Best Stockton to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Stockton to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,802 mile move from California to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Stockton 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 Stockton 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 Stockton to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
2All-Star Movers & Storage9.309.27Authorized For Property, HHG
3Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
4Accurate Piano MOvers9.069.54Authorized For HHG
5Fairprice Movers8.939.09Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,802 miles from Stockton, CA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,314 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Stockton to Des Moines move is roughly $7,990. 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$2,224300 ft³$7.41
1 Bedroom$3,314450 ft³$7.36
2 Bedrooms$5,485750 ft³$7.31
3 Bedrooms$7,9901100 ft³$7.26
4 Bedrooms$11,5421600 ft³$7.21
5+ Bedrooms$12,8951800 ft³$7.16
*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 Stockton guide.

Compare the 5 Best Stockton 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
All-Star Movers & Storage Logo

All-Star Movers & Storage

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 1,026+ data points

2256 N MacArthur Dr

Tracy, CA, 95376

About All-Star Movers & Storage

Based in Manteca, locally-owned and operated All-Star Movers & Storage has over two decades of moving experience under its belt. Serving...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Commercial movers
  • In-state moves and local moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2971368 / 10247

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved59,102 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
Accurate Piano MOvers Logo

Accurate Piano MOvers

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 589+ data points

Estrella Ave

Stockton, CA, 95206

About Accurate Piano MOvers

Accurate Piano Movers has more than 20 years of experience with protecting pianos. Moving your piano by yourself is dangerous, stressful,...

Services

  • Local Piano Movers
  • Long Distance Piano Movers
  • Piano Storage

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2773343 / 1410785

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Fairprice Movers Logo

Fairprice Movers

Superb
claimed company icon
8.93/10
based on 3,586+ data points

245 McEvoy St

San Jose, CA, 95126

About Fairprice Movers

Fairprice Movers has been helping San Jose residents move since 2012. Founded on the values of personalized service, efficiency, and professionalism,...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial And Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2192738 / 768242

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved89,000 (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.

Stockton vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from city to city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a detailed comparison of Stockton, CA & Des Moines, IA neighborhoods to help you find a new area that feels like home. Through this guide, you'll discover the Des Moines neighborhoods that best match your Stockton favorites, based on vibe, amenities, and overall lifestyle.

StocktonDes MoinesHow They're Similar
BrooksideWaterburyFamily-friendly with a touch of luxury
Miracle MileEast VillageHip, with vibrant dining and shops
Lincoln VillageSherman HillHistoric homes, close community feel
Spanos ParkBeaverdaleSpacious homes, strong sense of community
Weston RanchDrake NeighborhoodDiverse, vibrant community life
University ParkWaveland ParkNear educational institutions, parks
PacificIngersoll ParkActive nightlife, mixed housing options
Country ClubSouth of GrandPrestigious, with stately homes
MoradaGray's WoodsQuiet, suburban feel with green spaces
Quail LakesRosemontScenic beauty, family-oriented

In exploring these neighborhoods further, you'll find that Waterbury's charm lies in its blend of modernity and traditional, family-first atmosphere, mirroring the vibe of Stockton's Brookside. If you're drawn to Miracle Mile for its eclectic mix of dining and shopping, Des Moines' East Village will captivate you with similar offerings, such as unique boutiques and local eateries like Zombie Burger. For a serene, community-focused lifestyle akin to Lincoln Village, Sherman Hill's historic architecture and close-knit environment provide a perfect counterpart. Those moving from Spanos Park will appreciate Beaverdale's spacious homes and the annual Beaverdale Fall Festival, echoing Spanos Park's community spirit and seasonal events.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Stockton to Des Moines

Moving can be quite an adventure, bringing changes both good and bad. In this guide, we aim for an honest reflection on what relocating from Stockton, CA, to Des Moines, IA, means, focusing on the pros and cons to help you weigh your decision better. By comparing the specific attributes of each city, we hope to offer a clearer picture of what awaits you in your potential new home.

CONs
PROs
Stockton, CA iconStockton, CA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Hot summers
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less job opportunities
  • Worse air quality
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower crime rate
  • Moderate summers
  • Lower cost of living
  • More job opportunities
  • Better air quality
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Cold winters
  • Far from major cities
  • Less diversity in cuisine
  • No nearby beaches
  • Smaller population
Stockton, CA iconStockton, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Proximity to SF/Bay Area
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Access to California beaches
  • Larger population

When considering the move from Stockton, CA, to Des Moines, IA, there are several factors to ponder beyond the basic pros and cons. For instance, Stockton's proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area offers a rich culinary and cultural scene that's hard to match. It's easy to enjoy a day trip to venues like SF MOMA or dining at waterfront restaurants such as the renowned The Waterfront Warehouse. Moving to Des Moines, however, introduces a different set of benefits. Despite its smaller size, Des Moines boasts an impressive job market, particularly in sectors like insurance and agriculture. The city is known for its vibrant community events, such as the Des Moines Farmers Market, and green spaces like Pappajohn Sculpture Park. For those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing job opportunities, Des Moines offers a refreshing change.

Stockton vs. Des Moines Food Guide

Food is a vital component of local culture and provides a sense of what life is like in a new area. By exploring the culinary scenes, you'll gain insight into the flavors and dining experiences that await you. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Stockton & Des Moines to help you understand what culinary delights are in store as you plan your move.

Stockton
Des Moines
Most iconic local food item
Asparagus
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip Steak
Smoked Pork
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Cheese Curds
Most popular vegan food
Vegetable Stir Fry
Black Bean Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Michael's New York Style Pizza
  • Market Tavern
  • Midgley's Public House
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Centro
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Stockton to Des Moines, you'll find that each city has its unique culinary signature. In Stockton, the abundance of fresh produce, particularly asparagus, shapes much of the local cuisine, with farmers' markets and farm-to-table establishments such as Market Tavern showcasing the region's bounty. Transitioning to Des Moines, the heartland's affection for pork is evident in its menu offerings, with the pork tenderloin sandwich reigning as an iconic dish. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will find Des Moines slightly more accommodating, with restaurants like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab offering creative plant-based options. The food truck scene is more vibrant here as well, reflecting a growing foodie culture that embraces innovative and international cuisine.

Stockton vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. By comparing the top restaurants in Stockton to their Des Moines counterparts , we aim to help you find your next go-to eateries, echoing your favorite flavors from Stockton in your new Iowa abode.

StocktonDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
MezzoBistro MontageFrench-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients
Market TavernCentroUrban eatery offering a mix of casual and upscale dishes
Midgley's Public HouseJesse’s EmbersPrime steaks and seafood with a similar upscale pub atmosphere
Michael's New York Style PizzaGusto Pizza Co.Gourmet pizzas with unique flavor combinations
Garlic BrothersExile Brewing Co.Lively atmosphere with craft beers and hearty American fare
Ave on the MileThe LiftArtsy bar atmosphere with creative cocktails and small plates
Podesto's Market & DeliGong Fu TeaWhile primarily a tea shop, offers a similar ambiance for casual meetings and light fare
Cancun RestaurantEl Bait ShopThough more focused on craft beer, offers a range of Mexican dishes
Angelinas Spaghetti HouseLuccaItalian eatery providing a similar traditional and cozy dining experience
Mile Wine CompanyDjangoBoth are wine-centric establishments with a robust selection of wines and upscale bistro fare

Discovering your new favorite spots in Des Moines is an exciting journey, especially when you find places that remind you of home. At Bistro Montage, you'll experience a French dining atmosphere not unlike Stockton's Mezzo, utilizing equally high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients in their exquisite dishes. Meanwhile, if you're missing the diverse menu and friendly vibe of Market Tavern, Centro in Des Moines provides an inviting urban eatery scene, where every dish is crafted with care. For pizza aficionados, Gusto Pizza Co. in Des Moines offers inventive and flavorful pizzas that might just rival your go-to pies from Michael's New York Style Pizza in Stockton. These comparisons not only showcase the culinary diversity and quality that Des Moines has to offer but also illustrate how new experiences in your new city can parallel the comforting memories of meals enjoyed back in Stockton.

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Ready to start your move?

Stockton vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate environment between Stockton, CA, and Des Moines, IA, is crucial. This comparison will give you insight into housing costs, styles, and lifestyle factors, helping you make an informed decision.

Stockton
Des Moines
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch, Contemporary
Craftsman, Tudor
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, proximity to schools
Historic charm, close to parks

When moving from Stockton to Des Moines, you'll notice significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. Des Moines offers a more affordable living with a median home price substantially lower than Stockton's. The architecture in Des Moines leans towards classic styles like Craftsman and Tudor, adding to the city's historic charm, a contrast to Stockton's modern Ranch and Contemporary homes. The walkability and bikeability scores are higher in Des Moines, reflecting the city's commitment to a sustainable and active lifestyle, complemented by its urban appeal. Lastly, real estate listings in Des Moines often highlight historic charm and proximity to parks, which is a testament to the city's rich heritage and green spaces.

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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.

Stockton vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Stockton, CA to Des Moines, IA, understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect, helping you prepare for the climate change.

Stockton
Des Moines
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Tornadoes, Severe Winter Storms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

92°F / 58°F
85°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

54°F / 38°F
32°F / 17°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

18
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
33


In Des Moines, IA, you'll encounter a more pronounced change in seasons compared to Stockton, CA, particularly concerning winter temperatures and snowfall. While Stockton enjoys a milder and more consistent climate with very little snow, Des Moines experiences a fuller range of temperatures, from hot summers to cold, snowy winters. The humidity levels are relatively similar, though the types of natural disasters each city is prone to differ greatly—earthquakes and wildfires in Stockton versus tornadoes and severe winter storms in Des Moines. Adapting to these changes will be an important part of your move.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your financial health. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic environments between Stockton and Des Moines is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide provides a comparative analysis to prepare you for your move.

Stockton
Des Moines
Avg. Household Income
$69,844
$60,693
Cost of Living Index
136.4
90.9
State Income Tax
1 to 13.3
0.33 to 8.53
Avg. Property Tax
0.81
1.56
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
7
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

When considering a move from Stockton, CA, to Des Moines, IA, you'll find Des Moines offers a more affordable cost of living, with a lower index and generally cheaper sales tax rates. While Stockton provides a diverse economy, Des Moines shines with a strong financial and insurance sector, suggesting potential career opportunities if you're in these fields. Despite the higher property tax in Des Moines, the average household income is higher, which may mitigate the impact of this increase. Additionally, Des Moines' lower poverty and moderate homelessness rates suggest a potentially higher quality of life, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a new start.

Stockton vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison between Stockton & Des Moines offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscapes you are transitioning between. It's designed to help you understand the community ethos and values of your new city at a glance.

Stockton
Des Moines
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive policies in urban development
Focused on economic growth and sustainability
Religion
Diverse; significant Catholic and Protestant communities
Diverse; strong presence of Protestant and Catholic communities

Both Stockton and Des Moines lean Democratic in their political makeup, suggesting a certain alignment in values that you might find comforting during your transition. However, the focus of local politics shifts slightly as you move; Stockton's urban development policies are more progressive, while Des Moines emphasizes economic growth and sustainability. This can influence local initiatives and community projects you might want to engage with. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though the specific dynamics of faith communities can vary. This diversity offers a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual events to explore, strengthening your connection to your new home.

Stockton vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Stockton, CA to Des Moines, IA? It's essential to compare the traffic and transportation options between these cities to better understand your daily commute and overall traffic situation. This comparison will help ease your transition and set the right expectations for your move.

Stockton
Des Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
29
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 car?
No
Less likely

The transition from Stockton to Des Moines offers a significant change in daily commute experiences. With an average commute time of 29 minutes in Stockton compared to a shorter 20 minutes in Des Moines, you'll find getting around in Des Moines more efficient. Traffic congestion in Des Moines also scores lower, pointing to smoother traffic flows compared to Stockton. While both cities offer public transit options, Des Moines slightly outranks Stockton, making it relatively more convenient for those relying on public transportation. However, in both cities, having a car enhances mobility and access to various amenities, with Des Moines being slightly easier to navigate without personal transportation. This comparison underlines the importance of considering your commuting needs and lifestyle preferences when moving.

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