Best Des Moines to Anchorage Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Anchorage and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,507 mile move from Iowa to Alaska go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 Des Moines to Anchorage 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 (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Anchorage. 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 Des Moines to Anchorage Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | The Moving Man | 7.80 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Air Van Moving | 6.80 | 6.98 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Anchorage to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Anchorage 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) |
Hemmen Moving
1293 W Ave
Ames, IA, 50014
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (2023) |
The Moving Man
550 W 54th Ave
Anchorage, AK, 99518
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 807379 / 359080 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 55,000 (2018) |
Air Van Moving
209 Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 125012 / 118474 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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.
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be both exciting and daunting. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. By exploring the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Anchorage, AK , you can find areas with the amenities and community feel you're used to. Let's find your new home neighborhood.
| Des Moines | Anchorage | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Turnagain | Family-friendly with a community feel |
| East Village | Downtown Anchorage | Vibrant urban scene |
| Waterbury | Rogers Park | Quiet, upscale area |
| Sherman Hill | South Addition | Rich history and charm |
| Drake | University Area | Youthful energy and education focused |
| Waveland Park | Hillside East | Outdoor activities and park access |
| Highland Park | Mountain View | Diverse and vibrant community |
| Ingersoll Park | Midtown | Mix of residential and commercial |
| Gray's Lake | Jewel Lake | Lakeside living and recreation |
| South of Grand | Bayshore/Klatt | Upscale homes and natural beauty |
Des Moines' East Village, known for its vibrant culture and trendy spots like the East Village Spa, finds a parallel in Downtown Anchorage, where you could enjoy an urban atmosphere alongside local attractions such as the Anchorage Museum. If you appreciate Beaverdale's family-friendly vibe in Des Moines, then Turnagain in Anchorage, with its welcoming community and proximity to parks like Kincaid Park, will feel reassuringly familiar. Meanwhile, the historic charm of Sherman Hill is reflected in South Addition, Anchorage, where residences echo a rich past among modern conveniences. And for those drawn to the outdoor lifestyle and parklands of Waveland Park, Anchorage's Hillside East area offers a similar appeal with stunning landscapes and trails, making it perfect for nature lovers.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Anchorage
Moving from one place to another is always a big decision. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Anchorage, AK. By weighing both sides, you can make a more informed decision about this significant change.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse economy
- Lower seafood quality
- Minimal ocean access
Anchorage, AK- Stunning landscapes
- Outdoor adventures
- Fresher seafood
- Direct ocean access
Anchorage, AK- Higher cost of living
- Harsh winters
- Fewer festivals
- Remote location
Des Moines, IA- Cost-effective living
- Mild summers
- Lively festivals
- Central location
When considering the move from Des Moines to Anchorage, it's essential to delve deeper into the lifestyle changes you might experience. For instance, Anchorage's stunning landscapes offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking in Chugach State Park or kayaking in Prince William Sound. The city is known for its fresher seafood, with establishments like Simon & Seafort's providing exquisite dining experiences that capitalize on the local catch. On the other hand, Des Moines, with its cost-effective living and lively summer festivals like the Des Moines Arts Festival, offers a vibrant community life that may be harder to find in Anchorage's more remote and expensive setting. Considering these factors, the move is not just about changing addresses but also about embracing a very different lifestyle that comes with its own unique benefits and challenges.
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Anchorage is designed to give you a taste of the food culture in your new home. Understanding the local cuisine is a vibrant part of integrating into the community and experiencing its unique flavors and dining experiences.
| Des Moines | Anchorage | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef Steak | Reindeer Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Truck Tacos | Halibut Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Seaweed Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Des Moines and Anchorage offer diverse culinary landscapes that reflect their unique cultural and environmental backgrounds. In Des Moines, you'll find the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a local staple, best enjoyed at places like Jethro’s BBQ. Meanwhile, Anchorage celebrates its access to fresh seafood, with Salmon and Reindeer Sausage appearing on many menus, including those at Simon & Seafort's. Both cities boast a growing foodie scene, with Anchorage slightly leading in terms of health consciousness and vegan options, such as the local favorite, Seaweed Salad. Exploring neighborhoods like the East Village in Des Moines or Downtown Anchorage will reveal bustling food scenes with abundant local flavors to discover.
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, discovering places to eat that remind you of home can make the transition easier. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Anchorage, AK, is designed to help you find your new favorite spots. Whether you're craving the comfort of familiar flavors or eager to explore the culinary scene, we've got you covered.
| Des Moines | Anchorage | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill | Offers upscale dining experience similar to Centro. |
| Fong's Pizza | Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria | Known for its unique pizza offerings. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Tommy's Burger Stop | For creative burgers and comfort food. |
| Django | Orso | Provides a similar upscale yet casual European dining atmosphere. |
| 801 Chophouse | Club Paris | Renowned for its steak offerings, similar to 801 Chophouse. |
| A Dong | Pho Lena | For a taste of Asian cuisine comparable to A Dong's offerings. |
| El Bait Shop | Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse | Known for a wide selection of beers and hearty meals. |
| Smitty’s Tenderloin | Kriner's Diner | Serves homestyle cooking and comfort food reminiscent of Smitty’s. |
| Tursi's Latin King | Marcello's Pizzeria | For Italian dishes with a home-cooked feel. |
| Bubba | South Restaurant + Coffeehouse | Offers Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist. |
Whether you're savoring a perfectly cooked steak at Club Paris, reminiscent of Des Moines's own 801 Chophouse, or biting into a crafty and creative burger at Tommy's Burger Stop, similar to the experience at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, the transition to Anchorage's palate will be a seamless adventure. For those craving the comfort of Asian flavors, Pho Lena presents an array of dishes that promise to transport your taste buds back to A Dong's versatile menu. And when the pizza cravings hit, Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria stands ready with its unique and innovative pies, much like the beloved Fong's Pizza. Your culinary exploration from Des Moines to Anchorage will not only introduce you to new favorites but also keep the essence of your old haunts alive.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Real Estate & Living Facts
When you're planning a move, understanding the real estate market in your new city can help you better prepare. This comparison between Des Moines and Anchorage highlights the most crucial aspects of housing to consider before you relocate.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch & Colonial | Modern & Cabin |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, quiet neighborhoods | Views, proximity to nature |
When comparing Des Moines to Anchorage, one significant difference is the housing cost, with Anchorage being notably more expensive both in terms of median home prices and monthly rent. The choice of architecture in both cities reflects their unique climates and landscapes; Des Moines favors Ranch and Colonial styles conducive to its plains environment, while Anchorage's homes often boast Modern and Cabin styles, complementing Alaska's rugged terrain and breathtaking views. Despite these differences, both cities offer a somewhat similar, though limited, urban lifestyle with Des Moines providing slightly better walkability and bikeability. When moving, it's essential to consider what you value more—Anchorage's proximity to nature and scenic views or Des Moines' more affordable and quiet suburban life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Anchorage, AK
1. South Addition: Known for its quiet streets and proximity to Delaney Park Strip, giving your pets a sprawling green space for daily walks and exercise.
2. Turnagain: Offers easy access to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail where you and your pet can enjoy breathtaking views of Cook Inlet and encounter wildlife, perfect for active pets.
3. Rogers Park: This neighborhood is a peaceful area with a strong community vibe and several nearby dog parks, making it great for socializing your pets and meeting fellow pet owners.
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Weather Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Anchorage, AK introduces a drastic change in climate. Understanding how these weather conditions contrast can help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison will highlight the key weather differences between Des Moines and Anchorage, providing clarity on what to expect in your new home.
Des Moines, IA
Anchorage, AK
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Anchorage, AK
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Anchorage, AK
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Anchorage, AK
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Avalanches |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The dramatic shift from Des Moines's humid continental climate to Anchorage's subarctic climate affects more than just your wardrobe choices. The significantly cooler summer and colder winter temperatures in Anchorage are accompanied by fewer days of sunshine. Moreover, Anchorage experiences less annual rainfall but compensates with a much higher annual snowfall, setting a different scene for outdoor activities and requiring adaptations in daily living and transportation methods. Additionally, while both cities face their unique natural disasters, being prepared for earthquakes in Anchorage as opposed to tornadoes in Des Moines adds another layer to consider in your preparation.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Anchorage
When planning a move from Des Moines, IA to Anchorage, AK, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison will offer insights into the cost of living, taxes, and the economic environment in Des Moines and Anchorage, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $86,654 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 128.4 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | None |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.29% | 1.19% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 0% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Oil, Tourism, Air Cargo |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Present | Notable |
While the average household income in Anchorage is higher compared to Des Moines, the cost of living index significantly increases as well. However, this might be offset by the lack of state income and sales tax in Alaska, potentially offering more disposable income. Des Moines hosts a diverse economy with strong sectors in finance, insurance, and manufacturing, whereas Anchorage's economy is buoyed by its strategic position for oil, tourism, and air cargo industries. Understanding these differences is key to adapting financially after your move.
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Anchorage, providing a quick snapshot at the political and religious leanings of their residents. It is intended to help you get an understanding of the community vibe as you plan your move.
| Des Moines | Anchorage | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Moderate, with both Republican and Democratic support |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Mix of conservative and progressive, depending heavily on the district |
| Religion | Christian majority, diverse religious communities | Christian majority, notable Buddhist and Native spiritual communities (local establishments) |
When moving from Des Moines to Anchorage, you'll find that while both cities have a Christian majority, Anchorage features a notably diverse religious scene, including significant Buddhist and Native spiritual communities. Politically, Des Moines leans more towards the Democratic side particularly on social issues, whereas Anchorage presents a more complex political landscape with a moderate electorate. This balance reflects in local politics, where you can find a mix of conservative and progressive positions, heavily influenced by the specific demographics of each district. Understanding these dynamics can help in adjusting to your new home.
Des Moines vs. Anchorage Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Anchorage, AK? This brief guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Anchorage to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like in these cities. Whether you prefer driving or using public transit, knowing these differences is essential for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Somewhat challenging | Very challenging |
In comparing the daily commutes of Des Moines and Anchorage, it's apparent that while both cities offer relatively short average commute times, there are distinct differences in traffic congestion and public transit availability. Des Moines exhibits a slightly lower level of traffic congestion, which may contribute to a slightly smoother driving experience. On the other hand, Anchorage has a more challenging public transit landscape, making it tough for residents without cars to get around. This could be a crucial consideration if you're used to relying heavily on public transportation in Des Moines. Despite these challenges, both cities present their unique set of circumstances that, once understood, can be navigated with time and adaptation.
Additional Resources
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