Best Des Moines to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 333 mile move from Iowa to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Des Moines to Chicago 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 $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Chicago. 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 Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | 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 Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 333 miles from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,064 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Chicago move is roughly $4,936. 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 | $1,391 | 300 ft³ | 4.64 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,064 | 450 ft³ | 4.59 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,403 | 750 ft³ | 4.54 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,936 | 1100 ft³ | 4.49 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,100 | 1600 ft³ | 4.44 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,898 | 1800 ft³ | 4.39 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Chicago 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) |
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
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) |
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. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Chicago, IL, helping you find a new home area that feels just right. By comparing neighborhoods in Des Moines with their counterparts in Chicago, you'll gain insights into where you might enjoy living the most.
| Des Moines | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Wicker Park | Similar vibrant, artsy vibe |
| Beaverdale | Roscoe Village | Both have a strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere |
| Sherman Hill | Old Town | Historic districts with charming architecture |
| Drake | Hyde Park | Both are university neighborhoods with a diverse, intellectual community |
| Waterbury | Lincoln Square | Both offer a tranquil, upscale living experience |
| Highland Park | Rogers Park | Both have a diverse population and affordable housing |
| South of Grand | Gold Coast | Upscale, with impressive homes and amenities |
| Ingersoll Avenue | Andersonville | Both are bustling with local businesses and eateries |
| Gray's Lake | Lincoln Park | Both are green oases in the city with a lake/park for outdoor activities |
| Valley Junction | Logan Square | Both are historic with a creative, entrepreneurial spirit |
Exploring Chicago's neighborhoods, you'll discover places that resonate with the charm and community spirit of Des Moines. Wicker Park, much like East Village, buzzes with an eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, such as the renowned Brew Brew Coffee & Tea. Similarly, if you appreciate the historic and cozy ambiance of Sherman Hill, you'll find yourself at home in Old Town, where the architecture and quaint streets echo a bygone era, highlighted by landmarks like The Second City. For those moving from Waterbury, Lincoln Square offers a serene living experience, complemented by its own collection of unique shops and the storied DANK Haus German American Cultural Center. This guide aims to not only ease your transition but also excite you about the vibrant communities and lifestyles awaiting you in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Chicago
Moving from one city to another comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make a more informed decision and prepare for the transition.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Less cultural diversity
- Lower job opportunities
- Fewer entertainment options
Chicago, IL- Larger urban area
- Greater cultural diversity
- Higher job prospects
- More entertainment venues
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- Less personal community
- Fewer green spaces
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Close-knit community
- Abundant outdoor spaces
Moving to Chicago from Des Moines introduces you to a dynamic urban environment ripe with cultural diversity, professional opportunities, and endless entertainment options. Chicago's vibrant cultural scene includes renowned institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and historic music venues such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Despite the bustling city life, neighborhoods like Lincoln Park offer plenty of green spaces, notable restaurants like Alinea, and shops. While the cost of living and traffic may be higher than in Des Moines, exploring neighborhoods such as the Gold Coast or Wicker Park reveals a blend of affordability, community, and access to green spaces that help mitigate these challenges.
Des Moines vs. Chicago Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Des Moines & Chicago is essential for anyone moving between these cities. Understanding the food scene gives you insight into the cultural fabric of your new home. This comparison will equip you with knowledge about what culinary delights await you.
| Des Moines | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Chicago-Style Vegan Deep Dish |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Des Moines is celebrated for its comfort food, particularly the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Iowa Chop, Chicago stands out with its world-renowned Deep-Dish Pizza and Italian Beef sandwiches. The vibrant food truck scenes in both cities offer a variety of street food options, but Chicago's abundance and diversity standout, particularly for its iconic Hot Dogs. For vegans, both cities provide excellent choices, with Chicago's vegan deep-dish pizza being a unique twist on a local favorite. Notably, the food scene in Chicago is highly rated, with an abundance of iconic establishments like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Girl & The Goat that are must-visit destinations. Whether you're exploring the neighborhoods of Wicker Park in Chicago or the East Village in Des Moines, you'll find that each city's culinary scene is a mirror into its cultural heart.
Des Moines vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can transform a city into your home. This comparison chart is designed to help in moving from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL by matching top restaurants, guiding you towards discovering your next culinary love. Whether you're in search of an upscale dining experience, a casual bite, or iconic eats, this guide has got you covered.
| Des Moines | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Kuma's Corner | Both offer creative burgers in a themed, casual dining environment. |
| A Centro | Monteverde | Both focus on upscale, innovative Italian cuisine. |
| La Mie Bakery | Floriole Cafe & Bakery | Artisanal baked goods and casual café fare shine at both. |
| El Bait Shop | Hopleaf Bar | Both boast an extensive selection of beers and hearty American fare. |
| Fong's Pizza | Dimo's Pizza | Pizza places with a twist, offering unique toppings and flavors. |
| Smash Park | Punch Bowl Social | Fun and games meet gourmet bites in these interactive venues. |
| Proof | Sepia | Fine dining with a focus on modern American cuisine and a stellar wine list. |
| Harbinger | Girl & The Goat | Both represent foodie havens with innovative, shareable small plates. |
| The Cheese Bar | Eataly | While Eataly is broader, both are havens for cheese and charcuterie lovers. |
| The High Life Lounge | Longman & Eagle | Both offer a throwback vibe with a focus on comfort food and drinks. |
Among these gastronomic gems, Kuma's Corner in Chicago stands out for its iconic, heavy metal-themed ambiance and gourmet burgers, mirroring the unique and beloved experience at Des Moines's Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. Similarly, Girl & The Goat in Chicago offers an eclectic mix of dishes perfect for sharing, echoing the innovative and meticulously prepared offerings found at Harbinger in Des Moines. These two cities might be miles apart, but the culinary experience can indeed be a bridge, helping new residents find comfort and excitement in their new locale.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience. Understanding how housing in Des Moines compares to Chicago is crucial for planning your move. This comparison aims to highlight differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help with your decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Modern and Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Backyards | Lake Views |
When examining the housing differences between Des Moines and Chicago, the most striking differences are in the cost of living and urban lifestyle. For instance, median home prices and monthly rents are significantly higher in Chicago, reflecting the city's vibrant urban scene and higher demand for space. Chicago's architecture is renowned for its diversity, including modern skyscrapers and historic greystone buildings, offering a unique living experience compared to the more traditional styles found in Des Moines. Additionally, Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores are indicative of its denser urban environment and well-developed public transportation system. This makes it easier to live in Chicago without a car, unlike in Des Moines, where a car is almost a necessity. These factors contribute significantly to the appeal of each city depending on your lifestyle preferences and needs.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Des Moines vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Des Moines, IA, to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This guide provides an easy-to-follow comparison of climate and weather conditions you'll experience, helping you adjust from Des Moines to Chicago more comfortably.
Des Moines, IA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Snowstorms, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Des Moines and Chicago share similar temperature ranges throughout the year, you might find Chicago's winters a tad brisker due to the wind chill factor coming off Lake Michigan. Despite slightly fewer sunny days, both cities experience relatively high humidity levels, making air quality and seasonal allergies notable concerns, particularly for those sensitive to pollen and mold. Moreover, being aware of common natural disasters, like tornadoes in Des Moines and more frequent snowstorms in Chicago, will help you prepare better for your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Chicago
If you're moving from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL , it's crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This comparison illuminates the economic landscape you're transitioning into, providing insight into what you can expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and overall economic environment .
| Comparison | Des Moines | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 - 8.53 | 4.95 (flat) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 2.12 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
When considering a move from Des Moines to Chicago, it's important to recognize that while the average household income is higher in Des Moines, the cost of living in Chicago is significantly greater. This disparity is evident in the Cost of Living Index, where Chicago scores 106.9, compared to Des Moines' more modest 81. Moreover, the higher sales tax in Chicago could affect your day-to-day expenses, potentially offsetting the cultural and economic opportunities the city provides. Despite the economic challenges, Chicago's varied affluence and dynamic industrial landscape, including finance and information technology, make it an attractive destination for many.
Des Moines vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Chicago , along with a glimpse into the religious makeup of the residents, assisting you in getting familiar with the societal fabric of your new city.
| Des Moines | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Community-focused | Progressive agendas |
| Religion | Mixed, with a slight Christian majority | Diverse, with significant Catholic presence |
When moving from Des Moines to Chicago, you'll transition into a more pronounced Democratic environment, reflecting in both cities' policies and community projects. Des Moines' local politics tend to focus on community well-being and have a balanced religious makeup, with a nod towards Christian ideologies. Chicago, on the other hand, embraces more progressive agendas, often leading with bold initiatives on climate, equity, and inclusion. Religion in Chicago is incredibly diverse, with a significant Catholic presence, reflected in its many churches and parochial institutions. This diversity is a testament to Chicago's melting pot of cultures and beliefs, offering you a wider array of communities to belong to.
Des Moines vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL involves adapting to a new daily commute and traffic scenario. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Chicago will help you better understand what to expect. Whether you're driving or using public transit, knowing these differences can make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Easier |
In Des Moines, most residents find it challenging to get around without a car due to less available public transit options. The average commute time is relatively short, and traffic congestion is significantly lower compared to major cities. On the other hand, Chicago offers a more robust public transit system, which includes buses, trains, and bikes, making it easier to live without a car despite higher traffic congestion and longer average commute times. Adapting to these differences will be key to making your move smooth and your daily commute manageable.
Additional Resources
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