Best Iowa to Kentucky Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Iowa to Kentucky and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 666 mile IA to KY move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 59 Iowa to Kentucky moving companies and more than 20,000 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 Iowa compared to Kentucky. 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 Kentucky Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.42 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Keep On Moving Company | 9.17 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | From Here to There | 9.14 | 8.82 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Iowa to Kentucky
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 666 miles from Iowa to Kentucky will cost on average $2,348 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to KY move is roughly $5,629. 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,580 | 300 ft³ | 5.27 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,348 | 450 ft³ | 5.22 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,875 | 750 ft³ | 5.17 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,629 | 1100 ft³ | 5.12 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,107 | 1600 ft³ | 5.07 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,030 | 1800 ft³ | 5.02 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Kentucky to Iowa guide.
Popular Iowa to Kentucky Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Iowa to Kentucky
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Iowa to Kentucky Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IA to KY 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) |
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) |
Keep On Moving Company
Independence, KY, 41051
About Keep On Moving Company
Keep On Moving Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Cincinnati and the Greater Tri-State area of KY, OH, and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Delivery Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3468627 / 1134607 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2019) |
From Here to There
Lexington, KY, 40507
About From Here to There
From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...
Services
- Residential Move
- Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
- Commercial/Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3481118 / 1254688 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,500 (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 Kentucky
Moving from one state to another is a significant decision that requires considering various factors. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Iowa to Kentucky , highlighting both the challenges and benefits of this relocation. By examining the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your move.
Iowa- Colder winters
- Smaller cities
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less diverse cuisine
Kentucky- Milder winters
- Larger cities
- More job opportunities
- Richer food culture
Kentucky- Adjustment period
- Higher cost in cities
- Fewer parks in urban areas
- Varying education quality
Iowa- Strong community
- Lower cost of living
- Abundant green spaces
- Quality education
Moving from Iowa, you'll miss the tightly-knit communities and the abundance of accessible green spaces, like those found in Des Moines' Gray's Lake Park or Iowa City's Hickory Hill Park. However, Kentucky offers its own set of advantages, such as a richer food culture, which includes Louisville's thriving restaurant scene with establishments like 610 Magnolia and Lexington's Blue Heron Steakhouse. Additionally, Kentucky's milder winters and greater job market diversity in cities like Louisville and Lexington provide new opportunities for personal and professional growth. While the cost of living may be higher in Kentucky's metro areas compared to Iowa's more budget-friendly towns, the move brings with it the excitement of exploring vibrant new neighborhoods and the possibility of engaging with a broader, more diverse community.
Iowa vs. Kentucky Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and what living in an area truly feels like. With this in mind, we've crafted a guide to help you understand the culinary scene in your new home. This guide includes a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Kentucky , so you can get a taste for what your new state has to offer and better acclimate to your surroundings.
| Iowa | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular meat dish | Corn-fed Beef Steak | BBQ Mutton |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Hot Brown Sandwich |
| Most popular vegan food | Black Bean Burger | Bean Soup |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Iowa to Kentucky, you'll transition from the cornfields and pork tenderloin sandwiches to a world where fried chicken reigns supreme. In Louisville, specifically, restaurants like Jack Fry's and Mammy's Kitchen highlight the deep roots of Kentucky's cuisine. The iconic Hot Brown Sandwich, a Louisville invention, deftly combines turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, capturing the essence of Kentucky's rich culinary tradition. Beyond classic dishes, Kentucky's increased abundance of food trucks and its burgeoning vegan scene in cities like Lexington offer newcomers a diverse palate of flavors to explore and enjoy.
Ready to start your move?
Iowa vs. Kentucky Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial considerations when planning a move. Understanding how the housing market, lifestyle, and costs compare between Iowa and Kentucky will help you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to shine a light on the varied aspects of housing such as costs, architecture, and the overall lifestyle in both states.
| Comparison | Iowa | Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie School, Craftsman | Colonial, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, quiet neighborhoods | Historic homes, proximity to parks |
When comparing Iowa and Kentucky, it's noteworthy that while the median home price is slightly higher in Kentucky, the differences in monthly rent are more pronounced. One significant aspect unique to each state is the common architectural styles; Iowa is known for its Prairie School and Craftsman designs, reflecting its rich architectural heritage rooted in the Midwest. In contrast, Kentucky tends to feature more Colonial and Craftsman styles, highlighting its historical significance and varied cultural landscape. The lifestyle metrics, including walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, slightly favor Iowa, suggesting it might offer a more accessible and possibly a more vibrant urban experience than Kentucky. However, Kentucky is distinguished by the charm of its historic homes and the abundant green spaces, indicating a strong appeal for those who value history and outdoor activities. Both states showcase different aspects that cater to varied preferences, making them unique in their right.
Iowa vs. Kentucky Weather Considerations
When relocating from Iowa to Kentucky, it’s crucial to understand how the weather will compare, to prepare for changes in climate and seasonal conditions . This comparison will help you adjust from the Iowa climate to the Kentucky climate .
Iowa
Kentucky
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Kentucky
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Kentucky
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Iowa
Kentucky
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Iowa | Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Iowa to Kentucky, you’ll find that winters are milder and summers are warmer in Kentucky, potentially offering a more comfortable climate for those not fond of Iowa’s harsh winters. However, with Kentucky receiving more annual rainfall, you might experience a notable increase in wet days, which contributes to its lush landscapes. Additionally, while both states experience similar top seasonal allergies, the slightly higher average annual humidity in Iowa could mean that those moving to Kentucky might find some relief during peak allergy seasons. Considering these factors will ensure a smoother adjustment to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Kentucky
When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. Comparing Iowa and Kentucky's financial environment helps reveal potential budget adjustments. Iowa vs. Kentucky financial comparison is essential for understanding cost of living, taxes, and overall economic climate .
| Comparison | Iowa | Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,588 | $59,341 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.9 | 87.8 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 - 8.53 | 5 (flat rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53 | 0.83 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance | Auto Manufacturing, Aerospace, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Less affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
When diving deeper, it's evident that while Iowa and Kentucky share similar sales tax rates, significant differences in household income, property tax, and state income tax can impact your budget. Iowa's average household income is higher, contributing to a slightly more affluent population, though it comes with a higher property tax rate. Kentucky, offering a flat state income tax rate, may appear financially advantageous for higher earners despite its lower average household income. Additionally, the primary industries driving each state's economy could influence job opportunities based on your career path. Understanding these nuances ensures a smoother transition when moving from Iowa to Kentucky.
Iowa vs. Kentucky Political & Religious Comparison
This quick overview aims to provide you with a glimpse into the politics between Iowa & Kentucky , allowing you to understand the political and religious landscape of where you're moving from and to. By comparing these aspects, you can get a better sense of the community you’ll soon be a part of.
| Iowa | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Swing State | Leans Republican |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with urban areas leaning Democratic | Mostly Conservative, except for some urban areas |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with a mix of Protestant and Catholic | Primarily Christian, with a significant Baptist presence |
When moving from Iowa to Kentucky, you'll notice shifts in political and religious climates. Iowa's position as a swing state often puts it in the spotlight during national elections, reflecting a diverse political landscape. In contrast, Kentucky leans more reliably Republican, though, like Iowa, urban areas may offer pockets of more liberal perspectives. The religious makeup in both states is predominantly Christian, but Kentucky has a noteworthy Baptist community. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new surroundings with greater ease.
Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Kentucky
Moving from Iowa to Kentucky presents unique considerations, especially when it comes to education. Through this comparison, we'll help you understand the differences between Iowa and Kentucky school options, ranging from public schools to higher education institutions. This guide aims to make your transition smoother by aligning your family's educational needs with the best available options.
| Iowa | Kentucky |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern IowaUniversity of Kentucky University of Louisville Western Kentucky University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Lincoln Elementary (Pella) Grant Ragan Elementary (Waukee)Rosa Parks Elementary (Lexington) Stopher Elementary (Louisville) Beaumont Elementary (Lexington) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools North Central Junior High (Coralville) Ames Middle School (Ames) South East Junior High (Iowa City)Barret Traditional Middle School (Louisville) Beaumont Middle School (Lexington) Highlands Middle School (Fort Thomas) | |
Top 3 High Schools West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)DuPont Manual High School (Louisville) Highlands High School (Fort Thomas) Beechwood High School (Fort Mitchell) | |
Top 3 private high schools Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids) Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines) Wahlert Catholic High School (Dubuque)Sacred Heart Academy (Louisville) St. Xavier High School (Louisville) Trinity High School (Louisville) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)The Lexington School (Lexington) Sayre School (Lexington) Louisville Collegiate School (Louisville) | |
Top 3 School Districts Waukee Community School District Ames Community School District Iowa City Community School DistrictFayette County Public Schools Jefferson County Public Schools Fort Thomas Independent Schools | |
This chart highlights key education comparisons between Iowa and Kentucky, from primary to higher education. For instance, both states offer a blend of prestigious public and private schools, but they each have unique leading institutions. In Iowa, the University of Iowa and Ames High School stand out for their academic excellence, while in Kentucky, the University of Kentucky and DuPont Manual High School are notable. If you're considering private education for your children, Iowa's Scattergood Friends School and Kentucky's The Lexington School offer exemplary K-12 education. Whereas decisions on higher education may lean towards in-state preferences, these comparisons give a broad view, accommodating diverse educational aspirations.
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