Best Des Moines to Honolulu Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Des Moines to Honolulu 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
4Ewa Moving Co.8.298.22Authorized For HHG
5Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC7.967.61Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428
Iowa iconArrow iconHawaii icon
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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 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
Ewa Moving Co. Logo

Ewa Moving Co.

Very Good8.29/10
based on 181+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3786678 / 1601075

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo

Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Good7.96/10
based on 67+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3396143 / 1265966

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2019)
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. 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 MoinesHonoluluHow They're Similar
East VillageKaka'akoVibrant arts scene and boutique shopping
BeaverdaleManoaFamily-friendly with a sense of community
DrakeMoiliiliYoung and dynamic, near university
WaterburyKahalaUpscale, with stately homes
Sherman HillMakikiHistoric homes and tight-knit vibe
Highland ParkPāloloDiverse, with a mix of cultures
Ingersoll ParkAla MoanaBeach proximity, shopping, and dining
Southwestern HillsNiu ValleyQuiet, family-oriented with great views
Waveland ParkKaimukiCozy, with a strong local food scene
Gray's LakeWaikīkīIconic 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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Colder Winters
  • Lesser Diversity
  • Smaller Job Market
  • Minimal Beaches
  • Narrower Cuisine
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Year-round warmth
  • Rich Cultural Diversity
  • Larger Tourism Sector
  • Abundant Beaches
  • Wide Cuisine Variety
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Heavier Traffic
  • More Crowded Spaces
  • Urban Bustle
  • Expensive Groceries
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • 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.

Des Moines
Honolulu
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Poke
Most popular meat dish
Beef Brisket
Kalua Pig
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Spam Musubi
Most popular vegan food
Grain Bowl
Açaí Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Zombie Burger
  • Centro
  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice
  • Leonard's Bakery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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 MoinesHonoluluWhat You'll Love
A Splash SeafoodNico's Pier 38Fresh, local seafood with a harbor-side view
Zombie Burger + Drink LabChubbies BurgersUnique burgers and a fun, casual vibe
CentroTownFarm-to-table dining with a menu that changes seasonally
AlbaSeniaCreative American cuisine in a chic setting
Fong's PizzaPieology PizzeriaCustomizable pizzas with eclectic toppings
Gateway Market CafeARVOA cozy café known for its coffee, sandwiches, and pastries
Sam & Gabe'sHy's Steak HouseHigh-end steaks in an elegant atmosphere
La Mie BakeryBreadshopArtisanal breads and pastries baked fresh
801 ChophouseSteak ShackBeachside steaks with a stunning view
Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.Waikiki Brewing CompanyCraft 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.

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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.

Des Moines
Honolulu
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch
Modern/Plantation
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods
Ocean views, Proximity to beaches

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 background image

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.

Des Moines
Honolulu
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Blizzards
Hurricanes, Tsunamis
Air Quality
Good
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 65°F
88°F / 75°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

34°F / 18°F
80°F / 65°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
17
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
0


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.

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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.

Des Moines
Honolulu
Avg. Household Income
$60,693
$73,434
Cost of Living Index
90.9
165.7
State Income Tax
0.33 - 8.53
1.4 - 11
Avg. Property Tax
1.53
0.28
Avg. Sales Tax
6
4.5
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing
Tourism, Defense, Agriculture
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Significant
High

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
Honolulu
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive on local issues
Focus on sustainability and cultural preservation
Religion
Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faiths
Unique blend of Eastern, Western, and Pacific Islander religious practices

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.

Des Moines
Honolulu
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
19
27
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Possible, with effort

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.

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