Best Des Moines to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Des Moines to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,817 mile move from Iowa to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 10 Des Moines to Fresno 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 Des Moines compared to Fresno. 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 Des Moines to Fresno Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
2Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
3Hemmen Moving9.129.47Authorized For Property, HHG
4All In A Day Moving Services8.778.7Authorized For Property, HHG
5Pete's Moving Services LLC8.438.56Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,817 miles from Des Moines, IA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $3,326 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Fresno move is roughly $8,021. 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$2,233300 ft³$7.44
1 Bedroom$3,326450 ft³$7.39
2 Bedrooms$5,506750 ft³$7.34
3 Bedrooms$8,0211100 ft³$7.29
4 Bedrooms$11,5871600 ft³$7.24
5+ Bedrooms$12,9461800 ft³$7.19
*Please note: These Iowa to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & California. 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 IA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Des Moines guide.

Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Fresno 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
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
2
Hemmen Moving Logo

Hemmen Moving

Exceptional9.12/10
based on 594+ data points

1293 W Ave

Ames, IA, 50014

About Hemmen Moving

For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Small moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All In A Day Moving Services Logo

All In A Day Moving Services

Superb
claimed company icon
8.77/10
based on 815+ data points

1022 W 18th St #4

Merced, CA, 85340

About All In A Day Moving Services

All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving...

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Piano moving
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3861667 / 1410881

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo

Pete's Moving Services LLC

Fabulous8.43/10
based on 2,336+ data points

4807 Greenleaf Ct suite a

Modesto, CA, 95356

About Pete's Moving Services LLC

Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commercial relocations in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3314910 / 1177987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2020)
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.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can be a leap into the unknown, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Fresno, CA . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Fresno that shares the spirit and characteristics of your old Des Moines locale.

Des MoinesFresnoHow They're Similar
East VillageTower DistrictVibrant arts scene, historic architecture
BeaverdaleOld Fig GardenFamily-friendly, tree-lined streets
Waveland ParkSunnysideCharming, with a strong sense of community
Sherman HillWilson IslandHistoric homes, engaged community
DrakeFresno High RoedingDiverse, close to universities
South of GrandVan Ness ExtensionUpscale, large homes with yards
Highland ParkTower DistrictUnique shops, eclectic dining options
Gray's LakeWoodward ParkExpansive park space, outdoor activities
IngersollTower DistrictLively nightlife, local eateries
WaterburyThe BluffsExclusive, with sprawling estates

Imagine strolling down the busy, tree-lined streets of the Tower District in Fresno, where a mix of vintage shops, art galleries, and distinctive eateries echo the vibrant energy you adored in Des Moines' East Village. If you're moving from Beaverdale's quaint and cozy ambiance, Old Fig Garden's family-friendly vibe, punctuated by its unique boutiques and local culinary gems like The Fig Tree Café, will feel like home. For outdoor enthusiasts who cherished Gray's Lake park-centric lifestyle, Woodward Park in Fresno offers a vast landscape of gardens, trails, and recreational areas, ensuring your outdoor adventures continue seamlessly in your new city. Each Fresno neighborhood brings its own flavor and community spirit, promising a smooth transition from the charms of Des Moines to the sunny streets of Fresno.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Fresno

Moving from one city to another always comes with its challenges and rewards. In this guide, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Fresno, CA. Through juxtaposed charts, we'll help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, ensuring you make an informed decision about this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller city
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lower average temperatures
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Larger population
  • More cultural diversity
  • Greater job prospects
  • Warmer climate
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Higher living expenses
  • Less greenery
  • Can feel overcrowded
  • Heavier traffic
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Friendly community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Abundant green spaces
  • More intimate city feel
  • Easy navigation

While Des Moines offers a welcoming community vibe with its friendly residents and abundance of green spaces such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Fresno boasts of its cultural diversity and warmer climate conducive for outdoor activities year-round. In Fresno, you can explore the vibrant Tower District, renowned for its eclectic dining options including the famous Dog House Grill, and the rich cultural experiences found at the Fresno Art Museum. Although Fresno suffers from higher living expenses and less greenery, neighborhoods like Woodward Park offer beautiful open spaces, making the transition smoother for those who enjoy being outdoors. This contrast between the cities underscores the importance of prioritizing what matters most to you in your next chapter of life.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Fresno, exploring the important role food plays in the local culture and everyday living. Understand the food scene in your future home to make your transition smoother.

Des Moines
Fresno
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Tri-tip Steak
Most popular meat dish
Corn-fed Beef Steak
Chicken Tacos
Most popular street food item
Tater Tots on a Stick
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa Salad
Vegetarian Burritos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Al's Deli
  • Centro
  • Pismo's Coastal Grill
  • The Annex Kitchen
  • Fresno Breakfast House
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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🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

If you're making the move from Des Moines to Fresno, you're in for a delightful shift in local cuisine. In Fresno, the food scene thrives on the rich agricultural surroundings, providing a bounty of fresh ingredients. You'll find chicken tacos and vegetarian burritos lining the streets, with food trucks seemingly around every corner, particularly in vibrant neighborhoods like the Tower District. Local specialties such as the tri-tip steak are a must-try, a testament to Fresno's love for barbecue and grilling. The Annex Kitchen, among other iconic restaurants, showcases the city's Italian influence with a Californian twist. Whether you're vegan, a meat-lover, or somewhere in between, Fresno's diverse culinary landscape is welcoming and expansive, ready to cater to your every craving.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new place feel like home. This Des Moines to Fresno restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries, easing the transition with familiar flavors and dining experiences. Whether you’re craving sophisticated dining or a casual bite, let this guide be your culinary compass.

Des MoinesFresnoWhat You'll Love
Apollo CafePhoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and GrillSimilar cozy Mediterranean vibes and extensive menu.
BubbaThe Tavern at CampagniaOffering a comparable upscale Southern dining experience with a West Coast twist.
CentroAnnex KitchenBoth serve high-quality, Italian-inspired dishes in a stylish, urban setting.
DjangoOvidio Italian RestaurantFor those looking for authentic French and Italian cuisine with a similar ambiance.
Fong's PizzaMe-n-Ed's PizzeriaBoth known for their unique pizza combinations and relaxed atmosphere.
HarbingerCracked Pepper BistroShowcasing creative and locally sourced dishes in a chic, intimate setting.
ProofErna's Elderberry HouseBoth offer a fine dining experience focusing on innovative, chef-driven menus.
Smash ParkDave & Buster'sWhile not a local spot, it’s the closest option for a fun, gaming-oriented eatery with good food.
Waveland CafeIrene's CafeBoth give that quintessential breakfast and brunch spot feeling with a homey ambiance.
801 ChophouseFleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarOffering a similarly luxurious steakhouse experience with an exceptional wine selection.

Fresno, much like Des Moines, boasts a vibrant food scene that caters to a range of tastes and dining experiences. For instance, if you've enjoyed the Mediterranean flair and hearty dishes of Apollo Cafe, you'll find a comforting similarity at Phoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and Grill, where the atmosphere buzzes with warmth. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados who’ve relished the quirky and innovative pies at Fong’s Pizza in Des Moines will appreciate Me-n-Ed's Pizzeria in Fresno - a venue that combines creativity with the wood-fired authenticity of their pizzas, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to find a slice of home. Additionally, those seeking a more upscale dining experience similar to 801 Chophouse will discover Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar not just a match but a continuation of luxury dining, with its meticulously crafted dishes and comprehensive wine list that promises to enhance every celebratory meal.

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Ready to start your move?

Des Moines vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between Des Moines, IA, and Fresno, CA, is crucial. Knowing the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you understand what to expect.

Des Moines
Fresno
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial Revival
Spanish Eclectic
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods
Proximity to parks, Energy efficiency

In comparing the housing markets of Des Moines and Fresno, one notable difference is the median home price and rent, with Fresno being significantly more expensive. However, Fresno compensates with its slightly better urban lifestyle score and higher bikeability, perhaps due to its infrastructure catering more to bikes. The architecture also varies noticeably, from the Colonial Revival styles prevalent in Des Moines to the Spanish Eclectic found in Fresno, reflecting the different cultural influences of each region. Furthermore, real estate listings in Fresno often highlight the proximity to parks and energy efficiency, pointing towards a community valuing outdoor activities and sustainability.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Fresno, CA

1. Tower District : You'll enjoy walking your pet around the lively streets, with pet-friendly cafes and parks scattered throughout the area.

2. Woodward Park : This area is perfect for pet owners, featuring expansive parks and trails, including the scenic Woodward Regional Park where you and your furry friend can roam freely.

3. Clovis : Just a short drive from Fresno, Clovis offers numerous parks and a community-focused atmosphere ideal for pets and their owners.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the weather in Des Moines, IA compares with Fresno, CA is essential for preparing for your new environment. This comparison will provide insights into what to expect and how to best prepare for your relocation.

Des Moines
Fresno
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Flooding
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/65
97/70
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

33/17
55/38


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
11.5
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

30
0


When moving from Des Moines to Fresno, you'll experience a significant shift in weather patterns. Fresno boasts nearly 270 days of sunshine annually, offering much more consistent sun compared to Des Moines. However, this comes with higher average summer temperatures which can peak in the high 90s. Additionally, the stark difference in annual rainfall and snowfall highlights Fresno's much drier climate. Understanding these changes will help you adjust your activities and lifestyle to comfortably accommodate your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, it's pivotal to understand how the cost of living and economic landscape will shift. This comparison between Des Moines, IA and Fresno, CA aims to provide insight into each city's financial environment, helping you make an informed decision.

Des Moines
Fresno
Avg. Household Income
$60,693
$61,250
Cost of Living Index
90.9
117.3
State Income Tax
0.33 to 8.53
1 to 13.3
Avg. Property Tax
1.56
0.77
Avg. Sales Tax
7
8.23
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing
Agriculture, Health Care, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
Varied
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Moderate
Significant

The disparity in average household incomes between Des Moines and Fresno highlights a significant economic difference, with Des Moines residents on average faring better. This is juxtaposed against Fresno's higher cost of living index, suggesting that your dollar might not stretch as far in Fresno despite the higher average sales and state income taxes in California. These financial indicators are crucial to consider, especially in light of Fresno's diverse yet challenged economic landscape, marked by its prominent agriculture and health care industries but also higher rates of poverty and homelessness. Moving from Des Moines to Fresno, you'd encounter a very different economic climate, one where understanding local industries and tax implications becomes pivotal to financial stability.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. With this guide, we aim to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Fresno, helping you understand the community you're moving into.

Des Moines
Fresno
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Moderately Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive on social issues
Focus on agricultural and water rights issues
Religion
Christianity dominant, with a growing number of non-religious residents
Christianity dominant, diverse religious communities including a significant Sikh population

While both Des Moines and Fresno lean Democratic, their local political landscapes reflect the unique challenges and interests of their populations. Des Moines tends to be more progressive on social issues, a reflection of its urban and diverse demographic. In contrast, Fresno focuses more on agricultural and water rights issues, vital to its economy and way of life. Religiously, both cities are predominantly Christian, but Fresno boasts a more diverse religious community, including a notable Sikh population, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural and religious events throughout the city.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving to a new city involves adapting to its unique commuting patterns. This guide aims to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, and transportation options between Des Moines & Fresno, ensuring you can navigate your new home with ease.

Des Moines
Fresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
21
22
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Challenging

In both Des Moines and Fresno, average commute times are quite similar, indicating relatively brief daily journeys. However, traffic congestion is slightly less in Des Moines, potentially for its smaller urban sprawl compared to Fresno. When it comes to public transit, both cities are somewhat comparable, though Des Moines edges out slightly, possibly due to its DART system which provides a variety of options for residents. Nonetheless, in both cities, relying solely on public transit might be difficult without some planning. Having a car could greatly enhance your mobility, though each city's public transit systems are making strides to offer more comprehensive services.

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