rochester to fl

---
title: Moving from Rochester, NY to Florida: Costs, Movers & What to Expect
description: Real cost estimates, top-rated movers, and an honest cost of living comparison for moving from Rochester, NY to Florida. Numbers first, no fluff.
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Rochester to Florida", "Rochester to Florida movers", "cost to move Rochester to Florida", "Rochester NY moving companies", "long-distance movers Rochester", "Rochester FL relocation", "moving companies Rochester NY"]
---

If you're moving from Rochester to Florida, the pitch sells itself — trading 77 inches of annual snow for year-round warmth is not a difficult decision. But before you start collecting quotes, it helps to know what this roughly 1,300-mile move actually costs, which Rochester movers are worth calling, and what the financial reality looks like once you arrive. That's what I've put together here.

## Local Moving Companies in Rochester for Your Move to Florida

Out of 9 Rochester movers I've reviewed that handle state-to-state moves, these five earned the strongest marks for long-haul routes like Rochester to Florida:

1. **Sheridan Brothers Moving** — 4.64 / 5
2. **Interior Moving Services Inc** — 4.52 / 5
3. **Corrigan Moving Systems** — 4.36 / 5
4. **Clark Moving & Storage** — 4.36 / 5
5. **Bauer & Son Moving** — 4.26 / 5

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### Sheridan Brothers Moving

2436 Innovation Way, BLDG 10, Rochester, NY 14607 | (585) 254-9000

- **Score:** 4.6 / 5
- **Positive reviews:** 71% | **Negative reviews:** 28%
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sheridan-brothers-moving-rochester-2) (72) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Sheridan+Brothers+Moving+Rochester%2C+NY+2436+Innovation+Way%2C+BLDG+10%2C+Rochester%2C+NY+14607) (249) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/rochester/profile/moving-companies/sheridan-brothers-moving-storage-0041-66006056)

Sheridan Brothers comes up frequently in Rochester for good reason — crews move fast, staff is generally professional, and pricing tends to match what was quoted. Across 291 reviews, 71% are positive. Customers point to efficient moves and polite movers. That said, 28% flagged damaged items, difficulty reaching the company after the move, or unresolved claims. That's a higher damage-complaint rate than you'd see at the top tier of long-distance movers. If you hire them, nail down the claims process before the truck leaves.

**State license:** 34026 · **DOT:** 2256609 · **In business:** 22 years

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, storage, fragile-only packing, safes

---

### Interior Moving Services Inc

157 La Grange Ave, Rochester, NY 14613 | (585) 288-8000

- **Score:** 4.5 / 5
- **Positive reviews:** 94% | **Negative reviews:** 4%
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/interior-moving-services-rochester-7) (33) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=interior+moving+services+rochester+ny) (408) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/rochester/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/interior-moving-services-inc-0041-32419)

A 94% positive rate across 256 reviews is genuinely impressive — that's well above what most movers achieve. Customers consistently call out efficient service, careful handling, clear communication, and final bills that tracked with the original estimate. Negative reviews mention occasional damage, unexpected charges, or a slow crew, but they're rare. Interior Moving Services has been operating for 32 years, and the review pattern reflects a company that has dialed in the basics and keeps executing them consistently.

**State license:** 32014 · **DOT:** 1498819 · **In business:** 32 years

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, storage, fragile-only packing, safes

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### Corrigan Moving Systems

150 Jarley Rd, Rochester, NY 14623 | (585) 647-9030

- **Score:** 4.3 / 5
- **Positive reviews:** 91% | **Negative reviews:** 7%
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/corrigan-moving-systems-rochester-2) (15) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=corrigan+moving+systems+rochester+ny) (233) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/rochester/profile/moving-companies/corrigan-moving-systems-0041-31669)

Corrigan operates as a [United Van Lines](/company/united-van-lines) agent out of Rochester — which matters on a move this long. A major-carrier network means more predictable delivery windows and established claims processes. With 100 years in business and 91% positive reviews across 183 entries, they have the infrastructure to manage a Rochester-to-Florida haul. Customers highlight reliable timing, smooth coordination, and professional crews. Occasional negatives — damaged items, rushed jobs, stalled claims — are infrequent but real. Before booking, ask specifically what delivery window they'll commit to for your Florida destination.

**State license:** 779 · **DOT:** 77949 · **In business:** 100 years

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, crating, storage

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### Clark Moving & Storage

3680 Buffalo Rd, Rochester, NY 14624 | (585) 594-5000

- **Score:** 4.3 / 5
- **Positive reviews:** 89% | **Negative reviews:** 10%
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/clark-moving-and-storage-rochester-2) (12) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=clark+moving+and+storage+rochester+ny) (155) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/rochester/profile/moving-companies/clark-moving-storage-0041-31646)

Clark operates under the [Mayflower](/company/mayflower) banner — another major-carrier agent, which is a legitimate advantage on a haul stretching 1,300 miles. Across 176 reviews, 89% are positive. Customers describe punctual crews, careful handling, and transparent quotes. The remaining 10% flag delayed deliveries, some damage, and communication issues that proved hard to resolve. Worth having a direct conversation about their delivery timeline and damage claim procedure before you sign anything.

**State license:** 10965 · **DOT:** 125563 · **In business:** 40 years

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, storage

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### Bauer & Son Moving

434 Elmgrove Rd, Rochester, NY 14606 | (585) 637-2013

- **Score:** 4.2 / 5
- **Positive reviews:** 93% | **Negative reviews:** 7%
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/bauer-and-son-moving-rochester) (2) · [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Bauer+%26+Son+Moving+Inc+Rochester,+NY) (97) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/rochester/profile/moving-companies/bauer-son-moving-0041-57101830)

A 93% positive rate across 105 reviews is strong. Customers praise professional staff, efficient moves, careful handling, and prices that match quoted rates. They're particularly well-reviewed for accommodating seniors and tricky situations. One important caveat: Bauer & Son currently lists only local moves in their services. Confirm interstate availability before counting on them for your Rochester-to-Florida move. A few reviewers also flagged damage and surprise minimum charges, so ask about both in your initial call.

**State license:** 10662 · **DOT:** 348429 · **In business:** 26 years

**Services:** Local moves, packing, offices, pianos, storage

---

## Local Moving Services in Rochester, NY

Quick look at specialty service availability across Rochester's mover pool:

- **Interstate capability:** 6 of 9 movers (67%)
- **Small moves:** 4 of 9 (44%)
- **Antiques:** 4 of 9 (44%)
- **Art:** 3 of 9 (33%)
- **Pianos:** 7 of 9 (78%)
- **Fragile-only packing:** 2 of 9 (22%)

## Cost to Move from Rochester, NY to Florida

This is a 1,297-mile move. Costs split significantly depending on how much help you want. Use our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to dial in a number based on your specific inventory and dates — but here's the ballpark by home size:

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $990 – $4,005 | $906 – $2,114 | $776 – $1,393 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,392 – $5,345 | $1,512 – $3,075 | $806 – $1,675 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,992 – $7,605 | $2,178 – $4,376 | $1,034 – $2,022 |

*Estimates based on a 1,297-mile move from Rochester, NY, to Florida as of January 2026. Your actual cost will vary based on load size, destination, access issues, fuel prices, and move date. Get multiple quotes before committing.*

### Cost to Hire Movers from Rochester to Florida

[Long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) handling a studio or one-bedroom typically run $990 to $4,005 on this route. A two- or three-bedroom move lands between $2,392 and $5,345. Large households — four-plus bedrooms — can reach $3,992 to $7,605. That wide range is real. Move date, Florida destination city, crew size, and add-on services all move the needle significantly.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Rochester to Florida

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are the middle-ground option — you pack on your schedule, they handle the driving. A studio or one-bedroom runs $906 to $2,114. Two or three bedrooms: $1,512 to $3,075. Four or more bedrooms: $2,178 to $4,376. If you're flexible on timing and willing to do your own packing, containers can meaningfully undercut full-service pricing.

### Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Rochester to Florida

[Renting a truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the lowest-cost option on paper — but you're paying with time and effort. You pack, you load, you drive 1,300 miles, then unload at the other end. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $776 to $1,393. Two or three bedrooms: $806 to $1,675. Four or more bedrooms: $1,034 to $2,022. Estimated fuel costs are baked into those figures.

## Factors Influencing Moving Costs from Rochester to FL

Three variables move your quote more than anything else:

- **Move size:** More items, bigger truck, higher cost — it compounds. Multi-floor homes and tricky access points also add to labor time.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season, both in Rochester and industry-wide. Fall or winter moves typically come with lower rates and more scheduling flexibility.
- **DIY vs. professional movers:** Going DIY cuts costs but adds real demands on a 1,300-mile haul. Professionals cost more but free up significant time and energy.

## What You Should Know Before Moving from Rochester to FL

### Compare Cost of Living: Rochester vs. Florida

Florida is more expensive than Rochester across most categories — not dramatically, but enough to budget for it before you arrive.

|  | Rochester, NY | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,250 | $1,444 |
| Average home cost | $200,576 | $392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,214 | $67,917 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 102 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.8% | 2.9% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 0.0% |

*Rochester sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Florida sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

The line items that matter most:

- **Rent** is about 16% higher in Florida than in Rochester.
- **Home prices** are roughly 96% higher. If you're buying, run the mortgage numbers carefully before you commit.
- **Per capita income** is about 6% higher in Florida — some offset, but not enough to cover the full housing gap.
- The overall **cost of living index** puts Florida at 102 versus Rochester's 89 — about 15% higher on average.
- **Unemployment** in Florida runs about 70% lower than in Rochester. The job market is a genuine advantage.
- Florida has **no state income tax**. Coming from [New York](/movers/new-york)'s 10.9% rate, that's a real difference in take-home pay.

### How Life is Different in Rochester, NY from Florida

|  | Rochester, NY | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 211,328 | 22,610,726 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59–38 | Republican 51–48 |
| Summer high | 82°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 17°F | 49°F |
| Annual rain | 33″ | 55″ |
| Annual snow | 77″ | 0″ |
| Crime index | 37.54 | 21.39 |

*Rochester sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Florida sources: Wikipedia, NeighborhoodScout.*

What actually changes when you land:

- **Politics:** Rochester leans heavily Democratic; Florida has trended Republican. If that matters to you, factor it into your specific destination choice within the state.
- **Summer heat:** Florida peaks around 91°F versus Rochester's 82°F. Plan for higher cooling costs year-round.
- **Winter:** Rochester's 17°F lows and 77 inches of snow versus Florida's 49°F winter lows and zero snow. That one number drives a lot of these moves.
- **Rain:** Florida gets about 55 inches annually versus Rochester's 33. More humidity, more afternoon thunderstorms — it's not all sunshine.
- **Crime:** Florida's crime index (21.39) is meaningfully lower than Rochester's (37.54). That's a real quality-of-life factor, not just a stat.

### Other Considerations When Moving to Florida

Moving to [Florida](/movers/florida) involves logistics beyond finding a mover. A few things to sort before moving day:

- **HOA rules:** Many Florida communities have HOAs with specific move-in procedures. Check before you schedule.
- **Elevator reservation:** If you're moving into a building with an elevator, reserve it in advance — most buildings require it.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some cities require permits for moving vehicles. Confirm with your destination municipality ahead of time.
- **State licensing:** Florida movers must register annually with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Verify your mover's license before signing a contract.
- **State regulator:** You can check a Florida moving license directly on the state's official regulatory site.
- **Moving permits:** Florida doesn't require general moving permits, but check local parking restrictions at your specific destination.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change-of-address form at least a week before your move to keep mail flowing without a gap.
- **Moving insurance:** Released Value Protection is included at no charge by movers, but it only covers $0.60 per pound per item — not enough for anything valuable. Ask your mover about Full Value Protection, or look at third-party coverage. Review our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to make sure you've handled everything before the truck shows up.

### Things to Do in Florida

Once you're settled, here's what you're working with:

**Museums**
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum

**Parks**
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest

**Sports Teams**
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

**Universities**
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Rochester to Florida take?

Plan for three to eight days on average. The window depends on your mover's schedule, how far into Florida you're going, and whether you're moving during peak summer months — when timelines stretch. Get your delivery window in writing before you book.

### Do movers in Rochester offer custom crating services?

Five movers in Rochester list custom crating as a service — useful for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before booking, ask about crate dimensions and whether they build to custom specs for your specific pieces.

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

[Auto transport](/best/car-shipping) is the practical call on a 1,300-mile move. Driving the car yourself adds mileage, wear, and time to an already demanding relocation. Use our [car shipping calculator](/calculator/car-shipping) to estimate cost for the Rochester-to-Florida route.

### Why are people moving from Rochester to Florida?

Weather is the main driver — and it's not hard to understand why. Rochester averages some of the worst winters in the Northeast. Florida's climate, lower crime index, zero income tax, and stronger job market make it one of the most consistent destinations for upstate New York relocators.

### Where can I find long-distance movers in Rochester?

The five companies above are my top picks for [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) from Rochester. Get quotes from more than one — pricing and availability vary significantly by move date and specific Florida destination.

### Is cash an option to pay for a move from Rochester, NY?

None of the Rochester movers I've reviewed currently accept cash. The industry has largely moved to card or ACH payments, which create a verifiable record for both sides. You'll typically pay a deposit to hold your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm the timeline and accepted payment methods directly with your mover.

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Ready to get moving? [Compare quotes](/calculator) from Rochester movers and see who has availability on your date.