Best Cleveland to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Cleveland to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 662 mile move from Ohio to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Cleveland to Des Moines 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 Cleveland compared to Des Moines. 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 Cleveland to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.549.4Authorized For Property, HHG
2Eyring Movers9.539.29Authorized For Property, HHG
3Blue Men Moving LLC9.519.67Authorized For HHG
4Best Move Inc9.269.19Authorized For Property
5Krupp Moving & Storage8.908.6Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Cleveland to Des Moines?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 662 miles from Cleveland, OH to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,344 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cleveland to Des Moines move is roughly $5,620. 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 and dropoff 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 movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,578300 ft³$5.26
1 Bedroom$2,344450 ft³$5.21
2 Bedrooms$3,869750 ft³$5.16
3 Bedrooms$5,6201100 ft³$5.11
4 Bedrooms$8,0951600 ft³$5.06
5+ Bedrooms$9,0171800 ft³$5.01
*Please note: These Ohio to Iowa moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Ohio & 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 OH to IA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Cleveland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Cleveland to Des Moines 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
Eyring Movers Logo

Eyring Movers

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 1,058+ data points

2315, 638 Moore Rd STE A

Avon Lake, OH, 44012

About Eyring Movers

Eyring Movers has been moving Cleveland residents for five generations, since 1897. This moving company's extremely long history as a reliable...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

120489 / 87872

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved85,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
Blue Men Moving LLC Logo

Blue Men Moving LLC

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 937+ data points

530 Grant St

Akron, OH, 44311

About Blue Men Moving LLC

Blue Men LLC strives to treat its clients with the golden rule in order to reduce the stress of relocation. This...

Services

  • Residential moving services
  • Commercial moving services
  • Cheap moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2462290 / 863664

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved300,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Krupp Moving & Storage Logo

Krupp Moving & Storage

Superb8.90/10
based on 1,299+ data points

3481 Cleveland Rd

Wooster, OH, 44691

About Krupp Moving & Storage

Akron and Canton are 25 miles apart, and between them, there’s one mover that residents have come to trust. Krupp Moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2091898 / 729746

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved300,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from Cleveland, OH, to Des Moines, IA, can feel like a leap into the unknown. However, by comparing the local neighborhoods between Cleveland, OH & Des Moines, IA , you'll find familiar comforts and new adventures. Use your existing city as a baseline to discover what your new home has to offer.

ClevelandDes MoinesHow They're Similar
Ohio CityEast VillageVibrant arts scene
TremontSherman HillHistoric and charming
Detroit-ShorewayDrakeWaterfront view developments
Shaker HeightsSouth of GrandSuburban elegance
LakewoodBeaverdaleClose-knit community feel
University CircleDowntown Des MoinesCultural hub
EdgewaterWaterburyScenic lakeside
Little ItalyItalian-American Heritage FestivalCultural festivities
Gateway DistrictIngersoll ParkDining and nightlife
Downtown ClevelandWest Des MoinesCommercial center

In Cleveland, if you're drawn to the creative buzz of Ohio City with its dynamic arts scene and trendy eateries, you'll feel right at home in Des Moines' East Village, known for its eclectic mix of art galleries and innovative dining spaces such as the Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. For those who enjoy exploring historic areas, Tremont's beautiful Victorian homes and cultural landmarks offer a sense of nostalgia, akin to Sherman's Hill's picturesque streets and meticulously preserved architecture. If lake views are important to you, living in Cleveland's Edgewater, with its stunning beachfront parks, parallels the serene vistas you would enjoy in Waterbury, where locals love spending weekends by the water or exploring the community's vibrant history.

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Things to Do in Des Moines

  • Explore Des Moines Botanical Garden
  • Enjoy Iowa Wild hockey games
  • Visit Science Center of Iowa
  • Walk through Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Attend live performances at Des Moines Performing Arts
  • Try local foods at Downtown Farmers' Market
  • Bike on High Trestle Trail

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Cleveland to Des Moines

Moving can be a daunting endeavor, often involving a mix of emotions and practical considerations. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Cleveland, OH to Des Moines, IA . By examining both sides of the coin, you're better prepared for what lies ahead, making the transition as smooth as possible.

CONs
PROs
Cleveland, OH iconCleveland, OH
  • Higher crime rates
  • Colder winters
  • Less green space
  • Smaller job market
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder winters
  • More parks
  • Expanding job market
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer museums
  • No large lakes
  • More car-dependent
Cleveland, OH iconCleveland, OH
  • Lively music scene
  • Rich cultural institutions
  • Waterfront activities
  • Better public transit

While Cleveland is known for its vibrant music scene, featuring venues like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Des Moines offers a serene lifestyle with a growing local arts scene including the Des Moines Performing Arts center. You might miss the bustling waterfront of Lake Erie, but Des Moines compensates with beautiful parks like Gray’s Lake Park and the expansive Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Although you may find Des Moines to be more car-dependent, the city's expanding job market in tech and finance sectors, coupled with a lower cost of living, presents new opportunities. Embracing the smaller city vibe could mean enjoying life in popular areas like the East Village, where vibrant restaurants and shops contribute to a strong community feel.

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape of a city is crucial when considering a move, as food is an essential part of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we will compare the local cuisine between Cleveland & Des Moines to help you better understand what culinary delights await in your new home.

Cleveland
Des Moines
Most iconic local food item
Polish Boy
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Corned beef
Smoked Pork
Most popular street food item
Gyro
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Chili
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Sokolowski's University Inn
  • Lola Bistro
  • Slyman's Restaurant
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Jethro's BBQ
  • Centro
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Des Moines, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigns supreme as the city's most iconic food item, perfectly capturing the local cuisine's charm. This delicacy, along with Smoked Pork, showcases Iowa's rich agricultural heritage, often featured prominently at popular spots like Jethro's BBQ. When exploring the city, the East Village neighborhood is a must-visit for foodies, offering a diverse selection of dining options, from the unique fusion at Fong's Pizza to the upscale dining experience at Centro. The city's food scene is vibrant and continuously evolving, making Des Moines an exciting culinary destination.

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a blend of excitement and uncertainty, especially when it comes to finding your new favorite places to dine. To ease this transition, we've curated a comparison chart to seamlessly guide you from Cleveland's top restaurants to Des Moines' culinary gems , ensuring that no matter where you are, delightful flavors feel like home.

ClevelandDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
Lola BistroProofcontemporary cuisine with a local twist
Mabel's BBQSmoky D's BBQaward-winning barbecue, similar focus on smoky flavors
Presti’s BakeryCrème Cupcakedessert lounge with a variety of sweet treats
Edwins RestaurantTable 128 Bistro + Barsophisticated dining with an emphasis on skillful preparation
BarrioEl Patio Mexican Grillvibrant atmosphere with authentic Mexican dishes
The Greenhouse TavernCentrourban eatery known for its Italian classics with a modern twist
Luca Italian CuisineLuccaoffers Italian sophistication in both its ambiance and menu
Alley Cat Oyster BarWaterfront Seafood Marketfresh seafood selections in an inviting setting
Great Lakes Brewing CompanyConfluence Brewing Companycraft beers with local flair, inviting taproom
Tommy’s RestaurantZombie Burger + Drink Labinventive burgers with a unique twist

Exploring new culinary landscapes can be one of the highlights of moving to a new city. Des Moines delights with its own unique dining scene that mirrors the sophistication and variety Cleveland offers, from the contemporary flavors at Proof akin to Lola Bistro's approach, to the award-winning smoky sensations at Smoky D's BBQ, reminiscent of Mabel's BBQ. Not just limiting to specific cuisines, the creativity seen in places like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines offers a playful twist similar to what one might find at Tommy’s Restaurant in Cleveland, ensuring food enthusiasts continue to dine well. This transition doesn’t just extend to dining; it encompasses the experience of discovering places that cater to every palate, making Des Moines not just a new setting but a new culinary home.

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Ready to start your move?

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is crucial. Understanding how Cleveland, OH, and Des Moines, IA stack up against each other in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can significantly influence your decision. Let's dive into the specifics.

Cleveland
Des Moines
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Tudor
Craftsman, Ranch
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to downtown, Historic charm
Family-friendly neighborhoods, Green spaces

In exploring the nuances of living in Cleveland and Des Moines, it's evident that while Cleveland presents a more affordable upfront home buying experience, Des Moines counterbalances with its higher median home prices, likely reflecting newer construction and amenities. The architectural styles between the cities echo their historical and cultural differences. Cleveland homes often boast historical charm with Colonial and Tudor styles prevalent, emphasizing the city's rich history. On the flip side, Des Moines leans towards Craftsman and Ranch styles, which aligns with its more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The walkability and bikeability scores suggest that although neither city is a walker's paradise, they both offer reasonable amenities for those preferring these modes of transport. Interestingly, the real estate listings highlight the cities' priorities: Cleveland emphasizes its downtown access and historical allure, while Des Moines points to its focus on family-friendly environments and ample green spaces.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA

1. Beaverdale: You’ll love the abundance of parks and walking trails that make it easy to keep your furry friends active and happy.

2. Ingersoll Park: With pet-friendly cafes and easy access to local dog parks, you and your pet can enjoy everything the community has to offer.

3. Waveland Park: You’re never far from open spaces and trails, making it convenient for daily walks and outdoor pet activities.

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the climates is crucial for a smoother transition. This guide will help you understand how the weather in Cleveland, OH, and Des Moines, IA differs, equipping you with the knowledge to adjust to your new home comfortably.

Cleveland
Des Moines
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Lake-effect snow
Tornadoes, Severe thunderstorms
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 64°F
85°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

34°F / 22°F
31°F / 16°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

39.1
36.0
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

68
33


While both cities experience four distinct seasons, there are notable differences worth considering. Des Moines enjoys more days of sunshine annually compared to Cleveland, which may appeal to those looking for brighter days. However, it’s also prone to harsher winters with lower temperatures and less snowfall. This contrasts with Cleveland's lake-effect snow contributing to higher snowfall totals. Additionally, the average annual UV index is higher in Des Moines, indicating a need for more consistent sun protection. Air quality in Des Moines is generally considered better, potentially benefiting those with respiratory concerns. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for life in your new city.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cleveland to Des Moines

When relocating, it's crucial to know how your finances will be impacted. This comparison between Cleveland, OH, and Des Moines, IA, highlights key monetary aspects including income, taxes, and living costs, helping you prepare for your move.

Cleveland
Des Moines
Avg. Household Income
$35,562
$60,693
Cost of Living Index
101
90.9
State Income Tax
2.85 to 4.797%
0.33 to 8.53%
Avg. Property Tax
2%
1.5%
Avg. Sales Tax
8%
7%
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education
Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture
Affluence
Lower
Moderate
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Moderate
Lower

When comparing Cleveland and Des Moines, you'll notice a significant difference in average household income, with Des Moines residents typically earning more. This is reflected in the cost of living, which is slightly higher in Des Moines but is compensated by higher income levels. Additionally, the varying state income tax rates could impact your take-home pay, depending on your income bracket. The industries driving each city's economy could also influence job opportunities in your field. Understanding these differences can help you make a well-informed decision for a smoother transition.

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison offers a brief overview, providing a quick and immediate insight into the political and religious composition of Cleveland, OH compared to Des Moines, IA. This will give you a foundational understanding of this is a comparison of the politics between Cleveland & Des Moines , helping you familiarize yourself with the local cultural landscape as you consider your move.

Cleveland
Des Moines
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive Initiatives
Moderate with progressive trends
Religion
Diverse; includes Catholicism, Protestantism
Diverse; Protestant majority with growing interfaith communities

Both Cleveland and Des Moines share a tendency to lean Democratic in their political make-up, though their local politics show varying degrees of progressivism, with Cleveland often spearheading progressive initiatives while Des Moines navigates a more moderate path, albeit with a growing trend towards progressive movements. Religion in both cities is quite diverse, with Cleveland having a strong Catholic and Protestant presence and Des Moines being predominantly Protestant but with a significant and growing interfaith community, reflecting a broader inclusivity within the city. This comparative insight should help you gauge how your lifestyle and beliefs might mesh with the local culture and community in Des Moines.

Cleveland vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Cleveland, OH to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commutes and traffic you'll encounter. This comparison will highlight the traffic and transportation options between Cleveland & Des Moines, helping you plan your move and daily routines more efficiently.

Cleveland
Des Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
20
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Possibly, with some planning
Challenging

The nuances in daily commuting between Cleveland and Des Moines might seem minor at first glance but can greatly influence your daily life. Cleveland boasts a more robust public transit system, which can be a significant advantage if you're used to or prefer using public transportation over driving. The city’s RTA system extends across bus and rail lines, making it feasible to navigate the city without a car, provided you plan your routes accordingly. Des Moines, on the other hand, has a more car-centric culture. While it does have a public transportation system, DART, its reach and frequency might not compare to what you're used to in Cleveland. The lower traffic congestion in Des Moines, however, makes driving a less stressful experience than in more congested cities.

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