Best Des Moines to Lincoln Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Lincoln and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 191 mile move from Iowa to Nebraska go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 15 Des Moines to Lincoln 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 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Lincoln. 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 Lincoln Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | King's Moving | 9.36 | 9.35 | Authorized For 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 | Black Belt Movers | 8.14 | 8.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Lincoln
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 191 miles from Des Moines, IA to Lincoln, NE will cost on average $1,944 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Lincoln move is roughly $4,641. 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 | $1,311 | 300 ft³ | 4.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,944 | 450 ft³ | 4.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,202 | 750 ft³ | 4.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,641 | 1100 ft³ | 4.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,671 | 1600 ft³ | 4.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,415 | 1800 ft³ | 4.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lincoln to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Lincoln 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) |
King's Moving
7530 F St
Omaha, NE, 68127
About King's Moving
King’s Moving is a five-star rated business established in 2012. Widely regarded as Omaha’s top local moving company, King’s Moving has...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 960979 / 954013 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 65,000 (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) |
Black Belt Movers
1514 S 3rd St
Lincoln, NE, 68502
About Black Belt Movers
Black Belt Movers is a Lincoln moving company that provides professional residential and commercial moving services including local and long-distance moves,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2631961 / 916084 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 54,120 (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. Lincoln Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be overwhelming, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we present this guide, focusing on a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Lincoln, NE . By drawing parallels between neighborhoods you know and those in your new city, we aim to help you find your next perfect community.
| Des Moines | Lincoln | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Country Club | Both boast historic homes & strong community vibes |
| East Village | Haymarket | Vibrant arts scene & bustling nightlife |
| Waveland Park | Belmont | Family-friendly with parks & recreational areas |
| Drake | University Place | College atmosphere, eclectic mix of residents |
| Waterbury | Sheridan | Upscale, with architecturally significant homes |
| Sherman Hill | Mt. Emerald | Historic district with a close-knit community feel |
| Highland Park | Woods Park | Old-world charm, community-centered |
| Ingersoll Park | Near South | Mix of urban & suburban, diverse dining options |
| South of Grand | Country Club Estates | Luxurious, serene environment |
| Gray's Lake | Holmes Lake | Both are centered around a picturesque lake |
Exploring these neighborhoods can bring delightful discoveries, like finding Nilai Grocery, an Asian grocery store in Lincoln's Belmont area, similar to markets in Waveland Park. For enthusiasts of vibrant nightlife and arts, the Haymarket district in Lincoln mirrors Des Moines' East Village, hosting local businesses, galleries, and eateries such as The Coffee Roaster. Likewise, those accustomed to the historical charm and tight-knit community in Sherman Hill will find a similar ambiance in Lincoln's Mt. Emerald neighborhood, which boasts an array of historical homes and streets lined with mature trees, offering a picturesque backdrop akin to what residents adore in Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Lincoln
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that requires a careful examination of what you might gain or lose in the process. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Lincoln, NE . By weighing the pros against the cons, and vice versa, you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less cultural diversity
- Higher cost of living
- Shorter restaurant scene
Lincoln, NE- Larger community
- More career options
- Greater diversity
- More affordable
- Richer food culture
Lincoln, NE- Less personal
- More traffic
- Fewer shopping options
- Potentially higher crime
- Smaller art scene
Des Moines, IA- Close-knit community
- Easy city navigation
- Quaint local shops
- Lower crime rates
- Vibrant local arts
Moving to Lincoln, NE offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy a richer food culture with establishments like Dish, renowned for its innovative cuisine, or the bustling food scene at Haymarket District, which hosts a variety of eateries and locally sourced products. Despite the potential for a slightly higher crime rate compared to Des Moines, Lincoln's community-oriented initiatives and vibrant nightlife offer a promising balance. On the flip side, Des Moines prides itself on its quaint local shops like RAYGUN, which boasts a selection of unique Midwest-inspired goods rarely found outside the city, hinting at the strong local spirit that new Lincoln residents might miss.
Des Moines vs. Lincoln Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Lincoln is essential for those looking to move and integrate into their new environment. Food plays a vital role in understanding the cultural landscape and lifestyle of a place. Here's how these two cities stack up in terms of their food scenes.
| Des Moines | Lincoln | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Runza |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | Grilled Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Food Trucks Variety |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Bowl | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you're moving from Des Moines to Lincoln, you'll find that both cities have a vibrant food scene, albeit with some differences. For instance, Des Moines is renowned for its Pork Tenderloin Sandwich available at many joints, but once you're in Lincoln, don't miss out on the unique experience of trying a Runza, a local delight found in numerous eateries throughout the city. Notably, Lincoln's food scene shines with its array of food trucks offering a variety of street food options. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will also find Lincoln slightly more accommodating, with places like Leadbelly offering innovative dishes like the Tempeh Reuben. Whether exploring the historic Haymarket district in Lincoln or diving into the rich culinary diversity of Des Moines, you're sure to find flavors that pique your interest and palate.
Des Moines vs. Lincoln Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a major life change, and finding comfort in your new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Lincoln, NE, aims to ease your transition by helping you find your next favorite dining spots based on your current preferences.
| Des Moines | Lincoln | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | The Oven | Authentic dishes with a similar upscale atmosphere |
| Alba | Sebastian's Table | Cozy, inventive cuisine with a unique twist |
| Django | Blue Sushi Sake Grill | Offers creative twists on classic dishes |
| Fong’s Pizza | Yia Yia's | Eclectic pizzas in a similarly vibrant setting |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Honest Abe's Burgers & Freedom | Unique burgers in an engaging environment |
| Harbinger | Green Gateau | Elegance and innovation on every plate |
| 801 Chophouse | Misty's Steakhouse | A Lincoln staple for steak lovers |
| A Dong | Vung Tau | Authentic Vietnamese with a wide-ranging menu |
| Luigi’s Mansion | DaVinci's | Homestyle Italian in a warm environment |
| Gusto Pizza Co. | Piezano's | Crafted with care, a local favorite for pizza |
Each restaurant pairing has been selected with consideration to not just the food quality but the dining experience as a whole. For instance, The Oven in Lincoln mirrors the elegant ambiance of Centro, ensuring a seamless transition for those special dinner nights. If the unique burgers and imaginative environment of Zombie Burger + Drink Lab are what you'll miss most about Des Moines, stepping into Honest Abe's Burgers & Freedom in Lincoln will feel like finding a new home. Similarly, fans of Alba's innovative approach to dining will find a parallel experience at Sebastian's Table, with its emphasis on shared plates and an intimate atmosphere. When taken together, these comparisons aim to highlight how Lincoln can offer culinary experiences that mirror the diverse and rich dining scene of Des Moines, making your new city feel just like home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Lincoln Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor when considering a move. Understanding how the housing landscapes of Des Moines, IA, and Lincoln, NE compare can greatly influence your decision. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Lincoln |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman & Ranch | Ranch & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, hardwood floors | Energy efficiency, proximity to parks |
While both Des Moines and Lincoln boast a Midwestern charm, Lincoln edges slightly ahead in terms of urban lifestyle amenities and walkability, making it a slightly more convenient city for those who prefer to get around on foot or bike. The notable difference in architecture styles, with Des Moines favoring Craftsman and Ranch homes while Lincoln has a mixture of Ranch and Modern, reflects the distinct character and historical development of each city. Additionally, Lincoln's focus on energy efficiency and proximity to parks in real estate listings points towards a community-minded and environmentally conscious population, aspects that might appeal to you if these are priorities in your lifestyle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lincoln, NE
1. Belmont: This neighborhood is known for its sprawling Rickman's Run Off-Leash Dog Area, where your pets can enjoy vast open spaces and you can mingle with fellow pet owners.
2. Highlands: With easy access to Mahoney Park and its pet-friendly trails, the Highlands offers a serene atmosphere for both you and your furry friends to enjoy the outdoors.
3. Capitol Beach: This neighborhood boasts the unique feature of being close to Capital Beach Lake, providing plenty of waterfront fun for water-loving dogs and ample walking paths for leisurely strolls.
Des Moines vs. Lincoln Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather in Lincoln, NE compares to Des Moines, IA is crucial if you're considering a move. This comparison will help you anticipate weather changes and adjust to your new environment .
Des Moines, IA
Lincoln, NE
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Lincoln, NE
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Lincoln, NE
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Lincoln, NE
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Lincoln |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Des Moines and Lincoln share similar weather patterns, there are subtle differences that could impact your yearly plans. For example, Lincoln enjoys more days of sunshine and slightly higher summer temperatures, which could extend your outdoor activities. However, it also has a lower average annual humidity, which can make the summers feel more comfortable. Notably, Lincoln has less annual rainfall and snowfall compared to Des Moines, possibly affecting your gardening or snow-related activities. Understanding these nuances will better prepare you for your transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Lincoln
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Lincoln, NE, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This comparison will provide insights into Des Moines and Lincoln's money and finance landscape, helping you to understand what changes to expect in cost of living , taxation , and income levels, among others.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Lincoln |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $62,294 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 90.85 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 - 8.53 | 2.46 - 6.84 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 1.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Education, Health Services, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Minimal | Minimal to Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
While both Des Moines and Lincoln offer a moderate cost of living, you'll notice a slight difference in average household income, with Des Moines generally higher. However, this discrepancy is somewhat balanced by Lincoln's lower cost of living index. Taxation rates vary between the two, potentially affecting your take-home salary. State and sales tax differences are particularly noteworthy, as they can impact overall expenses and savings. The top industries in each city indicate the local economy's orientation, which might influence job opportunities in your field. Despite these financial and economic contrasts, both cities showcase a strong sense of community and stability, with low to moderate levels of poverty and homelessness.
Des Moines vs. Lincoln Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Lincoln, NE, it’s important to understand the communities you’re transitioning between. This overview provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, featuring a comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Lincoln alongside their religious landscapes. Understanding these aspects can help you gauge how well you might fit into your new neighborhood.
| Des Moines | Lincoln | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Diverse city governance | Diverse city governance |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian community | Mixed, with a significant Christian community |
Both Des Moines and Lincoln share a political inclination that leans towards the Democratic side, reflecting in their local governance and policies. This similarity in political landscape might make the transition easier for you if you align with or are open to these political views. Moreover, the religious makeup in both cities is quite mixed, though with a notable Christian presence, indicating a diverse spiritual community. Within this diversity, it's possible to find various local churches and religious organizations, such as the Des Moines Diocese in Iowa and the Lincoln Diocese in Nebraska, offering a sense of community and belonging to newcomers. These aspects collectively paint a picture of two cities with diverse, welcoming communities, ready to embrace new residents with open arms.
Des Moines vs. Lincoln Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Lincoln, NE? It's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Lincoln will help you get a clearer picture.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Lincoln |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
Although both cities offer relatively short average commute times, Des Moines has a marginally higher level of traffic congestion compared to Lincoln. Despite this, the availability of public transit in Des Moines scores higher, suggesting a slightly better-developed system. However, in both cities, living without a car can be challenging, though not impossible, particularly for those living and working within the more densely populated areas where amenities and workplaces might be more accessible.
Additional Resources
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