Best Des Moines to Fort Wayne Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Fort Wayne and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 495 mile move from Iowa to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 13 Des Moines to Fort Wayne 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Fort Wayne. 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 Fort Wayne 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 | MVM Moving & Storage | 9.22 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.51 | 6.92 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Fort Wayne
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 495 miles from Des Moines, IA to Fort Wayne, IN will cost on average $2,202 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Fort Wayne move is roughly $5,273. 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 | $1,483 | 300 ft³ | 4.94 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,202 | 450 ft³ | 4.89 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,633 | 750 ft³ | 4.84 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,273 | 1100 ft³ | 4.79 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,590 | 1600 ft³ | 4.74 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,449 | 1800 ft³ | 4.69 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fort Wayne to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Fort Wayne 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) |
MVM Moving & Storage
6429 Highview Dr
Fort Wayne, IN, 46818
About MVM Moving & Storage
Since 2006, MVM Moving and Storage has been assisting residents of Fort Wayne, IN, streamline their relocation process with its cost-effective...
Services
- Residential Move
- Commercial Move
- Local Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3098388 / 76046 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 75,000 (2021) |
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) |
Two Men and a Truck
321 Ley Rd
Fort Wayne, IN, 46825
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck has locations across the country, with its Fort Wayne location opening in 2005. This nationally-recognized moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1319267 / 510634 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 222,778 (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. Fort Wayne Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison focusing on Des Moines, IA & Fort Wayne, IN neighborhoods . This guide will assist you in finding a Fort Wayne neighborhood that shares the characteristics and charm of your current Des Moines locale, making your move feel like you're just shifting from one home to another.
| Des Moines | Fort Wayne | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Aboite | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| East Village | West Central | Historic, artsy district |
| Waterbury | Sycamore Hills | Upscale, golf community |
| Sherman Hill | Lakeside Park | Historic homes, park access |
| Drake | North Anthony | Academic atmosphere, diverse |
| Highland Park | Northside | Vibrant, traditional craftsman houses |
| Ingersoll Park | Georgetown | Mature trees, quaint shops |
| Waveland Park | Cherry Hill | Family-friendly, access to parks |
| Roosevelt | Covington Dells | Quiet, wooded area |
| Southwestern Hills | Arlington Park | Spacious lots, community pools |
In moving from Des Moines to Fort Wayne, you'll discover neighborhoods like West Central that mirror the East Village's rich tapestry of culture, history, and arts. West Central is famed for its early 20th-century architecture and creative spirit, much like the East Village, where boutiques, eateries like Zombie Burger in Des Moines, find their counterparts in Fort Wayne favorites like Cindy's Diner. For those fond of the lush, green expanses and recreational facilities in Beaverdale, Aboite's abundant parks and family-friendly atmosphere offer a seamless transition. Similarly, the academic and youthful vigor of the Drake neighborhood is mirrored in North Anthony, home to university students and diverse cultural events, ensuring a welcoming and vibrant community for all newcomers.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Fort Wayne
Moving can be a complex decision, full of various factors to consider. This comparison aims to shed light on the transition from Des Moines, IA to Fort Wayne, IN, highlighting both the challenges and advantages. By examining the Des Moines to Fort Wayne move , we provide an honest reflection of what this relocation entails, allowing you to weigh the good against the bad accurately.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Less cultural venues
- More expensive housing
- Fewer job opportunities
Fort Wayne, IN- Larger metro area
- More diverse attractions
- More affordable living
- Broader employment options
Fort Wayne, IN- Less personal feel
- Fewer natural spaces
- Fewer local markets
- Varied educational quality
Des Moines, IA- Close-knit community
- Accessible outdoor activities
- Vibrant local markets
- Quality local schools
The move from Des Moines to Fort Wayne is not merely a change in scenery, but also an opportunity to embrace a new lifestyle. Fort Wayne's larger metro area, compared to Des Moines's smaller city vibe, offers more diverse attractions and broader employment options. For instance, Fort Wayne's vibrant downtown area is bustling with cultural venues like the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and unique dining experiences such as those found at DeBrand Fine Chocolates. On the other hand, Des Moines prides itself on its close-knit community and vibrant local markets like the Downtown Farmers' Market, creating a personal feel that some may miss upon relocation. This comparison highlights the essence of each city, helping you to consider not just the practicalities of moving but also the emotional and social impacts of such a decision.
Des Moines vs. Fort Wayne Food Guide
Food enriches our understanding of local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we're comparing the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & Fort Wayne, IN to help you get acquainted with the culinary scene of your new home.
| Des Moines | Fort Wayne | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Coney Island Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Pork Chops | Beef Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burger | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, pork tenderloin sandwiches, particularly from local favorite Fong's Pizza, epitomize the local cuisine. Additionally, the city's thriving food truck scene, offering a myriad of options including the much-loved tacos on almost every corner, reflects its dynamic foodie culture. Meanwhile, Fort Wayne cherishes its traditional Coney Island hot dogs, with spots like Cindy's Diner reigning supreme. Both cities cater to health-conscious and vegan individuals, though Des Moines slightly leads with its innovative vegan offerings. These distinctions in local cuisine showcase the unique flavors and culinary experiences awaiting you in your new city.
Des Moines vs. Fort Wayne Restaurant Comparison
Food is an integral part of making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart between Des Moines, IA, and Fort Wayne, IN, serves as your culinary compass, guiding you to find your new favorite dining spots by leveraging your current favorites in Des Moines. Whether you're craving fine dining or a casual bite, this guide is your first step towards feeling at home in Fort Wayne.
| Des Moines | Fort Wayne | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo Cafe | Casablanca Restaurant | Both offer a cozy atmosphere and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. |
| Centro | Paula's On Main | Similar upscale dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients in hearty American dishes. |
| Fong's Pizza | 816 Pint & Slice | Both provide a unique twist on classic pizza offerings in a fun, laid-back environment. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Bravas Burgers | Both have a cult following for their inventive burgers and casual, quirky vibes. |
| Proof | Tolon | High-end dining experiences known for innovative dishes and a commitment to quality. |
| La Mie Bakery & Restaurant | Pembroke Bakery & Café | Both are beloved for their fresh, homemade bakery items and cozy café atmosphere. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Mad Anthony Brewing Company | This comparison pairs for their craft beer selection and quality pub menus. |
| Harbinger | Copper Spoon | Offers imaginative and beautifully plated dishes, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients. |
| Flying Mango | Shigs In Pit | For lovers of smoked meats and barbecue, both establishments provide a memorable dining experience. |
| Alba | Henry's Restaurant | Both are known for their chic environments and menus that creatively celebrate regional flavors. |
When exploring Fort Wayne's dining scene, similarities to Des Moines' beloved eateries can offer a taste of home in a new city. For instance, fans of Fong's Pizza will delight in the eclectic and playful spirit of 816 Pint & Slice, where the commitment to creative pizza-making shines through just as strongly. Meanwhile, meat lovers who frequented Flying Mango for its barbecue will find Shigs In Pit's smoked meats evoke a familiar sense of culinary satisfaction. Each of these establishments not only promises a menu that mirrors the quality and innovation of Des Moines’ favorites but also offers new food adventures and local flavors worth exploring as you settle into your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Fort Wayne Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing market compares between Des Moines, IA and Fort Wayne, IN can significantly influence your decision. This comparison provides essential insights into costs, architecture, and living convenience to inform your move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fort Wayne |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, proximity to schools | Updated kitchens, large garages |
When comparing the real estate dynamics between Des Moines and Fort Wayne, there are key factors to consider beyond just the numbers. The median home price in Des Moines is higher, reflecting possibly a more in-demand market, but the difference in price can significantly influence your budgeting for a new home. However, the architecture in Des Moines leans towards Craftsman styles, offering unique charm and character, while Fort Wayne boasts practical and widely popular Ranch-style homes, favoring ground-floor living. Another aspect to consider is the bikeability and urban lifestyle scores, indicating a slightly more bike-friendly environment in Fort Wayne and hinting at a slightly more vibrant urban life in Des Moines. Both cities offer distinct advantages depending on your priorities, whether it's a strong community feel, proximity to work, or the value you can get for your money.
Des Moines vs. Fort Wayne Weather Considerations
When relocating, understanding how the weather compares between your current city and your new home is crucial. This guide will help you grasp how Des Moines' climate differs from Fort Wayne's, ensuring you're well-prepared for your move.
Des Moines, IA
Fort Wayne, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Fort Wayne, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Fort Wayne, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Fort Wayne, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fort Wayne |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Des Moines and Fort Wayne experience four distinct seasons, you'll find that winters are slightly milder in Fort Wayne, with higher minimum temperatures. However, Des Moines boasts more sunny days annually, which might be a significant factor if you love clear skies. Another key difference is in air quality; Des Moines generally experiences better air quality than Fort Wayne. These factors, among others, can influence your daily life and overall well-being in your new city, so it's important to consider them carefully before your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Fort Wayne
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be impacted by the change. This comparison will outline the key monetary differences and similarities between Des Moines, IA and Fort Wayne, IN, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living expenses and economic environment.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fort Wayne |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $54,737 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 94.4 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | 3.23% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.87% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Financial Services, Insurance, Manufacturing | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower-moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderately low |
When moving from Des Moines to Fort Wayne, you'll likely notice a decrease in the cost of living, with Fort Wayne's index sitting lower than Des Moines. This is reflected in both the average household income and property taxes, which are notably lower in Fort Wayne. However, it's worth noting that despite a lower income average, Fort Wayne's sales tax is slightly higher. This economic dynamic is shaped by the predominant industries in each city, with Des Moines focusing on financial services and insurance, while Fort Wayne has a strong base in manufacturing and healthcare. This shift could impact your employment opportunities and living standards, depending on your professional background and lifestyle expectations.
Des Moines vs. Fort Wayne Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA, to Fort Wayne, IN, understanding the local landscape is crucial. Here is a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents , comparing Des Moines & Fort Wayne . This comparison will help you grasp the community vibes in both cities.
| Des Moines | Fort Wayne | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Moderate with progressive pockets | Conservative to moderate |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian community | Largely Christian, including Protestant and Catholic |
Des Moines and Fort Wayne offer distinct community atmospheres that are reflective of their political and religious climates. Des Moines has a tendency to lean towards the Democratic side, creating a moderate environment with several progressive pockets. This is a result of its diverse population and a vibrant city culture that encourages various liberal viewpoints. Meanwhile, Fort Wayne’s political environment leans more Republican, with its local politics ranging from conservative to moderate. This aligns with Fort Wayne’s large Christian community, encompassing both Protestant and Catholic denominations. Understanding these differences will help you better integrate into your new neighborhood, appreciating the local values and community norms.
Des Moines vs. Fort Wayne Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving between cities can be a significant change, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Des Moines, IA and Fort Wayne, IN.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Fort Wayne |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With difficulty | Challenging |
While the average commute times in Des Moines and Fort Wayne are fairly close, slightly shorter on average in Des Moines, the experience in each city can feel different due to varying levels of traffic congestion. Des Moines, for example, has a bit more congestion compared to Fort Wayne, but it compensates with a slightly better availability of public transit options. However, in both cities, relying solely on public transit without a car can be difficult, making car ownership more of a necessity rather than a preference. This information points towards the importance of considering your transportation options and commute preferences when making your move.
Additional Resources
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