Best Illinois to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Illinois to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 260 mile IL to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 141 Illinois to Iowa 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 $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Illinois compared to Iowa. 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 Illinois to Iowa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.54 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.44 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 3 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.37 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 4 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.34 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG |
| 6 | Murphy Family Movers | 9.30 | 9.35 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Illinois to Iowa?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 260 miles from Illinois to Iowa will cost on average $2,002 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IL to IA move is roughly $4,785. 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 Illinois and dropoff in Iowa 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 Illinois to Iowa movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,350 | 300 ft³ | $4.50 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,002 | 450 ft³ | $4.45 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,300 | 750 ft³ | $4.40 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,785 | 1100 ft³ | $4.35 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,879 | 1600 ft³ | $4.30 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,649 | 1800 ft³ | $4.25 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Illinois guide.
Popular Illinois to Iowa Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Illinois to Iowa
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Illinois to Iowa Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IL to IA 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) |
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) |
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
Murphy Family Movers
4N951 Old Lafox Rd Unit C
St. Charles, IL, 60175
About Murphy Family Movers
Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest...
Services
- Local Moving
- Interstate Moving
- Professional Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2965334 / 7122 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (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 Illinois to Iowa
When considering a move from {state_fr} to {state_to}, it's essential to take a candid look at both the upsides and downsides. Exploring the cons in {state_fr} and the pros in {state_to} offers insight into how this transition might enhance your life. Conversely, analyzing the pros in {state_fr} against the cons in {state_to} provides a holistic view of potential challenges.
Illinois- High humidity
- Limited job market
- Traffic congestion
- Lack of outdoor recreation
Iowa- Milder weather
- Dynamic job opportunities
- Efficient public transport
- Abundance of parks
Iowa- High cost of living
- Dense urban areas
- Noisy city life
- Few familiar restaurants
Illinois- Lower cost of living
- Friendly community
- Calm suburban vibe
- Local cuisine variety
Moving from {state_fr} provides an opportunity to escape its high humidity, especially if you're longing for a milder climate found in {state_to}. The dynamic job opportunities you might come across in {state_to}, including in cities like Denver or San Francisco, could be appealing if you're seeking a career boost. While the cost of living might be higher in metropolitan areas like New York, the efficient public transport system can ease daily commutes. {state_to} is also known for its abundant parks, such as Central Park in New York or Griffith Park in Los Angeles, offering excellent spots for weekend relaxation and leisure. You might miss the calm suburban vibe of {state_fr}, but the vibrant city life in {state_to} could make up for it with its diverse cultural experiences.
Illinois vs. Iowa Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Illinois & Iowa offers a glimpse into the food culture crucial to experiencing life in these areas. By examining the differences and similarities, you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
- Alinea
- Portillo's
- Jethro's BBQ
- Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
- The Sumatanga
When considering a move to either Illinois or Iowa, the local food scene is a delicious aspect of the culture to explore. Illinois, with its iconic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and beloved Italian beef, offers a robust foodie scene, especially in Chicago's eclectic neighborhoods like the West Loop. Iowa, known for its Iowa pork tenderloin and sweet corn, provides a more laid-back culinary scene but with treasures like Jethro's BBQ in Des Moines. Both states cater to varying dietary preferences, yet Illinois tends to have a wider range of vegan options, reflecting its urban diversity. While exploring these states, you'll also notice the varying availability of food trucks and the general health consciousness of their residents.
Ready to start your move?
Illinois vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts
When you're planning a move, it's essential to consider the real estate differences between Illinois and Iowa. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle, so you can make an informed decision about where to call home.
In terms of housing, the differences between Illinois and Iowa can significantly impact your daily life and finances. For instance, while the median home price in Illinois tends to be higher, offering a broader range of urban-style living options, especially in regions like Chicago with its emphasis on Prairie and Chicago School architecture, Iowa presents a more affordable housing market coupled with an emphasis on energy efficiency and spacious living, indicating a potentially lower cost of living. The more prevalent Craftsman and Ranch style homes in Iowa may appeal to those seeking classic, functional designs. Besides, Iowa's slightly higher bikeability score suggests a better infrastructure for cyclists, aligning with a growing interest in sustainable and active living.
Illinois vs. Iowa Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Illinois to Iowa, understanding the differences in weather you'll face is crucial. This comparison highlights the weather differences between Illinois and Iowa , offering insight into what you can expect. Adjustments in wardrobe, home maintenance, and recreational activities may be necessary as you adapt to your new climate.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Illinois to Iowa, you'll experience a slight decrease in winter temperatures and an increase in snowfall, making Iowa winters a bit harsher. However, Iowa enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which may offset the colder winter somewhat. Both states share similar risks for natural disasters, such as tornadoes, but Iowa also faces blizzards. The comparison in air quality and top seasonal allergies shows minimal difference, suggesting environmental comfort levels will be quite familiar. Understanding these variances will help you prepare for your move mentally and logistically.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Illinois to Iowa
Relocating from one place to another poses an array of financial considerations and adjustments. Understanding the differences in costs of living, taxes, and income between Illinois and Iowa is crucial in planning your move. This comparison aims to highlight these key financial aspects to help you gauge how your financial landscape might change.
When considering a move from Illinois to Iowa, it's vital to note that although the average household income is slightly lower in Iowa, the cost of living and tax rates are generally more favorable. Illinois has a flat state income tax rate, which could be more or less advantageous depending on your income, while Iowa offers a progressive tax rate. Property taxes and sales taxes are also significantly lower in Iowa, potentially allowing for a higher disposable income. The top industries are somewhat similar, with both states having strong agricultural and manufacturing sectors, though Iowa has a notable finance and insurance industry presence. These financial aspects are critical to understanding how your lifestyle could be impacted by a move between these two states.
Illinois vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison
In assessing your impending move from Illinois to Iowa, it's crucial to understand the distinctive characteristics of both states. This comparison will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot focusing on the political and religious makeup between Illinois & Iowa, giving you a better feel for your new community.
When moving from Illinois to Iowa, you'll notice shifts in political landscapes and religious affiliations. Illinois tends to lean Democratic, especially in urban areas like Chicago, while Iowa's status as a swing state means political opinions can vary significantly depending on where you settle. You might find a more noticeable presence of conservative viewpoints, particularly in rural locales, yet cities like Iowa City and Des Moines feature liberal enclaves. Religion plays a significant role in both states, but Iowa's communities tend to be more Protestant dominant, though both states host diverse religious populations including Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim communities.
Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to Iowa
Moving from one state to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring your children receive the best education possible. This guide is designed to help you compare the education options between Illinois and Iowa , enabling you to make informed decisions about your family's future.
| Illinois | Iowa |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Illinois Northwestern University University of ChicagoUniversity of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern Iowa | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Lincoln Elementary (Springfield) Avery Coonley (Downers Grove) South Park Elementary (Deerfield)Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Shimek Elementary (Iowa City) Brookview Elementary (West Des Moines) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Woodlawn Middle (Long Grove) Daniel Wright Junior High (Lincolnshire) Maple School (Northbrook)Ames Middle (Ames) Northwest Junior High (Coralville) North Central Junior High (North Liberty) | |
Top 3 High Schools Adlai E. Stevenson High (Lincolnshire) New Trier High (Winnetka) Northside College Prep (Chicago)West High (Iowa City) Ames High (Ames) Liberty High School (North Liberty) | |
Top 3 private high schools Latin School of Chicago (Chicago) Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest) Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) St. Albert High School (Council Bluffs) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools British International School of Chicago (Chicago) Morgan Park Academy (Chicago) Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids) | |
Top 3 School Districts New Trier Township HSD 203 (Northfield) Glenbrook High Schools District 225 (Glenview) Niles Township Community High School District 219 (Skokie)Iowa City Community School District West Des Moines Community School District Ames Community School District | |
When comparing top education institutions and districts between Illinois and Iowa, a few key differences emerge. Illinois boasts a wide array of highly rated public and private schools, with institutions like New Trier High and the University of Chicago frequently receiving national recognition. The state's strong academic environment is reflected in the quality of its primary, middle, and high schools, both public and private. In contrast, Iowa's educational landscape offers equally impressive options with schools like Ames High and the University of Iowa standing out, particularly for their community involvement and innovative programs. Both states offer excellent educational opportunities, but Illinois tends to have a wider variety of highly competitive private institutions, while Iowa often focuses more on community engagement and public schooling strengths.
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