Best San Diego to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,801 mile move from California to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 San Diego to Des Moines moving companies and more than 15,000 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 San Diego 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 San Diego to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,801 miles from San Diego, CA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,313 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Des Moines move is roughly $7,988. 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 | $2,224 | 300 ft³ | 7.41 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,313 | 450 ft³ | 7.36 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,484 | 750 ft³ | 7.31 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,988 | 1100 ft³ | 7.26 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,539 | 1600 ft³ | 7.21 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,891 | 1800 ft³ | 7.16 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego 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) |
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (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.
San Diego vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can feel like navigating uncharted territory. Let this guide serve as your compass, comparing San Diego, CA & Des Moines, IA local neighborhoods to help you find a new home that reminds you of the old one. By highlighting similar communities, this comparison aims to make your transition smoother.
| San Diego | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | South of Grand | Affluent, scenic views |
| Pacific Beach | East Village | Vibrant nightlife, young professionals |
| North Park | Beaverdale | Eclectic, artsy vibe |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Historic East Village | Entertainment, dining hub |
| Hillcrest | Sherman Hill | Diverse, inclusive community |
| Coronado | Waterbury | Family-friendly, picturesque |
| Del Mar | Windsor Heights | Quiet, upscale living |
| Little Italy | Western Gateway Park | Cultural attractions, trendy eateries |
| Mission Hills | Drake Neighborhood | Historic homes, local charm |
| Ocean Beach | Gray's Lake | Laid-back vibe, recreational activities |
San Diego's La Jolla and Des Moines's South of Grand both offer stunning scenic views and an affluent lifestyle that attracts families and professionals alike. If you're drawn to the vibrant nightlife and youthful energy of Pacific Beach, you'll find a similar vibe in Des Moines's East Village, with its bustling bars and trendy restaurants. North Park's eclectic art scene is mirrored in Beaverdale's unique shops and annual arts festival. Meanwhile, Gaslamp Quarter's dynamic entertainment and dining experiences have a counterpart in Historic East Village. For those who appreciate diversity and a close-knit community, Hillcrest's ambiance is echoed in Sherman Hill. Each Des Moines neighborhood offers its own version of San Diego's diverse and vibrant communities, from family-friendly Waterbury's resemblance to lovely Coronado, to the quiet, upscale nature of Windsor Heights which shares traits with Del Mar. Whether it’s the cultural attractions in Western Gateway Park reminiscent of Little Italy, historic charm in the Drake Neighborhood, or laid-back, recreational pursuits available in Gray's Lake similar to Ocean Beach, Des Moines provides a comforting sense of familiarity for every San Diegan making the move.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another means weighing the balance between challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to give you a clear, honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Des Moines, IA by showcasing what each city has to offer or lacks. Here's a glimpse into what you can gain and what you might miss.
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- Dense traffic
- Fewer seasonal changes
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Distinct seasons
Des Moines, IA- No beaches
- Quieter nightlife
- Less culinary variety
San Diego, CA- Warm beaches
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
While you might leave behind San Diego's pristine beaches and its dynamic mix of cultures and cuisines, Des Moines offers its own brand of charm and comfort. The cost of living in Des Moines allows for a more spacious lifestyle, perhaps making it possible for you to own a home in welcoming neighborhoods like Beaverdale or near the lush greenways of Water Works Park. Dining in Des Moines is growing more diverse, with places like Fong's Pizza creatively blending Asian and American cuisine. The city's seasonal changes also bring varied festivities, from summer concerts at Brenton Skating Plaza to winter wonderlands at the Des Moines Winter Market. The transition from San Diego’s ever-sunny shores to Des Moines' four-season climate might take adjustment, but it opens up a fresh bouquet of experiences and a sense of community often found in smaller, yet vibrant cities.
San Diego vs. Des Moines Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Des Moines, given that food is an integral part of local culture and significantly influences what living in an area is like. This comparison will help you be more informed about the food scene in your new city.
| San Diego | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Smoked Pork |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Corn Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Diego, renowned for its vibrant, multicultural food scene, offers an abundance of fresh, local seafood, leading to fish tacos being a staple that locals and tourists alike flock to. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter host a variety of restaurants where you can indulge in authentic carne asada or innovative vegan tacos. In contrast, Des Moines delights with its hearty Midwestern fare, with the pork tenderloin sandwich reigning supreme. The East Village area of Des Moines is a culinary hotspot, where places like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab bring inventive flavors to classic American dishes. Both cities boast a unique and rich food culture, each reflective of its geographic and cultural landscape.
San Diego vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition for those moving from San Diego, CA, to Des Moines, IA, by highlighting familiar dining experiences. By comparing top San Diego restaurants to their Des Moines counterparts, we aim to help newcomers find their new favorite eateries.
| San Diego | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Harbinger | Innovative small plates and a creative dining experience similar in caliber |
| Mister A's | Django | Though more French-focused, offers a sophisticated dining atmosphere echoing the upscale vibes |
| Phil's BBQ | Smoky D's BBQ | Award-winning barbecue capturing the essence of laid-back, delicious food |
| George's at the Cove | Centro | High-quality ingredients and dishes with an artistic touch, comparable to the scenic dining at George's |
| Craft & Commerce | El Bait Shop | While more casual, it boasts an extensive beer selection and quirky, crafty bites |
| Puesto | Malos Cantina | Fresh, modern Mexican cuisine with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere akin to Puesto |
| Born & Raised | 801 Chophouse | A posh steakhouse environment with impeccable service and quality, reminiscent of Born & Raised's elegance |
| CUCINA urbana | Aposto | Offers a cosy, Italian dining experience with a unique twist on classic dishes, similar to CUCINA urbana |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Tasty Tacos | A family-run spot offering homemade Mexican favorites, echoing the authenticity of Las Cuatro Milpas |
| The Fish Market | Waterfront Seafood Market | A local staple for fresh seafood that rivals the freshness and variety found at The Fish Market |
For those who cherish a high-end dining experience akin to Juniper & Ivy, Harbinger in Des Moines offers creative and refined small plates in an intimate setting, promising an innovative culinary journey. BBQ enthusiasts transitioning from the iconic Phil's BBQ will find solace in Smoky D's BBQ, a local favorite celebrated for its award-winning ribs and relaxed atmosphere. Seafood lovers need not worry about missing The Fish Market's ocean bounty; Waterfront Seafood Market combines quality and freshness, showcasing a stellar selection of seafood that rivals San Diego's coastal offerings. This comparison not only highlights the versatility and richness of Des Moines' dining scene but also reassures newcomers that finding a new favorite spot is an exciting part of making Des Moines home.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how housing in San Diego compares with housing in Des Moines can greatly influence your decision-making process. This comparison aims to highlight key differences and similarities to aid in your relocation journey.
| Comparison | San Diego | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean view, outdoor living | Community, family-friendly |
When comparing housing between San Diego and Des Moines, key factors such as the median home price and rent reflect significant differences in the cost of living. The typical architecture in San Diego often features Spanish Colonial styles with a high emphasis on ocean views and outdoor living, reflecting its coastal location. In contrast, Des Moines showcases Craftsman-style homes, with listings frequently highlighting community and family-friendly environments. These distinctions not only influence the aesthetic and lifestyle but also underscore the diverse urban experiences each city offers, with San Diego providing a more vibrant urban lifestyle compared to Des Moines.
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.
San Diego vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another significantly impacts how you experience daily life, especially when transitioning from San Diego, CA to Des Moines, IA. Understanding how the weather compares between San Diego and Des Moines will prepare you for the changes ahead and adjust your expectations and wardrobe accordingly.
San Diego, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from the mild, dry climate of San Diego to the more extreme seasonal changes in Des Moines, expect significant adjustments. Des Moines experiences colder winters, with average lows in the teens and substantial snowfall, a stark contrast to San Diego's mild winters. Summer temperatures can be similar, though Des Moines tends to have more humidity. Also, while both cities face natural disaster risks, their types vary greatly, from wildfires and earthquakes in San Diego to tornadoes and floods in Des Moines. Adapting to these changes will involve more than just a wardrobe update but also preparing your home for different environmental challenges.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Des Moines
When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to illustrate the differences in money and finance between San Diego, CA and Des Moines, IA , providing a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic environment.
| Comparison | San Diego | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 0.33 - 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, International Trade, Research | Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Low | Low to Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
In comparing San Diego and Des Moines, you'll find significant differences in the cost of living and taxation, which could impact your budget and lifestyle. San Diego's higher cost of living is offset by its greater average household income and vibrant industries like international trade and research. Des Moines, with its lower cost of living, presents an attractive proposition for those looking for affordability without compromising on income opportunities, thanks to its booming insurance and financial services sectors. Additionally, while San Diego struggles with a high homelessness rate, Des Moines manages this issue more effectively, suggesting a different set of social challenges and supports in place.
San Diego vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Diego, CA, to Des Moines, IA, understanding the communities you'll be joining is crucial. This quick comparison focuses on the politics between San Diego & Des Moines along with the religious landscape, offering insights into the local vibe and social fabric of your new home.
| San Diego | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | More Mixed Political Views |
| Local Politics | San Diego City Council | Des Moines City Council |
| Religion | Diverse Religious Community | Strong Christian Presence |
The political environment you're about to immerse yourself in takes on new hues as you move from the predominantly liberal landscape of San Diego to the more politically varied scene in Des Moines. Participation in local politics, as represented by attending city council meetings or engaging with community initiatives, could feel different in your new city due to this shift. Religion also plays a pivotal role in the cultural fabric of Des Moines, with a significant Christian influence that might be more pronounced than what you've experienced in San Diego's diverse religious community. Adjusting to these differences can enrich your understanding and appreciation of your new home.
San Diego vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from the sunny coastlines of San Diego, CA, to the heartland's charm in Des Moines, IA, presents a shift in daily life, particularly in how you'll navigate your surroundings. This comparison highlights the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Des Moines to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like post-move.
| Comparison | San Diego | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with effort | Challenging |
In San Diego, despite the higher traffic congestion score, the city boasts a more available and diverse public transit system, including buses and trolleys, which could make car-less living feasible for those in well-connected areas. Contrastingly, Des Moines presents a different picture with significantly lower traffic congestion but lesser public transit options. This makes owning a car almost essential for navigating the city efficiently. The difference in average commute times—San Diego standing at about 25 minutes and Des Moines at 19—reflects not just the congestion levels, but also the spread and infrastructure of each city.
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