Best Des Moines to Honolulu Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Des Moines to Honolulu and need first-hand information you can trust to make this move from Iowa to Hawaii go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 10 Des Moines to Honolulu 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 (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Honolulu. 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 Des Moines to Honolulu Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.54 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
2 | Best Move Inc | 9.26 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property |
3 | Hemmen Moving | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
4 | Ewa Moving Co. | 8.29 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC | 7.96 | 7.61 | Authorized For HHG |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Honolulu to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Honolulu Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

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 Move Inc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |

Hemmen Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (2023) |

Ewa Moving Co.
91-593 Pohakupuna Rd
Ewa Beach, HI, 96706
About Ewa Moving Co.
Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moving services in Oahu
- Local moving services in Oahu
- Hourly rate moving services in Oahu
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3786678 / 1601075 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50 (2022) |

Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC
Honolulu, HI, 96825
About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC
Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3396143 / 1265966 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2019) |

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.
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This guide is designed to help you make that transition smoother by comparing Des Moines, IA & Honolulu, HI neighborhoods to find the best fit for you, based on what you love about your current location.
Des Moines | Honolulu | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
East Village | Kaka'ako | Vibrant arts scene and boutique shopping |
Beaverdale | Manoa | Family-friendly with a sense of community |
Drake | Moiliili | Young and dynamic, near university |
Waterbury | Kahala | Upscale, with stately homes |
Sherman Hill | Makiki | Historic homes and tight-knit vibe |
Highland Park | Pālolo | Diverse, with a mix of cultures |
Ingersoll Park | Ala Moana | Beach proximity, shopping, and dining |
Southwestern Hills | Niu Valley | Quiet, family-oriented with great views |
Waveland Park | Kaimuki | Cozy, with a strong local food scene |
Gray's Lake | Waikīkī | Iconic beaches, parks, and activities |
If you cherish the lively, artistic environment and boutique shopping of East Village in Des Moines, you will enjoy the similar vibrancy and cultural scene in Kaka'ako in Honolulu, highlighted by its street art and unique local shops. For those from Beaverdale seeking a tight-knit community feel, Manoa offers a similar atmosphere, set against the backdrop of lush greenery with family-friendly parks like Manoa Valley District Park. Residents moving from Waterbury, accustomed to upscale living and stately homes, will find Kahala's luxurious properties and serene beaches appealing. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts moving from Waveland Park will appreciate the bustling local food scene in Kaimuki, where a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Hawaiian cuisine at Helena's Hawaiian Food to contemporary eateries, cater to all taste buds.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu
Moving from one place to another always comes with its share of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI . It's important to weigh both sides to make the best decision for your situation.
- Colder Winters
- Lesser Diversity
- Smaller Job Market
- Minimal Beaches
- Narrower Cuisine
- Year-round warmth
- Rich Cultural Diversity
- Larger Tourism Sector
- Abundant Beaches
- Wide Cuisine Variety
- Higher Cost of Living
- Heavier Traffic
- More Crowded Spaces
- Urban Bustle
- Expensive Groceries
- Affordable Housing
- Lower Traffic
- Spacious Natural Parks
- Quiet Suburban Areas
- Cost-effective Living
Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu introduces you to a vibrant mix of cultures and cuisines. In Honolulu, you'll be spoilt for choice with restaurants offering a broad spectrum of foods from traditional Hawaiian dishes at Helena's Hawaiian Food to authentic Japanese fare at Marukame Udon. You'll also exchange the spacious, tranquil parks of Des Moines for Honolulu's bustling beaches like Waikiki, where outdoor activities never end. While Des Moines may offer a more affordable and quieter lifestyle, Honolulu's rich cultural diversity and dynamic urban life present an exciting new chapter with unique opportunities and experiences.
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Food Guide
Food is a pivotal part of any locale's culture and living experience. To help you get acquainted with what to expect in your new area, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Honolulu. This will give you a taste of what culinary delights await you, from iconic dishes to the vibrancy of each city's food scene.
- Fong's Pizza
- Zombie Burger
- Centro
- Helena's Hawaiian Food
- Matsumoto Shave Ice
- Leonard's Bakery
In Des Moines, the pork tenderloin sandwich reigns supreme as a must-try for any newcomer. You'll find an abundance of local favorites such as Fong's Pizza, known for its unique Asian-inspired pizzas, and the quirky Zombie Burger with its inventive burger creations. Moving over to Honolulu, the food scene shifts dramatically with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Poke, a raw fish salad, represents the quintessential Hawaiian dish, celebrated across the city. Spam Musubi, a fusion of Japanese and American influences, is a common snack found in many convenience stores. Helena's Hawaiian Food offers a traditional experience with dishes like kalua pig, while Matsumoto Shave Ice provides a refreshing treat. Both cities offer a vibrant foodie scene, but Honolulu stands out for its health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, largely influenced by its island location and abundant sea and farm produce.
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Restaurant Comparison
Choosing a new favorite dining spot is an essential part of settling into a new city. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Honolulu aims to ease the transition, guiding you to establishments that feel familiar yet offer a taste of island life. Let's find your next go-to eatery, making your move an exciting culinary adventure.
Des Moines | Honolulu | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
A Splash Seafood | Nico's Pier 38 | Fresh, local seafood with a harbor-side view |
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Chubbies Burgers | Unique burgers and a fun, casual vibe |
Centro | Town | Farm-to-table dining with a menu that changes seasonally |
Alba | Senia | Creative American cuisine in a chic setting |
Fong's Pizza | Pieology Pizzeria | Customizable pizzas with eclectic toppings |
Gateway Market Cafe | ARVO | A cozy café known for its coffee, sandwiches, and pastries |
Sam & Gabe's | Hy's Steak House | High-end steaks in an elegant atmosphere |
La Mie Bakery | Breadshop | Artisanal breads and pastries baked fresh |
801 Chophouse | Steak Shack | Beachside steaks with a stunning view |
Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Waikiki Brewing Company | Craft beers and hearty meals |
Among these pairings, the transition from Des Moines's Centro to Honolulu's Town stands out for patrons who admire seasonal dishes that spotlight local ingredients. Similarly, the innovative burger experience shifts from Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines to Honolulu's Chubbies Burgers, where the inventive menu and lively atmosphere are sure to remind you of your favorite haunts back home. These recommendations ensure that the flavors of Des Moines can be rediscovered with a Hawaiian twist, making your culinary journey in Honolulu as comforting as it is exciting.

Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a critical role when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects like costs and lifestyle in Des Moines, IA compare to Honolulu, HI can help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the specifics.
When comparing Des Moines to Honolulu, the contrast in the median home price and monthly rent is striking. In Honolulu, you're not just paying for a home but for the luxury of living in a tropical paradise, which is reflected in the real estate prices. The architecture in Honolulu leans towards modern with plantation influences, embracing indoor-outdoor living, contrasting with the more traditional styles found in Des Moines. Additionally, Honolulu offers a slightly more walkable and bikeable environment, thanks mainly to its compact urban layout and favorable climate, making the outdoor lifestyle more accessible and enjoyable year-round.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Honolulu, HI
1. Kaka'ako : You will find abundant dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and a community that loves outdoor activities with pets.
2. Hawaii Kai : With its spacious parks and trails, this area offers plenty of room for you and your pet to explore and enjoy nature.
3. Kaimuki : Known for its local pet shops and cafes that welcome animals, your pet will feel right at home in this charming neighborhood.
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Weather Considerations
When contemplating a move from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI, understanding the weather differences between these locations is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how your daily life and activities might be influenced by the new climate you'll be experiencing. Des Moines vs Honolulu weather will significantly impact your adaptation to your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Transitioning from Des Moines to Honolulu will introduce you to a warmer, more stable climate year-round. Notably, Honolulu enjoys more days of sunshine and significantly milder winters, making outdoor activities feasible throughout the year. However, be prepared for higher humidity levels and intense UV exposure in Honolulu, necessitating daily sunscreen use. The absence of snow, combined with higher average temperatures, can be a delightful change but requires adjusting to the tropical climate without the distinct seasons experienced in Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu
When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial and economic differences you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight key financial aspects between Des Moines, IA, and Honolulu, HI, giving you a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of living costs and financial environment.
Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu will introduce you to a dramatically different cost of living, with Honolulu being significantly more expensive. This is reflected starkly in the cost of living index, where Honolulu scores nearly 2.5 times higher than Des Moines. Despite the higher average household income in Honolulu, the steep living costs may offset perceived financial gains. However, the lower average property tax rate in Honolulu offers a slight relief. The industries dominating each city's economy indicate varying job opportunities, which can influence income levels and career paths. Understanding these financial landscapes will help you better prepare for your move.
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI, it's insightful to quickly understand the political and religious makeup of the places you're transitioning between. This comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Honolulu provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the typical makeup of the population in these two vibrant cities, delving into their political affiliations, local politics, and religious landscapes.
Des Moines and Honolulu both lean Democratic, though Honolulu shows a stronger inclination towards Democratic policies, reflecting Hawaii's overall political landscape. Local politics in Des Moines take a progressive stance on issues, mirroring the city's diverse demographic. In contrast, Honolulu's politics place a significant emphasis on sustainability and cultural preservation, crucial given its unique ecological and cultural context. Religion in Des Moines is predominantly Christian, accompanied by a diverse presence of other faiths. Honolulu reveals a fascinating mix of Eastern, Western, and indigenous Pacific Islander religious practices, illustrating its rich multicultural heritage. This dynamic interplay of cultures, politics, and religious beliefs between your current and future home offers a refreshing perspective as you plan your move.
Des Moines vs. Honolulu Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI offers a distinct change in lifestyle, particularly when it comes to the daily commute and traffic. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Des Moines & Honolulu, highlighting the differences in driving and transiting in each city.
The commute in Des Moines and Honolulu varies significantly, not just in average time, but also in the experience. In Des Moines, with a lower traffic congestion score, you might find driving more comfortable than in Honolulu, where traffic can be quite demanding, especially during peak hours. Honolulu, however, has a slightly better public transit system, making it feasible, although challenging, to get by without a car. In contrast, Des Moines' public transit is less robust, making a car almost a necessity for navigating the city efficiently. This difference reflects the contrasting urban layouts and available transportation infrastructure of the two cities.



Additional Resources
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