Best Iowa to Colorado Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Iowa to Colorado and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 773 mile IA to CO move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 85 Iowa to Colorado 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 Movemasters, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Iowa compared to Colorado. 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 Iowa to Colorado Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Movemasters, Inc.9.599.45Authorized For HHG
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
3Smooth Movers9.539.31Authorized For HHG
4Adamantine Spine Moving9.449.28Authorized For Property, HHG
5Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
6Hemmen Moving9.129.47Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Iowa to Colorado?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 773 miles from Iowa to Colorado will cost on average $2,439 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to CO move is roughly $5,851. 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 Colorado 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 Colorado movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,641300 ft³$5.47
1 Bedroom$2,439450 ft³$5.42
2 Bedrooms$4,027750 ft³$5.37
3 Bedrooms$5,8511100 ft³$5.32
4 Bedrooms$8,4301600 ft³$5.27
5+ Bedrooms$9,3941800 ft³$5.22
*Please note: These Iowa to Colorado moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & Colorado. 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 CO mover.
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Compare the 6 Best IA to CO Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Movemasters, Inc. Logo

Movemasters, Inc.

Exceptional9.59/10
based on 2,994+ data points

745 Lipan St

Denver, CO, 80204

About Movemasters, Inc.

Located in Denver and serving customers locally and statewide for close to 40 years, Movemasters Inc. values trust, reputation, and results....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Household Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1290433 / 1550891

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans19
Registered Drivers23
Total Annual Miles Moved216,634 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Smooth Movers Logo

Smooth Movers

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.53/10
based on 633+ data points

263 N 3rd St

Laramie, WY, 82072

About Smooth Movers

Smooth Movers has over 100 years of combined moving experience. It is a locally owned and operated business helping people move...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2630599 / 915454

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved110,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 1,160+ data points

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

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
4
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
5
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
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Colorado

Moving from one state to another involves numerous considerations. By presenting a comparison between {state_fr} and {state_to} , the goal is to offer an honest reflection of the advantages and disadvantages inherent in such a transition. This will help you make an informed decision that takes into account the good and not-so-good aspects of relocating from {state_fr} to {state_to} .

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • High tax rates
  • Hurricanes
  • Dense traffic
  • High cost of living
  • Limited outdoor spaces
Colorado iconColorado
  • Lower taxes
  • Mild weather
  • Less congestion
  • Affordable housing
  • Abundant parks
Colorado iconColorado
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer gourmet options
  • Limited transport options
  • Quieter evenings
  • Fewer attractions
Iowa iconIowa
  • Vibrant culture
  • World-class dining
  • Excellent public transit
  • Lively nightlife
  • Historical landmarks

As you consider the move from {state_fr} to {state_to}, it's essential to weigh the differences that may impact your daily life. For instance, if you're used to extensive public transportation options, the more limited system in {state_to} could be a significant adjustment. However, you'll discover expansive parks such as {popular_park_in_state_to} and enjoy routine outings without the dense traffic synonymous with {state_fr}. Moreover, while {state_fr} is renowned for its {state_fr_cuisine}, transitioning to a quieter culinary scene in {state_to} might offer unexpected delights with its local specialties. Explore neighborhoods like {popular_neighborhood_state_to}, where the blend of natural beauty and community charm could redefine your lifestyle.

Iowa vs. Colorado Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Colorado which plays a significant role in the local culture and what it feels like to live there. By comparing these two locations, you can better understand the food scene in your new home.

Iowa
Colorado
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Green Chili (Chile Verde)
Most popular meat dish
Grilled Pork Chops
Bison Burgers
Most popular street food item
Sweet Corn
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Corn Dogs
Quinoa Salads
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • The Machine Shed Restaurant
  • Amana Colonies’ Restaurants
  • Frasca Food and Wine
  • Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
  • The Sink
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Colorado, you'll notice the state's fascination with green chili, which can be found in many local dishes, especially as the heart of the iconic Chile Verde. The state's food scene is known for its innovative approach to health and sustainability, with a high number of vegan and health-conscious options like quinoa salads. Spots in Denver such as Snooze, an A.M. Eatery for breakfast and Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder for an upscale dining experience highlight the state’s diverse culinary landscape. The strong presence of food trucks and a high foodie scene rating demonstrate Colorado’s vibrant and evolving food culture, particularly in hip neighborhoods and bustling downtown areas.

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Iowa vs. Colorado Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, so understanding how housing in Iowa and Colorado stack up is essential. This comparison offers insights into prices, styles, and livability, guiding your decision-making process.

Iowa
Colorado
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch and Craftsman
Mountain and Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, central location
Scenic views, proximity to nature

When it comes to real estate, both Iowa and Colorado offer distinct experiences. Iowa's homes are significantly more affordable, with a median home price that's a fraction of what you'll find in Colorado. This lower cost of living does mean some trade-offs, such as a less pronounced urban lifestyle and lower walkability and bikeability scores. However, the state's real estate often highlights spacious backyards and a central location, catering to those seeking a balance of suburban comfort and accessibility. On the other hand, Colorado prides itself on its stunning natural landscapes, which significantly influence its real estate market. Listings in Colorado frequently boast scenic views and a strong proximity to outdoor activities, aligning with the state's higher scores in urban lifestyle, walkability, and bikeability. This focus on nature and modern living reflects in the typical architectural styles as well, which range from mountain-inspired designs to sleek, modern aesthetics.

Iowa vs. Colorado Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Iowa to Colorado, understanding how the weather compares between these states is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will give you insights into what to expect and how to prepare for your new home's climate.

Iowa
Colorado
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Floods
Wildfires, Avalanches
Air Quality
Good
Variable
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/63
85/56
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31/14
45/18


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
15.6
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
60


Moving from Iowa to Colorado, you'll experience more sunshine days and slightly colder winter nights, but overall less humidity in Colorado. While both states share concerns for natural disasters, they differ in type, with Colorado facing wildfires and avalanches. Perhaps the most notable difference is in air quality and annual precipitation; Colorado’s dryer climate results in less rainfall and higher snowfall due to its mountainous regions. These differences are important to consider for outdoor activities, health considerations, and selecting your wardrobe.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Colorado

When planning a move from one state to another, getting a clear picture of how your finances might change is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Iowa and Colorado will equip you with the insights needed to make an informed decision. Understanding these differences ensures that there are no surprises when it comes to your budget and lifestyle in your new home.

Iowa
Colorado
Avg. Household Income
$69,588
$89,302
Cost of Living Index
95.9
98.3
State Income Tax
Up to 8.53%
Flat 4.55%
Avg. Property Tax
1.53%
0.49%
Avg. Sales Tax
6.82%
7.72%
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Agriculture, Financial Services
Technology, Tourism, Aerospace
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Low
Lower
Homelessness
Low
Higher

Moving from Iowa to Colorado, you'll notice significant financial contrasts. For one, the average household income in Colorado is notably higher, which correlates with its steeper cost of living and housing market. Although Colorado has a lower property tax rate, its overall cost of living index is much higher than Iowa's, reflecting pricier day-to-day expenses and housing. The flat rate state income tax in Colorado might simplify budgeting compared to Iowa's progressive tax brackets. These differences are essential to consider for your financial planning and lifestyle expectations in your new state.

Iowa vs. Colorado Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Iowa to Colorado, understanding the unique cultural landscape of each state is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Iowa & Colorado . It's designed to help you gauge the community environment you're moving into.

Iowa
Colorado
Political Make-up
Swing State, with a slight lean towards conservative in recent elections
Lean Democratic, especially in urban areas like Denver and Boulder
Local Politics
Rural areas tend to be more conservative, urban areas lean liberal
Urban areas are strongly liberal, with conservative leanings in more rural, mountainous regions
Religion
Christian majority, with a significant Protestant presence
Less religious overall, with a significant portion of residents identifying as unaffiliated

In comparing Iowa and Colorado, it's notable how local politics reflect broader national trends, with urban areas skewing more liberal and rural areas more conservative. This is particularly pronounced in Colorado, where the urban-rural divide is sharp, illustrated by the liberal enclaves of Denver and Boulder contrasted with more conservative regions like Colorado Springs. On the religious front, Colorado's significant unaffiliated population points to a more secular social environment compared to Iowa's stronger Protestant presence. Understanding these dynamics can help you better anticipate the community atmosphere in your new home state.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Colorado

When considering a move from Iowa to Colorado, it's vital to compare the educational landscape between Iowa and Colorado . This comparison aims to better understand what the school options are, helping you make an informed decision for your family's educational future.

IowaColorado

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Colorado Boulder
Colorado State University
University of Denver

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Pella)
Grant Wood Elementary (Bettendorf)
Bromwell Elementary (Denver)
Cory Elementary (Denver)
Bear Creek Elementary (Boulder)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Summit Middle School (Johnston)
Lesher Middle School (Fort Collins)
Summit Middle Charter (Boulder)
Challenge School (Denver)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Johnston High School (Johnston)
Cherry Creek High School (Greenwood Village)
Fairview High School (Boulder)
Denver School of the Arts (Denver)

Top 3 private high schools

Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
The Colorado Springs School (Colorado Springs)
Kent Denver School (Englewood)
Fountain Valley School of Colorado (Colorado Springs)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)
Colorado Academy (Denver)
Vail Mountain School (Vail)
Fountain Valley School (Colorado Springs)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools
Cherry Creek School District
Boulder Valley School District
Douglas County School District

While both Iowa and Colorado boast impressive educational statistics and options, the specifics of their offerings show some variation. For example, the University of Iowa, known for its strong programs in healthcare, law, and the fine arts, contrasts with the University of Colorado Boulder, which is recognized for its engineering, business, and environmental science programs. On the K-12 level, the emphasis in Colorado on charter and specialized schools, like the Denver School of the Arts, provides unique opportunities not found elsewhere. Private education also shows distinct differences, with Colorado offering institutions like Colorado Academy, known for its comprehensive K-12 education with rigorous academic standards. This contrast in educational emphasis reflects the diverse educational landscapes and opportunities available in each state, pivotal information for families making a move between Iowa and Colorado.

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