: This neighborhood is brimming with outdoor cafes and stores that welcome pets, making it an ideal spot for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry friends.
2. Highland Park: Known for its expansive park of the same name, Highland Park offers plenty of green space for dogs to play and trails for long walks, including Highland Park itself, making it a haven for pet owners.
3. North Winton Village: This community-focused neighborhood features pet-friendly housing and several parks, along with the Bark Park at Cobbs Hill, where your pets can socialize and play off-leash.
Chicago vs. Rochester Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY, it's crucial to understand how the weather between the two locations compares. This knowledge will help you prepare for the changes in climate and adjust more easily to your new environment. Below, we provide a comprehensive comparison of the weather patterns in Chicago and Rochester to assist in your transition.
Chicago, IL
Rochester, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Rochester, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Rochester, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Rochester, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Floods | Blizzards, Lake Effect Snow |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Chicago and Rochester experience a range of weather conditions, there are notable differences, especially in winter. Rochester's location near the Great Lakes contributes to it receiving significantly more snowfall than Chicago, with an average of 99 inches annually compared to Chicago's 36 inches. Furthermore, Rochester has fewer sunshine days per year. However, the overall humidity and UV index are relatively similar for both cities. Understanding these variations can help you better prepare for seasonal changes and enjoy your new home in Rochester.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Rochester
When planning a move from one city to another, it's vital to gauge how financial aspects will shift. Comparing the financial environment between Chicago, IL and Rochester, NY provides insight into what changes you might expect. This comparison covers income, taxes, cost of living, and more to better prepare you for your move.
| Comparison | Chicago | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $41,980 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 100 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 6.33 to 8.82 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 2.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | High | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Lower |
Understanding the cost differences between Chicago, IL, and Rochester, NY, could significantly impact your financial planning. For instance, while the average household income is considerably higher in Chicago, the overall cost of living, including sales tax and property tax, is also greater. This disparity could affect your disposable income and lifestyle choices. Moreover, while both cities have diverse leading industries, moving from a city with a robust finance sector to one where education and healthcare dominate could have implications for your career opportunities. Therefore, when moving, it's essential to weigh these financial and economic differences against your personal and professional goals.
Chicago vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing for a move from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY, it's valuable to consider the communities you'll be joining. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religion between Chicago & Rochester , offering a glimpse into the typical makeup of their populations. Understanding these aspects can help you better integrate and find your place in your new home.
| Chicago | Rochester | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Diverse representation, progressive policies | Progressive, with active community engagement |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Catholic presence | Variety, notable for Protestant and Catholic communities |
In both Chicago and Rochester, you'll find a political environment that leans Democratic, though the spectrum of political beliefs and the intensity of political engagement can vary. Chicago is known for its significant Catholic community and diverse religious landscape, mirroring its broad cultural diversity. Rochester, while smaller, also showcases a variety of religious beliefs, with a notable presence of both Protestant and Catholic communities. This rich diversity in both cities means you'll likely find a community where you feel you belong, and where your voice can be part of the local dialogue.
Chicago vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY brings about changes in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Rochester helps you better understand what to expect and how to navigate your new city efficiently.
| Comparison | Chicago | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some effort | Yes, but more challenging |
When moving from Chicago to Rochester, you'll notice a significant change in your daily commute. Chicago, known for its extensive public transit system, allows for somewhat easier living without a car, compared to Rochester. This is reflected in the average commute times—Chicagoans face longer commutes, likely due to the city's bigger size and higher traffic congestion. In contrast, Rochester offers a more laid-back commuting experience with less traffic congestion and shorter travel times. However, the reliance on a car might increase, given the less extensive public transit options. Adjusting to these differences will be key in making your transition smoother.
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