Best Des Moines to Long Beach Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Long Beach and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,760 mile move from Iowa to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Des Moines to Long Beach 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 Long Beach. 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 Long Beach Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | RL Relocation | 9.44 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Trek Movers | 9.20 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Long Beach
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,760 miles from Des Moines, IA to Long Beach, CA will cost on average $3,278 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Long Beach move is roughly $7,903. 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 | $2,200 | 300 ft³ | 7.33 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,278 | 450 ft³ | 7.28 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,426 | 750 ft³ | 7.23 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,903 | 1100 ft³ | 7.18 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,415 | 1600 ft³ | 7.13 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,752 | 1800 ft³ | 7.08 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Long Beach to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Long Beach 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) |
RL Relocation
Cornell Dr
Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
About RL Relocation
RL Relocation is a full-service moving company that has been in business for several years. Based in California, they offer local...
Services
- Whole Home Moves
- Local and Long Distance
- Packing and Organizing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2984580 / 15998 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 159,984 (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) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
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) |
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. Long Beach Neighborhood Comparison
Preparing for a move can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when relocating to a new city with unfamiliar neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Long Beach, CA . This guide aims to help you find a community in Long Beach that shares the charm and characteristics of your favorite Des Moines neighborhood. Whether you love the bustling streets or the tranquil parks, we've got you covered.
| Des Moines | Long Beach | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | East Arts Village | Vibrant arts scene |
| Beaverdale | California Heights | Historic homes, tight-knit community |
| Waterbury | Bluff Park | Iconic ocean views, historic |
| Sherman Hill | Rose Park | Historic homes, community-focused |
| Drake | Alamitos Beach | Diverse, youthful vibe |
| Highland Park | Bixby Knolls | Family-friendly, charming local shops |
| Ingersoll Park | Belmont Shore | Bustling nightlife, beach proximity |
| Waveland Park | El Dorado Park | Park-centric, active community |
| Gray's Lake | Alamitos Bay | Waterfront activities, natural beauty |
| South of Grand | Naples | Luxurious, water canals |
If the tranquil, tree-lined streets and historic homes of Waterbury capture your heart, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Long Beach's Bluff Park. Both neighborhoods boast iconic views and a sense of timelessness that appeals to history buffs and tranquility seekers alike. For those drawn to the vibrant arts scene and eclectic shops of Des Moines' East Village, East Arts Village in Long Beach offers a comparable cultural tapestry with galleries, theatres, and creative eateries, such as the renowned The 4th Horseman. Families and individuals looking for a community-oriented vibe similar to Beaverdale will find themselves at home in California Heights, where historic homes dot the streets, and events bring neighbors together. Here, you can enjoy community gems like the historic Rancho Los Alamitos, adding a unique cultural layer to your local explorations.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Long Beach
Moving can be a complex endeavor, requiring a balance between what you'll gain and what you'll have to adapt to. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Des Moines, IA to Long Beach, CA , highlighting both the advantages and the challenges. Whether it's the weather, cost of living, or cultural scene, understanding these aspects will aid in making an informed decision.
Des Moines, IA- Colder Winters
- Less Diversity
- Smaller City
- Less Entertainment
Long Beach, CA- Warmer Climate
- Greater Diversity
- Larger City
- More Entertainment
Long Beach, CA- Higher Cost of Living
- More Traffic
- Louder Urban Environment
- More Anonymous Lifestyle
Des Moines, IA- Lower Cost of Living
- Less Traffic
- Quieter Neighborhoods
- Strong Community
Moving from Des Moines to Long Beach brings significant climate change—trading in cold winters for a warmer, breezier climate that encourages outdoor living year-round. Long Beach boasts a vibrant, diverse community with an array of cultural festivals and events that reflect its melting pot of inhabitants. Enjoy walking through The Long Beach Museum of Art for a touch of cultural enrichment, or stroll through Shoreline Village for shopping and waterfront dining. While the cost of living may be higher, the quality of life in terms of weather, entertainment, and opportunities represents a significant gain. Long Beach’s numerous parks, such as Bluff Park, provide stunning ocean views and ample space for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for a busier lifestyle and more traffic than you experienced in Des Moines.
Des Moines vs. Long Beach Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Long Beach, aiming to give you a flavor of what each city brings to the table. Food is a vital part of the local culture and living experience. By comparing both, you'll gain insight into the culinary scene you’re moving into.
| Des Moines | Long Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Sinaloan-style seafood |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Pork Chop | Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote) |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Loin | Vegan Sushi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring the local cuisine is a journey where every bite tells a story. In Des Moines, you wouldn't want to miss the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a staple that captures the essence of Iowa's rich agricultural heritage. On the other hand, Long Beach offers a culinary adventure influenced by its coastal location, with Sinaloan-style seafood and fish tacos being local favorites. Neighborhoods like Belmont Shore in Long Beach have become havens for foodies, offering an array of dining experiences from upscale restaurants like James Republic to the casual vibe at Beachwood BBQ. Long Beach's commitment to health and sustainability is reflected in its abundant vegan options and fitness-conscious community, promising a vibrant and inclusive food scene awaiting your discovery.
Des Moines vs. Long Beach Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, discovering places where you can enjoy a good meal is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Long Beach, CA, will help you find your new must-visit eateries by drawing parallels with your current favorites.
| Des Moines | Long Beach | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo Café | George's Greek Cafe | Both offer authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. |
| Centro | Michael's Downtown | Italian kitchens with a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Beachwood Brewing & BBQ | Creative burgers and craft beers make both spots a foodie's delight. |
| Fong's Pizza | Michael's Pizzeria | Unique pizza options that elevate the traditional pie experience. |
| 801 Chophouse | 555 East American Steakhouse | Classic steakhouse vibes with premium cuts of meat. |
| Django | BO-beau kitchen + roof tap | Both feature French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting. |
| Akebono 515 | Sushi On Fire | Known for innovative rolls and high-quality sushi, mirroring Akebono's excellence. |
| Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop | Hole Mole | Although specializing in tacos, the commitment to quality and flavor is parallel. |
| Harbinger | James Republic | Farm-to-table dishes that showcase local produce and innovative flavors. |
| Cool Basil | Thai District | Both offer an exquisite Thai dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. |
Embarking on a gastronomical journey in a new city can be an exciting adventure. For instance, if you loved the innovative sushi rolls and Japanese dishes at Akebono 515 in Des Moines, you would feel right at home at Sushi On Fire in Long Beach, with its reputation for creative sushi presentations and quality ingredients. Similarly, those who frequented Centro for its Italian delights would find a new favorite in Michael's Downtown, where the emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients crafts an unparalleled Italian dining experience. By exploring these recommended spots, you'll not only satisfy your appetite but also start laying the foundation of a new special collection of go-to places in Long Beach.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Long Beach Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate is one of the most crucial factors to understand. This comparison aims to highlight how Des Moines, IA, and Long Beach, CA, measure up against each other in various housing aspects. It's essential to know these differences to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Craftsman | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Big yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Beach access, Vibrant communities |
While Des Moines and Long Beach have stark differences in the cost of living, each city offers unique lifestyle perks. Des Moines presents a more affordable housing market, with a median home price significantly lower than Long Beach. This affordability may appeal to you if budget is a primary concern. However, Long Beach offers a more expensive but highly walkable and bikeable environment, indicating an urban lifestyle closer to beaches and vibrant communities. The architectural styles also vary significantly; while Des Moines favors the Ranch and Craftsman styles, Long Beach is more about Spanish and Modern designs, reflecting its coastal influence. If a lively, urban coastal city is what you're after, then Long Beach might be your best bet. However, for a quieter, more spacious living arrangement, Des Moines could suit your preferences better.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Long Beach, CA
1. Bixby Knolls: Known for its walkable, tree-lined streets, Bixby Knolls offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a welcoming atmosphere for your furry friends.
2. Belmont Shore: With its close proximity to Rosie's Dog Beach, Belmont Shore is a paradise for dogs who love to splash in the ocean and make new friends.
3. Bluff Park: Boasting spacious parks and scenic views, Bluff Park is perfect for leisurely walks with your pet, plus it's just a stone's throw away from dog-friendly establishments.
Des Moines vs. Long Beach Weather Considerations
Moving between cities can significantly affect your daily life, especially when it comes to weather differences. Understanding how the climate varies between your current location and your destination is crucial. This comparison focuses on how the weather in Des Moines, IA , and Long Beach, CA , will impact your life after the move.
Des Moines, IA
Long Beach, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Long Beach, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Long Beach, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Long Beach, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
One of the most noticeable changes you'll experience moving from Des Moines to Long Beach is the warmer, milder winters and significantly more sunny days. Long Beach boasts nearly 300 days of sunshine annually compared to Des Moines' 204, paired with an absence of snow. However, the pleasure of a milder climate in Long Beach comes with its challenges, including a higher UV index and exposure to different natural disaster risks like earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences will help you prepare better for your new life in Long Beach, adjusting everything from your wardrobe to your home emergency kit.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Long Beach
When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding the financial nuances between your current and future locales is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the economic differences between Des Moines, IA, and Long Beach, CA, focusing on aspects such as cost of living, income, and taxes, to better prepare you for your financial transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $73,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 0.72% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Trade, Education and Health Services, Professional and Business Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
While Des Moines boasts a more affordable cost of living and lower sales and income tax rates, the average household income in Long Beach is significantly higher. This reflects the broader economic disparities between these two cities. The cost of living index in Long Beach dramatically exceeds that of Des Moines, necessitating a higher income to maintain a similar lifestyle. Additionally, despite Long Beach's advantageous property tax rates, it faces greater economic challenges reflected in its higher rates of poverty and homelessness. Understanding these financial nuances is key in preparing for the economic realities of your new home.
Des Moines vs. Long Beach Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Des Moines, IA, to Long Beach, CA? It's essential to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Long Beach , providing insights into the local cultures and societal values that define these cities.
| Des Moines | Long Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on community and economic development | Progressive policies on sustainability and inclusivity |
| Religion | Mixed, with a strong Christian presence | Diverse, with significant Christian, Buddhist, and Jewish communities |
When moving from Des Moines to Long Beach, you'll notice a shift towards more progressive politics, reflecting Long Beach's strong Democratic leaning and its forward-thinking policies on environmental sustainability and inclusiveness. While Des Moines places a significant emphasis on community and economic development, Long Beach takes it further by integrating progressive social values into their agenda. Religiously, Long Beach offers a broader diversity, which is showcased through its various community events and cultural celebrations. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new community, embracing the unique aspects that make Long Beach a vibrant place to live.
Des Moines vs. Long Beach Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Long Beach, CA? It's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison between Des Moines & Long Beach will help you gauge what to expect as you navigate your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Des Moines, the average commute time is shorter, and the traffic congestion is notably less severe compared to Long Beach. However, Long Beach excels in terms of public transportation availability, making it a city where you can comfortably live without a car. This significant difference can influence your daily life, especially in how you plan your commute to work or explore the city's offerings. With Long Beach's comprehensive public transit system, including buses and the light rail, integrating into your new community might be easier and more eco-friendly than you think.
Additional Resources
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