Best Des Moines to Albuquerque Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,051 mile move from Iowa to New Mexico go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 15 Des Moines to Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque. 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 Albuquerque Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | JP Moving | 9.38 | 9.63 | Authorized For Property | 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 | Pro-Move Logistics | 8.10 | 7.78 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Albuquerque
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,051 miles from Des Moines, IA to Albuquerque, NM will cost on average $2,675 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Albuquerque move is roughly $6,429. 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 | $1,798 | 300 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,675 | 450 ft³ | 5.94 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,421 | 750 ft³ | 5.89 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,429 | 1100 ft³ | 5.84 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,271 | 1600 ft³ | 5.79 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,340 | 1800 ft³ | 5.74 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Albuquerque to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Albuquerque 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) |
JP Moving
1503 Golf Course Rd SE # D
Rio Rancho, NM, 87124
About JP Moving
JP Moving is a licensed and insured moving company based in Rio Rancho, NM. It provides residential and commercial moving services...
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3585744 / 1212778 Authorized For Property Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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) |
Pro-Move Logistics
7608 Crouch Ct
Santa Fe, NM, 87507
About Pro-Move Logistics
Pro-Move Logistics is a top-rated full-service company with over 15 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers in Santa Fe...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3942498 / 1464643 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (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. Albuquerque Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using Des Moines, IA & Albuquerque, NM neighborhoods comparison . Find out which neighborhood in Albuquerque closely matches your favorite Des Moines locale.
| Des Moines | Albuquerque | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Nob Hill | Vibrant, eclectic shops |
| Beaverdale | Ridgecrest | Family-friendly, quiet |
| Waveland Park | North Valley | Green spaces, community vibe |
| South of Grand | Old Town | Historic, cultural heart |
| Sherman Hill | Huning Highlands | Historic homes, walkable |
| Waterbury | Tanoan | Upscale, gated community |
| Ingersoll Park | Silver Hill | Urban, mixed-use |
| Drake | University Heights | Young, educational |
| Highland Park | South Valley | Diverse, historical |
| Roosevelt | La Luz | Lively, outdoor activities |
In comparing neighborhoods such as East Village in Des Moines to Nob Hill in Albuquerque, you’ll find both areas offer a vibrant, eclectic mix of local shops and eateries that cater to a diverse crowd. For example, East Village boasts trendy boutiques and restaurants like A Heinz 57, while Nob Hill is home to unique establishments such as Scalo Northern Italian Grill, reflecting the area's engaging, dynamic atmosphere. Similarly, the quiet, family-friendly ambiance of Beaverdale finds its match in Ridgecrest, where tree-lined streets and parks create a peaceful setting ideal for families. Sherman Hill's characteristic historic homes and walkability are mirrored in Huning Highlands, inviting residents to explore rich architectural heritage and cozy corners of the neighborhood. These paired neighborhoods offer glimpses into the local culture and community, making the transition from Des Moines to Albuquerque much smoother and more familiar.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque
Moving from one city to another is a major step that involves weighing the pros and cons. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Albuquerque, NM. By comparing key aspects of both cities, we hope to offer a balanced viewpoint to assist you in making an informed decision about your move.
Des Moines, IA- Colder Winters
- Less Cultural Diversity
- Smaller City
Albuquerque, NM- Milder Winters
- More Cultural Diversity
- Larger City
Albuquerque, NM- Higher Cost of Living
- Less Greenery
- Adapting to New Community
Des Moines, IA- Lower Cost of Living
- Abundant Green Spaces
- Strong Community
Moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque introduces a myriad of cultural and environmental changes. Albuquerque, with its Albuquerque Museum and vibrant Native American markets, offers a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and history for newcomers. The city is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Sandia Mountains, which provide a beautiful backdrop and a multitude of outdoor activities. In contrast, Des Moines boasts an incredible sense of community and numerous parks, such as Greenwood Park, which fosters an environment of connectivity and relaxation. Each city has its unique advantages, whether it's the cost of living, cultural offerings, or outdoor spaces. The decision to move should consider these factors to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible.
Des Moines vs. Albuquerque Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of appreciating local culture and understanding what life might be like in a new area. With that in mind, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Albuquerque to help you get a better sense of the food scene in these cities.
| Des Moines | Albuquerque | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | New Mexico Green Chiles |
| Most popular meat dish | Midwestern Steak | Carne Adovada |
| Most popular street food item | Breakfast Burrito | Stuffed Sopapillas |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Vegan Tamales |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, you can delight in the simplicity and heartiness of Midwestern cuisine, best represented by dishes like the oversized Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. Exciting flavors await at local gems such as Centro and Fong's Pizza. Moving to Albuquerque introduces you to a world where New Mexico green chiles reign supreme, adding incredible depth and flavor to nearly every dish, including the beloved Carne Adovada. The city's love for its unique New Mexican cuisine is palpable, with food sanctuaries like Frontier Restaurant providing a genuine taste of local flavors that Albuquerque proudly calls its own.
Des Moines vs. Albuquerque Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering its culinary scene. This restaurant comparison chart leaps beyond the basics to help you locate your next favorite eatery, by drawing parallels between Des Moines and Albuquerque eateries . Whether you're in search of a luxurious dinner spot or a cozy café for your morning coffee, this guide ensures a smooth transition from Des Moines to Albuquerque.
| Des Moines | Albuquerque | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Scalo | Northern Italian classics with a similar upscale vibe |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Burger Stand at Burque Albuquerque | Creative burgers and shakes in a laid-back atmosphere |
| Fong's Pizza | Farina Pizzeria & Wine Bar | Artisanal pizzas with a distinctive flair |
| 801 Chophouse | Vernon's Speakeasy | High-end steaks in a clandestine, swanky setting |
| A Dong | Pho Linh | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine and a favorite among locals |
| Woody's Smoke Shack | Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q | For a taste of traditional, Texan-style barbecue |
| La Mie Bakery | Flying Star Cafe | Cozy spot for breakfast, pastries, and a cup of coffee |
| Alba | Artichoke Cafe | Offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on local ingredients |
| Tasty Tacos | El Modelo Mexican Foods | Homemade Mexican dishes that remind you of Tasty Tacos' authenticity |
| Machine Shed Restaurant | The Range Café | A homey spot with a comfort food menu that echoes traditional American cuisine |
When exploring the culinary landscape of Albuquerque as a former Des Moines resident, you'll find comforting similarities and exciting new experiences. Scalo offers the same inviting ambiance and Italian delicacies that you loved at Centro, while Farina Pizzeria & Wine Bar brings artisanal pizza to the forefront, echoing Fong's Pizza's innovative approach. For those evenings when only a steak will do, Vernon's Speakeasy parallels the upscale dining experience of 801 Chophouse with its hidden allure and exquisite dishes. And when the craving for authentic Vietnamese dishes becomes undeniable, Pho Linh stands ready to enchant your palate, reminiscent of the flavors you adored at A Dong. These comparisons not only ease the transition but enrich your culinary journey in Albuquerque.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Albuquerque Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's crucial to understand how the real estate landscape compares between your current and future homes. This comparison focuses on housing aspects of Des Moines, IA, and Albuquerque, NM, providing insights into costs, styles, and livability to ensure you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Albuquerque |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Colonial | Pueblo Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to schools | Views of the Sandia Mountains, outdoor living spaces |
While Des Moines and Albuquerque both offer their own unique housing benefits, your lifestyle and preferences play a significant role in determining the right fit. Des Moines' prevailing Prairie and Colonial architectural styles reflect a classic American aesthetic, whereas Albuquerque's Pueblo Revival architecture imbues the city with a distinctive Southwestern character. The slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores in Albuquerque hint at an urban environment more conducive to those who prefer to travel on foot or by bike. Moreover, the mention of outdoor living spaces and views of the Sandia Mountains in Albuquerque's real estate listings suggest a strong connection to natural beauty, aligning well with outdoor enthusiasts. On the other hand, Des Moines' spacious yards and proximity to schools are attractive features for families prioritizing space and educational opportunities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Albuquerque, NM
1. Nob Hill: This artsy neighborhood is known for its pet-friendly patios and a number of stores where you can shop with your furry friend by your side.
2. North Valley: Home to several large parks and the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, North Valley offers expansive outdoor spaces for you and your pets to explore.
3. Old Town: With its pedestrian-friendly streets and outdoor dining options, Old Town is a great area for pet owners who enjoy taking their pets along for a stroll or meal.
Des Moines vs. Albuquerque Weather Considerations
When moving from one city to another, understanding the climatic changes is essential. This will help you adjust to your new environment more smoothly. In this context, we compare the weather between Des Moines, IA and Albuquerque, NM to illustrate the key differences and what you can expect.
Des Moines, IA
Albuquerque, NM
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Albuquerque, NM
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Albuquerque, NM
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Albuquerque, NM
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Albuquerque |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Wildfires, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque, you'll find a significant change in weather, particularly in terms of humidity and sunshine. Albuquerque enjoys a drier climate with more sunny days per year, which might be a welcome change or a new challenge to adapt to. Winter temperatures are milder, but summer brings slightly higher temperatures. Noteworthy, is the difference in natural threats, with Albuquerque facing wildfires and flooding as opposed to the snowstorms and tornadoes common in Des Moines. Understanding these differences will aid in a smoother transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque
When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's crucial to weigh up how the cost of living in Des Moines vs. Albuquerque will impact your finances. This comparison aims to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of money and economy, ensuring you're well-informed before making the transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Albuquerque |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $58,512 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 96.45 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33% - 8.53% | 1.7% - 5.9% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.80% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7.875% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Healthcare | Aerospace, Solar Energy, Film |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
In comparing the financial landscape between Des Moines and Albuquerque, it's evident that Des Moines enjoys a higher average household income but also offers a slightly more affordable cost of living. Albuquerque, on the other hand, presents a mixed financial picture. Lower average incomes and a higher cost of living index, paired with higher sales tax rates, suggest that your paycheck might not stretch as far here. However, the state's lower income tax rates and significantly lower property taxes provide some financial relief. Industries thriving in Albuquerque, like aerospace and film, reveal economic dynamism, which may offer unique job opportunities. Understanding these nuances helps in making an informed decision about where to move.
Des Moines vs. Albuquerque Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Albuquerque, NM, understanding the community you're entering is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Albuquerque, helping you grasp the local culture and societal norms.
| Des Moines | Albuquerque | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on local issues | Liberal stance on urban development |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Christian presence | Diverse, with a significant Catholic population |
Both Des Moines and Albuquerque lean Democratic, meaning your transition between these cities may be relatively seamless in terms of political culture. However, there are nuanced differences in how each city approaches local issues and development; Des Moines is generally progressive, particularly on social issues, while Albuquerque adopts a liberal stance, focusing on sustainable urban development. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, yet Albuquerque has a more pronounced Catholic presence. This reflects not only the city's historical ties but also highlights the variety of cultural and religious communities that contribute to its vibrant social fabric.
Des Moines vs. Albuquerque Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving involves adapting to a new environment, especially when it comes to daily commutes. This section aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Albuquerque, so you can prepare for what lies ahead in your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Albuquerque |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible with effort |
Moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque, you'll notice some slight differences in your daily commute. For one, the average commute time is slightly longer in Albuquerque, which might not seem much, but over time, those extra minutes add up. Traffic congestion in both cities is relatively low compared to larger metropolitan areas, making driving a more pleasant experience. Public transportation availability is somewhat limited in both cities, reflecting the score, but Albuquerque edges out slightly better, offering more options like the ABQ RIDE bus service and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express. Nonetheless, living without a car requires some planning in either city, though it's a bit more feasible in Albuquerque if you live and work in areas well-serviced by public transit.
Additional Resources
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