Best Chula Vista to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chula Vista to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,806 mile move from California to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Chula Vista 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 Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
2The Rock Movers9.509.53Authorized For HHG
3Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.499.62Authorized For HHG
4Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
5Vector Moving and Storage 8.858.84Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chula Vista to Des Moines?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,806 miles from Chula Vista, CA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,317 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chula Vista to Des Moines move is roughly $7,998. 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$2,226300 ft³$7.42
1 Bedroom$3,317450 ft³$7.37
2 Bedrooms$5,491750 ft³$7.32
3 Bedrooms$7,9981100 ft³$7.27
4 Bedrooms$11,5541600 ft³$7.22
5+ Bedrooms$12,9081800 ft³$7.17
*Please note: These California to Iowa moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & 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 CA to IA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Chula Vista guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chula Vista to Des Moines Movers

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

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
1
The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,100+ data points

7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306

San Diego, CA, 92111

About The Rock Movers

The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 421+ data points

2020 Camino De La Reina

San Diego, CA, 92108

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Vector Moving and Storage  Logo

Vector Moving and Storage

Superb8.85/10
based on 3,319+ data points

6920 Miramar Rd # 305

San Diego, CA, 92121

About Vector Moving and Storage

Vector Moving and Storage was founded in San Diego, CA, in 2010 on the principles of customer satisfaction, honest pricing, and...

Services

  • Local moving services in San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, and more
  • Long distance moving services, including dedicated truck and trailer options
  • Packing services, including furniture, kitchen and furniture, and full-service packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3152229 / 105580

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved210,000 (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.

Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

Moving cities can be daunting, especially when the new city feels unfamiliar. This comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chula Vista, CA & Des Moines, IA is designed to help ease your transition by matching you with similar neighborhoods in your new city. Whether you're looking for a vibrant community, peaceful living, or something in between, understanding the closest neighborhood similarities can help you feel right at home faster.

Chula VistaDes MoinesHow They're Similar
EastlakeJohnstonFamily-friendly, suburban feel
Otay RanchWaukeeRapidly growing, community-oriented
Rancho del ReyUrbandaleQuiet, with good schools
Rolling Hills RanchCliveGreen spaces, upscale living
SunbowWest Des MoinesShopping, dining options
Terra NovaAnkenySafe, with recreational parks
Eastlake WoodsGrimesQuiet, family-oriented, growing community
Eastlake GreensAltoonaAmenities-rich, family-friendly
Montecito RidgeNorwalkSmall-town feel, modern conveniences
Lomas VerdesPleasant HillSuburban comfort, easy city access

In exploring these neighborhood parallels, you'd find, for instance, the charm of Eastlake in Chula Vista is mirrored in Johnston with its family-centric atmosphere and suburban comfort. Otay Ranch's community-oriented vibe finds a counterpart in Waukee, celebrated for its rapid growth and strong sense of community. If you're drawn to the serene, green living of Rolling Hills Ranch, Clive's expansive greenbelts and upscale neighborhoods would feel like home. Not to overlook, those moving from Sunbow with its easy access to shopping and dining would appreciate West Des Moines for similar reasons, where destinations like Jordan Creek Town Center provide a blend of retail, entertainment, and dining options that cater to every taste. This comparative guide serves not just to familiarize you with your new surroundings but to ensure the transition to Des Moines brings with it the comfort of home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chula Vista to Des Moines

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that deserves a thorough examination of its pros and cons. This comparison is dedicated to offering an honest reflection of the good and bad aspects of relocating from Chula Vista, CA, to Des Moines, IA. Understanding these factors will help make your transition as smooth as possible.

CONs
PROs
Chula Vista, CA iconChula Vista, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Less seasonal change
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Distinct seasons
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Colder winters
  • No beaches
  • Smaller city vibe
Chula Vista, CA iconChula Vista, CA
  • Warm weather year-round
  • Beaches nearby
  • Vibrant culture

While the higher cost of living and traffic congestion can be significant drawbacks in Chula Vista, the move to Des Moines offers a refreshing change with its lower cost of living and less traffic, making daily commutes more manageable. Des Moines celebrates distinct seasons, welcoming a picturesque winter that Chula Vista lacks, yet this comes with the challenge of facing colder winters. However, Des Moines isn't without its charm; places like the Pappajohn Sculpture Park offer cultural excursions, and neighborhoods such as the East Village are known for their eclectic shops and restaurants like Zombie Burger. While you might miss Chula Vista's beaches and year-round warmth, Des Moines introduces you to a vibrant cultural scene and a community-centric lifestyle that's just as enriching.

Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Food Guide

When relocating, the flavors and dining experiences of a new city can greatly impact your lifestyle and satisfaction. This is why we're comparing the local cuisine between Chula Vista & Des Moines ; to give you a taste of what each location has to offer. This comparison will help you understand the food scene in your new city.

Chula Vista
Des Moines
Most iconic local food item
Carne Asada Fries
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada Tacos
Grilled Pork Chops
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Corn Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tacos
Vegan Buddha Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Tacos El Machin
  • Italianissimo Trattoria
  • Karina's Ceviche & More
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Django
  • Smokin' in the City BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In Chula Vista, the thriving food scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to Mexico, offering an array of authentic Mexican cuisine, such as the famed Carne Asada fries and tacos. Streets lined with food trucks near vibrant neighborhoods like Third Avenue Village showcase the city's passion for street food and its commitment to inclusivity with mouth-watering vegan options like vegan tacos. On the other hand, Des Moines presents a blend of traditional American dishes with a modern twist, with the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich standing as a testament to the city's culinary culture. Establishments such as Fong's Pizza and Django highlight Des Moines' unique approach to dining, combining creativity and tradition. While each city has its distinct flavor, both cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences, making them exciting culinary destinations.

Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Chula Vista and Des Moines is designed to ease the transition by guiding you to your new favorite eateries, using your current favorites as a stepping stone. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide will help make Des Moines feel like home.

Chula VistaDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
Italianissimo TrattoriaCentroUrban Italian vibes with a broad menu
Zorbas Greek BuffetStratos Greek TavernaAuthentic Greek dishes and atmosphere
Tacos El GordoTamales IndustryMexican street food classics
Novo Brazil Brewing Co.Confluence Brewing CompanyCraft beers and a local hangout scene
Mangia ItalianoBaratta'sHomestyle Italian, perfect for family dining
Pho Hiep GrillPho Real Kitchen & BarAuthentic Pho and Vietnamese cuisine
Mariscos El PulpoMi PatriaEcuadorian seafood specialties, offering a Latin touch
La Bella Pizza GardenFong's PizzaUnique pizza offerings with an imaginative twist
Lolita's Taco ShopEl Bait ShopMassive beer selection and Mexican favorites
PuestoMallo Latin KitchenModern Latin cuisine with fresh, vibrant flavors

The transition from Chula Vista's diverse dining scene to Des Moines's equally eclectic eateries can be made smoother with familiarity. For instance, transitioning from the authentic Greek dishes of Zorbas Greek Buffet to Stratos Greek Taverna in Des Moines will be comforting for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine, offering a similar authentic atmosphere and menu. Fans of craft beer and a lively atmosphere will appreciate the local vibes at Confluence Brewing Company, mirroring the community-centric brewing culture of Novo Brazil Brewing Co. Meanwhile, the move from Puesto’s modern takes on Mexican cuisine to Mallo Latin Kitchen introduces a seamless shift to inventive Latin dishes in a new city, highlighting the rich flavors and culinary creativity found in both Chula Vista and Des Moines.

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Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current and future city is crucial. This comparison focuses on housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle between Chula Vista, CA, and Des Moines, IA, providing a clearer picture of what to expect.

Chula Vista
Des Moines
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish and Mediterranean
Craftsman and Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Ocean Views, Open Floor Plans
Spacious Yards, Proximity to Parks

While Chula Vista offers picturesque Spanish and Mediterranean-style homes often boasting ocean views and open floor plans, Des Moines' real estate landscape is rich with charming Craftsman and Ranch-style homes, noted for their spacious yards and proximity to green spaces. The contrast in median home prices and rent reflects the broader cost of living adjustments you'll encounter, making Des Moines an attractive option for those seeking more affordable housing. Notably, Des Moines outperforms Chula Vista in terms of bikeability, encouraging a more active, outdoor lifestyle amidst its wealth of parks and recreation areas.

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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.

Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Chula Vista, CA to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand how the weather conditions will shift. By comparing the weather characteristics of your current location to your future home, you can better prepare for the changes in your daily life and seasonal activities. This comparison aims to highlight the essential weather differences you should expect.

Chula Vista
Des Moines
Days of Sunshine per Year
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☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

72°F/63°F
86°F/65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

66°F/50°F
33°F/18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

10
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
36


If you're moving from Chula Vista to Des Moines, brace yourself for more distinct seasons in your new home. While Chula Vista offers a mild, comfortable climate year-round, Des Moines presents a more varied experience with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Notably, Des Moines has fewer sunny days and a higher average humidity than Chula Vista. Additionally, the switch from concerns over earthquakes and wildfires to preparing for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms is a significant change. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the new outdoor activities, wardrobe essentials, and home maintenance tasks that come with life in Iowa.

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

Moving from one location to another is a significant step, especially when considering finances. This comparison aims to enlighten you on how the cost of living and economic factors in Chula Vista, CA versus Des Moines, IA will impact your wallet. Understanding these differences is crucial in planning your move and setting up your new life.

Chula Vista
Des Moines
Avg. Household Income
$91,949
$60,693
Cost of Living Index
136.4
90.9
State Income Tax
13.3%
8.98%
Avg. Property Tax
0.72%
1.56%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.75%
7%
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Retail, Health Services
Finance, Insurance, Health Services
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate to High
Poverty
Moderate
Low to Moderate
Homelessness
High
Moderate

When you move from Chula Vista to Des Moines, you'll find a significant difference in the cost of living. The index shows Des Moines as more affordable, with housing likely being the most noticeable difference. Despite a higher average property tax rate in Des Moines, the overall expense for homeowners can be lower due to the markedly reduced cost of real estate compared to Chula Vista. Additionally, your income might stretch further in Des Moines despite the average household income being lower. It’s also interesting to note the difference in top industries, potentially impacting job opportunities in your field. Des Moines's prominence in the finance and insurance sectors could offer unique career paths not as readily available in Chula Vista.

Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another brings a world of change, especially when it comes to understanding the local culture and community. In this quick guide, we aim to provide you with a comparison of the politics and religion between Chula Vista & Des Moines , giving you a snapshot of what to expect from the community makeup in both cities. This insight could help ease your transition and better integrate into your new home.

Chula Vista
Des Moines
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Swing City, leans Democratic
Local Politics
Liberal on social issues
Mix of liberal and conservative views
Religion
Christian dominated, with a significant Catholic presence
Diverse religious landscape with strong Christian roots

Chula Vista and Des Moines, though both have a tendency to lean Democratic politically, showcase a variation in the balance of political views at the local level. Chula Vista residents typically hold liberal views especially on social issues, whereas Des Moines presents a more nuanced mix of liberal and conservative perspectives, reflecting its role as a swing city in national elections. When it comes to religion, both cities have a strong Christian presence. However, Des Moines offers a more diverse religious landscape compared to the significant Catholic influence in Chula Vista. Understanding these differences can be crucial for your adaptation to the community dynamics of your new home.

Chula Vista vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chula Vista & Des Moines is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving from one city to the other.

Chula Vista
Des Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
20
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Possible but limited

In Chula Vista, the average commute time might be longer due to higher traffic congestion, ranking at 7 out of 10. This highlights the city's bustling nature and how it can affect your daily commute. In contrast, Des Moines enjoys less congestion, with a score of 4 out of 10, making it easier for you to get around the city. While public transit is available in both cities, with Chula Vista scoring a bit higher in availability, getting by without a car in either town comes with its own set of challenges. In Chula Vista, the public transit system, including the San Diego Trolley's Blue Line, helps connect residents to downtown San Diego, but the city's sprawling layout makes a car necessary for more extensive commuting. Des Moines, despite a lower public transit score, also offers several bus routes through the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority, though similarly to Chula Vista, a car might still be the more convenient option for total access.

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