Best Arizona to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Arizona to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,357 mile AZ to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 87 Arizona to Iowa 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Arizona compared to Iowa. 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.

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Best Arizona to Iowa Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
3Adamantine Spine Moving9.449.28Authorized For Property, HHG
4New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
5Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.319.18Authorized For HHG
6Camelback Moving9.309.3Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Arizona to Iowa?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,357 miles from Arizona to Iowa will cost on average $2,935 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom AZ to IA move is roughly $7,065. 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 in Arizona and dropoff in Iowa 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 Arizona to Iowa movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,972300 ft³$6.57
1 Bedroom$2,935450 ft³$6.52
2 Bedrooms$4,855750 ft³$6.47
3 Bedrooms$7,0651100 ft³$6.42
4 Bedrooms$10,1961600 ft³$6.37
5+ Bedrooms$11,3811800 ft³$6.32
*Please note: These Arizona to Iowa moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & Iowa. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AZ to IA mover.
Arizona iconArrow iconIowa icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Arizona guide.

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Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 898+ data points

2815 36th St

Des Moines, IA, 50310

About Adamantine Spine Moving

With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 1,160+ data points

656 S Governor St

Iowa City, IA, 52240

About Adamantine Spine Moving

Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transport your...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.31/10
based on 3,672+ data points

4012 W Turney Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85019

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Camelback Moving Logo

Camelback Moving

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 7,470+ data points

2330 N 31st Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85009

About Camelback Moving

Camelback Moving has been operating in the Phoenix area for over 15 years as one of the area's largest independently-owned moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Commercial & Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1635834 / 603040

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans20
Registered Drivers34
Total Annual Miles Moved605,200 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Arizona to Iowa

Making a move is never an easy decision, and comparing the pros and cons of living between Arizona and Iowa offers an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks of such a relocation. This comparison can guide you in your decision-making process by highlighting the key differences in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities between the two states.

CONs
PROs
Arizona iconArizona
  • Extremely hot summers
  • Traffic congestion in Phoenix
  • Limited water resources
  • High cost of living
Iowa iconIowa
  • Moderate summer temperatures
  • Less traffic in Des Moines
  • Abundant water supply
  • Lower cost of living
Iowa iconIowa
  • Cold and snowy winters
  • Lack of mountain ranges
  • Shorter outdoor season
Arizona iconArizona
  • Sunny and warm
  • Desert landscapes
  • Year-round outdoor activities

While Arizona boasts a sunny climate that supports year-round outdoor activities, you might find Iowa's moderate summer temperatures a welcome change, especially if you're moving from Phoenix, where traffic can be a daily headache. Des Moines offers less congestion and a vibrant cultural scene with local attractions such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the historic East Village. Moreover, the cost of living in Iowa is generally more affordable, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. On the other hand, prepare yourself for Iowa's cold and snowy winters, a significant shift from the warm, arid climate typical of Arizona. The lack of desert landscapes and the presence of prairies instead of mountains might also influence your decision, depending on your preference for natural scenery.

Arizona vs. Iowa Food Guide

Food is a crucial part of understanding local culture and what living in a new area will be like. In our guide, we'll delve into this comparison of the local cuisine between Arizona & Iowa to equip you with insights about the food scenes in both states before you make your move.

Arizona
Iowa
Most iconic local food item
Navajo Taco
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Grilled Pork Chops
Most popular street food item
Street Tacos
Corn Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tacos
Vegan Cornbread
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • El Charro Café
  • Barrio Café
  • Amana Colonies
  • Zombie Burger
  • Machine Shed Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Arizona, you'll find a vibrant food scene steeped in Mexican-inspired dishes, with street tacos being a staple across the state, particularly in the bustling neighborhoods of Phoenix and Tucson. Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, known for its artisanal pizzas, has earned national acclaim. Conversely, Iowa is renowned for its hearty comfort foods, with the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich epitomizing local cuisine. In Des Moines, the Machine Shed Restaurant celebrates Iowa's agricultural heritage with farm-to-table dining. Whether you're after innovative vegan options or classic comfort foods, both states offer unique gastronomic experiences reflective of their diverse cultures.

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Arizona vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects between Arizona and Iowa compare can greatly influence your decision. This comparison elucidates costs, architectural styles, walkability, and more to give a comprehensive overview.

Arizona
Iowa
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial, Pueblo Revival
Prairie Style, Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Swimming pools, air conditioning
Energy efficiency, large backyards

When comparing Arizona to Iowa in terms of real estate, there are evident disparities that may influence your decision. Arizona's median home price is significantly higher than Iowa's, reflecting the state's popular cities and desert landscape. However, this is balanced with amenities like swimming pools and air conditioning to combat the hot climate. Iowa, known for its scenic plains and quieter lifestyle, boasts more affordable housing and places a higher value on space and energy efficiency. Both states offer unique architectural styles that mirror their cultural and environmental characteristics. Reflecting on these differences can help you align your housing preferences with your lifestyle and budget.

Arizona vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Arizona to Iowa, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will illuminate how drastically your environment will change, emphasizing the importance of preparing for Arizona's heat versus Iowa's diverse seasons.

Arizona
Iowa
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Heatwaves
Tornadoes, Blizzards
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

104°F/83°F
85°F/64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

67°F/46°F
31°F/14°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

13
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
36


Moving from Arizona's desert climate to Iowa's continental climate presents substantial changes, especially in humidity levels and the variety of natural disasters encountered. Arizona's low humidity and annual high temperatures facilitate outdoor activities year-round, albeit with the risk of wildfires and heatwaves. In contrast, Iowa experiences a wider range of temperatures and significant snowfall, requiring adjustments to winter driving and home maintenance. The higher humidity in Iowa also demands considerations for comfort and health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions or allergies. Awaiting you in Iowa are the joys of distinct seasons, each bringing its unique set of outdoor experiences, from lush springs and warm summers to colorful autumns and snowy winters.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Arizona to Iowa

When planning a move from Arizona to Iowa, understanding the financial contrasts is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in average household income, cost of living, and taxes between Arizona and Iowa , helping you to gauge how your expenses and lifestyle might shift.

Arizona
Iowa
Avg. Household Income
$74,568
$69,588
Cost of Living Index
101.2
95.9
State Income Tax
2.59 - 4.50
0.33 - 8.53
Avg. Property Tax
0.72
1.53
Avg. Sales Tax
8.4
6.8
Top 3 Industries
Aerospace, Electronics, Healthcare
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Financial Services
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate to high
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
High
Low

While the average household incomes in Arizona and Iowa are similar, significant differences exist in the cost of living and tax rates, which can impact your budget after your move. Iowa's lower cost of living index suggests that your everyday expenses, such as housing, utilities, and groceries, will generally be less expensive compared to Arizona. However, the state's higher property tax rate is something to consider if you plan to purchase a home. Additionally, differences in the top industries between the two states highlight potential career opportunities or shifts that you may encounter. Understanding these financial aspects is essential in preparing for a successful transition.

Arizona vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

In this guide, we're providing a quick comparison to give you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Arizona & Iowa. This should help you understand the cultural shift you might experience as you move from the desert landscapes of Arizona to the rolling fields of Iowa.

Arizona
Iowa
Political Make-up
Moderate, leans Republican
Largely Republican, with Democratic strongholds
Local Politics
Focus on immigration, water rights
Emphasis on agriculture, renewable energy
Religion
Christian (Catholic and Evangelical), Non-religious
Christian (Protestant and Catholic), Non-religious

When shifting from Arizona to Iowa, you'll notice that while both states have a strong Christian presence, the dominant denominations shift from Catholic and Evangelical in Arizona to Protestant and Catholic in Iowa. Politically, both states exhibit a blend of ideologies, but Iowa tends to have a more pronounced Republican leaning, particularly in rural areas, compared to Arizona's moderate stance that teeters between parties. Local issues also vary greatly; where Arizona grapples with immigration and water rights due to its desert climate, Iowa's concerns lean towards agriculture and renewable energy initiatives.

Education Guide When Moving from Arizona to Iowa

To make your transition smoother from Arizona to Iowa, it's vital to compare the educational landscapes between the two states. This will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Arizona and Iowa . Knowing where the top educational institutions lie will guide you in making the best decision for your family's needs.

ArizonaIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Arizona
Arizona State University
Northern Arizona University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Knox Gifted Academy (Chandler)
Basis Oro Valley (Oro Valley)
Basis Chandler (Chandler)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Basis Chandler (Chandler)
Basis Peoria (Peoria)
Preparatory Academy (Gilbert)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
Southeast Junior High (Iowa City)

Top 3 High Schools

Basis Scottsdale (Scottsdale)
Basis Peoria (Peoria)
Basis Tucson North (Tucson)
West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Decorah High School (Decorah)

Top 3 private high schools

Brophy College Preparatory (Phoenix)
Xavier College Preparatory (Phoenix)
The Gregory School (Tucson)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Wahlert Catholic High School (Dubuque)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Phoenix Country Day School (Paradise Valley)
The Gregory School (Tucson)
Rancho Solano Preparatory School (Scottsdale)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)

Top 3 School Districts

Scottsdale Unified School District
Chandler Unified School District
Gilbert Public Schools
Ames Community School District
Iowa City Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools

When comparing the educational opportunities between Arizona and Iowa, notable distinctions emerge. For instance, Arizona's Basis Scottsdale and Basis Peoria are nationally recognized for their rigorous academic programs, focusing heavily on STEM education. In contrast, Iowa's top schools like West High School in Iowa City and Ames High School in Ames are well-rounded with strong programs in both the arts and sciences, indicating a more balanced educational approach. Iowa's school districts, such as the Ames Community School District and Iowa City Community School District, are noted for their inclusiveness and commitment to quality education across all grades, mirroring the community-centric approach of Iowa's educational system. On the other hand, Arizona's top districts like Chandler and Scottsdale are celebrated for their innovative curriculums and state-of-the-art facilities, highlighting the state’s investment in educational reform and technology.

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