Best Des Moines to Miami Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Des Moines to Miami and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,560 mile move from Iowa to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 Des Moines to Miami 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 Easy Florida Moving LLC), 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 Miami. 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.

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Best Des Moines to Miami Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Easy Florida Moving LLC9.549.52Authorized For HHGContact
2Our Family Moving and Storage LLC9.549.24Authorized For HHGContact
3Adamantine Spine Moving9.539.4Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Best Move Inc9.239.19Authorized For PropertyContact
5Hemmen Moving9.109.47Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Des Moines to Miami

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,560 miles from Des Moines, IA to Miami, FL will cost on average $3,108 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Miami move is roughly $7,487. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,087300 ft³6.96
1 Bedroom$3,108450 ft³6.91
2 Bedrooms$5,142750 ft³6.86
3 Bedrooms$7,4871100 ft³6.81
4 Bedrooms$10,8101600 ft³6.76
5+ Bedrooms$12,0711800 ft³6.71
*Please note: These Iowa to Florida moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & Florida. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed IA to FL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Miami to Des Moines guide.

Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Miami Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo

Easy Florida Moving LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.54/10
based on 1,244+ data points

319 NW 10th Terrace

Hallandale Beach, FL, 33009

About Easy Florida Moving LLC

Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company...

Services

  • Long Distance Relocation
  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving (in State)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3064335 / 57089

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC Logo

Our Family Moving and Storage LLC

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 2,112+ data points

2455 Hollywood Blvd

Hollywood, FL, 33020

About Our Family Moving and Storage LLC

Based in Hollywood, FL, Our Family Moving and Storage is a local and family-owned moving business specializing in local and long-distance...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3374772 / 1082468

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 956+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Best Move Inc Logo

Best Move Inc

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 520+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Hemmen Moving Logo

Hemmen Moving

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 621+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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. Miami Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, understanding the vibe of your new city's neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. This guide is designed to compare Des Moines, IA & Miami, FL local neighborhoods to help you find a similar community in your new city. By highlighting similar neighborhoods in both cities, we aim to give you a sense of familiarity and belonging in your new home.

Des MoinesMiamiHow They're Similar
East VillageCoconut GroveLush, bohemian vibes
BeaverdaleCoral GablesHistoric, family-friendly
Waveland ParkSouth MiamiSuburban, close to nature
Sherman HillLittle HavanaRich history, vibrant culture
DrakeWynwoodArtistic, eclectic mix
Ingersoll ParkBrickellBustling, urban lifestyle
Highland ParkLittle HaitiCultural, community-focused
WaterburyPinecrestUpscale, tranquil surroundings
RooseveltMiramarDiverse, growing community
Gray's LakeKey BiscayneScenic views, outdoor activities

For those drawn to the bohemian and artistic vibes of Des Moines' East Village, Miami's Coconut Grove offers a lush, similarly bohemian atmosphere, complete with sidewalk cafes, art galleries, and a vibrant nightlife. If the family-friendly and historic charm of Beaverdale appeals to you, Coral Gables in Miami mirrors that with its Mediterranean Revival architecture, sprawling estates, and renowned educational institutions. For lovers of the urban eclectic mix and the arts scene in Drake, Wynwood in Miami boasts an impressive array of street art, galleries, and eclectic dining that will surely captivate your artistic side. Lastly, those appreciating the tranquil and scenic surroundings of Gray’s Lake will find solace in Key Biscayne’s beautiful beaches, parks, and recreational areas, making outdoor adventures an integral part of your Miami life.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Miami

Moving from one city to another carries both exciting opportunities and potential drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Miami, FL , painting a clearer picture for those considering the move. Understand how your lifestyle might change, what new experiences await, and what comforts of home you might miss.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Chilly Winters
  • Small City Vibe
  • Limited Diversity
  • Less Beach Access
  • Restricted Dining Options
Miami, FL iconMiami, FL
  • Warm Climate
  • Vibrant Nightlife
  • Cultural Melting Pot
  • Beaches Galore
  • World-class Cuisine
Miami, FL iconMiami, FL
  • Higher Expenses
  • Noisy at Times
  • Can Feel Impersonal
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Urban Landscape
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Quiet Neighborhoods
  • Community Feel
  • Easy Traffic
  • Abundant Nature

When considering a move from Des Moines to Miami, it's essential to factor in the lifestyle changes. In Des Moines, you may be used to the tranquility of places like Gray's Lake Park and the close-knit community vibe of local markets such as the Downtown Farmers' Market. In contrast, Miami offers an upbeat lifestyle with its iconic South Beach, a plethora of dining options ranging from Little Havana's authentic Cuban cuisine at Versailles Restaurant to upscale dining in Brickell City Centre. The change from Des Moines’s laid-back atmosphere to Miami's bustling, dynamic environment marks a significant shift but offers exciting new experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Des Moines vs. Miami Food Guide

Exploring the local cuisine is a vital part of understanding the cultural landscape of a new city. In this guide, we will delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA, and Miami, FL, providing you with a taste of what each city offers.

Des MoinesMiami
Most iconic local food itemPork tenderloin sandwichCuban sandwich
Most popular meat dishIowa ChopsRopa Vieja
Most popular street food itemTaco trucksEmpanadas
Most popular vegan foodSeitan wingsPlantain dishes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • 801 Chophouse
  • Zombie Burger
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Joe's Stone Crab
  • Versailles Restaurant
  • The Bazaar by José Andrés
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Des Moines prides itself on its Midwest comfort food, with the pork tenderloin sandwich standing as a must-try, Miami offers a vibrant mix of Latin American flavors, notably the iconic Cuban sandwich found in the heart of Little Havana. Both cities boast a lively street food scene, yet Miami takes the crown for its wide variety of Latin-inspired street foods, including empanadas. For those with a plant-based diet, Miami's abundant plantain-based dishes present a tropical twist to vegan eating. Miami's rich multicultural tapestry is further exemplified in its top restaurants, from the storied Joe's Stone Crab to the Cuban delights of Versailles Restaurant. Whether moving from Des Moines to Miami, you're transitioning from a scene of hearty American classics to experiencing the zest and zeal of Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.

Des Moines vs. Miami Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Des Moines, IA to Miami, FL, finding new favorite eateries plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants will guide you in discovering where to dine in Miami based on your Des Moines favorites , ensuring a seamless transition into your new culinary landscape.

Des MoinesMiamiWhat You'll Love
CentroFiola MiamiHigh-end Italian dining with a contemporary twist
Zombie Burger + Drink LabKushCreatively topped burgers and a diverse beer selection
Fong's PizzaL'Artisane Creative BakeryGourmet vegan pizzas with unique flavors
801 ChophouseStripSteak by Michael MinaLuxurious steakhouse experience
A DongPhuc YeaA vibrant spot for modern Vietnamese fare
BubbaYardbird Southern Table & BarSouthern comfort food with a gourmet twist
HarbingerThe Surf Club RestaurantContemporary dishes with high-quality, fresh ingredients
Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.J. Wakefield BrewingCraft beers and casual eats in an artsy setting
Exile Brewing Co.The Tank Brewing Co.A focus on craft beer with a welcoming taproom atmosphere
Jethro’s BBQShorty's Bar-B-QIconic spot for classic BBQ dishes

Exploring Miami's culinary scene will bring familiar comforts and exciting new flavors. For example, if you enjoyed Centro in Des Moines for its modern Italian cuisine, Fiola Miami offers a similar high-end dining experience highlighted by innovative Italian dishes. Those who relished the unique and hearty burgers at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab might find a new favorite in Kush, where the combination of culinary creativity and a love for burgers unite. And for fans of Vietnamese cuisine missing A Dong, Phuc Yea bridges the gap with its vibrant flavors and modern twist on traditional dishes. Each Miami counterpart provides an ambiance and culinary excellence reminiscent of your Des Moines favorites, ensuring the transition to your new city is both delicious and comforting.

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Des Moines vs. Miami Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when moving. Understanding how Des Moines and Miami compare in terms of housing will help you make a better-informed decision. This comparison will cover aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle attributes.

ComparisonDes MoinesMiami
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman & RanchArt Deco & Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, Quiet neighborhoodsOcean view, Proximity to nightlife

The difference in median home prices between Des Moines and Miami is significant, reflecting the premium for Miami's coastal location and vibrant urban atmosphere. While cost of living is higher in Miami, it offers more in terms of walkability and an urban lifestyle, peculiarly attractive to those seeking an active social life and proximity to the ocean. On the other hand, Des Moines’ housing market is characterized by more affordable options and is appealing for those who prioritize spacious properties and serene neighborhoods. Notably, the architectural styles in each city mirror their unique cultural and historical contexts, with Miami featuring striking Art Deco buildings and Des Moines presenting a mix of Craftsman and Ranch-style homes, adding a touch of personal preference to the decision-making process.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Miami, FL

1. Coconut Grove: Known for its lush dog-friendly parks and a variety of pet-friendly cafes, like the "dog-friendly" Lokal, Coconut Grove is a paradise for pet owners.

2. Brickell: This bustling urban area features pet-friendly luxury apartments and several dog parks, including the popular Simpson Park Hammock, making it a great choice for pet owners who love city living.

3. Edgewater: Its scenic bayfront views combined with pet-friendly amenities, like Margaret Pace Park where your furry friends can play off-leash, underscore Edgewater's appeal to pet owners.

Des Moines vs. Miami Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s essential to understand how the new climate will differ from your current environment. This comparison aims to outline the variances in weather between Des Moines, IA and Miami, FL , providing a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.

Summer icon
86/65

Des Moines, IA

90/76

Miami, FL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
33/17

Des Moines, IA

76/60

Miami, FL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

62

Miami, FL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

0

Miami, FL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDes MoinesMiami
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsHurricanes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Des Moines to Miami introduces you to a significantly warmer climate with more sunny days and higher humidity levels. While winters in Des Moines can be quite harsh, with substantial snowfall and freezing temperatures, Miami offers a warm escape with its mild winters. However, it’s important to note that Miami's higher humidity can make the heat feel more intense, and its peak UV index suggests a stronger sun exposure. Adjusting to these changes, particularly the dramatic shift in winter weather and the increased likelihood of hurricanes, requires preparation and adaptation to your new environment.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Miami

When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Miami, FL, it's crucial to grasp how the change will impact your finances. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between your current and future home can reveal significant differences. Understanding these distinctions can help you prepare financially for your move.

ComparisonDes MoinesMiami
Avg. Household Income$60,693$48,789
Cost of Living Index90.9106
State Income TaxUp to 8.53%No state income tax
Avg. Property Tax1.5%1.0%
Avg. Sales Tax6%7%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, HealthcareTourism, Finance, International Trade
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerHigher

Moving from Des Moines to Miami introduces a array of financial considerations. The cost of living in Miami is significantly higher than in Des Moines, largely due to housing and transportation costs. However, this is somewhat balanced by Florida's lack of state income tax, which can offer some relief. The industries thriving in each city reflect their economic landscapes; while Des Moines excels in finance and healthcare, Miami is a hub for tourism and international trade. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your financial transition more effectively.

Des Moines vs. Miami Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Miami, FL, it's useful to understand how both cities compare on a societal level. This quick guide will provide a comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Miami , along with a glance at the religious landscape. Knowing these facets can help you adjust more smoothly to your new surroundings.

Des MoinesMiami
Political Make-upModerate, leaning DemocraticLiberal, strongly Democratic
Local PoliticsEmphasis on education and local governanceFocus on immigration, climate, and tourism
ReligionProtestant and Catholic presenceLarger Catholic presence, diverse religious communities

Moving from Des Moines to Miami, you'll notice a shift in the political climate, from a more moderate, leaning Democratic perspective to a place where liberal views and the Democratic tendency are more pronounced. The local political concerns also shift significantly; while Des Moines may concentrate on education and local governance, Miami's politics often revolve around immigration, climate change issues, and tourism due to its geographical location and diverse population. On the religious front, both cities host Protestant and Catholic communities. However, Miami showcases a broader religious diversity and a larger Catholic presence. This variety invites a rich tapestry of cultural and religious celebrations that you might find enriching and distinctive from what you're used to in Des Moines.

Des Moines vs. Miami Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Miami, FL? Understand the differences in driving and transiting in these cities to better prepare for your daily commute. This comparison will illuminate what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Miami.

ComparisonDes MoinesMiami
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2030
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, but challenging

In Des Moines, the average commute time is significantly lower than in Miami, largely due to less traffic congestion. The city's public transit system might not be as extensive or convenient, which makes owning a car almost a necessity for getting around effectively. On the other hand, Miami offers a wider selection of public transportation options, from buses to the Metrorail, making it possible—though still challenging—to live without a car. However, traffic congestion in Miami can significantly impact your daily commute time, making it advisable to plan your travel with some buffer time.

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