Best Des Moines to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,101 mile move from Iowa to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Des Moines to Raleigh 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 $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Raleigh. 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 Raleigh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | 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 Raleigh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,101 miles from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $2,718 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Raleigh move is roughly $6,533. 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 | $1,827 | 300 ft³ | 6.09 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,718 | 450 ft³ | 6.04 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,492 | 750 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,533 | 1100 ft³ | 5.94 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,422 | 1600 ft³ | 5.89 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,510 | 1800 ft³ | 5.84 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Raleigh 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
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. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the local communities. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Raleigh, NC, helping to bridge the gap between the familiar and the new. Discover the Raleigh neighborhood that mirrors your Des Moines favorite, and start feeling at home even before you arrive.
| Des Moines | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Cameron Village | Family-friendly, shopping nearby |
| East Village | Glenwood South | Vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining |
| Drake | NCSU Area | Young, educational atmosphere |
| Waterbury | Five Points | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| Highland Park | Boylan Heights | Historic, community-oriented |
| Gray's Lake | Lake Johnson | Lakeside living, outdoor activities |
| Sherman Hill | Oakwood | Charming architecture, quiet streets |
| Ingersoll Park | North Hills | Modern amenities, upscale shopping |
| Waveland Park | Brookhaven | Family-centric, great parks |
| Southwestern Hills | Brier Creek | Accessible, suburban feel |
If you have fond memories of spending afternoons at Gray's Lake Park in Des Moines, you'll find a similar sanctuary at Lake Johnson Park in Raleigh, renowned for its scenic water views and ample outdoor activities. Fans of the lively atmosphere and unique eateries in Des Moines' East Village may be drawn to Glenwood South in Raleigh, where the streets buzz with energy from eclectic dining options to vibrant nightlife. For those who appreciate the historic charm and tight-knit community of Sherman Hill, Raleigh's Oakwood neighborhood offers a seamless transition with its picturesque streets lined with Victorian homes, fostering a sense of history and belonging.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Raleigh
Moving from one city to another presents challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Des Moines, IA, and Raleigh, NC, outlining the good and the bad to help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
Des Moines, IA- Lesser job market
- Colder winters
- Fewer cultural events
- Smaller city vibe
Raleigh, NC- Booming job market
- Milder winters
- Rich cultural scene
- Larger city amenities
Raleigh, NC- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Higher property taxes
- Competitive housing market
Des Moines, IA- Low cost of living
- Community feel
- Better for families
- Easier commute
Choosing between Des Moines and Raleigh involves weighing significant differences, notably in job opportunities and lifestyle. Raleigh's booming job market, particularly in the tech and research sectors, based around the Research Triangle Park, contrasts with Des Moines' more stable yet smaller-scale employment landscape. Cultural enthusiasts moving to Raleigh will delight in its vibrant arts scene, including events at the Duke Energy Center. On the flip side, those who prioritize a low cost of living and less traffic may find Des Moines more appealing, despite its colder winters and smaller city vibe. Ultimately, whether transitioning to Raleigh's larger city ambiance and milder climate or embracing Des Moines' tight-knit community offers the best new home depends on personal priorities and lifestyle preferences.
Des Moines vs. Raleigh Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Raleigh, highlighting how food is a vibrant part of local culture and daily life. Understanding the culinary scene in each city can help you better appreciate what your new home has to offer.
| Des Moines | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Brisket | Eastern NC BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Barbecue Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, you'll discover a food scene that takes pride in its roots, especially when it comes to barbecue. Eastern North Carolina BBQ, known for its vinegar-based sauce, can be savored in renowned spots like The Pit, located in the Warehouse District. This area is also a hub for food trucks and vegan options, such as the innovative barbecue jackfruit, offering a diverse culinary tapestry apt for explorers. Conversely, in Des Moines, the iconic pork tenderloin sandwich serves as a culinary benchmark, with places like Fong's Pizza blending traditional cuisine with unexpected twists. The city's food trucks and health-conscious options, though slightly less abundant than in Raleigh, still offer a rich variety to satisfy all palates.
Des Moines vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
When you're moving to a new city, finding places that feel like home is essential. Since food plays such a crucial role in this, we've crafted a comparison to help you discover your next favorite eateries in Raleigh, drawing inspiration from your Des Moines favorites. This guide will navigate your transition from Des Moines to Raleigh , focusing on the culinary experiences that make both cities unique.
| Des Moines | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Garland | Unique fusion and ambiance |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Chuck's | Gourmet burgers with a creative twist |
| Fong's Pizza | Trophy Brewing and Pizza | Craft beer and inventive pizzas |
| A Dong | Bida Manda | Intimate setting for Laotian cuisine |
| Django | Saint Jacques | Classic French fare in a cozy atmosphere |
| El Bait Shop | Raleigh Beer Garden | Vast beer selection in a casual setting |
| Harbinger | Brewery Bhavana | Cultivated dining and brew experience |
| Miyabi 9 | Sushi Tsune | Authentic sushi and Japanese dishes |
| Smash Park | Boxcar Bar + Arcade | Fun atmosphere with food and games |
| La Mie Bakery | Yellow Dog Bread Company | Artisan breads and sweets |
Transitioning to Raleigh doesn't mean leaving behind the culinary delights of Des Moines. For instance, if Centro's unique dishes have been your go-to, you'll find Garland's innovative fusion cuisine a refreshing continuation of culinary excellence. Similarly, fans of Fong's Pizza will adore Trophy Brewing and Pizza, where the pizzas are not just food but creations that showcase the versatility of flavors paired with an impressive selection of craft beers. And for those enchanted by the craft beer and casual vibes of El Bait Shop, Raleigh Beer Garden will feel like a second home, boasting an unparalleled selection of beers in a laid-back atmosphere. These comparisons are designed to ease your culinary transition, inviting you to explore Raleigh's vibrant food scene with the assurance that there's always something familiar to comfort you.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate markets between your current city and your potential new home is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyles between Des Moines, IA, and Raleigh, NC, can greatly impact your decision. This comparison aims to highlight those key differences to aid in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Colonial Revival and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, proximity to schools | Energy efficiency, community amenities |
When delving deeper into the housing characteristics of Des Moines, IA, and Raleigh, NC, you'll notice key differences that could influence your living experience. Des Moines prides itself on spacious backyards and closeness to high-rated schools, reflecting a community-oriented lifestyle perfect for families. On the other hand, Raleigh's real estate listings frequently highlight energy-efficient homes and extensive community amenities, catering to those who prioritize sustainability and an active social life within their neighborhood. Moreover, the higher urban lifestyle rating in Raleigh indicates a dynamic city environment, in contrast to Des Moines’ more laid-back, spacious setting. Understanding these nuances can help you find a home that not only fits your budget but also your lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC
1. North Hills: With an abundance of pet-friendly shops and an expansive park, your pet will love the outdoor activities available.
2. Boylan Heights: This neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly community atmosphere and easy access to Dorothea Dix Park, a popular spot for dog walks and community gatherings.
3. Five Points: You and your pet will enjoy walking through the historical streets and visiting local pet-friendly businesses, including several cafes and eateries that welcome furry friends.
Des Moines vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the weather compares between your current and future home is essential. This comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Raleigh, NC, highlights the key weather differences to help you prepare for your new environment.
Des Moines, IA
Raleigh, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Raleigh, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Raleigh, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing Des Moines and Raleigh, you'll find Raleigh experiences milder winters and slightly warmer summers, which might be a pleasant change if you're not fond of extreme cold. The number of sunshine days in Raleigh exceeds that of Des Moines, offering more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. However, Raleigh's location makes it prone to hurricanes and thunderstorms, a significant difference from the blizzards and tornadoes common in Des Moines. Additionally, Raleigh has a slightly higher UV index, urging a bit more caution for sun protection. Familiarize yourself with the local top seasonal allergies in Raleigh, as the addition of mold to the list may require some adjustments if you have allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Raleigh
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC, it's crucial to compare the economic landscapes of both areas. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Des Moines and Raleigh can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $74,612 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 98.2 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Flat 5.25% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 0.86% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 6.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Lower |
Upon comparing Des Moines and Raleigh, one notable difference is the average household income, which is higher in Raleigh. Though Raleigh also has a higher cost of living index, indicating that living expenses could be more significant than in Des Moines. However, Raleigh benefits from a flat state income tax rate, which might be more favorable depending on your income level. Additionally, Raleigh's top industries suggest potential for job opportunities in technology, education, and healthcare sectors. Analyzing these factors plays a crucial role in financially preparing for your move.
Des Moines vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Des Moines, IA, to Raleigh, NC, understanding the cultural landscape is just as important as packing your belongings. This comparison aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Raleigh , offering insights that could help smooth your transition into your new city.
| Des Moines | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed urban and progressive policies | Strong emphasis on education and technology initiatives |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, diverse religious presence | Christianity predominates, with a significant increase in non-Christian faiths |
Both Des Moines and Raleigh lean Democratic, reflecting a shared political alignment that might make you feel right at home in your new city. However, the local political scene in Raleigh places a substantial focus on education and technology, suggesting a vibrant environment for innovation and learning. The religious landscape is notably diverse in both cities, with Christianity playing a dominant role. Raleigh, in particular, has seen a significant increase in non-Christian faiths, indicating a richly diverse spiritual community. This openness and diversity in both political and religious realms can provide a welcoming atmosphere for new residents like you.
Des Moines vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Raleigh, NC, brings many changes, including what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Raleigh is designed to help you better understand what to expect as you navigate your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
In Des Moines, you might find the commute slightly easier with an average time of just 20 minutes and lower traffic congestion levels. Although public transit exists, its reach might not be extensive enough for a car-free lifestyle to be convenient. In contrast, Raleigh offers a moderately better public transit system, reflected by a slightly higher score, but you may still find it challenging to rely entirely on public transit due to the city's spread-out nature. Commute times are a bit longer, likely due to increased traffic congestion. Both cities have their unique transportation characteristics, influencing how you plan your daily commute and leisure activities.
Additional Resources
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