Best Des Moines to Tucson Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Tucson and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,498 mile move from Iowa to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Des Moines to Tucson 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 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Tucson. 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 Tucson 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 | Moving Buddies Tucson AZ | 9.06 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Get Your Move On, LLC | 9.03 | 8.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Tucson
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,498 miles from Des Moines, IA to Tucson, AZ will cost on average $3,055 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Tucson move is roughly $7,358. 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 | $2,052 | 300 ft³ | 6.84 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,055 | 450 ft³ | 6.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,054 | 750 ft³ | 6.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,358 | 1100 ft³ | 6.69 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,623 | 1600 ft³ | 6.64 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,860 | 1800 ft³ | 6.59 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tucson to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Tucson 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) |
Moving Buddies Tucson AZ
5502 E 25th St
Tucson, AZ, 85711
About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ
Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3531262 / 1542042 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2022) |
Get Your Move On, LLC
1430 E Hadley St # 110
Phoenix, AZ, 85034
About Get Your Move On, LLC
This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1885055 / 990813 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 350,000 (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.
Des Moines vs. Tucson Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an adventure, but finding your perfect neighborhood might feel daunting. To ease this transition, we've matched the top neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA with comparable neighborhoods in Tucson, AZ. By comparing these neighborhoods, we aim to give you a sense of familiarity and help you find a new place that feels like home.
| Des Moines | Tucson | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Sam Hughes | vibrant, community-focused |
| East Village | 4th Avenue | eclectic, artsy shops |
| Waveland Park | Armory Park | historic homes, walkable |
| Sherman Hill | Barrio Viejo | historic, close-knit community |
| Drake | Iron Horse | youthful, urban vibe |
| Windsor Heights | Rita Ranch | family-friendly, well-planned |
| Highland Park | El Conquistador | residential, peaceful |
| Ingersoll Park | El Encanto | upscale, historic |
| Gray’s Lake | Sabino Canyon | nature-centric, scenic |
| South of Grand | Catalina Foothills | affluent, scenic views |
If you’re moving from Des Moines and love the community-focus and charm of Beaverdale, you'll find a similar warmth in Sam Hughes with its active neighborhood association and regular events. Just as the East Village offers a unique mix of local boutiques and restaurants, 4th Avenue in Tucson prides itself on an eclectic mix of eateries like The B Line and shops that give the area a distinct character. For those who appreciate the historic homes and walkability of Waveland Park, Armory Park in Tucson offers a similar allure with beautifully preserved architecture and a welcoming neighborhood. Meanwhile, the expansive views and natural setting reminiscent of Gray’s Lake can be enjoyed in Tucson's Sabino Canyon, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its hiking trails and picturesque landscapes.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Tucson
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Tucson, AZ, is a significant change with both potential challenges and benefits. This contrast analysis aims to highlight the cons and the pros of such a relocation, offering an honest reflection of what to expect on both ends. By understanding these factors, you can make a more informed decision about your move.
Des Moines, IA- Harsh winters
- Smaller city
- Less diversity
- Lower restaurant variety
Tucson, AZ- Milder winters
- Larger metro area
- More cultural diversity
- Greater culinary scene
Tucson, AZ- Higher housing costs
- Hotter summers
- Can feel overwhelming
- Heavier traffic
Des Moines, IA- More affordable housing
- Lush green summers
- Smaller, close-knit community
- Lower traffic
While Tucson's hotter summers may require some adjustment, it's an ideal environment for those who love sunny days and outdoor activities. The city boasts numerous attractions such as the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, where you can explore the region's natural history and wildlife. Additionally, Tucson's vibrant culinary scene is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse array of dining options, including the renowned El Charro Café, renowned for its Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine. The transition from Des Moines' lush, green summers might be stark, but Tucson's majestic desert landscapes, including the nearby Saguaro National Park, provide a breathtaking backdrop that could easily become your new favorite sight. Moving to Tucson means embracing a more diverse, culturally rich environment with endless opportunities to explore local sights, tastes, and experiences.
Des Moines vs. Tucson Food Guide
As you prepare to move, it's essential to consider how local cuisine reflects the culture and lifestyle of your new home. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Tucson to help you get acquainted with the food scene in both cities.
| Des Moines | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chops | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Corn Dogs | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Tucson, you'll discover a vibrant culinary scene marked by its famous Sonoran hot dogs, a reflection of the city's rich Mexican-American heritage. For an authentic taste of this dish, visit El Guero Canelo, a local favorite that captures Tucson's unique blend of flavors. The city's dedication to healthy living is evident in its plethora of vegan options and fitness-friendly eateries. Tucson's abundance of food trucks and local restaurants like BOCA Tacos y Tequila provide a delightful exploration of its diverse foodie scene, from traditional Mexican cuisine to innovative vegan dishes. Whether you're sampling street tacos in the historic Fourth Avenue district or enjoying brunch at The Cup Cafe in Hotel Congress, Tucson offers a culinary journey for every palate.
Des Moines vs. Tucson Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new place feel like home. With this comparison, we aim to bridge the gap between Des Moines and Tucson restaurant scenes, guiding you towards discovering your next favorite dining spots.
| Des Moines | Tucson | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| A Centro | Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink | Both offer gourmet pizzas and contemporary Italian cuisine. |
| Bubba | The Parish | Southern hospitality and comfort food with a unique twist. |
| Django | Tavolino Ristorante Italiano | Classic upscale Italian dining experience in both cities. |
| Fong’s Pizza | Fiamme Pizza | Creativity in pizza making makes both places stand out. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Lindy’s on 4th | Both offer innovative and quirky takes on classic American burgers. |
| 801 Chophouse | Sullivan’s Steakhouse | For an indulgent steak dinner mirroring an upscale ambiance. |
| La Mie Bakery | Barrio Bread | Artisanal bakery offering high-quality, fresh-baked goods in both cities. |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Borderlands Brewing Co. | Both are key players in their respective city's craft beer scene. |
| Waterfront Seafood Market | Kingfisher Bar & Grill | Both are go-to spots for fresh, expertly prepared seafood. |
| Harbinger | Tito & Pep | Modern American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. |
While exploring Tucson's vibrant dining scene, you'll find establishments reminiscent of Des Moines favorites, yet each with its own distinctive flair. Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink, for example, like A Centro back in Iowa, delivers a creative twist on Italian fare, offering a similar blend of the traditional and the modern. Meanwhile, those missing the unique burger creations from Zombie Burger + Drink Lab can find solace in Lindy’s on 4th, where the menu is packed with inventive burgers that challenge the palate in the best way possible. And for the bakery aficionados, transitioning from La Mie Bakery's delightful pastries to the artisanal creations of Barrio Bread will feel like discovering a piece of home in a new city. Tucson's culinary landscape mirrors the diversity and richness of Des Moines, ensuring that your foodie adventures continue unabated.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Tucson Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is pivotal when considering a move. Understanding how Des Moines, IA and Tucson, AZ compare in this realm can guide your decision. This comparison aims to illuminate the contrasts and similarities in housing characteristics between these cities.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Spanish Mission and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to schools | Mountain views, outdoor living spaces |
When comparing Des Moines and Tucson in terms of real estate, several nuances stand out. Des Moines presents a more affordable entry point for purchasing a home, however, Tucson steals the show with its slightly higher living costs correlated with its rich array of amenities and outdoor living benefits. The architecture in Tucson leans towards the iconic Spanish Mission style, offering a distinct aesthetic appeal compared to the more traditional Ranch and Craftsman styles found in Des Moines. Moreover, Tucson scores higher in walkability and bikeability, promoting a more active lifestyle supported by its sunny weather. Particularly noteworthy in Tucson’s real estate listings are the mentions of mountain views and outdoor living spaces, reflecting the city’s landscapes and outdoor culture.
Des Moines vs. Tucson Weather Considerations
Moving between cities necessitates a grasp of how the weather will shift, especially if your journey takes you from Des Moines, IA, to Tucson, AZ. Understanding these differences is crucial to prepare for the weather changes between Des Moines and Tucson, ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible.
Des Moines, IA
Tucson, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Tucson, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Tucson, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Tucson, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Heatwaves, Flash Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The transition from Des Moines to Tucson brings significant weather changes, notably the dramatic increase in yearly sunshine days and higher summer temperatures in Tucson. With Tucson boasting around 286 days of sunshine annually compared to Des Moines' 205, it offers a bright lifestyle but also demands a higher awareness of sun protection due to its greater average UV index. Additionally, the significant drop in humidity—from Des Moines' 73% to Tucson's 25%—marks a substantial shift to a drier climate, affecting everything from skin care to hydration habits. These factors, combined with Tucson's minimal annual rainfall and practically nonexistent snowfall, epitomize the need for acclimatization to a markedly different, more arid environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Tucson
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. Comparing Des Moines, IA to Tucson, AZ in terms of money and finance helps you anticipate changes in your cost of living and manage your budget more effectively.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $50,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 96.5 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 4.50% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 0.72% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 8.7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Aerospace, Defense, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Less affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
Moving from Des Moines to Tucson, you will encounter differences in economic landscapes. Although the average household income in Tucson is lower, the city benefits from a lower state income tax rate. Tucson's cost of living is slightly higher, influenced partly by its higher sales tax. Real estate in Tucson can be more accessible due to lower average property taxes, which could be a significant advantage for homebuyers. It's also worth noting the diverse industrial landscapes, with Des Moines being a hub for the finance and insurance sectors, while Tucson focuses more on aerospace, defense, and technology industries.
Des Moines vs. Tucson Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Tucson, AZ, understanding the typical makeup of the population is crucial for a smooth transition. This quick comparison will give you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Tucson to help set your expectations.
| Des Moines | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with progressive tendencies | Liberal with a strong focus on local initiatives |
| Religion | Mixed with a strong Christian presence | Diverse, with a significant Catholic influence |
When moving from Des Moines to Tucson, you'll find that Tucson has a more pronounced Democratic leaning, both in general elections and local politics. This may reflect in local government policies and community initiatives, which tend to be more liberal and focused on social issues. Religion plays a vital role in both cities, though Tucson's population exhibits a significant Catholic influence, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. This information should help you anticipate and adapt to the social and cultural environment of your new home.
Des Moines vs. Tucson Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Tucson, AZ? This guide offers a detailed comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Tucson, helping you better understand what your daily commute and traffic conditions might look like after the move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with planning | Challenging |
In both Des Moines and Tucson, having a personal vehicle can greatly enhance your mobility and convenience due to the spread-out nature of these cities. However, Des Moines offers slightly better public transportation services, which could make it easier for you to get around without a car if you live and work in areas covered effectively by this network. Tucson, despite its vibrant downtown and university areas, is generally seen as more challenging for those trying to rely solely on public transportation. Traffic congestion in Tucson is also higher, something to consider if you're planning to commute during peak hours.
Additional Resources
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