Best Des Moines to Sacramento Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Sacramento and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,757 mile move from Iowa to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Des Moines to Sacramento 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 Sacramento. 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 Sacramento 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 | Rickey's Gold Country Moving | 9.21 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Workhorse Moving Co. | 8.46 | 8.69 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Sacramento
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,757 miles from Des Moines, IA to Sacramento, CA will cost on average $3,275 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Sacramento move is roughly $7,896. 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 | $2,199 | 300 ft³ | 7.33 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,275 | 450 ft³ | 7.28 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,421 | 750 ft³ | 7.23 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,896 | 1100 ft³ | 7.18 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,406 | 1600 ft³ | 7.13 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,741 | 1800 ft³ | 7.08 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sacramento to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Sacramento 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) |
Rickey's Gold Country Moving
15887 Rattlesnake Rd
Grass Valley, CA, 95945
About Rickey's Gold Country Moving
Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3065202 / 1398360 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (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) |
Workhorse Moving Co.
West Sacramento, CA, 95691
About Workhorse Moving Co.
Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3369346 / 1080028 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10 (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. Sacramento Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Sacramento, CA . This guide aims to match you with a Sacramento neighborhood reminiscent of your favorite in Des Moines, making the unfamiliar, familiar.
| Des Moines | Sacramento | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Midtown | Vibrant arts scene, dining |
| Beaverdale | East Sacramento | Historic homes, community feel |
| Sherman Hill | Land Park | Architectural charm, family-friendly |
| Waveland Park | Curtis Park | Lush greenery, local parks |
| Drake | Elmhurst | Young, educated demographic |
| Waterbury | Arden Park | Affluent, spacious properties |
| Southwestern Hills | Greenhaven | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Highland Park | Tahoe Park | Affordable, diverse community |
| Ingersoll Avenue | R Street Corridor | Trendy shops, nightlife |
| Roosevelt | McKinley Park | Active community, recreation |
In comparing the vibrant arts scene of Des Moines' East Village with Sacramento's Midtown, you'll find both neighborhoods boast an eclectic mix of entertainment, dining, and arts venues like the Historic Parkrose in Midtown. For those drawn to the historic and community feel of Beaverdale, East Sacramento mirrors this with its own stunning historic homes and a tight-knit sense of community, anchored by attractions such as the Fairytale Town and the McKinley Park Rose Garden. Meanwhile, Sherman Hill's architectural charm and family-friendly vibe find a close relative in Land Park, where historic landmarks like the Sacramento Zoo provide both educational and leisure opportunities within a lush landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Sacramento
Moving from one place to another is both an adventure and a challenge. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Sacramento, CA , highlighting the pros and cons to help you make a well-informed decision. Here, we'll explore what you might miss and what you can look forward to in your new city.
Des Moines, IA- Lower Diversity
- Colder Winters
- Less Entertainment
- Smaller City
Sacramento, CA- Higher Diversity
- Milder Winters
- More Entertainment
- Bigger City
Sacramento, CA- Higher Cost of Living
- More Impersonal
- More Traffic
- Harder Navigating
Des Moines, IA- Lower Cost of Living
- Friendly Community
- More Peaceful
- Easy Navigating
Choosing between Des Moines and Sacramento involves weighing the comfort of a smaller, more familiar environment against the excitement and opportunities of a larger, more diverse cityscape. Sacramento, known for its vibrant cultural scene, boasts incredible places like the Crocker Art Museum and the bustling Midtown area, where dining and entertainment options abound, such as at The Waterboy or the historical Old Sacramento Waterfront. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a sense of community and ease of living that's hard to find in larger cities. It's about choosing between the familiarity and comfort of what you know and the excitement of what you could discover in your new home.
Des Moines vs. Sacramento Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is crucial when relocating, as food is a significant aspect of local culture and lifestyle. This guide offers a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Sacramento to help you get acquainted with the culinary delights awaiting you in your new home.
| Des Moines | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Farm-to-Fork Dishes |
| Most popular meat dish | Breaded Pork Cutlets | Grilled Tri-tip Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Tacos & Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salads | Farmers Market Vegetable Plates |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Sacramento, the emphasis on farm-to-fork dining showcases the rich agricultural surroundings of California's Central Valley. You'll find neighborhoods like Midtown bustling with farmers markets where you can sample everything from artisanal vegan dishes at Restaurant Y to locally-sourced tri-tip steak that reflects the area's commitment to freshness and sustainability. Sacramento's food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering an array of food trucks and restaurants rated highly for their vegan options, making it a haven for food enthusiasts of all tastes.
Des Moines vs. Sacramento Restaurant Comparison
Embarking on a move from Des Moines, IA to Sacramento, CA can be daunting, but discovering new favorite eateries can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Sacramento is designed to ease your transition by matching your beloved Des Moines dining experiences with similar spots in Sacramento.
| Des Moines | Sacramento | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| A Django | The Waterboy | Upscale, French-inspired bistro experience |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Burgers and Brew | Creative burgers and extensive beer selection |
| Centro | OneSpeed | Chef-driven pizzas and Italian fare with a local twist |
| Fong's Pizza | Chicago Fire | Unique and adventurous pizza options |
| 801 Chophouse | Ella Dining Room and Bar | High-end steakhouse with a sophisticated ambiance |
| La Mie Bakery | Camellia Coffee Roasters | Artisan bakery and quality coffee |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse | Craft beer and smoked meats |
| Tumea & Sons | Osso's Meat & Poultry | Authentic Italian dining and deli experience |
| Miyabi 9 | Mikuni | Fresh and innovative Japanese cuisine |
| Akebono 515 | Kru Contemporary Japanese Cuisine | Modern approach to sushi and Japanese dishes |
If your cravings lean towards the unique and experimental, Fong's Pizza in Des Moines with its adventurous toppings finds a kindred spirit in Sacramento's Chicago Fire, which is also not shy about pushing the pizza envelope. For those seeking an upscale dining experience similar to 801 Chophouse, Ella Dining Room and Bar in Sacramento offers not just high-end steak options but a sophisticated atmosphere to match. Moreover, the artisan bakery delights of La Mie Bakery are mirrored by Camellia Coffee Roasters, where Sacramento locals and newcomers alike can bask in the warm, inviting ambience while enjoying some of the city’s finest coffee and pastries. This transition from Des Moines to Sacramento need not be a culinary downgrade but an opportunity to reinterpret and rediscover your dining preferences in a new, vibrant setting.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Sacramento Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is pivotal in planning a move, demanding a keen comparison between current and future abodes. This guide facilitates understanding the housing landscapes of Des Moines, IA, and Sacramento, CA , pinpointing differences to assist your relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Tudor, Ranch | Modern, Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to parks and recreation, solar panels |
Des Moines offers an attractive real estate market for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality. The city's emphasis on spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods aligns with a more laid-back, family-oriented lifestyle. In contrast, Sacramento's real estate listings often highlight features such as proximity to parks and the inclusion of solar panels, reflecting a stronger orientation towards sustainability and outdoor living. Additionally, Sacramento scores higher in urban lifestyle, offering more in terms of walkability and bikeability, which supports a dynamic and eco-friendly way of life. These distinctions play a crucial role in determining the best fit for your housing needs and lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA
1. Midtown : This area's abundant dog parks, such as Truitt Bark Park, and pet-friendly patios make it a haven for pet owners.
2. East Sacramento : Known for its picturesque streets and close proximity to the spacious McKinley Park, it's perfect for long walks with your furry friend.
3. Land Park : With its expansive green spaces like William Land Park, it's ideal for pets that love outdoor activities and living close to nature.
Des Moines vs. Sacramento Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adjusting to new weather patterns. This comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Sacramento, CA weather will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for your relocation.
Des Moines, IA
Sacramento, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Sacramento, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Sacramento, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Sacramento, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Snowstorms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Des Moines to Sacramento, you’ll experience a significant increase in sunny days and a notable decrease in humidity and annual snowfall. Sacramento's milder winters and hot summers offer a distinct climate change, especially with virtually no snow. Additionally, while both cities have their share of natural disasters, the types vary significantly, with Sacramento users needing preparedness for earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your lifestyle and home to better suit your new environment in Sacramento.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Sacramento
When planning a move from Des Moines, IA to Sacramento, CA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income opportunities in Des Moines stack up against those in Sacramento. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in your financial situation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $75,311 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 116.2 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.84% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 8.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Health Services | Government, Technology, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
The difference in the cost of living indices between Des Moines and Sacramento is notable, with Sacramento being significantly more expensive. This disparity is compounded by the higher state income tax rate in California. However, the average property tax rate in Sacramento is considerably lower, which might be beneficial if you're planning to buy a home. While the average household income in Des Moines is slightly higher, Sacramento's diverse economy, with strong government, technology, and healthcare sectors, offers ample job opportunities. Understanding these financial and economic differences will help you make informed decisions during your relocation process.
Des Moines vs. Sacramento Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Sacramento, CA, giving you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Focusing on the politics between Des Moines & Sacramento , this section aims to help you understand the typical profile of the population in both cities.
| Des Moines | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on local issues | Very progressive, with active local governance |
| Religion | Mixed, with a strong presence of Christianity | Diverse, higher percentage of non-religious residents |
When relocating from Des Moines to Sacramento, you'll find that both cities lean Democratic, though Sacramento is known for a stronger Democratic presence and more progressive stances on various issues. This is evident in local governance, where Sacramento often pioneers progressive policies and community initiatives. Religion in Des Moines presents a somewhat traditional American city landscape, with Christianity being predominant, albeit alongside other faiths. Sacramento, however, showcases a broader spectrum of beliefs, including a notable percentage of residents identifying as non-religious, highlighting its diversity and openness to different cultures and viewpoints.
Des Moines vs. Sacramento Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Sacramento, CA? This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Sacramento. It's crucial to understand what your daily commute and traffic might look like, so you can plan your day more efficiently.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Easier than Des Moines |
Though both cities offer unique challenges and benefits when it comes to commuting, Sacramento generally has a bit more traffic congestion compared to Des Moines, likely due to its larger population and more extensive urban area. However, Sacramento also boasts a better public transport system, making it a bit easier to get by without a car. The average commute time in Sacramento is slightly longer, but the city's investment in public transportation options, like light rail and bus services, provides residents with reliable alternatives to driving. If you're planning on moving to either city, considering your proximity to work and access to public transportation can significantly impact your daily life.
Additional Resources
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