Best Des Moines to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,817 mile move from Iowa to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 Des Moines to Fresno 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 Des Moines compared to Fresno. 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 Fresno 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 | All In A Day Moving Services | 8.75 | 8.7 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pete's Moving Services LLC | 8.43 | 8.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Fresno
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,817 miles from Des Moines, IA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $3,326 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Fresno move is roughly $8,021. 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 | $2,233 | 300 ft³ | 7.44 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,326 | 450 ft³ | 7.39 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,506 | 750 ft³ | 7.34 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,021 | 1100 ft³ | 7.29 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,587 | 1600 ft³ | 7.24 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,946 | 1800 ft³ | 7.19 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Fresno 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) |
All In A Day Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by All In A Day Moving Services1022 W 18th St #4
Merced, CA, 85340
About All In A Day Moving Services
All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving
- Piano moving
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3861667 / 1410881 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
Pete's Moving Services LLC
4807 Greenleaf Ct suite a
Modesto, CA, 95356
About Pete's Moving Services LLC
Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commercial relocations in...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3314910 / 1177987 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2020) |
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. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be a leap into the unknown, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Fresno, CA . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Fresno that shares the spirit and characteristics of your old Des Moines locale.
| Des Moines | Fresno | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Tower District | Vibrant arts scene, historic architecture |
| Beaverdale | Old Fig Garden | Family-friendly, tree-lined streets |
| Waveland Park | Sunnyside | Charming, with a strong sense of community |
| Sherman Hill | Wilson Island | Historic homes, engaged community |
| Drake | Fresno High Roeding | Diverse, close to universities |
| South of Grand | Van Ness Extension | Upscale, large homes with yards |
| Highland Park | Tower District | Unique shops, eclectic dining options |
| Gray's Lake | Woodward Park | Expansive park space, outdoor activities |
| Ingersoll | Tower District | Lively nightlife, local eateries |
| Waterbury | The Bluffs | Exclusive, with sprawling estates |
Imagine strolling down the busy, tree-lined streets of the Tower District in Fresno, where a mix of vintage shops, art galleries, and distinctive eateries echo the vibrant energy you adored in Des Moines' East Village. If you're moving from Beaverdale's quaint and cozy ambiance, Old Fig Garden's family-friendly vibe, punctuated by its unique boutiques and local culinary gems like The Fig Tree Café, will feel like home. For outdoor enthusiasts who cherished Gray's Lake park-centric lifestyle, Woodward Park in Fresno offers a vast landscape of gardens, trails, and recreational areas, ensuring your outdoor adventures continue seamlessly in your new city. Each Fresno neighborhood brings its own flavor and community spirit, promising a smooth transition from the charms of Des Moines to the sunny streets of Fresno.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Fresno
Moving from one city to another always comes with its challenges and rewards. In this guide, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Fresno, CA. Through juxtaposed charts, we'll help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, ensuring you make an informed decision about this significant life change.
Des Moines, IA- Harsher winters
- Smaller city
- Less diversity
- Fewer job opportunities
- Lower average temperatures
Fresno, CA- Milder winters
- Larger population
- More cultural diversity
- Greater job prospects
- Warmer climate
Fresno, CA- Higher crime rates
- Higher living expenses
- Less greenery
- Can feel overcrowded
- Heavier traffic
Des Moines, IA- Friendly community
- Lower cost of living
- Abundant green spaces
- More intimate city feel
- Easy navigation
While Des Moines offers a welcoming community vibe with its friendly residents and abundance of green spaces such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Fresno boasts of its cultural diversity and warmer climate conducive for outdoor activities year-round. In Fresno, you can explore the vibrant Tower District, renowned for its eclectic dining options including the famous Dog House Grill, and the rich cultural experiences found at the Fresno Art Museum. Although Fresno suffers from higher living expenses and less greenery, neighborhoods like Woodward Park offer beautiful open spaces, making the transition smoother for those who enjoy being outdoors. This contrast between the cities underscores the importance of prioritizing what matters most to you in your next chapter of life.
Des Moines vs. Fresno Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Fresno, exploring the important role food plays in the local culture and everyday living. Understand the food scene in your future home to make your transition smoother.
| Des Moines | Fresno | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Tri-tip Steak |
| Most popular meat dish | Corn-fed Beef Steak | Chicken Tacos |
| Most popular street food item | Tater Tots on a Stick | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Vegetarian Burritos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
If you're making the move from Des Moines to Fresno, you're in for a delightful shift in local cuisine. In Fresno, the food scene thrives on the rich agricultural surroundings, providing a bounty of fresh ingredients. You'll find chicken tacos and vegetarian burritos lining the streets, with food trucks seemingly around every corner, particularly in vibrant neighborhoods like the Tower District. Local specialties such as the tri-tip steak are a must-try, a testament to Fresno's love for barbecue and grilling. The Annex Kitchen, among other iconic restaurants, showcases the city's Italian influence with a Californian twist. Whether you're vegan, a meat-lover, or somewhere in between, Fresno's diverse culinary landscape is welcoming and expansive, ready to cater to your every craving.
Des Moines vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new place feel like home. This Des Moines to Fresno restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries, easing the transition with familiar flavors and dining experiences. Whether you’re craving sophisticated dining or a casual bite, let this guide be your culinary compass.
| Des Moines | Fresno | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo Cafe | Phoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and Grill | Similar cozy Mediterranean vibes and extensive menu. |
| Bubba | The Tavern at Campagnia | Offering a comparable upscale Southern dining experience with a West Coast twist. |
| Centro | Annex Kitchen | Both serve high-quality, Italian-inspired dishes in a stylish, urban setting. |
| Django | Ovidio Italian Restaurant | For those looking for authentic French and Italian cuisine with a similar ambiance. |
| Fong's Pizza | Me-n-Ed's Pizzeria | Both known for their unique pizza combinations and relaxed atmosphere. |
| Harbinger | Cracked Pepper Bistro | Showcasing creative and locally sourced dishes in a chic, intimate setting. |
| Proof | Erna's Elderberry House | Both offer a fine dining experience focusing on innovative, chef-driven menus. |
| Smash Park | Dave & Buster's | While not a local spot, it’s the closest option for a fun, gaming-oriented eatery with good food. |
| Waveland Cafe | Irene's Cafe | Both give that quintessential breakfast and brunch spot feeling with a homey ambiance. |
| 801 Chophouse | Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar | Offering a similarly luxurious steakhouse experience with an exceptional wine selection. |
Fresno, much like Des Moines, boasts a vibrant food scene that caters to a range of tastes and dining experiences. For instance, if you've enjoyed the Mediterranean flair and hearty dishes of Apollo Cafe, you'll find a comforting similarity at Phoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and Grill, where the atmosphere buzzes with warmth. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados who’ve relished the quirky and innovative pies at Fong’s Pizza in Des Moines will appreciate Me-n-Ed's Pizzeria in Fresno - a venue that combines creativity with the wood-fired authenticity of their pizzas, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to find a slice of home. Additionally, those seeking a more upscale dining experience similar to 801 Chophouse will discover Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar not just a match but a continuation of luxury dining, with its meticulously crafted dishes and comprehensive wine list that promises to enhance every celebratory meal.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between Des Moines, IA, and Fresno, CA, is crucial. Knowing the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you understand what to expect.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Spanish Eclectic |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to parks, Energy efficiency |
In comparing the housing markets of Des Moines and Fresno, one notable difference is the median home price and rent, with Fresno being significantly more expensive. However, Fresno compensates with its slightly better urban lifestyle score and higher bikeability, perhaps due to its infrastructure catering more to bikes. The architecture also varies noticeably, from the Colonial Revival styles prevalent in Des Moines to the Spanish Eclectic found in Fresno, reflecting the different cultural influences of each region. Furthermore, real estate listings in Fresno often highlight the proximity to parks and energy efficiency, pointing towards a community valuing outdoor activities and sustainability.
Des Moines vs. Fresno Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the weather in Des Moines, IA compares with Fresno, CA is essential for preparing for your new environment. This comparison will provide insights into what to expect and how to best prepare for your relocation.
Des Moines, IA
Fresno, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Fresno, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Fresno, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Fresno, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Flooding | Wildfires, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Des Moines to Fresno, you'll experience a significant shift in weather patterns. Fresno boasts nearly 270 days of sunshine annually, offering much more consistent sun compared to Des Moines. However, this comes with higher average summer temperatures which can peak in the high 90s. Additionally, the stark difference in annual rainfall and snowfall highlights Fresno's much drier climate. Understanding these changes will help you adjust your activities and lifestyle to comfortably accommodate your new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Fresno
When considering a move, it's pivotal to understand how the cost of living and economic landscape will shift. This comparison between Des Moines, IA and Fresno, CA aims to provide insight into each city's financial environment, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $61,250 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 117.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 to 8.53 | 1 to 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 8.23 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Agriculture, Health Care, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
The disparity in average household incomes between Des Moines and Fresno highlights a significant economic difference, with Des Moines residents on average faring better. This is juxtaposed against Fresno's higher cost of living index, suggesting that your dollar might not stretch as far in Fresno despite the higher average sales and state income taxes in California. These financial indicators are crucial to consider, especially in light of Fresno's diverse yet challenged economic landscape, marked by its prominent agriculture and health care industries but also higher rates of poverty and homelessness. Moving from Des Moines to Fresno, you'd encounter a very different economic climate, one where understanding local industries and tax implications becomes pivotal to financial stability.
Des Moines vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. With this guide, we aim to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Fresno, helping you understand the community you're moving into.
| Des Moines | Fresno | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Focus on agricultural and water rights issues |
| Religion | Christianity dominant, with a growing number of non-religious residents | Christianity dominant, diverse religious communities including a significant Sikh population |
While both Des Moines and Fresno lean Democratic, their local political landscapes reflect the unique challenges and interests of their populations. Des Moines tends to be more progressive on social issues, a reflection of its urban and diverse demographic. In contrast, Fresno focuses more on agricultural and water rights issues, vital to its economy and way of life. Religiously, both cities are predominantly Christian, but Fresno boasts a more diverse religious community, including a notable Sikh population, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural and religious events throughout the city.
Des Moines vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving to a new city involves adapting to its unique commuting patterns. This guide aims to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, and transportation options between Des Moines & Fresno, ensuring you can navigate your new home with ease.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Challenging |
In both Des Moines and Fresno, average commute times are quite similar, indicating relatively brief daily journeys. However, traffic congestion is slightly less in Des Moines, potentially for its smaller urban sprawl compared to Fresno. When it comes to public transit, both cities are somewhat comparable, though Des Moines edges out slightly, possibly due to its DART system which provides a variety of options for residents. Nonetheless, in both cities, relying solely on public transit might be difficult without some planning. Having a car could greatly enhance your mobility, though each city's public transit systems are making strides to offer more comprehensive services.
Additional Resources
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