Best Des Moines to St. Louis Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Des Moines to St. Louis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 349 mile move from Iowa to Missouri go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Des Moines to St. Louis 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 Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC), 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. Louis. 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. Louis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.61 | 9.67 | AUTHORIZED FOR HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | BEK Moving Co. | 9.00 | 9.16 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to St. Louis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 349 miles from Des Moines, IA to St. Louis, MO will cost on average $2,078 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to St. Louis move is roughly $4,970. 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 | $1,400 | 300 ft³ | 4.67 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,078 | 450 ft³ | 4.62 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,426 | 750 ft³ | 4.57 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,970 | 1100 ft³ | 4.52 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,148 | 1600 ft³ | 4.47 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,952 | 1800 ft³ | 4.42 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from St. Louis to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to St. Louis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC
This listing has been claimed by Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC901 1st Capitol Dr
St Charles, MO, 63301
About Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC
Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC is a full-time moving company servicing the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area and surrounding communities. This...
Services
- Full Moving Service
- Commercial Moving Service
- Long Distance Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4004648 / 1506082 AUTHORIZED FOR HHG CARRIER |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | - |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
BEK Moving Co.
3484 Telegraph Rd
Arnold, MO, 63010
About BEK Moving Co.
Although BEK Moving Co. started in 2017, it has over 45 years of working experience performing residential moves, commercial relocations, and...
Services
- Residential moves (houses, apartments, high rises, etc.)
- Long-distance moves
- Furniture disassembly & reassembly
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3237297 / 1016140 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2022) |
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. Louis Neighborhood Comparison
Whether you're relocating for a job, family, or simply a change of scenery, acquainting yourself with your new city can be daunting. By comparing popular Des Moines, IA neighborhoods with their closest counterparts in St. Louis, MO , we aim to make this transition smoother. Discover which St. Louis neighborhood mirrors your Des Moines favorite, providing comfort in the familiar as you embark on this new chapter.
| Des Moines | St. Louis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Central West End | Diverse, cultural hub |
| Beaverdale | St. Louis Hills | Family-friendly, quiet living |
| Sherman Hill | Lafayette Square | Historic homes, picturesque parks |
| Drake | The Grove | Vibrant nightlife, eclectic vibe |
| Highland Park | Tower Grove South | Diverse, strong community ties |
| Waterbury | Clayton | Upscale, walkable neighborhoods |
| Southwestern Hills | Southampton | Cozy, with a small-town feel |
| Waveland Park | Forest Park Southeast | Access to parks, vibrant community |
| Roosevelt | Soulard | Rich in history, lively market scene |
| Ingersoll Park | Benton Park | Artsy, close-knit community |
If the historic charm and tight-knit community of Sherman Hill have captured your heart, you'll be delighted by Lafayette Square in St. Louis. This neighborhood prides itself on its beautifully restored Victorian homes, much like Sherman Hill. Imagine spending weekends exploring Lafayette Park, the city's oldest public park, or indulging in the culinary delights at quaint cafes and upscale restaurants dotted throughout the area. For those enchanted by the diverse and cultural richness of Des Moines' East Village, Central West End in St. Louis promises a similar experience, with its eclectic mix of galleries, theaters, boutiques, and fine dining options like those found at CWE Scene. Both neighborhoods boast a vibrant arts scene and serve as cultural hubs in their respective cities, offering a seamless transition for lovers of urban life and diversity.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to St. Louis
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various aspects. This comparison between Des Moines, IA, and St. Louis, MO, presents an honest reflection of the pros and cons associated with this relocation.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer cultural venues
- Less diverse cuisine
- Lower job opportunities
- Longer winters
St. Louis, MO- Larger metro area
- Rich cultural scene
- Diverse food scene
- More employment options
- Milder winters
St. Louis, MO- Busier lifestyle
- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Larger population
- More pollution
Des Moines, IA- Quieter living
- Lower cost of living
- Easier commute
- Close-knit community
- Less pollution
When considering a move from Des Moines to St. Louis, you're not just trading a city; you're stepping into a whole new cultural and social scene. St. Louis boasts landmark attractions such as the Gateway Arch, enriching experiences at the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the blossoming Missouri Botanical Garden. The dining scene in St. Louis offers an explosion of flavors, from the legendary barbecue at Pappy's Smokehouse to authentic Italian cuisine in The Hill neighborhood. However, embracing St. Louis means acclimating to a busier lifestyle and potentially higher living costs, showcasing the trade-offs involved in such a move. It's about finding balance and embracing the new opportunities that come with change.
Des Moines vs. St. Louis Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & St. Louis, highlighting how food is an integral part of local culture and what it's like to live in each area. This overview will help you be more informed about the food scene in your new city.
| Des Moines | St. Louis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | St. Louis-style Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | St. Louis-style Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Toasted Ravioli |
| Most popular vegan food | Kale Caesar Salad | Vegan BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, the tender and crispy Pork Tenderloin Sandwich showcases Midwest simplicity and flavor, often found in local diners and eateries like Smokey D's BBQ. However, upon your arrival in St. Louis, the change of pace in the culinary scene becomes apparent with its famous St. Louis-style Pizza, characterized by its thin crust and Provel cheese, a staple in establishments like Imo's Pizza. The transition invites one to explore street foods such as St. Louis's toasted ravioli, generally served as a delectably deep-fried starter, adding a crunchy twist to a traditional Italian favorite. This deep understanding and variety of food scenes from traditional to innovative dishes, especially noted in vegan options like the city's embrace of vegan BBQ jackfruit, illustrate St. Louis's evolving food landscape that newcomers will find rich and engaging.
Des Moines vs. St. Louis Restaurant Comparison
Exploring new dining experiences is a crucial part of making a new city feel like home. To ease your transition from Des Moines, IA to St. Louis, MO, this restaurant comparison will guide you in discovering your new favorite eateries, bridging the culinary gap between your old and new hometowns.
| Des Moines | St. Louis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Hi-Pointe Drive-In | Both offer creative burgers in a fun, eclectic setting |
| A Centro | Pastaria | Italian favorites with a modern twist, emphasizing fresh, quality ingredients |
| Bubba | Brasserie by Niche | Southern comfort meets French bistro elegance |
| Fong's Pizza | Pi Pizzeria | Unique pizza offerings with a distinct twist on traditional flavors |
| 801 Chophouse | The Crossing | Both provide a high-end dining experience with a focus on steak and wine |
| Exile Brewing Co. | 4 Hands Brewing Co. | Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the handcrafted beers and pub fare |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Schlafly Tap Room | Both offer a combination of craft beer and hearty meals |
| Tacos Mariana's | Cherokee Street | A variety of authentic Mexican offerings, capturing the essence of local flavor |
| Lucca | Olio | Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus on simplicity and quality |
| Harbinger | Vicia | Farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on vegetable-forward dishes |
For those missing the unique and eclectic flavors of Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, Hi-Pointe Drive-In in St. Louis will satisfy your cravings for inventive burgers with a playful twist. Both spots are known for their vibrant atmosphere and distinctly unique burger creations, making them perfect for a casual outing with friends. If sophisticated dining is more your style, transitioning from 801 Chophouse in Des Moines to The Crossing in St. Louis ensures you don't miss out on high-end steak and wine experiences. The latter maintains a focus on premium ingredients and exceptional service, paralleling the quality and ambiance you’ve grown to appreciate.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. St. Louis Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to St. Louis, MO , real estate is a crucial factor. Understanding how these two cities compare in terms of housing can help you make an informed decision about your relocation. Here's a closer look at their real estate landscapes.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Ranch | Victorian, Brick Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Yards, Quiet Neighborhoods | Historic Charm, Proximity to Parks |
In considering a move from Des Moines to St. Louis, you'll find significant differences in the housing market. Des Moines offers more affordable options for homebuyers with a median home price lower than St. Louis. However, renters in St. Louis might pay slightly more, reflecting the city's vibrant urban lifestyle, rated higher than Des Moines. The latter boasts spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods, ideal for those seeking a tranquil living environment. In contrast, St. Louis appeals to those appreciating historic charm and easy access to parks and recreational activities, underlining the city’s higher walkability and bikeability scores. This mix of architectural styles and lifestyle perks in both cities cater to a wide range of preferences and priorities for new residents.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in St. Louis, MO
1. Lafayette Square: Known for its historic charm, Lafayette Square not only welcomes pets but embraces them with a dedicated dog park, frequent pet events, and local businesses like Bailey's Chocolate Bar, an eatery where pets are allowed.
2. Central West End: Perfect for pet owners offering amenities like Forest Park, which includes dog-friendly trails and a 1,300-acre outdoor space, and pet-friendly establishments like Coffee Cartel, your Fido will surely feel at home in this vibrant neighborhood.
3. Soulard: Famously known for its annual pet parade during Mardi Gras, Soulard neighborhood is pet-friendly throughout the year with establishments like Molly's In Soulard and Frenchtown Dog Park, where you can dine and play with your furry friend.
Des Moines vs. St. Louis Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Des Moines, IA to St. Louis, MO, understanding the weather changes you'll encounter is crucial. This guide compares the weather conditions, including summer and winter temperatures, sunshine days, and the presence of seasonal allergies, between Des Moines and St. Louis, helping you prepare for what's ahead.
Des Moines, IA
St. Louis, MO
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
St. Louis, MO
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
St. Louis, MO
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
St. Louis, MO
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Winter Storms | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to St. Louis, you'll notice a slight increase in summer temperatures with warmer nights, a feature that may affect your living comfort and energy consumption. The winters in St. Louis are milder, which could be a relief if you're not a fan of heavy snowfall. However, St. Louis experiences a higher average UV index indicating more intense sunshine and potentially a higher risk of sun-related skin concerns. Lastly, air quality and seasonal allergies may present new challenges in St. Louis due to higher humidity levels and the presence of mold, aspects crucial for individuals with respiratory issues or allergies to plan for.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to St. Louis
When planning a move, understanding how the cost of living and financial landscape between Des Moines and St. Louis will compare is crucial. This insight can help you budget effectively and anticipate changes in your financial situation following the move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $49,965 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 90.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 to 8.53 | 1.5 to 5.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 1.4 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9.68 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Healthcare | Manufacturing, Services, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Mixed |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Less prevalent | More prevalent |
Moving from Des Moines to St. Louis, you'll encounter a slightly higher cost of living index, which means daily and monthly expenses may be more. However, this is coupled with a vibrant economic landscape in St. Louis, characterized by a strong presence of manufacturing and service industries, compared to the financial and insurance sector dominance in Des Moines. This shift could imply different job opportunities or career paths. Furthermore, St. Louis's higher average sales tax may affect your spending habits, particularly for non-essential goods. Be aware of the varied tax structures between states, as this could impact your net income.
Des Moines vs. St. Louis Political & Religious Comparison
This brief overview provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in your current and future city. This is a comparison of the politics between Des Moines & St. Louis , intended to help you understand the community you're moving into or leaving behind.
| Des Moines | St. Louis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Des Moines | City of St. Louis |
| Religion | Mixed, with a Christian majority | Mixed, with a Christian majority |
In shifting from Des Moines to St. Louis, you'll find yourself moving from an area that leans Democratic to one that is strongly Democratic, reflecting possibly different local policies and social attitudes. Both cities, however, share a rich mosaic of religious beliefs with Christianity being predominant. The local government websites for Des Moines and St. Louis can be great resources for understanding the nuances in local politics, community programs, and initiatives that reflect the values and priorities of their respective populations.
Des Moines vs. St. Louis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to St. Louis, MO requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & St. Louis will aid in your move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.4 | 23.5 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but with difficulty |
In Des Moines, the average commute time is slightly less compared to St. Louis, making your daily journey to work a bit quicker. However, both cities face minimal traffic congestion compared to larger metro areas. St. Louis offers a better public transit system, ranked higher in availability; this is partly due to the MetroLink light rail that connects key parts of the city and surrounding areas, making it somewhat feasible to get by without a car. Nonetheless, having a vehicle in both cities can significantly ease your daily commute and broaden your access to various amenities and job opportunities.
Additional Resources
Des Moines Moving Services
Popular Des Moines to Missouri Routes
Popular Moving Resources
