Best Massachusetts to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Massachusetts to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,271 mile MA to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 152 Massachusetts 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 Paradise Moving & Storage), 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to Iowa Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Paradise Moving & Storage9.719.72Authorized For Property, HHG
2Stairhopper Movers9.679.62Authorized For HHG
3Varsity Movers LLC9.669.62Authorized For HHG
4Centaur Moving9.619.79Authorized For HHG
5Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
6Adamantine Spine Moving9.449.28Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,271 miles from Massachusetts to Iowa will cost on average $2,862 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom MA to IA move is roughly $6,886. 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to Iowa movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,923300 ft³$6.41
1 Bedroom$2,862450 ft³$6.36
2 Bedrooms$4,733750 ft³$6.31
3 Bedrooms$6,8861100 ft³$6.26
4 Bedrooms$9,9361600 ft³$6.21
5+ Bedrooms$11,0881800 ft³$6.16
*Please note: These Massachusetts to Iowa moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Massachusetts & 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 MA to IA mover.
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Paradise Moving & Storage Logo

Paradise Moving & Storage

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.71/10
based on 1,055+ data points

1186 Worcester Rd

Framingham, MA, 01702

About Paradise Moving & Storage

Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, and...

Services

  • Affordable insured local and long distance movers
  • Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees
  • Furniture wrapping

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3619865 / 1236088

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved81,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 8,823+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Varsity Movers LLC Logo

Varsity Movers LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.66/10
based on 742+ data points

34 Hayden Rowe St

Hopkinton, MA, 01748

About Varsity Movers LLC

Varsity Movers LLC is a moving company based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, offering services in the New England area. Established by a...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Apartment/Townhome/Condo Moving
  • Small Job Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3751873 / 1401511

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved31,270 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.61/10
based on 1,518+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
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
5
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
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 Massachusetts to Iowa

When contemplating a move from Massachusetts to Iowa, it's crucial to weigh both the positives and negatives to ensure a smooth transition. This guide provides an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes associated with relocating from Massachusetts to Iowa , helping you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Expensive housing
  • Heavy traffic
  • High taxes
  • Cold winters
  • Dense population
Iowa iconIowa
  • Affordable housing
  • Less traffic
  • Lower taxes
  • Milder winters
  • More space
Iowa iconIowa
  • Fewer historical sites
  • Less diversity
  • Limited higher education
  • Fewer hospitals
  • Landlocked geography
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Rich history
  • Cultural diversity
  • Excellent education
  • Top-tier healthcare
  • Scenic coastlines

While Massachusetts offers the charm of historic areas like Boston's Beacon Hill and the cultural vibrancy of Cambridge's Harvard Square, these come with high living costs and traffic congestion. In contrast, Iowa offers more spacious living through its expansive landscapes and affordable housing, especially in cities like Des Moines, known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and accessible parks. However, the Hawkeye State doesn't boast the same level of cultural diversity or prestigious higher education institutions as Massachusetts, but it compensates with a strong community feel and local attractions like the Iowa State Fair and Amana Colonies.

Massachusetts vs. Iowa Food Guide

When considering a move, it’s essential to immerse yourself in the local culture, and what better way than through its food? In this spirit, we're embarking on a comparison of the local cuisine between Massachusetts & Iowa . This will offer you a glimpse into the culinary scene of your potential new home.

Massachusetts
Iowa
Most iconic local food item
Clam Chowder
Corn on the Cob
Most popular meat dish
Lobster Roll
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Fried Clams
Walking Taco
Most popular vegan food
Black Bean Burger
Sweet Corn Gazpacho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
    • Woodman's of Essex
    • Union Oyster House
    • Neptune Oyster
    • The Sumari Restaurant
    • Ox Yoke Inn
    • Fong's Pizza
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Massachusetts, you'll immediately notice the influence of local seafood on its iconic dishes like the beloved clam chowder, served up in spots throughout Boston and Cape Cod. Lobster rolls and fried clams showcase the state's rich seafood culture. The vegan and health-conscious will find solace in cities like Boston, known for its black bean burgers among an array of plant-based options. Massachusetts boasts a vibrant food scene, evident in establishments like Woodman's of Essex and Neptune Oyster. Conversely, in Iowa, the heartland's agricultural influence is clear. Corn on the cob and pork tenderloin sandwiches reign supreme, with Des Moines' Fong's Pizza offering a unique twist on local flavors. While the vegan scene is growing, classic comfort foods define Iowa's culinary identity. Whether in Cedar Rapids or the Amana Colonies, you'll discover a food landscape rich with traditional American and inventive flavors.

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Massachusetts vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in relocation decisions. Understanding how Massachusetts and Iowa compare in terms of housing can illuminate the path for your move. This comparison aims to highlight critical aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to aid in your planning process.

Massachusetts
Iowa
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Cape Cod
Craftsman, Ranch
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
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🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to education, Historic details
Spacious lots, Family-friendly

In Massachusetts, the insistence on education and historical richness often reflects in the real estate market, with listings frequently highlighting proximity to prestigious schools and the charm of historic details. On the other hand, Iowa's real estate draws attention with its emphasis on spacious lots and a family-friendly atmosphere. The significant difference in median home prices reflects the broader cost of living gap between these states. Moreover, the architecture in each state tells a story of its cultural and historical priorities—Colonial and Cape Cod styles in Massachusetts versus Craftsman and Ranch styles in Iowa, showing a clear distinction in aesthetic and functional preferences.

Massachusetts vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Massachusetts to Iowa, it's crucial to understand how the weather comparison between Massachusetts and Iowa will impact your daily life. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you prepare for the differences in climate and weather-related factors, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Massachusetts
Iowa
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Nor'easters, blizzards
Tornados, floods
Air Quality
Good
Variable
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

80°F / 60°F
85°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 22°F
31°F / 14°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47.7
34.0
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

51
28


While Massachusetts and Iowa both enjoy all four seasons, Iowa experiences slightly hotter summers and colder winters with a higher annual UV index, meaning you'll encounter more days where sunscreen is a necessity. The risk of natural disasters also shifts, from the nor'easters and blizzards common in Massachusetts, to more frequent tornadoes and floods in Iowa. Moreover, Iowa's variable air quality and the presence of mold as a top allergen alongside pollen can also impact those with respiratory conditions. These differences will likely necessitate adjustments in your daily life and preparations for seasonal changes.

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

Moving between states comes with its own set of financial considerations. Understanding how the cost of living and other financial factors compare between Massachusetts and Iowa is crucial to planning your move and managing your budget effectively.

Massachusetts
Iowa
Avg. Household Income
$94,488
$69,588
Cost of Living Index
121.55
95.9
State Income Tax
5
Up to 8.53
Avg. Property Tax
1.22
1.53
Avg. Sales Tax
6.25
6.82
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Financial Services
Affluence
Higher
Moderate
Poverty
Lower
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
Lower

The financial landscape between Massachusetts and Iowa reveals significant contrasts. With an average household income considerably higher in Massachusetts, it reflects the state's higher cost of living and the density of high-paying industries such as healthcare, education, and technology. Iowa, with its more moderate average income, aligns with its lower cost of living index, making day-to-day expenses more manageable for many. The differences in state income tax rates also suggest a variation in take-home pay, where Iowa's progressive tax rate can climb higher than Massachusetts' flat rate. While both states champion significant industries, they cater to different sectors, influencing employment opportunities and economic health.

Massachusetts vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Massachusetts to Iowa, it's crucial to understand the community you'll be joining. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Massachusetts & Iowa , providing a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the two states, to help you get acclimatized to your new home.

Massachusetts
Iowa
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Swing State
Local Politics
Liberal policies in urban areas
Mixed, with conservative rural areas
Religion
Catholic predominance with progressive religious communities
Protestant majority with traditional religious values

Massachusetts is known for its Democratic lean, particularly evident in its urban centers like Boston, reflecting liberal policies and a diverse religious landscape. In contrast, Iowa's political leaning is harder to predict, swinging in national elections and showcasing a mix of conservative rural areas alongside more liberal urban communities. Religion plays a significant role in both states but manifests differently; Massachusetts has a strong Catholic presence, while Iowa is predominantly Protestant. These differences highlight the diverse cultural and political landscapes you'll experience transitioning from Massachusetts to Iowa.

Education Guide When Moving from Massachusetts to Iowa

Deciding on a move from Massachusetts to Iowa involves considering various factors, among which education stands out. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Massachusetts and Iowa , this guide compares top schools and districts, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in each state.

MassachusettsIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Harvard University
MIT
Boston University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

John D. Hardy Elementary - Wellesley
Maria Hastings Elementary - Lexington
Bridge Elementary - Lexington
Brookview Elementary - West Des Moines
Bowman Woods Elementary - Cedar Rapids
Stonebridge Elementary - Norwalk

Top 3 Middle Schools

William Diamond Middle School - Lexington
Jonas Clarke Middle School - Lexington
Wellesley Middle School - Wellesley
North Central Junior High - North Liberty
Ames Middle School - Ames
South East Junior High - Iowa City

Top 3 High School Schools

Lexington High School - Lexington
Boston Latin School - Boston
Brookline High School - Brookline
West Des Moines Valley High School - West Des Moines
Ames High School - Ames
Iowa City High School - Iowa City

Top 3 private high schools

Phillips Academy - Andover
Milton Academy - Milton
Noble and Greenough School - Dedham
Scattergood Friends School - West Branch
Maharishi School - Fairfield
St. Albert Catholic Schools - Council Bluffs

Top 3 private K-12 schools

British International School of Boston - Boston
International School of Boston - Cambridge
The Newman School - Boston
Maharishi School - Fairfield
Scattergood Friends School - West Branch
Rivermont Collegiate - Bettendorf

Top 3 School Districts

Lexington Public Schools
Weston Public Schools
Wellesley Public Schools
Johnston Community School District
West Des Moines Community School District
Ames Community School District

When evaluating your family's educational needs during a move from Massachusetts to Iowa, it's essential to consider both the highly-ranked public schools and the unique college preparatory programs offered by private institutions. Massachusetts is known for its historic and prestigious universities Harvard and MIT, reflecting the state's strong emphasis on higher education excellence. On the other hand, Iowa boasts significant achievements in public school education at all levels, with schools like Ames High School reflecting a commitment to academic excellence and a strong community involvement. Additionally, Iowa's private schools, such as Maharishi School in Fairfield, offer unique educational philosophies, providing diverse options for families. This comparison underscores the importance of aligning a family's educational priorities with the strengths of each state's school offerings.

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