Best Des Moines to Minneapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Minneapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 244 mile move from Iowa to Minnesota go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Des Moines to Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.27 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Minneapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 244 miles from Des Moines, IA to Minneapolis, MN will cost on average $1,989 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Minneapolis move is roughly $4,751. 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 | $1,341 | 300 ft³ | 4.47 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,989 | 450 ft³ | 4.42 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,277 | 750 ft³ | 4.37 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,751 | 1100 ft³ | 4.32 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,831 | 1600 ft³ | 4.27 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,595 | 1800 ft³ | 4.22 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Minneapolis to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Minneapolis 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) |
Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |
General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 24 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
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.
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've compiled a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Minneapolis, MN, aiming to match you with a Minneapolis neighborhood that mirrors the feel of your Des Moines home. This guide will help bridge the familiarity gap, making your move smoother.
| Des Moines | Minneapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Northeast Minneapolis | Trendy, artistic vibe |
| Beaverdale | Longfellow | Family-friendly, historic homes |
| Waveland Park | Linden Hills | Lakeside charm, bustling local businesses |
| Sherman Hill | Lowry Hill | Architectural gems, cultural hotspots |
| Drake | Uptown | Vibrant nightlife, diverse dining |
| Roosevelt | Whittier | Artsy, eclectic atmosphere |
| Highland Park | Kingfield | Cozy, community-focused |
| Capitol East | North Loop | Urban living, trendy spots |
| Ingersoll Park | Kenwood | Serene, upscale living |
| Southwestern Hills | Edina | Suburban feel, high-end shopping |
In the heart of Des Moines' East Village, the trendy and lively ambience set by unique boutiques and local eateries like Zombie Burger is mirrored by Northeast Minneapolis, where art hubs and breweries such as Indeed Brewing Company dominate the scene. Meanwhile, Beaverdale's quaint, historic homes and community vibe find a match in Minneapolis' Longfellow, renowned for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere and landmarks like the Minnehaha Falls. For those drawn to the lakeside charm and active lifestyle of Waveland Park, Linden Hills offers an enticing blend of lake life with standout spots like Sebastian Joe's Ice Cream Cafe. This detailed comparison underscores the unique characteristics that both cities offer, ensuring you find a neighborhood that feels like home.
Things to Do in Minneapolis
Explore the Walker Art Center- Picnic by Minnehaha Falls
- Shop at Mall of America
- Visit Mill City Museum
- Bike along the Mississippi River
- Spend a day at Minnesota Zoo
- Catch a Twins game at Target Field
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Minneapolis
Making the move from Des Moines, IA to Minneapolis, MN is an adventure that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, focusing on how Des Moines and Minneapolis compare . Let's dive into the nuances that make each city unique, paving the way for an informed decision.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less diverse
- Minimal public transit
- Lower food scene variety
Minneapolis, MN- Larger city vibe
- Greater job market
- More cultural diversity
- Better public transit
- Rich food scene
Minneapolis, MN- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Less personal community
- Complex city layout
- Louder urban areas
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- More intimate community
- Easy city navigation
- Quiet suburban areas
Migrating from Des Moines to Minneapolis presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. Minneapolis, for example, boasts an impressive array of cultural experiences and a rich food scene that features everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine. Gems like the Mill City Farmers Market and eateries along Eat Street (Nicollet Avenue) highlight the city's diverse culinary offerings. Meanwhile, the Minneapolis park system, highlighted by the Chain of Lakes and the sprawling Minnehaha Park, offers unmatched urban natural spaces, far surpassing the green spaces in Des Moines. Minneapolis's public transit, particularly the efficiency of the Metro Transit system, offering light rail and bus services, stands in stark contrast to the more limited options in Des Moines. While the cost of living and the pace of life may increase, the vibrant community, cultural diversity, and job opportunities in Minneapolis are enticing advantages that make the city an appealing new home.
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Food Guide
Food deeply enriches our understanding of local culture and living experience. In this guide, we'll shine a spotlight on the culinary landscapes of your current and future cities. This comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Minneapolis aims to provide you with a taste of what to expect as you embark on this exciting relocation journey.
| Des Moines | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Juicy Lucy |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Pork Chops | Swedish Meatballs |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Lobster Rolls |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Chili | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In exploring the culinary scenes of Des Moines and Minneapolis, you'll find distinct characteristics that set them apart. Des Moines celebrates comfort and tradition, with the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigning supreme in local food joints, while Minneapolis showcases innovation through dishes like the Juicy Lucy, a cherished concoction that has earned its place in the heart of Minneapolitans. Minneapolis also boasts a vibrant food truck scene, particularly during the warmer months, where everything from gourmet lobster rolls to eclectic vegan options like jackfruit tacos can be sampled at various locations, including the bustling streets of the North Loop neighborhood. Both cities offer something for every palate, but Minneapolis, in particular, stands out for its health-conscious choices and vegan-friendly offerings, reflecting its progressive and inclusive food scene.
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Restaurant Comparison
Finding a sense of belonging in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for food. This restaurant comparison is designed to help bridge the gap from Des Moines, IA, to Minneapolis, MN, by spotlighting places where you can continue to savor your favorite flavors or dive into new ones, making the transition feel like home.
| Des Moines | Minneapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Revival | Iconic for their take on casual yet innovative burgers and shakes |
| Bubba | Spoon and Stable | Southern comfort with a sophisticated twist |
| Centro | Bar La Grassa | Known for their urban Italian flair and pasta dishes |
| Fong's Pizza | Pizzeria Lola | Artisanal pizzas with unique, gourmet toppings |
| 801 Chophouse | Manny's Steakhouse | Premium steaks that define upscale dining |
| Aroy-Dee | On's Thai Kitchen | Authentic Thai cuisine that captures the essence of Thailand |
| Smitty’s Tenderloin | Matt's Bar | Famous for their juicy burgers and casual eats |
| La Mie Bakery | Rustica Bakery | Exceptional pastries and coffee in a cozy atmosphere |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Surly Brewing Co. | Craft beer lover’s paradise with a robust menu |
| Harbinger | The Bachelor Farmer | Nordic-inspired cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients |
In the world of culinary delights, certain places stand out for their unique takes on classic dishes, and the transition from Des Moines to Minneapolis is no exception. For instance, Fong's Pizza, renowned in Des Moines for its creative Asian fusion pizzas, finds a spirited counterpart in Minneapolis' Pizzeria Lola, where each pizza is a masterpiece of flavors. Meanwhile, those who cherish the fine dining experience of 801 Chophouse in Des Moines will find a similar level of sophistication and premium quality steaks at Manny's Steakhouse in Minneapolis. And for those morning cravings or casual coffee meets, La Mie Bakery's atmosphere and quality are mirrored by Rustica Bakery in Minneapolis, offering a respite with its mouth-watering pastries and comforting coffee blends. These establishments not only promise a seamless culinary transition but also a taste of the familiar mixed with the excitement of new discoveries.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, an in-depth understanding of real estate dynamics is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate how Des Moines, IA, and Minneapolis, MN, align and diverge in this critical area, focusing on housing costs, architecture, and livability features. Knowing these distinctions can significantly influence your decision and readiness for relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Bungalow | Arts & Crafts, Tudor |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, Quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to parks and lakes, Eco-friendly features |
Moving from Des Moines to Minneapolis brings a marked shift in lifestyle, partially shaped by differences in urban design and architecture. For example, Minneapolis boasts a higher walkability and bikeability score. This transition reflects in daily routines, as you might find yourself less dependent on a car, thanks to Minneapolis's extensive park systems and bike-friendly infrastructure. Minneapolis’s typical Arts & Crafts and Tudor-style homes, coupled with a greater inclination toward eco-friendly features in property listings, hint at a city deeply in tune with both history and sustainability. Moreover, with urban lifestyle scoring higher in Minneapolis, the vibrancy and pace of life can be a refreshing change for those moving from Des Moines.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Minneapolis, MN
1. Linden Hills: Known for its quaint and walkable streets, you'll find numerous pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Lake Harriet perfect for dog walking.
2. Uptown: With its vibrant mix of parks like Lake of the Isles, pet stores, and patio dining options, Uptown is a haven for pets and their owners alike.
3. Northeast Minneapolis: This artsy neighborhood boasts pet-friendly breweries like Sociable Cider Werks, along with plenty of green spaces and riverfront paths for leisurely walks.
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Weather Considerations
Moving to a new city involves adapting to its climate. This guide highlights the weather comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Minneapolis, MN , outlining essential factors such as temperature, sunshine, and precipitation. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for your relocation.
Des Moines, IA
Minneapolis, MN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Minneapolis, MN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Minneapolis, MN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Minneapolis, MN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Freezing |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Des Moines and Minneapolis enjoy a similar range of high and low temperatures during summer, winter in Minneapolis tends to be colder with lower temperatures. Minneapolis also experiences more snowfall annually, which is something to consider if you're not accustomed to heavy snow. On the other hand, Des Moines sees slightly more days of sunshine and higher humidity levels, affecting comfort and outdoor activities. Both cities share common top seasonal allergies, including pollen and mold, which could be an important consideration if you have allergy concerns.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Minneapolis
When considering a move from Des Moines, Iowa, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, it's crucial to compare financial aspects that will affect your daily life. This includes understanding how expenses such as taxes and the cost of living will change. This comparison is designed to highlight the differences in finance and economy between Des Moines and Minneapolis, providing a clear perspective on what to expect.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $69,397 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 111 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5 | 7.05 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 1.2 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 7.875 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Medical Devices, Commerce, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Concerning |
Upon closer examination, Minneapolis boasts a higher average household income compared to Des Moines, which can be attributed to its diverse economy and the presence of major companies. However, this financial benefit is balanced by a higher cost of living and sales tax rate. The industries thriving in each city reflect the local job market's dynamics, with finance and insurance significant in Des Moines, whereas Minneapolis shines in medical devices and commerce. Notably, the slight variations in property and income taxes between the two cities may also influence your decision on where to live, especially if you're looking to buy a home. Understanding these fiscal differences will help you better prepare for your move.
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Political & Religious Comparison
In preparation for your move from Des Moines, IA to Minneapolis, MN, this guide provides a comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Minneapolis to offer a quick glance at the political and religious landscape you'll be transitioning into. This should help you understand the community vibe of both cities better.
| Des Moines | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on local issues | Highly progressive and active |
| Religion | Mix, with a notable Christian majority | Diverse, includes Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and others |
While both Des Moines and Minneapolis lean towards the Democratic side, Minneapolis has a reputation for being significantly more progressive, both in terms of politics and social issues. Local politics in Minneapolis tend to be more actively engaged with a variety of issues, including environmental sustainability and social justice, compared to Des Moines. Religious diversity is more pronounced in Minneapolis, reflecting its larger population and more cosmopolitan atmosphere. This city hosts a number of vibrant religious communities and places of worship, from Micah's smaller congregations to larger institutions like the Mayflower Church. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the social and cultural environment you’re about to enter.
Des Moines vs. Minneapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When deciding to relocate from Des Moines, IA to Minneapolis, MN, it's crucial to compare the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Minneapolis. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
The average commute time in Des Moines is slightly shorter than in Minneapolis, reflecting less traffic congestion overall. However, Minneapolis offers a significantly better public transit system, making it easier to live without a car in the city. Des Moines' public transit scores lower, implying that a car is almost a necessity for getting around. This comparison indicates that while Minneapolis might have slightly more traffic, the city compensates with better public transit options, potentially making it a more convenient choice for those who prefer not to drive.
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