Best Des Moines to Wichita Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Wichita and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 392 mile move from Iowa to Kansas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Des Moines to Wichita 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 Des Moines compared to Wichita. 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 Wichita 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 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | American Movers | 9.03 | 8.93 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | It's Your Move | 8.46 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Wichita
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 392 miles from Des Moines, IA to Wichita, KS will cost on average $2,115 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Wichita move is roughly $5,059. 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 | $1,425 | 300 ft³ | 4.75 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,115 | 450 ft³ | 4.70 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,487 | 750 ft³ | 4.65 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,059 | 1100 ft³ | 4.60 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,278 | 1600 ft³ | 4.55 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,098 | 1800 ft³ | 4.50 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Wichita to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Wichita 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) |
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) |
American Movers
1324 S Handley St
Wichita, KS, 67213
About American Movers
American Movers has been in business since 2003 and has earned an A+ rating over the decades. The company is proud...
Services
- Full-service pack and move
- Help with large or treasured items
- Residential and Commercial Storage Units
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1698749 / 946526 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 82,100 (2023) |
It's Your Move
1820 Felix Ave
Parsons, KS, 67357
About It's Your Move
It’s Your Move is one of the most honest and trustworthy moving companies in Parsons, KS. It has been helping people...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3084348 / 68462 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 24,000 (2024) |
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. Wichita Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating to a new city can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with its neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Wichita, KS . By matching the top areas in Des Moines with similar communities in Wichita, you'll find a new home that feels just right.
| Des Moines | Wichita | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Riverside | Vibrant arts scene, historical charm |
| Beaverdale | College Hill | Family-friendly, established |
| Waterbury | Crown Heights | Upscale, tree-lined streets |
| Sherman Hill | Riverside | Historic homes, strong community vibe |
| Drake | Delano District | Eclectic, close-knit community |
| Waveland Park | College Hill | Quiet, green spaces, great schools |
| Highland Park | Hilltop | Affordable, diverse community |
| Ingersoll Park | Midtown | Trendy, with a mix of dining and shopping |
| Gray's Lake | Eastborough | Parks, walkable, serene atmosphere |
| South of Grand | Crown Heights | Elegant homes, well-manicured lawns |
For those considering the move from Des Moines to Wichita, comparing the East Village to Riverside offers an exciting start. East Village is known for its eclectic mix of boutique stores, local eateries, and vibrant arts scene - characteristics you will find mirrored in Riverside's scenic paths, historic landmarks, and distinctive local businesses like Riverside Café. Similarly, the transition from Beaverdale to College Hill will feel seamless for those in search of a community with a rich sense of history, beautiful homes, and family-focused amenities, such as proximity to quality schools like College Hill Elementary. College Hill also boasts a variety of quaint shops and cozy cafes, making it a perfect match for Beaverdale residents seeking a similar neighborhood vibe in Wichita.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Wichita
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Wichita, KS is not just about changing addresses. It's an adventure that brings both challenges and opportunities. This pair of charts will frankly compare the bad with the good to help you see what lies ahead.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller metro area
- Less diverse cuisine
- Higher property taxes
- Fewer job opportunities
Wichita, KS- Larger city feel
- More food variety
- Lower living costs
- More job prospects
Wichita, KS- Less personal
- Fewer parks
- Fewer cultural venues
- Higher crime rates
Des Moines, IA- Close-knit community
- Abundant green spaces
- More cultural events
- Lower crime rates
Both Des Moines and Wichita offer unique living experiences. In Des Moines, you might relish the tight-knit feel of the community and enjoy frequent outings to popular parks like Gray’s Lake Park or cultural events at the Des Moines Performing Arts center. In contrast, Wichita boasts a larger city feel with a vast array of dining options from cozy cafes like Reverie Coffee Roasters to diverse restaurants such as YaYa’s Euro Bistro. While you might miss the abundant green spaces of Des Moines, exciting venues in Wichita like the Old Town district or the Botanica Wichita Gardens offer new sights and experiences that can quickly make this new city feel like home.
Des Moines vs. Wichita Food Guide
Understanding the fabric of a city includes savoring its culinary heritage. Food is not just sustenance but a vibrant part of local culture and living. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Wichita to help you get a taste of what your new home has to offer.
| Des Moines | Wichita | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Bierocks |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Brisket | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Trucks Variety |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Bowl | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigns supreme as the must-try local delicacy, a tradition deeply rooted in Iowa's culinary scene. Neighborhoods like East Village offer an eclectic mix of dining options, where local favorites and innovation meet. Contrastingly, Wichita prides itself on its Bierocks, a testament to its German heritage, with establishments in Old Town serving up these savory pastries alongside modern fares. Both cities boast a vibrant food scene, but Wichita edges out with its abundance of food trucks and slightly higher vegan friendliness, reflecting a growing trend towards plant-based dining options.
Des Moines vs. Wichita Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. Whether you're moving for a new job, family, or adventure, finding your new favorite restaurants is key to settling in. This comparison between Des Moines and Wichita's top eateries will ease your transition, using your current Des Moines favorites as a guide to uncover comparable spots in Wichita.
| Des Moines | Wichita | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| A Dong | Little Saigon | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine, similar cozy atmosphere |
| Centro | Avivo Brick Oven Pizzeria | Both offer Italian dishes with a modern twist |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | T.J.'s Burger House | Unique burger concepts, similarly casual and fun environment |
| Fong's Pizza | Wichita Brewing Co & Pizzeria | Creative pizzas and an excellent selection of craft beer |
| The Cheese Bar | The Anchor | Both have a focus on high-quality, artisan cheese dishes |
| Harbinger | Siena Tuscan Steakhouse | Comparable upscale dining experience with innovative dishes |
| Proof | Cafe Bel Ami | Both offer refined dining with a focus on beautifully presented meals |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Central Standard Brewing | Similar commitment to craft beer, with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Bubba | Public at the Brickyard | Comparable Southern comfort food in a rustic, cozy setting |
| Flying Mango | Bite Me BBQ | Both known for their exceptional BBQ dishes and laid-back ambiance |
Finding a dining spot that reminds you of home can make all the difference when settling into a new city. Wichita's Little Saigon mirrors the authentic Vietnamese cuisine and cozy vibe of Des Moines' A Dong, offering a slice of familiarity for those longing for traditional Vietnamese dishes. For Italian cuisine enthusiasts, Wichita's Avivo Brick Oven Pizzeria echoes Centro's modern twist on classic Italian dishes, ensuring you won't miss out on your Italian favorites. Meanwhile, BBQ lovers will find solace in Bite Me BBQ's exceptional dishes and laid-back atmosphere, reminiscent of the beloved Flying Mango in Des Moines. In Wichita, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience that mirrors the vibrant flavors and character of Des Moines' most cherished eateries, ensuring you'll find your new favorite spot in no time.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Wichita Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how two key cities—Des Moines, IA and Wichita, KS—stack up in terms of housing costs, style, and livability. Knowing these details can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Wichita |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Large backyards | Updated kitchens, Spacious garages |
In a deeper dive, the architectural styles speak volumes about the history and character of Des Moines and Wichita. Des Moines homes often feature the traditional charm of Colonial Revival designs, appealing for their classic aesthetics. On the flip side, Wichita's Ranch-style homes mirror the practical and expansive spirit of the Midwest. Also noteworthy is the difference in walkability and bikeability scores, with Des Moines offering slightly more convenience for pedestrians and cyclists. These distinctions mirror each city's approach to urban planning and the lifestyle priorities of its residents. Add the context of most sought-after home features, with Des Moines buyers prioritizing outdoor spaces and Wichita’s focusing on interior updates, and you can envision which city’s housing market aligns more closely with your preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Wichita, KS
1. College Hill: This charming area is known for its walkable streets and dog-friendly parks, like the popular College Hill Park, making it a haven for pet owners.
2. Riverside: With the beautiful Riverside Park offering ample green space and trails along the Arkansas River, your pets will have plenty of room to explore and play.
3. Delano District: Known for its inclusive and community-centered vibe, Delano is home to several pet-friendly restaurants and bars, plus easy access to walking paths along the river, demonstrating its pet-friendly ethos.
Des Moines vs. Wichita Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move from one location to another, understanding the weather differences can significantly affect your experience. This comparison aims to prepare you for the weather changes moving from Des Moines, IA to Wichita, KS. Knowing the climatic conditions will help you adapt to your new home more comfortably.
Des Moines, IA
Wichita, KS
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Wichita, KS
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Wichita, KS
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Wichita, KS
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Wichita |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Severe storms, tornadoes | Severe storms, tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to Wichita, you'll notice a slight increase in summer temperatures, making it essential to prepare for hotter days. Wichita enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which might be appealing if you enjoy outdoor activities. However, the higher UV index in Wichita implies a greater need for sun protection. Both cities experience their fair share of severe storms and tornadoes, emphasizing the importance of being aware of weather alerts and having a safety plan in place. Air quality and top seasonal allergies are fairly consistent, though slightly milder winters in Wichita mean less snow to shovel.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Wichita
When you’re planning a move from one city to another, it’s essential to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Des Moines compare to Wichita. This understanding can help you make informed decisions about your relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Wichita |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $56,293 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 91.8 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 - 8.53 | 3.10 - 5.70 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 1.4 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Healthcare | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Aerospace |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
While Des Moines and Wichita share similarities in affluence levels and top industries, notable differences can be found in their cost of living and tax structures. Des Moines residents enjoy a slightly higher average household income, which is beneficial given the city’s low cost of living index compared to Wichita. However, Wichita counters with a marginally lower property tax rate, making it an attractive option for potential homeowners. The presence of dominant industries such as finance and healthcare in Des Moines versus manufacturing and aerospace in Wichita highlights the economic diversities between the two cities, offering a range of employment opportunities depending on your career path.
Des Moines vs. Wichita Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Wichita to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the cities you're moving from and to. This at-a-glance overview will help you understand the local dynamics.
| Des Moines | Wichita | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive on local issues | Conservative stance on local governance |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities | Strong evangelical presence |
When moving from Des Moines to Wichita, you'll find a shift in the political and religious landscapes. Although both cities have diverse communities, Des Moines typically leans Democratic with more progressive stances on local issues. In contrast, Wichita leans Republican and has a more conservative approach to local governance. Regarding religion, Wichita has a strong evangelical presence that influences the city's cultural and social events. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate and find your community in your new home.
Des Moines vs. Wichita Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Wichita, KS, understanding the differences in driving and transiting is vital. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Wichita will give you a clear insight into what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like in each city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Wichita |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.4 | 18.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Quite challenging |
In both Des Moines and Wichita, you'll find the daily commute relatively light compared to larger metropolitan areas, with minimal traffic congestion, making car travel generally efficient. However, the availability and convenience of public transit in either city may not meet the needs of those accustomed to more extensive systems. Des Moines offers slightly better public transit options than Wichita, but in both cities, having a car significantly enhances mobility and access to amenities. While it's possible to get around without a car in Des Moines with a bit of planning, in Wichita, doing so might present more of a challenge due to its more limited public transit services. This difference emphasizes the importance of considering personal transportation needs when relocating.
Additional Resources
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