Best Oklahoma City to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oklahoma City to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 543 mile move from Oklahoma to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Oklahoma City 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 Oklahoma City 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.
Best Oklahoma City to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.54 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 2 | Best Move Inc | 9.26 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property |
| 3 | Serenity Moving Services | 9.12 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Sneedworks | 9.07 | 7.7 | Authorized For Property |
| 5 | Bigger Better Movers | 8.57 | 8.97 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Oklahoma City to Des Moines?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 543 miles from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,243 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oklahoma City to Des Moines move is roughly $5,373. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,510 | 300 ft³ | $5.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,243 | 450 ft³ | $4.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,701 | 750 ft³ | $4.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,373 | 1100 ft³ | $4.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,735 | 1600 ft³ | $4.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,612 | 1800 ft³ | $4.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oklahoma City to Des Moines 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) |
Best Move Inc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |
Serenity Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by Serenity Moving Services3217 Bart Conner Dr suite d
Norman, OK, 73072
About Serenity Moving Services
Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, community. This...
Services
- Full Service Moving
- Packing & Unpacking
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2439364 / 988784 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
Sneedworks
Newcastle, OK, 73065
About Sneedworks
Sneedworks is a locally owned and operated moving company specializing in commercial and residential moving and storage services. Their team of...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3556816 / 1535559 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2023) |
Bigger Better Movers
829 NW 116th St
Oklahoma City, OK, 73120
About Bigger Better Movers
Founded in 2017, Bigger Better Movers is a local Oklahoma moving company that offers residential and commercial relocation services to Oklahoma...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3910852 / 1443568 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
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.
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but comparing the neighborhoods you're familiar with to those in your new home can help. We'll take a look at the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oklahoma City, OK & Des Moines, IA to assist you in finding your new favorite spot.
| Oklahoma City | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Edgemere Park | South of Grand | Historic charm, tree-lined streets |
| Paseo Arts District | East Village | Vibrant arts scene, unique shops |
| Plaza District | Holmes Foster | Trendy spots, community vibe |
| Mesta Park | Waterbury | Family-friendly, historic homes |
| Nichols Hills | Greenwood/Ashworth Park | Upscale, tranquil parks |
| Bricktown | Historic East Village | Lively nightlife, entertainment |
| Midtown | Sherman Hill | Diverse, historic architecture |
| Lincoln Terrace | Owl's Head | Quiet, historic, near amenities |
| The Village | Beaverdale | Quaint, community-focused |
| Automobile Alley | Western Gateway | Urban, trendy lofts |
In Des Moines's East Village, much like Oklahoma City's Paseo Arts District, you'll find a blend of unique shops, local arts, and vibrant cultural experiences. The East Village, with businesses like RAYGUN, the renowned T-shirt shop, exemplifies the innovative spirit that characterizes both communities. For those enchanted by the historic charm of Edgemere Park in Oklahoma City, the South of Grand neighborhood in Des Moines offers a similar appeal with its tree-lined streets and majestic homes, providing a picturesque setting that echoes the tranquility and beauty of a bygone era. These neighborhood comparisons aim to bridge the familiarity gap, helping you visualize your new home in Des Moines with likenesses that resonate with your experiences in Oklahoma City.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oklahoma City to Des Moines
Moving is a significant decision, full of both exciting possibilities and potential drawbacks. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA . By examining the pros and cons side by side, you can gauge not just the practical aspects of such a move but also its impact on your quality of life.
Oklahoma City, OK- Hotter summers
- Lower job growth
- Less vibrant downtown
- Fewer green spaces
- Lower cultural diversity
Des Moines, IA- Cooler summers
- Higher job growth
- More vibrant downtown
- More parks and trails
- Higher cultural diversity
Des Moines, IA- Higher cost of living
- Less suburban space
- Colder winters
- Weaker sports culture
- Less diverse dining
Oklahoma City, OK- Lower cost of living
- More suburban space
- Warmer winters
- Stronger sports culture
- More widespread dining
When considering a move from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA, you're not just changing locations, but also potentially enhancing your lifestyle. Des Moines offers a rich tapestry of cultural diversity reflected in its vibrant downtown area, home to delightful restaurants like Centro and popular sights such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. While you might miss the more temperate winters and the vast suburban spaces of Oklahoma City, the wealth of parks and trails in Des Moines, including the renowned Gray's Lake Park, provides ample outdoor activities. Although the cost of living may be slightly higher in Des Moines, the city's higher job growth and the opportunity to engage with a more diverse cultural landscape present compelling reasons to consider the move.
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital since food is a significant aspect of local culture and what living in an area feels like. In this section, we will embark on a journey to explore and compare the local cuisine between Oklahoma City & Des Moines, allowing you to get better acquainted with the culinary scenes of your current and future hometowns.
- Cattlemen's Steakhouse
- Nic's Grill
- The Mule
- Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
- Fong's Pizza
- Centro
In Oklahoma City, the local cuisine scene is deeply rooted in traditional Southern and Western flavors, where Chicken Fried Steak and BBQ Brisket reign supreme. You'll find an impressive variety of tacos and vegan BBQ options that cater to all gastronomical preferences. Among the city's culinary treasures is Cattlemen's Steakhouse, a historic venue known for its rich heritage and hearty American meals. Moving to Des Moines, you'll notice a shift towards Midwestern culinary staples with the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and a strong Italian influence evident in the popularity of Italian Sausage dishes. The Des Moines food scene is vibrant and diverse, with establishments like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab showcasing innovative and quirky takes on American classics. Both cities boast a rich foodie scene with a plethora of food trucks and vegan-friendly options, though Des Moines slightly edges out with its fitness and health consciousness. Whether you're exploring the historic East Village in Des Moines or delving into the Plaza District in Oklahoma City, you're in for a culinary adventure that's as flavorful and diverse as the cities themselves.
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Moving cities can be a monumental task, especially when it comes to finding those new favorite spots that make an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Oklahoma City, OK, and Des Moines, IA, will help you transition smoothly by identifying comparable dining experiences in your new city. Whether you crave high-end dining or the comfort of casual eateries, this guide is your culinary compass.
| Oklahoma City | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Cattlemen's Steakhouse | 801 Chophouse | upscale steak dining experience |
| Nonesuch | Harbinger | innovative and seasonal small plates |
| Empire Slice House | Gusto Pizza Co. | unique and creative pies |
| Ludivine | Table 128 | modern American cuisine with a twist |
| The Jones Assembly | Centro | urban eatery with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Maple's Barbecue | Smoky D's BBQ | award-winning barbecue and sides |
| Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill | Jethro’s BBQ | hearty American fare and live music |
| Barrios Fine Mexican Dishes | Malos Cantina | inventive Mexican cuisine |
| Waffle Champion | Waveland Cafe | traditional breakfast and brunch |
| Picasso Cafe | Fresko | fresh and creative dishes in a casual setting |
When you find yourself missing the unique flavors of Oklahoma City, restaurants in Des Moines are ready to offer you a taste of home with their own local flair. For instance, if you've loved the upscale steak dining at Cattlemen's Steakhouse, 801 Chophouse in Des Moines promises an equally memorable steak experience, focusing on prime cuts and a sophisticated ambiance. Fans of Nonesuch's innovative cuisine will find a similar approach to seasonal and creative dishes at Harbinger, where the small plates are designed to surprise and delight your palate. And for those casual evenings when only a slice of pizza will do, Gusto Pizza Co. echoes the inventive toppings and quality of Empire Slice House, bringing a piece of Oklahoma City's vibrant food scene to the heart of Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between Oklahoma City and Des Moines is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing, from costs to walkability, can help you make a more informed decision about your new home.
In both Oklahoma City and Des Moines, affordable housing options are a significant attraction for new residents. However, the styles and features prioritized in each city reflect different lifestyles. Oklahoma City homes often emphasize spacious yards and open floor plans, suggesting a preference for private, expansive living spaces. In contrast, Des Moines listings frequently highlight the historic charm of properties and their proximity to local amenities, indicating a community with an urban, walkable lifestyle. This variation in housing attributes reveals the diverse urban cultures and priorities of these Midwestern cities, making them uniquely appealing depending on your personal preferences and needs.
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.
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between Oklahoma City and Des Moines is crucial if you're planning a move. This comparison will give you a sense of what to expect weather-wise so you can plan accordingly and adapt to your new environment more easily.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Notably, Oklahoma City generally experiences hotter summers and milder winters compared to Des Moines. With their distinct seasonal changes, both cities offer unique experiences for their residents. For instance, while Oklahoma City boasts more days of sunshine, Des Moines, with higher annual snowfall, can be a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Moving from a warmer climate, you may find Des Moines' winters quite cold, requiring adjustments in your wardrobe and possibly your daily routine. Conversely, the dryer and hotter summers of Oklahoma City might be a significant change from Des Moines’ more temperate summers.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oklahoma City to Des Moines
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your financial landscape might change is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the main economic differences you will encounter when moving from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA, focusing on various finance-related metrics.
Moving from Oklahoma City to Des Moines, you will likely notice a change in your financial landscape. With an average household income significantly higher in Des Moines, your earning potential might also see a boost. However, this increase comes with a marginally higher cost of living index and property tax rate. The diversity in top industries between the two cities indicates a shift in employment opportunities, potentially influencing your career path. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home in Des Moines.
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing to move from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA, understanding the community you're joining is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights into what might await you.
While Oklahoma City leans more conservative with a notably Christian majority, Des Moines tends to lean liberal and boasts a more diverse religious landscape. This difference in political and religious makeup means you might find Des Moines to offer a somewhat different community vibe, potentially influencing everything from local policies to social activities. As Des Moines shows stronger liberal leadership, you could encounter more progressive initiatives and policies compared to the mixed or conservative leadership seen in Oklahoma City. Embracing these differences can enrich your experience as you transition into your new home.
Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA? It's essential to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison between Oklahoma City & Des Moines will provide you with insights into driving and taking public transit in these cities.
Moving to either Oklahoma City or Des Moines, you'll find a distinct experience in your daily commutes. Oklahoma City has an average commute time just slightly longer than that in Des Moines, but both cities offer relatively short commutes compared to larger metropolitan areas. However, if you are considering relying on public transportation, Des Moines might offer a slightly better experience with its higher availability rating. While having a car in Oklahoma City is nearly essential due to its sprawling layout and lower public transit scores, Des Moines is gradually becoming more accommodating for those wishing to live car-free or car-light, thanks to investment in public transit and the city's more condensed urban layout.
Additional Resources
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