Best Iowa to Tennessee Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Iowa to Tennessee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 721 mile IA to TN move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 101 Iowa to Tennessee 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 Iowa compared to Tennessee. 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 Tennessee Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Adamantine Spine Moving9.539.4Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.429.28Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Alpha Moving & Storage LLC9.409.29Authorized For HHGContact
4Boundless Moving & Storage9.339.36Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Best Move Inc9.239.19Authorized For PropertyContact
6Hemmen Moving9.109.47Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Iowa to Tennessee

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 721 miles from Iowa to Tennessee will cost on average $2,394 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to TN move is roughly $5,743. 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,611300 ft³5.37
1 Bedroom$2,394450 ft³5.32
2 Bedrooms$3,953750 ft³5.27
3 Bedrooms$5,7431100 ft³5.22
4 Bedrooms$8,2731600 ft³5.17
5+ Bedrooms$9,2171800 ft³5.12
*Please note: These Iowa to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Iowa & Tennessee. 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 TN mover.
Iowa iconArrow iconTennessee icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tennessee to Iowa guide.

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Compare the 6 Best IA to TN 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
Alpha Moving & Storage LLC Logo

Alpha Moving & Storage LLC

Exceptional9.40/10
based on 845+ data points

605 Providence Blvd

Clarksville, TN, 37042

About Alpha Moving & Storage LLC

You can’t trust just anyone with your household belongings. That’s where Alpha Moving & Storage comes in. This company, founded in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Short-Term Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3378094 / 1193307

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
4
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
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 Tennessee

Moving from Iowa to Tennessee is a significant life decision. This guide aims to reflect an honest comparison between Iowa and Tennessee , helping you weigh the perks and drawbacks of relocating. By analyzing various factors through complementary charts, you get a balanced view of what life in each state has to offer.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Colder winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer entertainment options
  • Smaller urban areas
Tennessee iconTennessee
  • Milder winters
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • More entertainment options
  • Larger cities
Tennessee iconTennessee
  • Higher housing costs
  • Higher population density
  • Less rural space
  • Less emphasis on agriculture
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower housing costs
  • Lower population density
  • Quiet rural landscapes
  • Strong agricultural community

When moving from Iowa to Tennessee, you're not just changing locations; you're stepping into a vibrant cultural tapestry and welcoming climate. Tennessee's milder winters, such as those enjoyed in Nashville and Chattanooga, present an opportunity for outdoor activities year-round. The state's rich cultural diversity shines in its music scene, from the iconic Graceland in Memphis to the historic Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. Tennessee also offers a wide range of entertainment and dining options, including renowned restaurants like Husk and Prince's Hot Chicken. While it's true that housing and living expenses may be higher, and the urban lifestyle more pronounced, the state's dynamic communities and economic opportunities often offset these challenges.

Iowa vs. Tennessee Food Guide

Understanding the essence of local food helps you immerse in a region's culture. Therefore, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Tennessee, giving you a taste of what culinary delights await in your new home. This should help make your transition smoother and your meals more enjoyable.

IowaTennessee
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichBarbecue Ribs
Most popular meat dishGrilled Pork ChopsHot Chicken
Most popular street food itemSweet CornBBQ Nachos
Most popular vegan foodRoasted VegetablesBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Iowa Stater Restaurant
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Machine Shed Restaurant
  • Rendezvous
  • Hattie B's Hot Chicken
  • Loveless Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

The transition from Iowa to Tennessee introduces you to an exciting shift in culinary experiences. In Tennessee, neighborhoods like East Nashville are bursting with food trucks that offer everything from BBQ Nachos to inventive vegetarian and vegan options like BBQ Jackfruit. Iconic restaurants such as Hattie B's showcase the beloved Hot Chicken, a must-try for any new resident. Additionally, the higher foodie score in Tennessee reflects the state's diverse culinary scene that's eager to welcome newcomers with its rich flavors and innovative dishes.

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Iowa vs. Tennessee Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the real estate market is crucial when planning a move. This comparison aims to provide a clear snapshot of Iowa vs. Tennessee real estate, focusing on aspects such as costs, architecture, and lifestyle . Such insights can help you better prepare for your transition.

ComparisonIowaTennessee
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, RanchColonial, Tudor, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, family-friendlyScenic views, proximity to nature

While the median home prices and rents are notably higher in Tennessee, the state compensates with its unique blend of architecture, offering scenic views and a closer proximity to nature, highly sought after in real estate listings. Iowa, on the other hand, presents a more affordable housing market, coupled with its characteristic Craftsman and Ranch-style homes, spacious yards, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The urban lifestyle score is slightly higher in Tennessee, reflecting its vibrant city life and cultural richness. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your moving decisions and help you find a home that meets your needs and preferences.

Iowa vs. Tennessee Weather Considerations

When relocating, it's crucial to understand how the climate of your new home compares to where you're coming from. This comparison outlines the key weather differences between Iowa and Tennessee , providing insight into what you can expect. Knowing these differences helps anticipate changes in lifestyle, clothing, and perhaps even health impacts due to weather-related factors.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Iowa

88°F / 69°F

Tennessee

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 14°F

Iowa

49°F / 30°F

Tennessee

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Iowa

53"

Tennessee

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
32"

Iowa

5"

Tennessee

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaTennessee
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, severe stormsTornadoes, earthquakes, floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Iowa to Tennessee, you'll notice a warmer climate, especially during the winter, where temperatures are significantly milder, making Tennessee winters less harsh than in Iowa. The summer in Tennessee not only brings higher temperatures but also more humidity, which can feel quite different if you're not used to it. Moreover, Tennessee experiences a higher annual rainfall, meaning more wet days throughout the year. This, combined with the moderate air quality and the presence of additional allergens like ragweed, could impact outdoor activities and health for those sensitive to allergens. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how your financial situation could shift by moving from Iowa to Tennessee . It's vital to grasp the differences in cost of living, tax obligations, and average household income to make informed decisions about your relocation.

ComparisonIowaTennessee
Avg. Household Income$69,588$65,254
Cost of Living Index95.988.9
State Income Tax0.33 - 8.531 (Interest and dividends only)
Avg. Property Tax1.530.64
Avg. Sales Tax6.949.55
Top 3 IndustriesFinancial services, Health Care, Advanced ManufacturingHealth Care, Manufacturing, Entertainment
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessLowMedium

Moving from Iowa to Tennessee will change your financial landscape significantly. For one, you'll notice that the average household income in Tennessee is slightly lower than in Iowa. However, this is somewhat balanced by Tennessee's lower cost of living index. Perhaps one of the most appealing financial aspects of Tennessee is the state's approach to income tax, only taxing interest and dividends, which can be a major benefit for those with significant investments. Moreover, property taxes in Tennessee are significantly lower than in Iowa, which could potentially offer you more home for your money. However, you should be prepared for Tennessee's higher sales tax rate, impacting day-to-day expenses.

Iowa vs. Tennessee Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Iowa to Tennessee, understanding the comparison of the politics between Iowa & Tennessee and the religious makeup of these states can give you a quick snapshot into the community you're moving into. This comparison aims to provide a brief overview of what to expect in terms of political leanings and religious affiliations among the residents of both states.

IowaTennessee
Political Make-upSwing StateLean Conservative
Local PoliticsMix of Democratic and RepublicanPrimarily Republican
ReligionChristian (Predominantly Protestant)Christian (Predominantly Evangelical)

While both Iowa and Tennessee share a Christian majority, the specific denominational divisions differ, with Iowa having a predominance of Protestants and Tennessee being more evangelical. Politically, Iowa is known as a swing state, showcasing a balance between Democratic and Republican influences, which makes local politics more dynamic and varied. In contrast, Tennessee tends to lean more consistently conservative, with a significant Republican influence in local government. This political contrast might affect your experience, especially in local decision-making and community values. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the cultural and communal shift as you transition from Iowa to Tennessee.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Tennessee

To make an informed decision when moving, understanding the educational landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences between Iowa and Tennessee schools to better gauge where opportunities lie for your family. By examining various educational institutions, from primary to secondary levels, this guide will offer insights into what each state has to offer.

IowaTennessee

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Tennessee
Vanderbilt University
Tennessee Technological University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Jackson Elementary (Cedar Rapids)
Grant Ragan Elementary (Waukee)
Lockeland Elementary Design Center (Nashville)
Lakeview Elementary (Franklin)
Clovercroft Elementary (Franklin)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
Brentwood Middle School (Brentwood)
Mt. Juliet Middle School (Mt. Juliet)
Freedom Middle School (Franklin)

Top 3 High School Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)
Hume-Fogg Academic High School (Nashville)
Central Magnet School (Murfreesboro)
Brentwood High School (Brentwood)

Top 3 private high schools

Phillips Academy (Andover)
The Madeira School (McLean)
The Putney School (Putney)
Baylor School (Chattanooga)
Harpeth Hall School (Nashville)
McCallie School (Chattanooga)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Iowa Mennonite School (Kalona)
University School of Nashville (Nashville)
The Ensworth School (Nashville)
Baylor School (Chattanooga)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Waukee Community School District
Ames Community School District
Williamson County Schools
Franklin Special School District
Oak Ridge School District

In choosing the best educational environment for your child in either Iowa or Tennessee, looking beyond rankings to what each school or district uniquely offers is essential. For instance, Iowa's school districts, such as the highly regarded Iowa City Community School District, emphasize a balanced curriculum that supports academic excellence across various disciplines. On the other hand, Tennessee's Williamson County Schools stand out not just for their academic rigor but also for their extensive extracurricular programs, fostering a well-rounded education. Additionally, universities like the University of Iowa and the University of Tennessee offer robust in-state options for higher education, emphasizing research and innovation. Ultimately, ideal educational opportunities depend on a myriad of factors unique to each family's needs and values, underscoring the importance of research and direct engagement with prospective schools.

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