Moving to Rochester
Rochester, New York, located along Lake Ontario, is a city with a population of about 210,000 and a metro area exceeding 1 million. Known as the “Flower City” for its historic horticultural industry, Rochester has grown into a hub for education, healthcare, and technology. With a low cost of living compared to many U.S. cities, Rochester appeals to families, professionals, and retirees seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. The city offers cultural richness, strong educational institutions, and easy access to outdoor recreation, making it a balanced and appealing relocation destination.
Why More People Are Moving from Other States to Rochester
Rochester is attracting newcomers from larger metropolitan areas like New York City, Boston, and Chicago due to its affordability and quality of life. Families move here for safe neighborhoods and excellent schools. Professionals benefit from a growing tech and healthcare job market, while retirees are drawn to affordable housing and cultural amenities. Its location near the Finger Lakes, Lake Ontario, and upstate New York’s scenic beauty adds to its desirability.
Pros of Living in Rochester
Rochester offers many strengths. Housing is affordable, and the cost of living is lower than the national average. The city is home to strong educational institutions, including the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Cultural life is vibrant, with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, museums, and annual festivals. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with access to the Finger Lakes, skiing, and Lake Ontario. Rochester provides the amenities of a larger city with the affordability and convenience of a smaller one.
Ready to get moved? Get a FREE quote now
Cons of Living in Rochester
Rochester also has challenges. Winters are cold and snowy, with long periods of gray weather. While the economy has diversified, wages are often lower than in larger cities. Some neighborhoods face economic challenges and higher crime rates. Public transportation is limited, and most residents rely on cars for commuting. Despite these drawbacks, the affordability and quality of life keep attracting new residents.
What Life is Like in Rochester
Life in Rochester is affordable, community-driven, and balanced. Families enjoy good schools, safe neighborhoods, and recreational programs. Retirees appreciate healthcare services, cultural institutions, and affordable living. Professionals have access to growing job opportunities in healthcare, education, and technology. Daily life often includes attending festivals like the Lilac Festival, visiting the Strong National Museum of Play, or exploring parks and trails along the Genesee River. Rochester blends affordability, culture, and community.
Living Costs in Rochester
| Category | Rochester | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per Month) | $1,150 | $1,570 |
| Utilities | $170 | $180 |
| Groceries | $315 | $330 |
| Transportation | $140 | $140 |
| Healthcare | $430 | $440 |
Rochester’s affordability, especially in housing, is one of its strongest draws, making it popular for families and young professionals.
Ready to get moved? Get a FREE quote now
Schools and Education in Rochester
Rochester is home to a diverse range of educational opportunities. The Rochester City School District offers public education, while private and charter schools provide alternatives. The city is notable for higher education, with institutions like the University of Rochester, RIT, and Nazareth College. These schools not only provide education but also drive innovation and cultural enrichment in the community.
Transportation and Getting Around
Rochester is primarily car-dependent, though the Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides bus service within the city. Interstate highways connect Rochester to Buffalo, Syracuse, and New York City. The Greater Rochester International Airport offers domestic flights, making travel convenient. While public transportation is limited, commute times are generally shorter than in larger cities.
United Local Movers: Our Services
Relocating to Rochester is simple with United Local Movers. We provide professional moving services, including local relocations, long-distance moves, packing services, and secure storage. Our experienced team ensures reliable service tailored to New York relocations. With transparent pricing and a customer-first approach, United Local Movers makes moving to Rochester stress-free.
Average Cost to Move to Rochester
| Move Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Move (1-2 Bedrooms) | $1,100–$1,800 |
| Cross-Country Move | $3,900–$6,900 |
| Full Packing Services | + $350–$850 |
| Storage Options | $160–$300 per month |
Relocation costs to Rochester are lower than to larger metros, making it an affordable choice for families and professionals.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
When moving to Rochester, it’s important to select a moving company with New York experience. Look for movers that are licensed, insured, and transparent in pricing. Strong reviews and flexible services like packing and storage add convenience. United Local Movers offers all these features, ensuring your move to Rochester is efficient, affordable, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Rochester, New York, combines affordability, culture, and access to education. While winters can be challenging and wages slightly lower, its affordable housing, cultural amenities, and strong job market make it a top relocation destination. Families, professionals, and retirees all benefit from what Rochester has to offer. With United Local Movers as your trusted partner, your move to Rochester will be seamless, reliable, and the start of an exciting new chapter in upstate New York.
