Best Irvine to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Irvine to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,744 mile move from California to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Irvine 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 $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine 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 Irvine to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.52 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Best Move Inc | 9.22 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | NorthStar Moving Company | 9.21 | 8.97 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Irvine to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,744 miles from Irvine, CA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,264 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Des Moines move is roughly $7,869. 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 | $2,191 | 300 ft³ | 7.30 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,264 | 450 ft³ | 7.25 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,403 | 750 ft³ | 7.20 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,869 | 1100 ft³ | 7.15 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,366 | 1600 ft³ | 7.10 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,697 | 1800 ft³ | 7.05 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Irvine guide.
Compare the 5 Best Irvine 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) |
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (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) |
NorthStar Moving Company
This listing has been claimed by NorthStar Moving Company633 W 5th St 26th floor
Los Angeles, CA, 90071
About NorthStar Moving Company
Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- International Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1836576 / 665757 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2023) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (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.
Irvine vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make your transition smoother, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Des Moines, IA . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Des Moines that feels just like home, using Irvine's top communities as a reference point.
| Irvine | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Woodbridge | Beaverdale | Family-friendly vibes, community events |
| Northwood | Waterbury | Historic homes, lush landscapes |
| Turtle Rock | Sherman Hill | Unique architecture, close-knit community |
| University Park | Drake Neighborhood | Academic atmosphere, diverse demographics |
| Quail Hill | Waveland Park | Tranquil, proximity to nature |
| Westpark | Highland Park | Cultural diversity, historical landmarks |
| Shady Canyon | South of Grand | Exclusive, large estates |
| Woodbury | Ingersoll Park | Urban convenience, community-centric |
| Great Park Neighborhoods | East Village | Innovative, vibrant community spaces |
| Portola Springs | Gray's Lake | Natural beauty, recreational opportunities |
For those moving from Woodbridge in Irvine, you'd find Beaverdale in Des Moines shares a similar sense of community through its annual events and neighborhood gatherings. The historic homes and lush landscapes of Northwood find their match in Des Moines' Waterbury. If you appreciate Turtle Rock's unique architecture and close-knit feel, Sherman Hill in Des Moines offers a similar charm, enhanced by its historical significance and vibrant community life. For the academically inclined residents of University Park, the Drake Neighborhood provides a similar vibrant mix of students, faculty, and professionals. Lastly, the tranquil, nature-adjacent living of Quail Hill can be enjoyed in Des Moines' Waveland Park, known for its peaceful surroundings and proximity to parks like the Waveland Golf Course, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Des Moines
Moving offers a mix of emotions and opportunities, especially when considering leaving Irvine, CA, for Des Moines, IA. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection contrasting the benefits and drawbacks of such a relocation. Understanding both the advantages and less favorable aspects will better prepare you for your big move.
Irvine, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Less severe seasons
Des Moines, IA- More affordable
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
Des Moines, IA- Colder winters
- Smaller diversity
- Fewer job opportunities in tech
Irvine, CA- Pleasant weather
- Vibrant multicultural scene
- Tech & education jobs
While Irvine boasts enviable weather with mild winters and a vibrant cultural scene, including spots like Orange County Great Park, and a strong tech industry presence, Des Moines offers its unique charm. In Des Moines, you'll enjoy the beautiful change of seasons, from the blooming springs at Gray's Lake Park to the snowy winters that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. The cost of living in Des Moines is significantly lower, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle. While it might have fewer multicultural events in comparison to Irvine's bustling scene, Des Moines boasts a strong sense of community and its own cultural landmarks, such as the Des Moines Art Center. This city's growing food scene, with restaurants like Zombie Burger, and community events throughout the year offer newcomers a warm welcome and an engaging lifestyle.
Irvine vs. Des Moines Food Guide
When moving to a new city, diving into the local cuisine is a delightful way to embrace its culture. That's why we've curated a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Des Moines, equipping you with insight into the food scenes of your current and future homes.
| Irvine | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Beef Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Corn Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Lentil Soup |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Irvine, California, the local cuisine is heavily influenced by global flavors, especially Asian and Latin American, as seen with popular dishes like Korean BBQ and fish tacos. Dining hotspots can be found throughout neighborhoods like the Irvine Spectrum and University Town Center, where you can experience a wide range of culinary delights. On the other hand, Des Moines, Iowa, celebrates hearty American classics with a touch of Midwestern flair, offering dishes such as the legendary pork tenderloin sandwich. The East Village and Gray's Lake areas are vibrant hubs for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in both traditional and innovative culinary offerings. Whether you're craving a vegan acai bowl in Irvine or a comforting lentil soup in Des Moines, each city offers its unique flavors and dining experiences that cater to food lovers of all types.
Irvine vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding a place that feels like home often means finding where you can enjoy your favorite meals. This restaurant comparison chart will help bridge your move from Irvine, CA to Des Moines, IA, guiding you to your new go-to spots that mirror the flavors of your old favorites. Let this be your culinary compass.
| Irvine | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Taco Rosa | Malos Tacos | Authentic tacos with a creative twist |
| Mastro's Steakhouse | 801 Chophouse | Luxurious steakhouse experience |
| HiroNori Craft Ramen | Krunkwich Ramen House | Noodles and broths with depth of flavor |
| North Italia | Centro | Classic and innovative Italian dishes |
| Din Tai Fung | Dumpling Darling | Expertly crafted dumplings and Asian fare |
| Angelina's Pizzeria Napoletana | Gusto Pizza Co. | Gourmet pizzas with unique toppings |
| Kabuki Japanese Restaurant | Akebono 515 | Traditional and modern Japanese cuisine |
| Veggie Grill | Fresh Cafe & Market | Plant-based dishes full of flavor |
| Bosscat Kitchen & Libations | The Cheese Bar | Diverse comfort food and cheese pairings |
| Portola Coffee Roasters | Mars Cafe | Quality coffees in a cozy atmosphere |
While the ambiance of a restaurant and its geographical location contributes much to its identity, it's the flavors and craftsmanship in the food that leave a lasting impression. For instance, Malos Tacos in Des Moines brings a splash of California flair to Iowa with its innovative taco menu, reminiscent of the variety found at Taco Rosa. On the fancier side, 801 Chophouse’s prime steaks and elegant atmosphere will satisfy those missing the ritzy vibe of Mastro's Steakhouse. For the ramen enthusiasts, Krunkwich Ramen House offers a comforting bowl with distinctive flavors that might just remind one of the broth complexity found at HiroNori Craft Ramen. By exploring these Des Moines equivalents, you'll find not just a meal, but a connection to the familiar tastes and experiences of Irvine.
Ready to start your move?
Irvine vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, evaluating real estate is crucial. This comparison examines how Irvine, CA , and Des Moines, IA stack up, spotlighting housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences ensures you find your next dream home in a city that fits your needs.
| Comparison | Irvine | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Mediterranean | Colonial and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to beaches, top-rated schools | Quiet neighborhoods, large backyards |
While Irvine is known for its high cost of living, it compensates with modern and Mediterranean architecture and close proximity to some of California's best beaches and top-rated schools. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a more affordable housing market, featuring colonial and ranch style homes, known for their quiet neighborhoods and substantial backyards. Walkability and urban lifestyle scores indicate that Des Moines provides a more pedestrian-friendly environment when compared to Irvine, though both cities offer unique advantages depending on your lifestyle preferences and needs.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA
1. Beaverdale: Known for its charming brick homes and a strong sense of community, Beaverdale offers numerous parks and pet-friendly events making it an ideal place for you and your furry friend.
2. East Village: This eclectic area is not only rich in culture and shopping but also boasts several pet-friendly restaurants and shops, including East Village Pet Hospital for your pet's health needs.
3. Gray's Lake Park area: While not a neighborhood per se, the area around Gray's Lake Park is highly popular among pet owners for its spacious park, perfect for long walks, and the nearby residential areas offer a welcoming community for pet owners.
Irvine vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Irvine, CA to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand the weather differences you'll encounter. Irvine offers a markedly different climate from Des Moines , affecting everything from your daily comfort to your wardrobe and outdoor activities. This comparison will help prepare you for the transition.
Irvine, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Irvine, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Irvine | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornadoes, Severe Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
If you're moving from Irvine to Des Moines, prepare for more pronounced seasons. Winters in Des Moines are significantly colder, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, and annual snowfall averaging 36 inches, a stark contrast to Irvine's mild winters. Additionally, the increase in humidity in Des Moines could affect your comfort and indoor air quality. Summer highs are somewhat similar, though Des Moines experiences fewer sunshine days per year. This change in climate will likely require adjustments in your daily life and wardrobe to remain comfortable throughout the year.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Des Moines
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living, tax rates, and average incomes in Irvine compare to those in Des Moines can greatly influence your financial planning and expectations. This comparison aims to provide a clearer financial picture for your relocation.
| Comparison | Irvine | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $105,774 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Insurance, Financial Services, Health Services |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lower |
While Irvine boasts a significantly higher average household income, it's also coupled with a substantially higher cost of living index. The contrast in state income tax rates, with Irvine's Californian backdrop demanding a higher rate, further contributes to the financial disparity between the two cities. Despite Irvine's higher affluence levels, Des Moines offers a more balanced economic structure with a lower cost of living and more moderate tax rates, making it an attractive city for individuals and families looking for financial stability and a reasonably comfortable lifestyle.
Irvine vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Irvine, CA, to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to grasp the communities you'll engage with. This guide provides a quick snapshot, honing in on the politics and religious landscape comparing Irvine & Des Moines, to ease your transition and shed light on the vibrant cultures awaiting you.
| Irvine | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean liberal | Lean liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse representation | Community-focused initiatives |
| Religion | Multicultural and diverse | Christian majority with diverse religious communities |
When you move from Irvine, with its liberal leanings, diverse religious presence, and multicultural landscape, to Des Moines, you'll notice both cities share a penchant for progressive politics. However, in Des Moines, there's a stronger emphasis on community-focused initiatives, suggesting a more grassroots approach to local governance. Religious diversity is valued in both locales, yet Des Moines has a more pronounced Christian majority, amongst its eclectic spiritual fabric. This juxtaposition of urban and community-centric attitudes towards politics and religion paints a compelling picture of the new experiences and interactions waiting for you.
Irvine vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Des Moines is crucial for adjusting to daily life after a move. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect in your daily commute and traffic conditions in both cities.
| Comparison | Irvine | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but difficult |
When moving from Irvine to Des Moines, you will find a significant difference in traffic conditions and public transit options. Irvine's average commute time is longer due to higher traffic congestion, rated 7 out of 10, reflecting the city's busy nature. The availability of public transit is slightly better in Irvine than in Des Moines, but residents in both cities find it challenging to get by without a car. Despite this, the lower traffic congestion in Des Moines, at a rate of 3 out of 10, makes the city's overall driving experience less stressful compared to Irvine.
Additional Resources
Irvine Moving Services
Popular Irvine to Iowa Routes
Popular Moving Resources
