Best Iowa to Indiana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Iowa to Indiana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 480 mile IA to IN move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 86 Iowa to Indiana 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 Iowa compared to Indiana. 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 Iowa to Indiana Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.539.4Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.429.28Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Best Move Inc9.239.19Authorized For PropertyContact
4MVM Moving & Storage9.229.4Authorized For HHGContact
5Bulldogs Moving Co.9.129.47Authorized For HHGContact
6Hemmen Moving9.109.47Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Iowa to Indiana

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 480 miles from Iowa to Indiana will cost on average $2,189 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to IN move is roughly $5,242. 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 Indiana 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 Indiana movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,475300 ft³4.92
1 Bedroom$2,189450 ft³4.87
2 Bedrooms$3,612750 ft³4.82
3 Bedrooms$5,2421100 ft³4.77
4 Bedrooms$7,5451600 ft³4.72
5+ Bedrooms$8,3981800 ft³4.67
*Please note: These Iowa to Indiana moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & Indiana. 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 IN mover.
Iowa iconArrow iconIndiana icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indiana to Iowa guide.

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Compare the 6 Best IA to IN Movers

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

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
1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,268+ data points

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

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
2
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
3
MVM Moving & Storage Logo

MVM Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.22/10
based on 1,395+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/29/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3098388 / 76046

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved75,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Bulldogs Moving Co. Logo

Bulldogs Moving Co.

Exceptional9.12/10
based on 553+ data points

Noblesville, IN, 46060

About Bulldogs Moving Co.

Bulldogs Moving Co., based in Lapel, Indiana, is a local moving company dedicated to providing high-quality services for residential and commercial...

Services

  • Full-service Moves
  • Packing / Unpacking
  • Loading / Unloading

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3784131 / 1472268

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
View Full Review
5
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
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Indiana

Moving from one state to another brings about a mixture of excitement and apprehension. This guide aims to give you a balanced view of relocating from Iowa to Indiana , highlighting both the challenges and the opportunities that come with such a move. Let's dive into the comparative analysis to help you better understand what to expect.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lesser city life
  • Fewer pro sports
  • Colder winters
  • Fewer cultural institutions
Indiana iconIndiana
  • Vibrant Indianapolis
  • More sports teams
  • Milder winters
  • Rich cultural scenes
Indiana iconIndiana
  • More urban sprawl
  • Higher expenses
  • Less natural beauty
  • Less agricultural emphasis
Iowa iconIowa
  • Community-focused
  • Lower cost of living
  • More open spaces
  • Robust agricultural economy

While Iowa is celebrated for its expansive landscapes and a strong sense of community, the allure of Indiana's vibrant city life, especially around Indianapolis, is undeniable. For those drawn to cultural institutions and professional sports, the transition to Indiana, with its rich cultural scenes and numerous sports teams like the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers, will be particularly rewarding. However, it's worth noting that this move could lead to higher living expenses and less access to the sprawling natural beauty found in Iowa. Despite these changes, Indiana offers unique opportunities for growth and exploration, from dining at renowned establishments like St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis to enjoying the outdoors at Indiana Dunes State Park.

Iowa vs. Indiana Food Guide

When relocating, it's not just the landscape that changes, but also the flavors that define a region. Understanding the local cuisine is pivotal as food is an essential part of local culture and what it's like to live in a particular area. In that spirit, we offer a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Indiana so you can familiarize yourself with the food scene of your new home.

IowaIndiana
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichSugar Cream Pie
Most popular meat dishCorn-fed Beef SteakPork Chop
Most popular street food itemWalking TacosBreaded Pork Tenderloin
Most popular vegan foodGrilled Corn on the CobRoasted Veggie Wrap
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Flying Elbow
  • Lucca
  • Zombie Burger
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • The Loft Restaurant at Traders Point Creamery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When settling down in Indiana, you'll quickly notice its deep-rooted love for Pork Chop and the statewide famed Sugar Cream Pie—a true Hoosier staple. Consider visiting the historic St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis, where the culinary scene offers more than just traditional dishes, but also a tale of the state's heritage. Explore local farmers' markets, such as those in Bloomington or Fort Wayne, to savor the roasted veggie wraps that represent Indiana's growing vegan-friendly options. Whether you're in the mood for classic comfort food or sophisticated dining, Indiana's diverse food ecosystem will satisfy your culinary cravings.

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Iowa vs. Indiana Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate greatly impacts the quality of your move. Knowing how Iowa and Indiana compare in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and more is essential for making an informed decision.

ComparisonIowaIndiana
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalRanch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, natural lightHardwood floors, updated kitchens

In comparing Iowa and Indiana, it's worth noting the differences in their median home prices and rent . While Iowa offers slightly more affordable options, Indiana's housing market signals a higher demand, potentially due to its urban lifestyle rating. Architecture preferences significantly differ between the states, with Iowa favoring Colonial Revival styles and Indiana leaning towards Ranch . Walkability and bikeability do vary, making Indiana slightly more appealing for those looking for an active urban lifestyle. When reading real estate listings, pay attention to popular features such as spacious backyards in Iowa, contrasting with the demand for hardwood floors and updated kitchens in Indiana homes.

Iowa vs. Indiana Weather Considerations

When planning a move between states, one critical factor to consider is how the weather will compare . Understanding the climate differences between Iowa and Indiana can help you adjust better to your new home. Our comparison will provide a clear picture of what to expect weather-wise in both states.

Summer icon
85/62

Iowa

85/64

Indiana

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32/14

Iowa

36/20

Indiana

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Iowa

42

Indiana

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
35

Iowa

22

Indiana

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaIndiana
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersTornadoes, floodsTornadoes, severe storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Iowa to Indiana, you'll observe subtle yet significant weather differences. For instance, both states enjoy warm summers, but Indiana's winters are slightly milder, with higher average high and low temperatures. Indiana also experiences fewer days of sunshine annually, which may affect your outdoor activities. Interestingly, despite having a higher annual rainfall, Indiana sees less snowfall than Iowa, signaling a different experience with winter weather activities and potential chores, such as snow removal. Besides climate, it's also crucial to note that both states face the risk of tornadoes and severe storms, suggesting the importance of staying informed about local weather alerts and emergency plans in your new area.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Indiana

When relocating from one state to another, understanding how costs will change is crucial. This comparison will highlight the financial differences you'll encounter when moving from Iowa to Indiana. From taxes to living costs, see how your finances might shift.

ComparisonIowaIndiana
Avg. Household Income$69,588$66,785
Cost of Living Index95.992.95
State Income Tax0.33 to 8.533.23 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax1.530.87
Avg. Sales Tax6.827.00
Top 3 IndustriesFinance and Insurance, Manufacturing, Health CareManufacturing, Health Care and Social Services, Retail Trade
Affluencemoderatemoderate
Povertylowmoderate
Homelessnesslowlow

In comparing the financial landscapes of Iowa and Indiana, it's clear that both states offer a modest cost of living, with Indiana scoring slightly lower on the index. However, Indiana's flat-rate state income tax might be more attractive to higher earners compared to Iowa's progressive rates. The substantial difference in property tax rates is also noteworthy, as living in Indiana could potentially halve this expense. Despite these differences, both states boast relatively low levels of poverty and homelessness, supporting a stable economic environment for their residents.

Iowa vs. Indiana Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the comparative politics between Iowa & Indiana , offering insight into the political, and religious makeup of the residents you might meet after your move. Understanding these aspects can help smooth your transition and provide context for your new community.

IowaIndiana
Political Make-upSwing State with a slight lean towards Republicans in recent electionsConsistently leans Republican, especially in national elections
Local PoliticsVaries, with a mix of Democratic and Republican leadership at the state and local levelRepublican dominance in state government and many localities
ReligionChristianity predominant, mixed denominationsChristianity predominant, with a strong Evangelical presence

Both Iowa and Indiana have a strong political identity that could influence your experience living in either state. Iowa's swing state status means its political landscape is more fluid, reflecting a diverse range of political beliefs among its residents. On the other hand, Indiana's consistent lean towards the Republican party may present a more uniform political perspective, especially in national elections. When it comes to religion, Christianity remains predominant in both states, but Indiana has a notably strong Evangelical presence, which plays a significant role in both the social and political spheres of the state. Understanding these nuances can provide a smoother transition and help you engage more effectively with your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Indiana

Moving states can be a major decision, especially when considering educational opportunities for your family. To help in this aspect, we have prepared a comparison chart to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and Indiana . This guide aims to provide insights into the education landscape of both states.

IowaIndiana

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
Indiana University
Purdue University
Ball State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary
Coralville; Roosevelt Elementary
Ames; Lincoln Elementary
Pella
Signature School
Evansville; Hershey Elementary
Lafayette; Childs Elementary
Bloomington

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School
Ames; North Central Junior High
Coralville; South East Junior High
Iowa City
West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School
West Lafayette; Brown County Junior High
Nashville; Fall Creek Valley Middle School
Indianapolis

Top 3 High Schools

West High School
Iowa City; Ames High School
Ames; Pleasant Valley High School
Bettendorf
Signature School
Evansville; Carmel High School
Carmel; Homestead High School
Fort Wayne

Top 3 private high schools

Xavier High School
Cedar Rapids; Dowling Catholic High School
West Des Moines; Wahlert Catholic High School
Dubuque
University High School of Indiana
Carmel; Park Tudor School
Indianapolis; The Culver Academies
Culver

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School
Fairfield; Scattergood Friends School
West Branch; Rivermont Collegiate
Bettendorf
Traders Point Christian Academy
Whitestown; Heritage Christian School
Indianapolis; Covenant Christian High School
Indianapolis

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District; Ames Community School District; West Des Moines Community SchoolsCarmel Clay Schools; West Lafayette Community School Corporation; Hamilton Southeastern Schools

Both Iowa and Indiana offer a plethora of high-quality educational options across all levels — from elementary schools like Wickham Elementary in Coralville, Iowa, and Signature School in Evansville, Indiana, to esteemed higher education institutions such as the University of Iowa and Indiana University. The diversity and quality of schools, both public and private, underline the commitment of each state to providing top-notch education. For instance, the presence of highly ranked private high schools such as Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and University High School of Indiana in Carmel, Indiana, reflect the well-rounded education available. Moreover, moving to either state means you'll be part of vibrant school districts like the Iowa City Community School District or Carmel Clay Schools, known for their innovation in education and comprehensive child development programs.

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