Best Iowa to Oregon Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Iowa to Oregon and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,670 mile IA to OR move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 60 Iowa to Oregon 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 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Iowa compared to Oregon. 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 Oregon Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
2Pacific Northwest Moving9.499.45Authorized For Property
3Adamantine Spine Moving9.449.28Authorized For Property, HHG
4Elite Relocation Services9.349.1Authorized For 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 Oregon?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,670 miles from Iowa to Oregon will cost on average $3,201 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to OR move is roughly $7,716. 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 Oregon 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 Oregon movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,149300 ft³$7.16
1 Bedroom$3,201450 ft³$7.11
2 Bedrooms$5,298750 ft³$7.06
3 Bedrooms$7,7161100 ft³$7.01
4 Bedrooms$11,1431600 ft³$6.96
5+ Bedrooms$12,4461800 ft³$6.91
*Please note: These Iowa to Oregon moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & Oregon. 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 OR mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oregon to Iowa guide.

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Compare the 6 Best IA to OR 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
Pacific Northwest Moving Logo

Pacific Northwest Moving

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 782+ data points

Central Point, OR, 97502

About Pacific Northwest Moving

Pacific Northwest Moving has been offering their reliable services as movers in Medford, OR for more than ten years. It is...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3680404 / 1279836

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
Elite Relocation Services Logo

Elite Relocation Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 928+ data points

3711 W 1st Ave

Eugene, OR, 97402

About Elite Relocation Services

Elite Relocation Services has been awarded Business of the Year, Torch Awards for Ethics, and an A+ rating from the BBB....

Services

  • Local and Long Distance moving
  • Residential moving
  • Office & Industrial moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3027188 / 1419238

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved72,000 (2023)
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 Oregon

When moving from Iowa to Oregon, it's essential to have a balanced perspective on the pros and cons associated with such a transition. By examining the differences between these two states, you'll gain an honest reflection of both the good and the bad attributes that could impact your decision to relocate from Iowa to Oregon .

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Long, harsh winters
  • Flat landscapes
  • Limited outdoor activities
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Distance from the coast
Oregon iconOregon
  • Mild Oregon climate
  • Scenic mountains
  • Extensive outdoor opportunities
  • More diverse communities
  • Closer to Pacific Ocean
Oregon iconOregon
  • Higher living expenses
  • More competitive job market
  • Congestion in cities
  • Higher education competition
  • Faster pace of life
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower cost of living
  • Friendly communities
  • Less traffic
  • Good local schools
  • Quieter pace

In Oregon, the stunning natural beauty is evident in places like Crater Lake and Mount Hood, offering a dramatic change from Iowa's flat prairies. You might enjoy the access to various outdoor adventures not readily available in Iowa, such as hiking in Forest Park or exploring Oregon’s coast. However, this natural beauty comes at a cost; major cities like Portland tend to have a higher cost of living compared to familiar, budget-friendly places such as Des Moines. Moreover, navigating the bustling cultural hubs in Oregon might be invigorating but also brings challenges like traffic congestion, particularly in areas like Eugene or Salem, contrasting with Iowa’s quieter, less congested roads. Nevertheless, the spirited communities and diverse cultural experiences in Oregon could be a refreshing change from Iowa's charming, but less varied way of life.

Iowa vs. Oregon Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Oregon, showcasing the importance of food in local culture and everyday life. By comparing these two locations, you'll be better informed about the culinary scene of your new home.

Iowa
Oregon
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Marionberry Pie
Most popular meat dish
Grilled Pork Chops
Dungeness Crab
Most popular street food item
Breakfast Burrito
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Sweet Corn
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Machine Shed
  • Jethro’s BBQ
  • Amana Colonies
  • Voodoo Doughnut
  • Pok Pok
  • Screen Door
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Iowa prides itself on hearty, meat-centric dishes like the renowned Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, Oregon's cuisine leans towards a more diverse and health-conscious selection, with the Marionberry Pie standing tall as its most iconic dish. In Portland, Oregon, food trucks like those offering tantalizing tacos dot the landscape, showcasing the state's high foodie scene rating and its love for street food. Portland, in particular, is a paradise for vegans and vegetarians, with establishments like Screen Door offering innovative plant-based dishes that delight even the most discerning eaters. On the other hand, iconic Iowa restaurants such as The Machine Shed focus on comfort food, embodying the state's rich agricultural heritage and love for corn and meat.

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Iowa vs. Oregon Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Iowa and Oregon is crucial. This comparison will assist you in understanding the housing costs, styles, and living environment to expect, making your transition smoother.

Iowa
Oregon
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch and Farmhouse
Craftsman and Bungalow
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods
Eco-friendly features, proximity to nature

While Iowa offers affordability with a median home price significantly lower than Oregon's, the latter boasts a higher quality of urban lifestyle, marked by its superior walkability and bikeability scores. This reflects Oregon's commitment to sustainable living, also evident in real estate listings that frequently highlight eco-friendly features and close proximity to nature. Moreover, Oregon's architecture punctuates its streets with the charm of Craftsman and Bungalow styles, a contrast to Iowa's appreciation for Ranch and Farmhouse designs that cater to its spacious and serene landscapes.

Iowa vs. Oregon Weather Considerations

When transitioning from one living environment to another, it's crucial to comprehend the climate changes that await. This comparison aims to prepare you for the weather differences between Iowa and Oregon, focusing on factors like temperature, sunlight, and seasonal challenges you might face. Understanding these variations ensures a smoother adjustment to your new home.

Iowa
Oregon
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornados, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 63°F
81°F / 51°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31°F / 14°F
47°F / 35°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36"
44"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

32"
8"


Moving from Iowa to Oregon, you'll notice fewer sunny days but milder winter temperatures in Oregon. The humidity levels are somewhat comparable, though the specific allergens may vary, potentially affecting seasonal allergies. Importantly, the types of natural disasters differ significantly, with Iowa experiencing more tornados and floods, and Oregon facing a higher risk of earthquakes and wildfires. Adjusting to these differences in climate and preparedness will be key in making your transition as seamless as possible.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding how your finances will be affected is crucial. This comparison between Iowa and Oregon highlights key financial differences you'll encounter. It covers everything from household income to tax rates, helping you grasp the cost of living and economic climate you’re stepping into.

Iowa
Oregon
Avg. Household Income
$69,588
$75,657
Cost of Living Index
95.9
110.55
State Income Tax
0.33 to 8.53
5 to 9.9
Avg. Property Tax
1.29
0.90
Avg. Sales Tax
6
0
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance
Technology, Forestry, Agriculture
Affluence
Moderate
Higher
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Iowa to Oregon, you'll find several financial adjustments await. The average household income in Oregon is slightly higher, which might seem promising until you consider the state’s higher cost of living index and income tax rates. While property taxes in Oregon are lower, the state’s cost of living and lack of sales tax reflect its investment in public services and infrastructure. The economic climates are fueled by different industries: Iowa’s strength lies in agriculture and manufacturing, whereas Oregon thrives on technology and forestry. This diversification in industries may offer varied job opportunities depending on your career path.

Iowa vs. Oregon Political & Religious Comparison

In considering a move from Iowa to Oregon, it's important to peek into the kaleidoscope of cultural, political, and religious views that shape each state. This comparison gives you a quick overview of the politics and religion between Iowa & Oregon , offering insights into the community you're considering making your new home.

Iowa
Oregon
Political Make-up
Swing state, with a mix of Democratic and Republican representation
Largely Democratic, especially in urban areas
Local Politics
Moderate to conservative in rural areas
Progressive in urban centers like Portland
Religion
Christianity predominant, with a mix of Protestant and Catholic faiths
One of the most unaffiliated states religiously in the U.S.

When you move from Iowa to Oregon, you'll find yourself transitioning from a state with a significant religious presence and politically swing nature to one that is predominantly Democratic with a high rate of religious non-affiliation. Oregon's political landscape is notably progressive, especially within its urban areas such as Portland, contrasting with Iowa's more moderate to conservative rural areas. Understanding this shift will help you navigate your new environment more effectively.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Oregon

Moving from Iowa to Oregon can seem daunting, especially when considering the best educational options for your family. To help ease this transition, we’ve compiled a comparison chart. This chart aims to better understand the comparisons between school options in Iowa and Oregon, covering everything from primary education to where most high school seniors attend college.

IowaOregon

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Oregon
Oregon State University
Portland State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Pleasant)
Ainsworth Elementary (Portland)
Findley Elementary (Beaverton)
Jacob Wismer Elementary (Portland)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Southeast Junior High (Iowa City)
Lake Oswego Junior High (Lake Oswego)
Stoller Middle School (Portland)
Cedar Park Middle School (Beaverton)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Cedar Rapids Kennedy High School (Cedar Rapids)
International School of Beaverton (Beaverton)
Lake Oswego High School (Lake Oswego)
School of Science & Technology (Beaverton)

Top 3 private high schools

Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Catlin Gabel School (Portland)
Oregon Episcopal School (Portland)
Valley Catholic School (Beaverton)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)
Catlin Gabel School (Portland)
Oregon Episcopal School (Portland)
Delphian School (Sheridan)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Linn-Mar Community School District
Lake Oswego School District
Beaverton School District
Riverdale School District

When evaluating top educational options between Iowa and Oregon, there's a notable difference in both states’ offerings. Iowa tends to have a strong presence of public institutions like University of Iowa where a significant portion of high school graduates aim to attend. On the other hand, Oregon showcases a significant preference for varied educational pathways, including well-regarded state universities such as University of Oregon and diverse private schools like Catlin Gabel School. This variety in Oregon might offer a broader set of options for students with different educational and career aspirations. Moreover, the high rating of elementary through high school education in Oregon, particularly in districts such as Lake Oswego and Beaverton, suggest a strong foundational education system that could benefit families moving to the area.

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