Best Iowa to Colorado Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Iowa to Colorado and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 773 mile IA to CO move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 87 Iowa to Colorado 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 Movemasters, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Iowa compared to Colorado. 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 Iowa to Colorado Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Movemasters, Inc. | 9.58 | 9.45 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Movers | 9.51 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.42 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 6 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Iowa to Colorado
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 773 miles from Iowa to Colorado will cost on average $2,439 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to CO move is roughly $5,851. 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 in Iowa and dropoff in Colorado 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 Iowa to Colorado movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,641 | 300 ft³ | 5.47 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,439 | 450 ft³ | 5.42 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,027 | 750 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,851 | 1100 ft³ | 5.32 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,430 | 1600 ft³ | 5.27 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,394 | 1800 ft³ | 5.22 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Colorado to Iowa guide.
Popular Iowa to Colorado Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Iowa to Colorado Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IA to CO Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Movemasters, Inc.
745 Lipan St
Denver, CO, 80204
About Movemasters, Inc.
Located in Denver and serving customers locally and statewide for close to 40 years, Movemasters Inc. values trust, reputation, and results....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Household Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1290433 / 1550891 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 19 |
| Registered Drivers | 23 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,634 (2022) |
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) |
Smooth Movers
This listing has been claimed by Smooth Movers263 N 3rd St
Laramie, WY, 82072
About Smooth Movers
Smooth Movers has over 100 years of combined moving experience. It is a locally owned and operated business helping people move...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2630599 / 915454 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 110,000 (2022) |
Adamantine Spine Moving
656 S Governor St
Iowa City, IA, 52240
About Adamantine Spine Moving
Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transport your...
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) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Colorado
Moving from Iowa to Colorado represents a unique change in lifestyle and scenery, balancing challenges with exciting new opportunities. This guide provides a comparison between Iowa and Colorado , offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision.
Iowa- Harsher winters
- Less outdoor variety
- Smaller cities
- Lower altitude
- Less cultural diversity
Colorado- Milder winters
- Vast outdoor activities
- Larger cities
- High altitude benefits
- Greater cultural diversity
Colorado- Higher cost of living
- Potentially less connection
- More traffic
- Fewer agricultural areas
- Faster-paced lifestyle
Iowa- Cost-effective living
- Close-knit communities
- Less traffic congestion
- Rich agricultural lands
- Simple living
Colorado's vibrant city life, including Denver's renowned culinary scene at places like Uchi Denver and Boulder's picturesque hiking trails such as the Flatirons, offers a sharp and exciting contrast to Iowa's peaceful countryside and close-knit communities. While the transition might bring about a higher cost of living and a faster pace, the cultural diversity, and broad range of outdoor activities—from skiing in Vail to exploring the majestic Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs—make it a desirable destination for many. On the other hand, Iowa's appeal lies in its affordability, simpler lifestyle, and the comfort of tight-knit communities. This juxtaposition between both states highlights the essence of what one might gain or have to adapt to when making the move.
Iowa vs. Colorado Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Colorado which plays a significant role in the local culture and what it feels like to live there. By comparing these two locations, you can better understand the food scene in your new home.
| Iowa | Colorado | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Green Chili (Chile Verde) |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Pork Chops | Bison Burgers |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Corn Dogs | Quinoa Salads |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Colorado, you'll notice the state's fascination with green chili, which can be found in many local dishes, especially as the heart of the iconic Chile Verde. The state's food scene is known for its innovative approach to health and sustainability, with a high number of vegan and health-conscious options like quinoa salads. Spots in Denver such as Snooze, an A.M. Eatery for breakfast and Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder for an upscale dining experience highlight the state’s diverse culinary landscape. The strong presence of food trucks and a high foodie scene rating demonstrate Colorado’s vibrant and evolving food culture, particularly in hip neighborhoods and bustling downtown areas.
Ready to start your move?
Iowa vs. Colorado Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, so understanding how housing in Iowa and Colorado stack up is essential. This comparison offers insights into prices, styles, and livability, guiding your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Iowa | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Mountain and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, central location | Scenic views, proximity to nature |
When it comes to real estate, both Iowa and Colorado offer distinct experiences. Iowa's homes are significantly more affordable, with a median home price that's a fraction of what you'll find in Colorado. This lower cost of living does mean some trade-offs, such as a less pronounced urban lifestyle and lower walkability and bikeability scores. However, the state's real estate often highlights spacious backyards and a central location, catering to those seeking a balance of suburban comfort and accessibility. On the other hand, Colorado prides itself on its stunning natural landscapes, which significantly influence its real estate market. Listings in Colorado frequently boast scenic views and a strong proximity to outdoor activities, aligning with the state's higher scores in urban lifestyle, walkability, and bikeability. This focus on nature and modern living reflects in the typical architectural styles as well, which range from mountain-inspired designs to sleek, modern aesthetics.
Iowa vs. Colorado Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Iowa to Colorado, understanding how the weather compares between these states is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will give you insights into what to expect and how to prepare for your new home's climate.
Iowa
Colorado
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Colorado
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Colorado
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Iowa
Colorado
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Iowa | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Wildfires, Avalanches |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Iowa to Colorado, you'll experience more sunshine days and slightly colder winter nights, but overall less humidity in Colorado. While both states share concerns for natural disasters, they differ in type, with Colorado facing wildfires and avalanches. Perhaps the most notable difference is in air quality and annual precipitation; Colorado’s dryer climate results in less rainfall and higher snowfall due to its mountainous regions. These differences are important to consider for outdoor activities, health considerations, and selecting your wardrobe.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Colorado
When planning a move from one state to another, getting a clear picture of how your finances might change is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Iowa and Colorado will equip you with the insights needed to make an informed decision. Understanding these differences ensures that there are no surprises when it comes to your budget and lifestyle in your new home.
| Comparison | Iowa | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,588 | $89,302 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.9 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Flat 4.55% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53% | 0.49% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.82% | 7.72% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Agriculture, Financial Services | Technology, Tourism, Aerospace |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Lower |
| Homelessness | Low | Higher |
Moving from Iowa to Colorado, you'll notice significant financial contrasts. For one, the average household income in Colorado is notably higher, which correlates with its steeper cost of living and housing market. Although Colorado has a lower property tax rate, its overall cost of living index is much higher than Iowa's, reflecting pricier day-to-day expenses and housing. The flat rate state income tax in Colorado might simplify budgeting compared to Iowa's progressive tax brackets. These differences are essential to consider for your financial planning and lifestyle expectations in your new state.
Iowa vs. Colorado Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Iowa to Colorado, understanding the unique cultural landscape of each state is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Iowa & Colorado . It's designed to help you gauge the community environment you're moving into.
| Iowa | Colorado | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Swing State, with a slight lean towards conservative in recent elections | Lean Democratic, especially in urban areas like Denver and Boulder |
| Local Politics | Rural areas tend to be more conservative, urban areas lean liberal | Urban areas are strongly liberal, with conservative leanings in more rural, mountainous regions |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a significant Protestant presence | Less religious overall, with a significant portion of residents identifying as unaffiliated |
In comparing Iowa and Colorado, it's notable how local politics reflect broader national trends, with urban areas skewing more liberal and rural areas more conservative. This is particularly pronounced in Colorado, where the urban-rural divide is sharp, illustrated by the liberal enclaves of Denver and Boulder contrasted with more conservative regions like Colorado Springs. On the religious front, Colorado's significant unaffiliated population points to a more secular social environment compared to Iowa's stronger Protestant presence. Understanding these dynamics can help you better anticipate the community atmosphere in your new home state.
Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Colorado
When considering a move from Iowa to Colorado, it's vital to compare the educational landscape between Iowa and Colorado . This comparison aims to better understand what the school options are, helping you make an informed decision for your family's educational future.
| Iowa | Colorado |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern IowaUniversity of Colorado Boulder Colorado State University University of Denver | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Lincoln Elementary (Pella) Grant Wood Elementary (Bettendorf)Bromwell Elementary (Denver) Cory Elementary (Denver) Bear Creek Elementary (Boulder) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Ames Middle School (Ames) North Central Junior High (North Liberty) Summit Middle School (Johnston)Lesher Middle School (Fort Collins) Summit Middle Charter (Boulder) Challenge School (Denver) | |
Top 3 High Schools West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Johnston High School (Johnston)Cherry Creek High School (Greenwood Village) Fairview High School (Boulder) Denver School of the Arts (Denver) | |
Top 3 private high schools Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines) Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids) Maharishi School (Fairfield)The Colorado Springs School (Colorado Springs) Kent Denver School (Englewood) Fountain Valley School of Colorado (Colorado Springs) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Maharishi School (Fairfield) Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)Colorado Academy (Denver) Vail Mountain School (Vail) Fountain Valley School (Colorado Springs) | |
Top 3 School Districts Iowa City Community School District Ames Community School District West Des Moines Community SchoolsCherry Creek School District Boulder Valley School District Douglas County School District | |
While both Iowa and Colorado boast impressive educational statistics and options, the specifics of their offerings show some variation. For example, the University of Iowa, known for its strong programs in healthcare, law, and the fine arts, contrasts with the University of Colorado Boulder, which is recognized for its engineering, business, and environmental science programs. On the K-12 level, the emphasis in Colorado on charter and specialized schools, like the Denver School of the Arts, provides unique opportunities not found elsewhere. Private education also shows distinct differences, with Colorado offering institutions like Colorado Academy, known for its comprehensive K-12 education with rigorous academic standards. This contrast in educational emphasis reflects the diverse educational landscapes and opportunities available in each state, pivotal information for families making a move between Iowa and Colorado.
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