Best Iowa to Arizona Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Iowa to Arizona and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,352 mile IA to AZ move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 87 Iowa to Arizona 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Iowa compared to Arizona. 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 Iowa to Arizona Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.76 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.54 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
3 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.44 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
4 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.33 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property |
5 | Best Move Inc | 9.26 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property |
6 | Hemmen Moving | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Iowa to Arizona?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,352 miles from Iowa to Arizona will cost on average $2,931 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to AZ move is roughly $7,055. 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 in Iowa and dropoff in Arizona 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 Iowa to Arizona movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,969 | 300 ft³ | $6.56 |
1 Bedroom | $2,931 | 450 ft³ | $6.51 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,847 | 750 ft³ | $6.46 |
3 Bedrooms | $7,055 | 1100 ft³ | $6.41 |
4 Bedrooms | $10,181 | 1600 ft³ | $6.36 |
5+ Bedrooms | $11,364 | 1800 ft³ | $6.31 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Arizona to Iowa guide.

Popular Iowa to Arizona Moving Destinations
Make an easier move when you book with the best.
See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Iowa to Arizona
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Iowa to Arizona Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IA to AZ Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC

Phoenix, AZ, 85022
About Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |

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) |

Adamantine Spine Moving
656 S Governor St
Iowa City, IA, 52240
About Adamantine Spine Moving
Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transport your...
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) |

New Beginnings Moving Solutions
6757 W Charter Oak Rd
Peoria, AZ, 85381
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |

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) |

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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Arizona
Moving from Iowa to Arizona offers a unique perspective on geographic and lifestyle changes. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating—from the serene farmlands of Iowa to the desert landscapes of Arizona . Explore these insights to make an informed decision about your move.
- Severe winters
- Limited job market
- Flat terrain
- Lack of big cities
- Warmer climate
- Diverse opportunities
- Diverse landscapes
- Vibrant urban life
- Higher living costs
- Intense heat
- Busy traffic
- Limited water
- Friendly communities
- Low crime rate
- Quiet lifestyle
- Rich agriculture
Life in Arizona might present new challenges like intense heat, especially during the summer months, and higher living costs than you might be used to in Iowa. Yet, sunny cities like Phoenix offer diverse job opportunities that can be quite rewarding. Explore popular areas such as Scottsdale for its arts scene and Tempe’s vibrant nightlife. In contrast, leaving behind Iowa's friendly communities and peaceful lifestyle might be bittersweet, especially if you've enjoyed the tranquility of places like Iowa City. But Arizona's varied landscapes—from the Grand Canyon to Sedona’s red rocks—invite new adventures and exploration.
Iowa vs. Arizona Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Arizona highlights the culinary distinctions of each state. Understanding these differences can enrich your relocation experience, offering a taste of what each locale uniquely brings to the table.
- Jethro's BBQ
- Zombie Burger
- A & A Pagoda
- Pizzicletta
- Elote Cafe
- Bacanora
In Iowa, the pork tenderloin sandwich exemplifies local comfort food, often found at iconic spots like Jethro's BBQ. Conversely, Arizona's Sonoran Dog, a unique twist on the hot dog, is a must-try, with places like El Guero Canelo in Tucson championing this regional specialty. Arizona's increasing health conscientiousness and vegan-friendly options, such as the innovative dishes at Green New American Vegetarian, contrast with Iowa's hearty traditional cuisine, reflecting the diverse foodie landscapes that await you.

Ready to start your move?
Iowa vs. Arizona Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current location and your future home is crucial. This comparison between Iowa and Arizona sheds light on key housing aspects to guide your decision. Understanding differences in cost, architectural styles, walkability, and other factors can significantly impact your choice of residence.
Moving from Iowa to Arizona, you'll notice a significant difference in the housing market. Arizona's median home price and rent are considerably higher, reflecting its demand and urban lifestyle score. The popular mention of pools and desert landscaping in Arizona listings highlights a different way of life, focusing on outdoor living and unique flora. Architecture in Arizona often embraces its historical and environmental roots with Spanish Colonial and Pueblo styles, offering a distinct visual and cultural departure from Iowa's Prairie and Ranch-style homes. This contrast extends to the outdoor lifestyle, with Arizona boasting higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicative of its cities' planning and community spaces.
Iowa vs. Arizona Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Iowa to Arizona, understanding how the weather will differ is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight weather differences between Iowa and Arizona to prepare you for the shift in climate. From seasonal temperatures to natural disasters, knowing what to expect can significantly impact your adjustment process.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Relocating from Iowa's humid continental climate to Arizona's arid desert conditions presents a dramatic shift, especially in summer temperatures and humidity levels. In Arizona, you'll enjoy significantly more sunshine days but need to prepare for much higher summer temperatures, which often soar above 100°F. Contrastingly, Arizona's winters are milder, offering a comfortable respite from Iowa's often harsh, snowy winters. Air quality and natural disaster risks also shift, with Arizona facing challenges from wildfires and flash floods, while Iowa grapples with tornadoes and seasonal flooding. Understanding these differences will facilitate a smoother transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Arizona
When contemplating a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're stepping into. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance between Iowa and Arizona , offering a clear perspective on what to expect in terms of living expenses, taxes, and economic environment.
When moving from Iowa to Arizona, you'll find a nuanced financial landscape with both similarities and significant differences. Though household income is slightly higher in Arizona, the cost of living and sales tax are also higher, which could balance out the perceived income advantage. The stark contrast in state income and property taxes between the states reflects the broader fiscal policies each state adopts. For instance, Arizona's lower property tax rate might be appealing for homeowners, whereas Iowa’s progressive income tax system could be beneficial depending on your earnings. The diverse leading industries between the two states suggest varied job markets, with Arizona’s burgeoning technology sector offering different possibilities compared to Iowa’s strong manufacturing and agriculture base. Understanding these aspects thoroughly can help you make a well-informed decision and financially prepare for your move.
Iowa vs. Arizona Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Iowa to Arizona, it’s useful to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison will focus on the politics between Iowa & Arizona, providing a brief overview of local politics and religious affiliations that shape the cultural and social landscape of each state.
Despite both states having dynamic and sometimes fluctuating political landscapes, Iowa's political scene often hinges on grassroots movements and a community-driven approach due to its pivotal role in national elections. In contrast, Arizona's political dynamics are shaped by its diverse population and growing urban centers, making its local politics an amalgam of various influences. The religious makeup in both states is majorly Christian, but Arizona sports a more significant portion of non-religious residents compared to Iowa. This diversity in belief and ideology contributes to the unique social and political fabric of each state, providing new residents with a varied cultural experience.
Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Arizona
Moving from Iowa to Arizona presents an array of new opportunities, especially when it comes to education. To help you navigate these changes, we've compared educational institutions across both states to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and Arizona . This guide aims to ease the decision-making process for families considering the move.
Iowa | Arizona |
---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern IowaArizona State University University of Arizona Northern Arizona University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Jackson Elementary (Cedar Rapids) Brookview Elementary (West Des Moines)Knox Gifted Academy (Chandler) BASIS Scottsdale Primary (Scottsdale) Archway Classical Academy (Phoenix) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools North Central Junior High (Iowa City) Harding Middle School (Cedar Rapids) Omaha Brownell Talbot (Omaha)<BASIS Chandler (Chandler) BASIS Scottsdale (Scottsdale) Preparatory Academy (Phoenix) | |
Top 3 High Schools West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Decorah High School (Decorah)Chandler Preparatory Academy (Chandler) BASIS Scottsdale (Scottsdale) University High School (Tucson) | |
Top 3 private high schools Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)Brophy College Preparatory (Phoenix) Salpointe Catholic High School (Tucson) Xavier College Preparatory (Phoenix) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Maharishi School (Fairfield) Des Moines Christian School (Urbandale) Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)BASIS Phoenix (Phoenix) Rancho Solano Preparatory School (Scottsdale) The Gregory School (Tucson) | |
Top 3 School Districts West Des Moines Community School District Iowa City Community School District Cedar Rapids Community School DistrictChandler Unified District Scottsdale Unified School District Paradise Valley Unified School District |
When comparing the educational landscape of Iowa and Arizona, several interesting details emerge. For example, Arizona's BASIS Scottsdale and Chandler Preparatory Academy rank highly in both middle and high schools, indicating a strong emphasis on academic excellence and preparation for higher education. Iowa's focus on quality education is evident as well, with cities like Iowa City and West Des Moines repeatedly housing top-tier schools across different levels. These top schools not only emphasize academic achievement but also create a supportive environment for personal growth and development. For families moving between these states, this information could significantly impact the decision on where to settle based on the educational needs and aspirations of their children.



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