Best Des Moines to St. Paul Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to St. Paul and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 249 mile move from Iowa to Minnesota go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Des Moines to St. Paul 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 St. Paul. 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 St. Paul 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 St. Paul
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 249 miles from Des Moines, IA to St. Paul, MN will cost on average $1,993 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to St. Paul move is roughly $4,762. 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 | $1,344 | 300 ft³ | 4.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,993 | 450 ft³ | 4.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,284 | 750 ft³ | 4.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,762 | 1100 ft³ | 4.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,846 | 1600 ft³ | 4.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,612 | 1800 ft³ | 4.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from St. Paul to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to St. Paul 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. St. Paul Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating, it's natural to seek the comfort of the familiar in the unfamiliar. This guide is dedicated to help you transition smoothly by providing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & St. Paul, MN. We'll explore the essence of top neighborhoods and match them with their St. Paul counterparts to make your move as seamless as possible.
| Des Moines | St. Paul | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Highland Park | Family-friendly, strong community vibe |
| East Village | Lowertown | Vibrant arts scene, trendy restaurants |
| Waveland Park | Merriam Park | Historic homes, community-oriented |
| Sherman Hill | Summit Hill | Architectural charm, rich history |
| Drake | St. Anthony Park | Academic atmosphere, local eateries |
| Waterbury | Crocus Hill | Elegant homes, quaint shops |
| South of Grand | Macalester-Groveland | Quaint, with a mix of urban and suburban feel |
| Ingersoll Park | Union Park | Diverse, close-knit community |
| Highland Park (Des Moines) | Dayton's Bluff | Historic character, panoramic city views |
| Woodland Heights | Como | Family-friendly, near parks and zoo |
For those who adore the artsy vibe and bustling cafes of East Village in Des Moines, you'll find a kindred spirit in St. Paul's Lowertown. Here, venues like the contemporary art hub Springboard for the Arts and the beloved Saint Dinette restaurant provide a backdrop that's both culturally rich and delightfully trendy. Alternatively, if the historic and architectural allure of Sherman Hill captures your heart, Summit Hill in St. Paul will enchant you with its storied mansions and the iconic James J. Hill House. For those seeking the comfort of community-oriented neighborhoods, Merriam Park echoes Waveland Park's emphasis on tight-knit community bonds, underscored by the presence of both serene parks like Merriam Park and thriving local businesses.
Things to Do in St. Paul
Explore the Minnesota History Center- Stroll around Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
- Attend a Minnesota Twins game
- Ice skate at Landmark Center
- Enjoy music at First Avenue club
- Rent a bike at Nice Ride Minnesota
- Sample craft beer at Surly Brewing Co.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to St. Paul
Moving from Des Moines, IA to St. Paul, MN offers a unique opportunity to weigh the challenges against the benefits. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on both the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make a more informed decision. Through these charts, you’ll gain insight into what you might gain and what you might have to adapt to in your new city.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer cultural venues
- Lesser job opportunities
- Lower restaurant variety
St. Paul, MN- Larger metro area
- Rich cultural scene
- Greater job market
- Diverse dining options
St. Paul, MN- Higher living costs
- More urban anonymity
- Complex city layout
- Noisier city life
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit communities
- Easy city navigation
- Quiet suburban areas
The transition from Des Moines to St. Paul might bring about exciting changes, especially in terms of cultural exposure and employment. St. Paul's vibrant cultural scene includes locations like the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts and the Science Museum of Minnesota, offering endless entertainment and educational opportunities. The restaurant scene is notably more diverse, with areas like Lowertown boasting establishments such as Saint Dinette, where the blend of local and international culinary styles meet. While the cost of living and city noise may be higher, the chance to immerse in St. Paul’s rich culture and booming job market presents a compelling reason to make the move. Neighborhood parks like Como Park offer serene escapes with ample recreational activities, fostering community bonds amidst urban life. This mix of urban opportunities with community-centric spaces makes St. Paul a unique place to call home.
Des Moines vs. St. Paul Food Guide
When considering a move, it's not just the job opportunities or neighborhoods that play a crucial role but also the local food scene. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & St. Paul to help you understand the culinary differences and delights awaiting in your new city.
| Des Moines | St. Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Jucy Lucy Burger |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Brisket | Wild Rice Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Food Trucks offering international cuisines |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Vegan Juicy Lucy |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, you'll discover a love for smoked meats and iconic eateries like Zombie Burger that offer a unique twist on American classics. The city's food trucks, especially taco trucks, provide a taste of the local flavor with a friendly, community vibe. Meanwhile, in St. Paul, the blend of traditional and contemporary is evident in its food scene. Places like Cossetta's and Matt's Bar are local legends that no food lover should miss. The higher abundance of food trucks and vegan options reflects St. Paul's embrace of diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Here, neighborhoods like Lowertown and Grand Avenue are hubs for foodies, offering everything from casual bites to gourmet experiences.
Des Moines vs. St. Paul Restaurant Comparison
Finding your culinary comforts in a new city can quickly make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines, IA, and St. Paul, MN, will guide you in discovering your next favorite dining spots by drawing parallels with your existing preferred eateries.
| Des Moines | St. Paul | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| A Dong | Pho Ca Dao & Grill | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine. |
| Centro | Trattoria Da Vinci | Rustic Italian dishes in a cozy setting. |
| Proof | Meritage | French bistro with a modern twist. |
| Fong's Pizza | Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza | Unique pizza offerings with a focus on quality ingredients. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | The Nook | Juicy burgers and casual setting. |
| El Bait Shop | The Happy Gnome | Wide beer selection and hearty American food. |
| Django | Bar Brigade | Relaxed French café vibe. |
| Harbinger | The Lexington | Upscale dining with farm-to-table focus. |
| La Mie Bakery | Trung Nam French Bakery | Exquisite pastries and bread with a French-Vietnamese twist. |
| Simon's | Mancini's Char House | Classic steakhouse experience. |
For those who cherish the vibrant, authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, switching from A Dong to Pho Ca Dao & Grill will feel like a seamless transition, offering a similar depth in traditional dishes. Fans of unique pizza experiences, moving from Fong's Pizza in Des Moines to Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza in St. Paul will be pleasantly surprised by the quality and creativity of the pies. Additionally, the transition from quirky, beloved joints like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab to The Nook could provide a comforting sense of familiarity with their laid-back atmospheres and inventive burger menus. These comparisons not only show that St. Paul holds a wealth of culinary treasures waiting to be explored but also ensures you won't have to compromise on the variety and quality of dining experiences as you make this new city your home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. St. Paul Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, assessing real estate between Des Moines, IA, and St. Paul, MN unveils vital differences. This comparison illuminates the housing landscape, helping you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the specifics, highlighting costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle factors that contribute to each city's unique living experience.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Tudor and Ranch | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, Quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to parks and downtown, Historical features |
Comparing Des Moines and St. Paul reveals not just a difference in housing costs but lifestyle implications too. For instance, St. Paul's higher walkability and bikeability ratings suggest a city with ample urban amenities likely within a comfortable walking or cycling distance. This is reflected in the frequent mention of proximity to parks and downtown areas in St. Paul's real estate listings. On the other hand, Des Moines’ real estate often emphasizes spacious backyards and quiet neighborhoods, appealing to those seeking a more traditional suburban feel. Architectural styles also vary significantly, with Des Moines homes showcasing Tudor and Ranch styles, while St. Paul boasts a plethora of Victorian and Craftsman homes, highlighting the city's rich historical heritage.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in St. Paul, MN
1. Lowertown: Known for its vibrant arts scene and dog-friendly attitude, you'll find multiple pet-friendly apartments and the scenic Mears Park, perfect for walks.
2. Highland Park: With its quiet residential streets and proximity to the Highland Park, this neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces for your pets to explore.
3. Summit Hill: This historic neighborhood not only charms with its architectural beauty but also boasts pet-friendly cafes and close access to the massive Como Regional Park, a haven for walking and play.
Des Moines vs. St. Paul Weather Considerations
Moving brings its challenges and surprises, especially when transitioning from one climate to another. Understanding the weather differences between Des Moines, IA and St. Paul, MN is crucial for your day-to-day comfort and lifestyle. This comparison aims to prepare you for what to expect when you relocate.
Des Moines, IA
St. Paul, MN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
St. Paul, MN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
St. Paul, MN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
St. Paul, MN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Snowstorms, Cold Snaps |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When making the move from Des Moines to St. Paul, expect cooler winter temperatures and more snowfall - a significant factor if you’re not accustomed to lengthy and more intense winter conditions. While both cities enjoy a relatively similar amount of sunshine per year, St. Paul experiences fewer sunny days, which could affect your outdoor activities. Understanding the humidity and air quality differences can also help if you have health concerns or allergies. Being prepared for these climate changes can ensure a smoother transition and adjustment to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to St. Paul
When you're planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison between Des Moines, IA, and St. Paul, MN, highlights key monetary aspects you should consider to make your transition as smooth as possible.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $66,098 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 110 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 9.85% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 1.1% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7.875% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately high |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
While both Des Moines and St. Paul offer a promising economic environment, there are noticeable differences that might impact your budget. St. Paul has a slightly higher average household income, which is beneficial, but it also comes with a higher cost of living index and state income tax rate. Another point to consider is the variance in property and sales tax rates, which will inevitably influence your day-to-day and long-term expenses. Understanding these nuances will help you manage your finances effectively after your move.
Des Moines vs. St. Paul Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at providing insights into the comparison of the politics and religious leanings between Des Moines, IA & St. Paul, MN . This comparison offers a glimpse into the communities you're moving from and to, helping you understand the local culture better.
| Des Moines | St. Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Des Moines | City of St. Paul |
| Religion | Mixed; Christian majority | Mixed; Christian majority with significant Catholic presence |
In both Des Moines and St. Paul, you’ll find communities that lean towards Democratic values, though St. Paul presents a stronger Democratic inclination, reflecting Minnesota's overall political landscape. Local politics in each city actively engage with their residents through accessible websites and public forums, providing platforms for community involvement and feedback. Religion plays a significant role in the cultural fabric of both cities, with Christianity being the majority religion. However, St. Paul stands out with its significant Catholic presence, home to the Cathedral of Saint Paul, a key landmark and the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Understanding these aspects can assist in easing the transition, allowing you to connect with your new community more effortlessly.
Des Moines vs. St. Paul Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison aims to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic nuances between Des Moines, IA, and St. Paul, MN. By providing this information, you can prepare for the differences in driving and transiting experiences in these cities, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | More challenging | Easier |
In Des Moines, the average commute time is significantly less than in St. Paul, but this comes with a caveat. The city has a lower traffic congestion score, making driving relatively smoother. However, its public transit availability is rated lower, meaning if you don't own a car, getting around might be more challenging. Conversely, St. Paul offers better public transportation options, which makes living without a car a feasible option for many. The slightly higher traffic congestion rating in St. Paul reflects its denser urban environment. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your commuting habits and expectations as you transition between these cities.
Additional Resources
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