Best Mesa to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Mesa to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,490 mile move from Arizona to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Mesa to Des Moines 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 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Mesa compared to Des Moines. 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 Mesa to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
3New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
4Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.319.18Authorized For HHG
5Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Mesa to Des Moines?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,490 miles from Mesa, AZ to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,048 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Mesa to Des Moines move is roughly $7,341. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,047300 ft³$6.82
1 Bedroom$3,048450 ft³$6.77
2 Bedrooms$5,043750 ft³$6.72
3 Bedrooms$7,3411100 ft³$6.67
4 Bedrooms$10,5981600 ft³$6.62
5+ Bedrooms$11,8331800 ft³$6.57
*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.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Mesa guide.

Compare the 5 Best Mesa to Des Moines Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

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
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
3
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
4
Best Move Inc Logo

Best Move Inc

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 471+ data points

Burlington, IA, 52601

About Best Move Inc

Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its...

Services

  • Material Packing
  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Mesa vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a detailed comparison of the local neighborhoods between Mesa, AZ & Des Moines, IA. This will help you find a new neighborhood reminiscent of home, making your move a bit more comfortable.

MesaDes MoinesHow They're Similar
Las SendasSouth of GrandStately homes, historic charm
Alta MesaWaterburyClose-knit community, beautiful gardens
Dobson RanchBeaverdaleFamily-friendly, lush parks
Red Mountain RanchSherman HillHistoric architecture, vibrant community
MulberryWaveland ParkQuaint shops, community vibe
EastmarkJohnstonModern amenities, family-oriented
Mountain BridgeWindsor HeightsSerene landscapes, convenient location
Tuscany VillasIngersoll ParkTrendy restaurants, boutique shopping
Groves of Hermosa VistaDrake NeighborhoodArtsy scene, collegiate energy
Leisure WorldSouthwestern HillsQuiet, established community

In Des Moines, neighborhoods like Waterbury echo the tight-knit community feel of Alta Mesa in Mesa, with lush gardens and friendly neighbors at every turn. Sherman Hill's historical architecture and vibrant community spirit closely mirror that of Red Mountain Ranch, making it an attractive option for those in search of a neighborhood with character and charm. Beaverdale offers a family-friendly atmosphere akin to Dobson Ranch, boasting delightful parks such as Witmer Park, perfect for weekend outings. Moreover, Ingersoll Park's trendy restaurants and boutique shopping offer a lively scene comparable to Tuscany Villas, with popular spots like The Cheese Shop of Des Moines and Bauder Pharmacy capturing the hearts of locals and newcomers alike.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Mesa to Des Moines

Moving between cities is a major life decision, which is why it's crucial to consider both the pros and cons of such a move. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Mesa, AZ to Des Moines, IA , highlighting the differences you might experience. Understand what you’re gaining and what you might be leaving behind, spotlighting meaningful insights into your possible new home and past abode.

CONs
PROs
Mesa, AZ iconMesa, AZ
  • Higher temperatures
  • Less greenery
  • Scarce public transport
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Four seasons
  • Lush landscapes
  • Better public transport
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Cold winters
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer outdoor options
Mesa, AZ iconMesa, AZ
  • Warm winters
  • Active nightlife
  • More outdoor activities

Moving from the sun-drenched city of Mesa, with its year-long warm weather, presents a significant change when arriving in Des Moines where you'll experience the beauty of four distinct seasons. For those who cherish outdoor adventures, Mesa's proximity to deserts and mountains like the Superstition Mountains offers vast exploration opportunities. Contrastingly, Des Moines, despite its quieter nightlife, boasts a welcoming community with gems like the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and cultural hotspots such as the Des Moines Performing Arts. Moreover, Des Moines' evolving culinary scene, with restaurants like Alma, a testament to its growing diversity and charm, provides a rich tapestry of new flavors to explore, offsetting what might be missed from Mesa's vibrant dining and social life.

Mesa vs. Des Moines Food Guide

Understanding the nuances of local cuisine can greatly impact your experience in a new city. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Mesa, AZ & Des Moines, IA . Food not only reflects the culture but also what daily life could taste like. Let's dive into the food scene of both cities to help you make an informed decision about your move.

Mesa
Des Moines
Most iconic local food item
Navajo Taco
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Smoked Brisket
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Corn Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Bobby Q
  • Tacos Chiwas
  • Republica Empanada
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Centro
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Des Moines, IA means embracing a diverse and growing food scene, where the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich represents a taste of local tradition. You'll find smoked brisket at esteemed establishments like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, which combines unique flavors with a fun, post-apocalyptic theme. Furthermore, the neighborhood surrounding Fong’s Pizza is known for its broad culinary offerings, including inventive pizzas that blend Asian and Italian cuisines seamlessly. Des Moines might surprise you with its open arms to food trucks, despite scoring lower than Mesa; it's a city where new flavors and food experiences are always just around the corner.

Mesa vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering the local culinary scene can immediately make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition by matching top restaurants in Mesa, AZ with their equivalents in Des Moines, IA , ensuring you can find your new favorite spots without missing a beat.

MesaDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
Bobby Q - MesaSmitty’s Tenderloin ShopClassic American bites
Republica EmpanadaArepazo GrillDelicious Latin American cuisine
T.C. Eggington'sWaveland CafeQuintessential breakfast and brunch spot
Vito’s Pizza & Italian RistoranteGusto Pizza Co.Creative Italian dishes and pizzas
Red White & BrewCourt Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.Craft beers and hearty American fare
Arizona Wilderness DTPHXConfluence Brewing CompanyCraft beers with a local focus
Backyard TacoTacos Mariana’sAuthentic Mexican cuisine
Nunthaporn's Thai CuisineCool BasilTraditional Thai flavors and dishes
Green Corner RestaurantOlympic FlameMediterranean and Middle Eastern specialties
Jalapeño BucksFlying MangoBBQ and smoked meats with a unique twist

In both Mesa, AZ, and Des Moines, IA, the culinary scenes are vibrant, offering everything from authentic Latin American cuisine at Republica Empanada and Arepazo Grill, to classic American and Italian dishes found at Bobby Q and Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop or Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante and Gusto Pizza Co. If you're craving Thai, Nunthaporn's Thai Cuisine and Cool Basil both offer flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy. Craft beer enthusiasts transitioning from Arizona Wilderness DTPHX will find solace in Confluence Brewing Company’s commitment to local brewing. These pairings not only ensure that your favorite meals are within reach but also introduce you to the diverse culinary landscapes of your new home.

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Mesa vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate greatly influences the decision-making process when moving. Understanding how the housing markets of Mesa and Des Moines compare helps in making an informed choice. This comparison will provide insights into costs, lifestyle, and more between these cities.

Mesa
Des Moines
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch-style
Craftsman-style
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Pool, Garage
Backyard, Proximity to downtown

The difference in the median home price between Mesa and Des Moines is noticeable, presenting a significant factor for consideration. Mesa's preference for ranch-style homes aligns with its sprawling, outdoor lifestyle, often featuring amenities like pools reflecting the warmer climate. In contrast, Des Moines' craftsman-style homes and emphasis on backyards and proximity to downtown areas highlight a community-centric urban lifestyle. Additionally, Des Moines scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, suggesting a more densely packed life with easier access to amenities and social venues, which may appeal to those seeking a vibrant city experience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA

1. Beaverdale: You’ll love the abundance of parks and walking trails that make it easy to keep your furry friends active and happy.

2. Ingersoll Park: With pet-friendly cafes and easy access to local dog parks, you and your pet can enjoy everything the community has to offer.

3. Waveland Park: You’re never far from open spaces and trails, making it convenient for daily walks and outdoor pet activities.

Mesa vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another brings about many changes, and one of the most impactful is the weather. Understanding how the climate differs between Mesa, AZ, and Des Moines, IA, will help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather characteristics of each city to give you a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.

Mesa
Des Moines
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves, Dust Storms
Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms
Air Quality
Good to Moderate
Good to Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

104°F / 77°F
86°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

67°F / 41°F
33°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

9
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
33


When moving from Mesa to Des Moines, one of the most significant adjustments will be to the seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. Mesa enjoys over 300 days of sunshine with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for those who love warm, dry climates. In contrast, Des Moines experiences a more pronounced change between seasons, with colder winters that bring snow and warmer, humid summers. The difference in annual humidity levels is also notable, with Des Moines being significantly higher. This shift can impact not only your daily comfort but also activities and wardrobe choices. Familiarizing yourself with these weather differences will help ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Mesa to Des Moines

When planning a move from Mesa, AZ to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand the financial adjustments you'll face. This comparison will shed light on the differences in living costs and economic factors between the two cities. Emphasizing the comparison of Mesa and Des Moines in aspects such as income, taxes, and the overall economy will help you better prepare for your relocation.

Mesa
Des Moines
Avg. Household Income
$69,266
$60,693
Cost of Living Index
101.2
90.9
State Income Tax
2.59 - 4.50
0.33 - 8.53
Avg. Property Tax
0.62
1.56
Avg. Sales Tax
8.05
7
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Aerospace
Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
Higher
Poverty
Noticeable
Lower
Homelessness
Concerning
Managed

While Mesa boasts a warmer climate and a dynamic aerospace and health sector, Des Moines highlights a lower cost of living and a strong presence in finance and insurance industries. The disparity in average household income between Mesa and Des Moines could be attributed to Des Moines' concentration of higher-paying industries. Additionally, despite Des Moines having a potentially higher state income tax rate, it compensates with a lower cost of living index, enabling the residents to enjoy a relatively affordable lifestyle. The difference in sales tax also slightly favors Des Moines, presenting a minor but favorable financial perk. Understanding these nuances is vital in preparing for your move, especially when budgeting for housing, taxes, and daily expenses.

Mesa vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new community. This quick comparison between Mesa, AZ & Des Moines, IA offers a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand what to expect in terms of local governance, political leanings, and religious affiliations in your new home.

Mesa
Des Moines
Political Make-up
Conservative-leaning
More liberal-leaning
Local Politics
Republican governance
Democratic governance
Religion
Highly religious, significant LDS presence.
Diverse religious landscape with strong Christian communities.

When you're moving from Mesa to Des Moines, you'll encounter shifts not just in geography but in the political and religious landscapes. Mesa, known for its significant LDS community and conservative leanings, contrasts with Des Moines' more liberal stance and its diversity in religious affiliations. Understanding these differences enhances your ability to integrate and connect with your new community. Local politics can deeply influence city policies, public services, and community projects, making it advantageous to engage with and understand the governance of Des Moines. Whether you’re actively participating in your community or seeking to find a religious congregation that aligns with your beliefs, being informed enables a smoother transition.

Mesa vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Mesa, AZ to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic between these two cities. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Mesa & Des Moines will provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect when transitioning from one city to the other.

Mesa
Des Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
20
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
Somewhat easier

In Mesa, the average commute time is about 25 minutes, with a traffic congestion rating of 6 out of 10, suggesting moderate traffic. Public transit is available but with limitations, rated at 5 out of 10, meaning owning a car is almost essential. In contrast, Des Moines offers a slightly easier commuting experience with an average commute time of 20 minutes and lesser traffic congestion. Public transit in Des Moines is more accessible, scored at 6 out of 10, which makes it somewhat easier to get by without a car compared to Mesa. These factors could significantly impact your daily life and transportation planning when moving from Mesa to Des Moines.

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