Best St. Paul to Rochester Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from St. Paul to Rochester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 904 mile move from Minnesota to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 St. Paul to Rochester moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Metro Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in St. Paul 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 St. Paul to Rochester Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
2 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
3 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.26 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Goal Line Moving | 9.25 | 9.42 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.95 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from St. Paul to Rochester
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 904 miles from St. Paul, MN to Rochester, NY will cost on average $2,550 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom St. Paul to Rochester move is roughly $6,123. 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 | $1,715 | 300 ft³ | 5.72 |
1 Bedroom | $2,550 | 450 ft³ | 5.67 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,212 | 750 ft³ | 5.62 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,123 | 1100 ft³ | 5.57 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,827 | 1600 ft³ | 5.52 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,840 | 1800 ft³ | 5.47 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Rochester to St. Paul guide.
Compare the 5 Best St. Paul to Rochester Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |

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) |

General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 24 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |

Goal Line Moving
Plymouth, MN
About Goal Line Moving
Located in Ham Lake, MN, Goal Line Moving is a family-owned and operated company with four years in the business and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2926126 / 1088400 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2024) |

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.
St. Paul vs. Rochester Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both an exciting and daunting prospect. To ease the transition, it's helpful to find neighborhoods reminiscent of your old stomping grounds. In this guide, we will embark on a comparison of the local neighborhoods between St. Paul, MN & Rochester, NY, aiming to match you with a new neighborhood that feels like home.
St. Paul | Rochester | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Summit Hill | East Avenue | Historic homes, vibrant cultural scene |
Highland Park | Park Avenue | Diverse dining, walkable streets |
Macalester-Groveland | Swillburg | Family-friendly, strong community vibe |
Lowertown | Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) | Rich in arts and culture |
Merriam Park | Corn Hill | Quiet, historic neighborhood |
St. Anthony Park | North Winton Village | Blend of residential and commercial |
Crocus Hill | Browncroft | Beautiful homes, landscaped streets |
Como | Maplewood | Parks and nature, family-oriented |
Downtown | Downtown Rochester | Urban living, entertainment options |
West Seventh | South Wedge | Community-minded, local businesses |
For example, if you're someone who thrives in bustling urban centers, the transition from Downtown St. Paul to Downtown Rochester will feel seamless, with both offering an array of entertainment, dining, and living options. Fans of the historic charm and lush landscapes of Summit Hill will find East Avenue in Rochester equally enchanting, boasting stately homes and a thriving cultural scene. For those who prioritize community and green spaces, Como’s counterpart, Maplewood, promises the serenity of parks and the warmth of a family-friendly neighborhood. Whether it’s enjoying a show in the Neighborhood of the Arts or sampling the diverse cuisines of Park Avenue, moving to Rochester doesn’t mean leaving the lifestyle you love behind—it’s about rediscovering it in a new setting.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from St. Paul to Rochester
Moving from one city to another brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of leaving St. Paul, MN for Rochester, NY, highlighting both the upsides and downsides. By comparing the cons of St. Paul with the pros of Rochester, and vice versa, you'll gain a balanced view to help navigate your relocation decision.
- Colder winters
- Higher taxes
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer top universities
- Smaller tech sector
- Milder winters
- Lower property tax
- More cultural diversity
- Top universities nearby
- Larger tech industry
- Fewer parks
- Smaller art scene
- Lesser historic sites
- Higher crime rate
- Fewer large lakes
- Lush green parks
- Vibrant art scene
- Rich historical sites
- Lower crime rate
- Larger lakes
In St. Paul, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offer vibrant, lush green spaces, a stark contrast to the more limited park spaces in Rochester. Yet, Rochester is home to the renowned Eastman School of Music, part of the University of Rochester, providing rich cultural experiences despite its smaller overall art scene compared to St. Paul's thriving art community. The move also involves adjusting from St. Paul's extensive lakes and waterways, perfect for summer canoeing and kayaking, to finding solace in Rochester's strong educational institutions and potentially more diverse cultural opportunities. As you weigh the pros and cons, consider how each city's offerings align with your priorities, whether they be in education, nature, or cultural experiences.
St. Paul vs. Rochester Food Guide
Food is a defining element of local culture and directly influences the living experience in a particular area. To help you get a sense of the culinary landscape you’re moving into, we'll specifically compare the local cuisine between St. Paul, MN & Rochester, NY so you can be better informed about the diverse food scenes awaiting you.
St. Paul | Rochester | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Minnesota Juicy Lucy | Garbage Plate |
Most popular meat dish | Walleye | Beef on Weck |
Most popular street food item | Korean BBQ Tacos | White Hots |
Most popular vegan food | Grain Bowls | Vegan Garbage Plate |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In St. Paul, the Juicy Lucy takes the spotlight as an iconic food staple, famously served at Matt's Bar, while over in Rochester, the unique Garbage Plate captures local culinary creativity, perfectly symbolized by Nick Tahou Hots. Whether you’re exploring the rich history of St. Paul’s Cathedral Hill neighborhood or strolling through Rochester's Park Avenue, both cities offer a vibrant food scene that caters to meat lovers and vegans alike. Particularly for vegan diners, Rochester's adaptation of its famed Garbage Plate into a vegan-friendly version showcases the city's inclusive culinary evolution.
St. Paul vs. Rochester Restaurant Comparison
Relocating involves not just moving belongings, but also transplanting your lifestyle and discovering local delights that make a new place feel like home. Food plays a crucial role in this transition. This restaurant comparison between St. Paul, MN, and Rochester, NY, will help you find your new favorite eateries , using your current hometown favorites as a guide.
St. Paul | Rochester | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Meritage | The Revelry | Elegant dining with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients |
Heartland Restaurant | Good Luck Restaurant | Farm-to-table approach with a creative, upscale menu |
Cossetta's | Fiorella | Authentic Italian cuisine, reminiscent of Cossetta's casual yet quality offerings |
The Lexington | Char Steak & Lounge | A classic steakhouse experience with a contemporary twist |
Brasa Premium Rotisserie | Sticky Lips BBQ | Offers a casual atmosphere with a focus on slow-cooked, flavorful meats |
Mancini's Char House | Tournedos Steakhouse | Known for its high-quality steaks and sophisticated dining environment |
J. Selby's | The Owl House | Vegan and vegetarian options that don't compromise on flavor or creativity |
Grand Catch | Swan Dive | A funky, eclectic spot known for seafood and a vibrant atmosphere |
Matt's Bar | The Playhouse/Swillburger | Offers a playful bite with their unique take on burgers and a side of arcade fun |
Hmongtown Marketplace | Public Market | Diverse culinary offerings that reflect the local community and ethnic specialties |
In the spirit of discovering flavors that resonate with your taste buds, consider Fiorella when you’re in the mood for Italian. This Rochester gem mirrors Cossetta's in St. Paul, not just in the authenticity of its cuisine but also in its dedication to an overall high-quality dining experience, from service to ambiance. For those nights you crave the comfort of slow-cooked, savory meats, Sticky Lips BBQ stands as Rochester's answer to Brasa Premium Rotisserie. It's your go-to for a laid-back atmosphere coupled with dishes that are rich in flavor and tradition. Moreover, The Owl House offers a compelling reason for vegans and vegetarians to rejoice, serving inventive dishes that rival the creativity found at J. Selby's, making it clear that both cities offer unique dining experiences that are sure to satisfy a diverse palette of culinary preferences.

Ready to start your move?
St. Paul vs. Rochester Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, exploring the differences in real estate between St. Paul and Rochester can significantly impact your decision. This comparison aims to shed light on aspects such as cost, architecture, and urban lifestyle to better equip you with the knowledge needed for your transition.
Comparison | St. Paul | Rochester |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Colonial Revival |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Green spaces, proximity to jobs | Family-friendly, quiet neighborhoods |
In evaluating the housing characteristics of St. Paul, MN, and Rochester, NY, you'll notice several key differences that might influence your decision. St. Paul's housing market is marked by its Victorian architecture, indicating a penchant for historical and aesthetically distinct homes. On the flip side, Rochester embraces Colonial Revival styles, reflecting its rich history and affinity for time-tested elegance. Moreover, the noticeable difference in median home prices and rents points to Rochester being a more affordable option for many. However, it's not just about cost. St. Paul scores higher in terms of urban lifestyle and bikeability, suggesting a slightly more dynamic day-to-day environment, potentially due to its lively neighborhoods and green spaces. On the whole, your preference between a more affordable, quiet setting in Rochester and a slightly pricier but vibrant urban life in St. Paul will greatly dictate the best fit for your next home.

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.
St. Paul vs. Rochester Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between St. Paul, MN, and Rochester, NY , is crucial when planning a move. This comparison will help you anticipate what to expect in your new city and adapt more easily to its climate.
St. Paul, MN
Rochester, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
St. Paul, MN
Rochester, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
St. Paul, MN
Rochester, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
St. Paul, MN
Rochester, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | St. Paul | Rochester |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Ice storms |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from St. Paul to Rochester, one of the most noticeable changes will be in winter temperatures and snowfall. Rochester experiences milder winters but with significantly more snow, nearly double that of St. Paul. This means while you might enjoy slightly warmer temperatures in Rochester during the winter months, you'll also need to be prepared for more frequent snow shoveling and winter weather advisories. Additionally, the number of sunny days in St. Paul outnumbers those in Rochester, which could affect your daily mood and outdoor activities schedule. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move and adapt your lifestyle and housekeeping routines accordingly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to Rochester
Moving from one city to another means navigating new financial waters. Understanding the cost of living, income taxes, and housing costs in St. Paul, MN, and Rochester, NY can help you prepare for your relocation and manage your budget effectively.
Comparison | St. Paul | Rochester |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $66,098 | $41,980 |
Cost of Living Index | 110 | 100 |
State Income Tax | 5.35 - 9.85% | 4.00 - 8.82% |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.18% | 2.87% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.625% | 8.00% |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Retail | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to high |
Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
Homelessness | Present | Present but less visible |
When moving from St. Paul to Rochester, you'll notice differences in both the cost of living and taxation. St. Paul has a slightly higher average household income but also has a higher cost of living index compared to Rochester. While state income taxes in Minnesota can reach nearly 10%, New York's top rate is slightly lower, although Rochester's property taxes are significantly higher. It's essential to factor in these financial elements alongside differences in sales tax and key industries, which can influence job opportunities. Being aware of these factors will help in making informed decisions about housing, employment, and overall budgeting in your new city.
St. Paul vs. Rochester Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from St. Paul, MN to Rochester, NY, this comparison of the politics and religion among their residents provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot. Understand the communities you are transitioning between to better integrate into your new home.
St. Paul | Rochester | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
Local Politics | Progressive policies | Progressive policies |
Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities |
While both St. Paul, MN, and Rochester, NY share liberal and Democratic leanings in their political makeup, it's their commitment to progressive policies that often define their local politics. This progressive stance can influence local legislation, social services, and community initiatives, contributing to an inclusive and supportive environment for diverse populations. Moreover, Christian faiths predominate in both cities, yet they are home to a wide variety of religious communities, reflecting a rich tapestry of beliefs that contributes to the cities' diverse cultural landscapes. The presence of various places of worship and religious organizations in both cities fosters a sense of community and belonging, regardless of one's faith.
St. Paul vs. Rochester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Whether you're contemplating a move or simply curious, comparing the daily commute and traffic and transportation options between St. Paul & Rochester can offer valuable insights. This guide aims to highlight how each city handles its traffic flows and public transportation, potentially impacting your lifestyle and daily routines.
Comparison | St. Paul | Rochester |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 20 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More challenging |
In comparing St. Paul and Rochester, you'll notice a few key differences that might influence your decision on where to live based on your commuting preferences. For starters, St. Paul slightly edges out Rochester with a better public transit system, scoring a 7 out of 10. This is primarily due to the comprehensive network of buses and light rail services like the Metro Transit that connects various parts of the city and its suburbs. In contrast, Rochester, with a score of 5, offers fewer public transportation options, making it more challenging to get around without a car. Furthermore, traffic congestion in St. Paul is rated higher than in Rochester, likely owing to its bigger population and denser urban layout. This information is crucial if you're weighing the pros and cons of having a car or relying on public transit for your daily commute.



Additional Resources
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