Best Kentucky to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Kentucky to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 666 mile KY to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 55 Kentucky 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Kentucky 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.

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Best Kentucky to Iowa Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.449.28Authorized For Property, HHG
3From Here to There9.178.82Authorized For Property, HHG
4Smooth Move Relocation Services9.109.64Authorized For Property, HHG
5BG Home Movers8.988.48Authorized For Property, HHG
6UNITS of Kentucky8.989.13Active
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 666 miles from Kentucky to Iowa will cost on average $2,348 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom KY to IA move is roughly $5,629. 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky to Iowa movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,580300 ft³$5.27
1 Bedroom$2,348450 ft³$5.22
2 Bedrooms$3,875750 ft³$5.17
3 Bedrooms$5,6291100 ft³$5.12
4 Bedrooms$8,1071600 ft³$5.07
5+ Bedrooms$9,0301800 ft³$5.02
*Please note: These Kentucky to Iowa moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kentucky & Iowa. 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 KY to IA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Kentucky guide.

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Compare the 6 Best KY to IA Movers

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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
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
2
From Here to There Logo

From Here to There

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 614+ data points

Lexington, KY, 40507

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
  • Commercial/Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Smooth Move Relocation Services Logo

Smooth Move Relocation Services

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 2,201+ data points

1132 Cherevilla Ln

Cincinnati, OH, 45238

About Smooth Move Relocation Services

Smooth Move Relocation Services is a moving company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that has been serving clients since 2000. They offer...

Services

  • Affordable local and long distance moving
  • Packing and Boxes
  • Insurance

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1878284 / 781353

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved24,500 (2023)
View Full Review
4
BG Home Movers Logo

BG Home Movers

Superb8.98/10
based on 255+ data points

1025 Lovers Ln

Bowling Green, KY, 42103

About BG Home Movers

BG Home Movers is a full-service moving company in Bowling Green, KY, offering flexible service options to meet your needs. Backed...

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

3967219 / 1481382

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
UNITS of Kentucky Logo

UNITS of Kentucky

Superb8.98/10
based on 159+ data points

1841 Taylor Ave Building # 32

Louisville, KY, 40213

About UNITS of Kentucky

UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving...

Services

  • Storage
  • Moving
  • Moving & Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

439414 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
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 Kentucky to Iowa

This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Kentucky to Iowa . Our charts offer a balanced view of the benefits and drawbacks associated with this move, helping you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Humid summers
  • Tornado risks
  • Limited job market
Iowa iconIowa
  • Cooler climate
  • Fewer tornadoes
  • Expanding industries
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lacks bourbon culture
  • Fewer equestrian events
  • Less diverse scenery
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Rich bourbon heritage
  • Renowned horse farms
  • Beautiful landscapes

Moving to Iowa from Kentucky offers the chance to enjoy a cooler climate, especially during the summer. You might miss Kentucky's bourbon culture; however, local breweries in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids present a vibrant craft beer scene worth exploring. Although Iowa lacks the horse farm legacy of Kentucky, parks like Raccoon River Park provide excellent outdoor opportunities for nature lovers. Iowa's expanding industries open more job opportunities, making cities like Ames and Iowa City appealing for career growth. Each state has its unique charm, and understanding these differences will ensure a smoother transition.

Kentucky vs. Iowa Food Guide

When you're moving, understanding the local culture is crucial, and food plays a significant role in that. To help you get acclimated, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Kentucky & Iowa . This will give you a taste of what to expect from the food scene in your new home.

Kentucky
Iowa
Most iconic local food item
Fried Chicken
Corn on the Cob
Most popular meat dish
Burgoo
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Hot Brown Sandwich
Taco Pizza
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit
Vegan Corn Dogs
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Castle Post
  • Ramsi's Cafe on the World
  • Grayson's Tavern
  • American Grill
  • The Filling Station
  • Centro
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Kentucky, the legendary fried chicken has been a staple long before it gained international fame, served best in local diners and family-run restaurants throughout the state. A visit to Ramsi's Cafe on the World in Louisville can offer a wide variety of vegan options, showcasing the versatility in Kentucky's food scene. Across the border, Iowa's claim to fame lies in its rich agricultural heritage with corn playing a central role, not just on the cob but in dishes across the spectrum. The state's beloved pork tenderloin sandwich, a mammoth creation, can be found in eateries like the classic Centro in Des Moines. Both states have vibrant culinary scenes that reflect their history and agricultural roots, promising delicious adventures for newcomers.

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Kentucky vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move, and understanding how Kentucky and Iowa compare in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle can significantly influence your decision. This comparison aims to provide a snapshot of what to expect in your potential new home state.

Kentucky
Iowa
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Craftsman
Farmhouse, Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, privacy
Energy efficiency, community

When comparing Kentucky and Iowa in terms of housing, a notable difference is in the median home prices and architectural styles that dominate the landscape. Homes in Kentucky often exhibit colonial and craftsman designs, reflecting a rich historical culture, while Iowa’s preference leans towards practical farmhouse and ranch styles, catering to its agricultural roots. Additionally, Iowa slightly edges out Kentucky in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle scores, suggesting that Iowa may offer a more conducive environment for those seeking a balance between city living and accessibility. The emphasis on energy efficiency and community in Iowa's real estate listings indicates a state-wide commitment to sustainability and social cohesion.

Kentucky vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between Kentucky and Iowa clarifies the differences in climate and weather you'll experience. Understanding these variations can help you prepare for your new environment.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87/66
85/63
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

41/24
31/14


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

48
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

12
35


When moving from Kentucky to Iowa, you'll notice some key differences in climate. Iowa tends to have colder winters, with lower average highs and lows, and more snowfall compared to Kentucky. However, Iowa benefits from slightly more days of sunshine annually. Both states share similar risks for natural disasters like tornadoes, though Iowa also experiences blizzards due to its colder climate. Understanding these variations, especially regarding winter weather and natural disaster preparedness, will be crucial in adapting to your new home.

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

Moving from one location to another brings significant financial changes. Understanding how the cost of living and income levels in Kentucky and Iowa compare is essential to anticipate your new financial landscape. This comparison will guide you through key economic factors, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Kentucky
Iowa
Avg. Household Income
$59,341
$69,588
Cost of Living Index
87.8
95.9
State Income Tax
5.00
0.33 to 8.53
Avg. Property Tax
0.86
1.29
Avg. Sales Tax
6
6.82
Top 3 Industries
Aerospace, Automotive, Healthcare
Finance, Manufacturing, Technology
Affluence
Modest
Moderate
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Noticeable
Less noticeable

Comparatively, you'll find that Iowa has a slightly higher average household income than Kentucky, which is mirrored by its marginally higher cost of living index. However, this slight increase in living costs in Iowa is complemented by a broader state income tax range, which could affect you differently depending on your income. Property taxes are notably higher in Iowa, which could be a consideration if you're planning to buy a home. The top industries in each state also hint at the job market you're stepping into, with Kentucky focusing more on manufacturing sectors like Aerospace and Automotive, whereas Iowa is stronger in Finance and Technology fields. Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for your financial transition.

Kentucky vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup between Kentucky & Iowa to help you understand what to expect in terms of the local communities and beliefs. Whether you're curious about the political leaning of your new neighborhood or the prevalent religious groups, this comparison will provide a straightforward overview.

Kentucky
Iowa
Political Make-up
Leans Republican
Swing State
Local Politics
Conservative in rural areas
Mixture of conservative and liberal
Religion
Christianity predominant
Christianity predominant

In Kentucky, you'll find that rural areas tend to lean strongly Republican with a conservative outlook on local politics. The religious scene is predominantly Christian, similar to Iowa. However, Iowa's political landscape is more nuanced as a swing state, with a balance of conservative and liberal views depending on where you are. Urban areas in Iowa like Des Moines tend to be more liberal, reflecting a diverse political environment compared to Kentucky. Religion remains primarily Christian in both states, but Iowa's larger cities might offer a wider variety of religious communities.

Education Guide When Moving from Kentucky to Iowa

Moving from Kentucky to Iowa brings about many significant changes, especially in the area of education. In order to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Kentucky and Iowa, we have curated a comparison chart that focuses on key educational aspects. This comparison aims to provide insights and help you make an informed decision for your family's educational needs.

KentuckyIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
Western Kentucky University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Rosa Parks Elementary (Lexington)
Stopher Elementary (Louisville)
Brandeis Elementary (Louisville)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Barret Traditional Middle School (Louisville)
Beaumont Middle School (Lexington)
North Oldham Middle School (Goshen)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)

Top 3 High School Schools

DuPont Manual High (Louisville)
Highlands High (Fort Thomas)
Gatton Academy (Bowling Green)
West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)

Top 3 private high schools

Sacred Heart Academy (Louisville)
Lexington Catholic High (Lexington)
Trinity High School (Louisville)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Regina High School (Iowa City)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Christian Academy of Louisville
Lexington Christian Academy
Kentucky Country Day School (Louisville)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)

Top 3 School Districts

Oldham County Schools
Fayette County Public Schools
Fort Thomas Independent Schools
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Pleasant Valley Community School District

When making the transition from Kentucky to Iowa, you'll notice key differences in the educational landscape. For instance, schools like Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines are highly recognized in Iowa for their comprehensive educational programs. Iowa is also noted for its strong public school districts, such as Iowa City Community School District, which offers a diverse range of programs. On the other hand, Kentucky boasts specialized schools such as Gatton Academy in Bowling Green, a school that integrates high school and college curriculum for gifted students. Both states offer unique opportunities, whether your preference leans towards public education, private institutions, or specialized schools. Comparing these options side by side provides a clearer understanding of what each state has to offer, ensuring you make the best decision for your family's educational needs.

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