Best San Jose to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Jose to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,873 mile move from California to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 San Jose 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 $2,500 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose 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 Jose 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 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC | 9.24 | 9.14 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Best Move Inc | 9.22 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,873 miles from San Jose, CA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,374 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Des Moines move is roughly $8,138. 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 | $2,264 | 300 ft³ | 7.55 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,374 | 450 ft³ | 7.50 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,586 | 750 ft³ | 7.45 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,138 | 1100 ft³ | 7.40 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,756 | 1600 ft³ | 7.35 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,136 | 1800 ft³ | 7.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose 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) |
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
San Carlos, CA, 94070
About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184868 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (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) |
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 Jose vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when the neighborhoods are unfamiliar. To ease this transition, we have created a guide to help you find areas in Des Moines, IA, that share the same vibe and community feel as your beloved San Jose, CA neighborhoods. Through a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Des Moines, IA, we aim to make your move feel like coming home.
| San Jose | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | Beaverdale | Quaint homes, tight-knit community |
| The Alameda | East Village | Rich history, vibrant cultural scene |
| Downtown San Jose | Downtown Des Moines | Urban living, arts and entertainment |
| Almaden Valley | South of Grand | Leafy streets, upscale living |
| Los Gatos | Waterbury | Affluent area, historic homes |
| Cambrian Park | Waveland Park | Family-friendly, outdoor activities |
| North San Jose | Western Gateway | Tech hub, innovative spirit |
| Japantown | Sherman Hill | Diverse, historic character |
| Rose Garden | Drake Neighborhood | Community focus, educational institutions |
| Silver Creek | Greenwood | Exclusive, with scenic views |
In Des Moines, the Beaverdale neighborhood resonates with the charming, community-centric vibe of Willow Glen, featuring gorgeous homes and local festivities that bind the community together. If you're drawn to the arts and vibrant cultural scene of The Alameda, you'll find the East Village in Des Moines to be a compelling blend of history and modernity, with art galleries and eclectic dining options like Alba. Meanwhile, San Jose's Downtown lovers seeking a similar urban experience will appreciate Downtown Des Moines for its dynamic arts scene, including the famous Des Moines Performing Arts center. Additionally, for those who cherish the upscale living and leafy streets of Almaden Valley, the South of Grand area offers a similar ambiance with its luxurious homes and expansive parks, perfect for serene walks or family outings.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Jose to Des Moines
Moving is a major life event, and understanding the ups and downs of your destination is crucial. This guide presents a comprehensive comparison between San Jose, CA, and Des Moines, IA , offering an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. By examining the pros and cons through detailed charts, you'll gain insights into what awaits you in your new home.
San Jose, CA- High living costs
- Traffic congestion
- Dense population
- Less seasonal change
Des Moines, IA- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- Smaller population
- Distinct seasons
Des Moines, IA- Fewer tech jobs
- Cold winters
- Less diversity
- More limited dining
San Jose, CA- Tech job hub
- Mild winters
- Diverse culture
- Varied dining options
While the decision to move from San Jose, CA, to Des Moines, IA, may seem daunting due to significant differences, each city holds its unique charm. San Jose, known for its vibrant tech scene, boasts access to leading companies and a melting pot of cultures reflected in its diverse dining scene - from the bustling Santana Row to the historic San Pedro Square Market. In contrast, Des Moines offers a quieter yet enriching lifestyle with its affordable living, friendly neighborhoods, and the charming East Village that hosts a variety of local shops, bars, and restaurants. The picturesque Gray’s Lake Park provides year-round outdoor activities, exemplifying the city's appeal. These contrasts highlight the significant lifestyle changes awaiting, from the fast-paced Silicon Valley to Iowa's relaxed and family-friendly communities.
San Jose vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Food is a profound part of what makes a local culture unique, impacting everyday life and overall living experience. To help you get a clearer picture of what awaits in your new city, we’ve laid out a comparison of the local cuisine in both locations. In this guide, we'll explore how the culinary scenes in San Jose, CA, and Des Moines, IA differ, giving you a taste of what to expect as you make your move.
| San Jose | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pho | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Kalbi (Korean BBQ Ribs) | Smoked Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Pho | Veggie Burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Jose, with its rich diversity, is a haven for food lovers, offering a broad spectrum of international and fusion cuisines. The Vietnamese influence is strong, as seen by the popularity of Pho and Kalbi, reflecting the city's vibrant Vietnamese community. You can find these dishes and more within bustling neighborhoods like Little Saigon. Meanwhile, Des Moines presents a contrast with its hearty Midwestern favorites such as the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Smoked Brisket, aligning with the state's agricultural roots. You'll discover these delights in local hotspots like the Historic East Village, where eateries like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab and Fong's Pizza offer a unique twist on American classics. Both cities cater to health-conscious eaters as well, though San Jose edges ahead with its abundance of fresh, vegan options and outdoor dining spaces that boast a fusion of flavors from around the globe.
San Jose vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts at the table, with cuisine playing a crucial role in feeling at home. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition from San Jose to Des Moines by mapping out where to find your next favorite meal, using familiar flavors and atmospheres as your guide.
| San Jose | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Adega | Aposto | High-end dining with a rotating seasonal menu |
| La Foret | Harbinger | Innovative dishes with local ingredients |
| Original Joe's | Centro | Classic Italian-American favorites |
| Falafel's Drive-In | Oasis Falafel | Authentic Middle Eastern fast-food |
| Manresa | Baru 66 | French-inspired fine dining with artistic presentations |
| Dia de Pesca | Marina's Mexican Grill | A taste of coastal Mexican cuisine |
| Santouka Ramen | Krunkwich Ramen House | Varieties of ramen and other Asian dishes |
| The Table | Table 128 Bistro + Bar | Farm-to-table dining with a modern twist |
| San Pedro Square Market | Downtown Farmers' Market | A hub for local produce and diverse food stalls |
| Paper Plane | Juniper Moon | A cozy spot for inventive cocktails and bites |
Exploring Des Moines' dining scene reveals establishments that cherish locality and freshness akin to San Jose's favorites. At Aposto, you'll discover a seasonal menu that rotates to highlight the finest ingredients, reminiscent of Adega's approach to Portuguese cuisine. Centro fills the shoes of Original Joe's by offering a warm atmosphere coupled with Italian-American classics that comfort and indulge in equal measure. For those who favor the tradition of ramen, Krunkwich Ramen House presents an eclectic mix of Asian dishes that inspire comparison to Santouka Ramen, promising a bowl of warmth and umami-packed flavors to soothe the soul in Des Moines' vibrant food scene.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly shapes the pace and comfort of relocation. Grasping the distinctions in housing between San Jose, CA and Des Moines, IA aids in making informed decisions. This comparison delves into costs, architectural styles, and general livability , providing a foundation for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | San Jose | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish Revival | Colonial and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to Silicon Valley, Outdoor Spaces | Family-Friendly, Spacious Yards |
San Jose, with its bustling tech-driven economy, reflects in its real estate prices. While the median home price and rent dwarf those in Des Moines, it offers a vibrant city life and higher scores in walkability and bikeability. San Jose homes lean towards modern and Spanish Revival architecture, showcasing the city's cultural blend. In contrast, Des Moines favors more traditional architectural styles like Colonial and Ranch, providing a different aesthetic appeal. The lower cost of living in Des Moines does not compromise on quality, with real estate listings frequently highlighting family-friendly environments and spacious yards, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more tranquil life without giving up the conveniences of urban living.
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 Jose vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another requires acclimation to new weather patterns. By comparing San Jose and Des Moines’s climates, you'll better grasp what to expect and how to prepare. This weather comparison chart serves to highlight the distinct differences and similarities between the two locations, ensuring you're well-informed for your upcoming move.
San Jose, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Tornados, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Jose to Des Moines, you'll notice a significant change in weather patterns, especially during winter. San Jose enjoys mild winters with low likelihood of snow, whereas Des Moines experiences cold winters with moderate snowfall, which means you'll need to invest in warmer clothing and possibly snow removal equipment. The summer heat is slightly more intense in Des Moines, accompanied by higher annual rainfall, indicating a need for more robust home waterproofing and drainage solutions. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more quickly to your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Des Moines
When relocating, it's essential to understand the financial landscape you're moving into. Comparing the cost of living and key economic factors between San Jose, CA, and Des Moines, IA can help you prepare for the change. This comparison sheds light on how your finances might be impacted by your move.
| Comparison | San Jose | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 8.98 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.78 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail | Insurance, Financial Services, Agribusiness |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Increasing | Lower |
With an average household income significantly higher in San Jose compared to Des Moines, it's clear that the economic landscape varies greatly between these two cities. However, this is offset by a much higher cost of living in San Jose, with a Cost of Living Index more than double that of Des Moines. The difference in state income tax rates could also impact your take-home pay, although San Jose's higher sales tax mirrors its greater overall cost of living. Interestingly, the top industries reflect the distinct economic strengths of each city, with technology leading in San Jose and insurance in Des Moines. This comparison gives you a framework to anticipate changes in your financial situation as you make your move.
San Jose vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another involves exploring the cultural and societal fabrics that make each unique. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot focusing on the political and religious makeup of the residents moving from San Jose, CA to Des Moines, IA . Understand the diversity and community you're moving into.
| San Jose | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean liberal | Lean liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse community engagement | Grassroots initiatives |
| Religion | Multicultural religious communities | Christianity dominant, growing diversity |
When moving from San Jose to Des Moines, you'll find both cities leaning towards liberal political views, yet the way politics plays out locally differs. In San Jose, the political landscape is shaped by its diverse population, providing a wide array of community engagement opportunities. Des Moines, however, is known for its strong grassroots initiatives, making it easy for newcomers to get involved and make a difference. On the religious front, San Jose offers a vibrant mosaic of multicultural religious communities, reflecting its diverse population. Des Moines, traditionally dominantly Christian, has seen an increasing religious diversity in recent years. This gradual change adds to the city's evolving cultural landscape, welcoming all backgrounds.
San Jose vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide is designed to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Des Moines, as part of planning your move. Whether you're someone who relies on public transportation or prefers driving, knowing what to expect in terms of daily commutes can greatly aid in your transition.
| Comparison | San Jose | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but challenging | Difficult |
In San Jose, commuters can expect a longer commute time on average compared to Des Moines, accompanied by higher traffic congestion. However, the availability of public transit like the VTA Light Rail and buses in San Jose offers alternatives to driving. Despite this, getting by without a car is still considered challenging due to the sprawling nature of the city and its suburbs. In contrast, Des Moines' shorter average commute time and lower traffic congestion levels make for an easier driving experience, but its public transit system, though reliable, might not cover all areas extensively, making car ownership more of a necessity for complete mobility.
Additional Resources
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