Best California to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,855 mile CA to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 308 California 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California 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.
Best California to Iowa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.54 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 5 | Best California Movers | 9.53 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG |
| 6 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.44 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from California to Iowa?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,855 miles from California to Iowa will cost on average $3,359 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to IA move is roughly $8,100. 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 California 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 California to Iowa movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,254 | 300 ft³ | $7.51 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,359 | 450 ft³ | $7.46 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,560 | 750 ft³ | $7.41 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,100 | 1100 ft³ | $7.36 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,702 | 1600 ft³ | $7.31 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,075 | 1800 ft³ | $7.26 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to California guide.
Popular California to Iowa Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular California to Iowa Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best CA to IA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Chico, CA, 95973
About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
Adamantine Spine Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Adamantine Spine Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Iowa
Relocating from California to Iowa involves a complex mix of emotions due to the significant differences between these two states. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from California to Iowa , helping you make an informed decision.
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Wildfire risks
- Crowded cities
- High taxes
Iowa- Affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Safer environment
- Spacious landscapes
- Lower taxes
Iowa- Harsh winters
- Less diversity
- Fewer job opportunities
- Landlocked
- Limited dining options
California- Mild climate
- Cultural diversity
- Tech industry hub
- Beautiful coastlines
- Variety of restaurants
While California offers a mild climate, it's essential to weigh this against Iowa's harsh winters, which bring their own kind of charm with activities like skiing and ice fishing. The tech industry in California provides numerous job opportunities, contrasting with Iowa’s smaller job market, though it's known for its burgeoning agriculture sector. Cities like Los Angeles boast a variety of restaurants, but you’ll find a cozy charm and local delicacies in Iowa’s cities like Des Moines. While California's diverse culture is vibrant, Iowa's quieter lifestyle may come with a sense of community, highlighted by neighborhood parks such as Water Works Park in Des Moines and celebrated local events.
California vs. Iowa Food Guide
Food greatly influences our perception of a place, encapsulating its culture and lifestyle. Through this comparison of the local cuisine between California & Iowa , we aim to give you a taste of what each state offers. This may help better inform your decision on where you’d enjoy living and dining most.
- Chez Panisse
- Nobu Malibu
- The French Laundry
- The Iowa Pork Tent
- Zombie Burger + Shake Lab
- The Ronneburg Restaurant
In California, food is an adventure, with offerings like sushi and tri-tip BBQ showcasing the state’s diverse culinary landscape. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are meccas for food lovers, boasting an array of street food options, including the famed taco trucks. On the other hand, Iowa presents a heartwarming, homestyle cooking palette, with its iconic corn on the cob and pork tenderloin sandwiches representing the state’s agricultural heritage. Des Moines and Iowa City offer unique dining experiences such as The Iowa Pork Tent and Zombie Burger + Shake Lab, blending traditional tastes with modern culinary innovation. Whether you're a health enthusiast or a vegan, California's food scene caters generously to these lifestyles, while Iowa is making strides in offering more inclusive dining options.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the differences in real estate aspects between California and Iowa is crucial when planning a move. This comparison gives you a clear picture of what to expect in terms of housing, helping you make an informed decision.
The vast difference in median home prices reflects not just the market, but also the value of living in each state. For instance, California's appeal includes its modern architecture and close proximity to beaches, as highlighted in its real estate listings. This, coupled with a more developed urban lifestyle and better bikeability, caters to those seeking a vibrant, active life. On the other hand, Iowa offers affordable housing with its ranch and craftsman-style homes, catering to those who prefer spacious backyards and a closer connection to nature. While the walkability and bikeability scores are lower, the trade-off is a more laid-back, affordable way of life, underlining the differences in lifestyle preferences these states cater to.
California vs. Iowa Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between California and Iowa. This will help you prepare for the changes and ensure your new environment matches your expectations and needs.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from California to Iowa presents significant weather adjustments. For starters, you'll experience much colder winters in Iowa, with average lows dipping into the mid-teens, a stark contrast to California's milder winters. Furthermore, Iowa enjoys fewer days of sunshine, which could be a significant change if you're accustomed to California's sunnier skies. The higher annual rainfall and snowfall in Iowa also suggest a need for different clothing and driving habits, particularly in winter months. Understanding these differences will aid you in making a smooth transition to your new home in Iowa.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Iowa
When considering a move from one state to another, it's essential to understand how the cost of living and financial environment in California compares with Iowa. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect in terms of expenses, taxes, and overall economic climate.
In both California and Iowa, the financial landscape is shaped by varying factors, including income levels, cost of living, and major industries. California boasts a higher average household income, but this comes with a significantly higher cost of living index, driven by expensive housing and essentials. The state's progressive income tax rate is among the highest, which can impact your take-home pay. In contrast, Iowa offers a more affordable cost of living, with a considerably lower index, making it an attractive option for those looking for economic efficiency without sacrificing quality of life. Additionally, Iowa's property tax rate is higher, which is a crucial factor to consider when buying a home. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your move and manage your finances accordingly.
California vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison
This quick overview aims to give you a glimpse into the comparison of the politics between California & Iowa , providing insight into the political, and religious composition of these regions. Understanding these aspects will help you gauge the social climate you're moving into.
While both states showcase a rich tapestry of cultural and political ideologies, they diverge significantly in terms of their political and religious landscapes. California's political atmosphere is markedly liberal, especially in urban areas, and is known for its progressive stances on various issues, such as environmental protection and immigration reform. Additionally, California's religious makeup is quite diverse, reflecting its large population and multicultural communities. On the other hand, Iowa's political environment can be characterized as a swing state with a recent tendency to lean towards Republican ideologies, notably in rural areas. The state's governance often reflects conservative views, especially on matters like agriculture and gun rights. Furthermore, Iowa has a predominantly Christian population, with Protestants making up the majority. This divergence in political and religious makeup between California and Iowa highlights the variety of social climates found within the United States.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Iowa
When considering a move from California to Iowa, it's crucial to explore how education options compare across these states. This guide is designed to help you better understand the comparisons between school options in California and Iowa, covering various aspects of schooling from elementary to high school, including both public and private institutions.
| California | Iowa |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UCLA UC Berkeley StanfordUniversity of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern Iowa | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Orion Alternative (Redwood City) Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley) Pacific Elementary (Manhattan Beach)Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Rover Elementary (Sioux Center) North Bend Elementary (North Liberty) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Whale Gulch Middle (Whitethorn) Preuss School UCSD (La Jolla) Elkhorn (Lodi)Ames Middle (Ames) North Central Junior High (Coralville) Northwest Junior High (Coralville) | |
Top 3 High School Schools California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson) Oxford Academy (Cypress) Whitney High (Rocklin)Ames High (Ames) West High (Iowa City) Decorah High (Decorah) | |
Top 3 private high schools Harvard-Westlake (Studio City) Castilleja School (Palo Alto) The College Preparatory School (Oakland)Phillips Academy (Exeter) Phillips Exeter Academy (Andover) St. Paul's School (Concord) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Nueva School (Hillsborough) The Thacher School (Ojai) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)Maharishi School (Fairfield) Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) St. Albert Catholic Schools (Council Bluffs) | |
Top 3 School Districts San Mateo Union High Palo Alto Unified Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union HighIowa City Community School District Ames Community School District Decorah Community School District | |
Both California and Iowa boast highly ranked educational institutions, but they cater to different preferences and needs. For example, if you're moving with children, it's worth noting that while California's California Academy of Mathematics and Science is renowned for its STEM focus, Iowa's Ames High offers a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on community involvement. Private education looks different in each state too, with California's options like Harvard-Westlake offering a rigorous academic environment in urban settings, compared to Iowa's Maharishi School which delivers a unique consciousness-based education in a more rural setting. Essentially, your choice between the two states may come down to the kind of educational ethos and environment you wish for your children.
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