Best Des Moines to New York City Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to New York City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,157 mile move from Iowa to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 Des Moines to New York City 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 JP Urban 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 New York City. 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 New York City Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | 9.78 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, 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 New York City
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,157 miles from Des Moines, IA to New York City, NY will cost on average $2,765 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to New York City move is roughly $6,649. 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 | $1,858 | 300 ft³ | 6.19 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,765 | 450 ft³ | 6.14 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,571 | 750 ft³ | 6.09 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,649 | 1100 ft³ | 6.04 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,592 | 1600 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,701 | 1800 ft³ | 5.94 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New York City to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to New York City Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
JP Urban Moving
266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl
Brooklyn, NY, 11238
About JP Urban Moving
JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...
Services
- Local NYC Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving, Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2096754 / 882954 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |
Metropolis Moving
476 Jefferson St
Brooklyn, NY, 11237
About Metropolis Moving
Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4277979 / 1662478 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
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) |
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. New York City Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world, but understanding the parallels between neighborhoods can make this transition smoother. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We will explore a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & New York City, NY , identifying the most similar New York City neighborhoods to your favorites in Des Moines.
| Des Moines | New York City | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | East Village, NY | Both are vibrant, artsy neighborhoods |
| Beaverdale | Bay Ridge, Brooklyn | Family-friendly with a strong community vibe |
| Sherman Hill | Clinton Hill, Brooklyn | Similar historic charm and architecture |
| Waterbury | Upper West Side, Manhattan | Upscale residential areas with parks |
| Drake Neighborhood | Morningside Heights, Manhattan | College town atmosphere |
| Waveland Park | Prospect Park South, Brooklyn | Close to parks and recreational areas |
| Highland Park | Astoria, Queens | Diverse community with unique local businesses |
| Gray’s Lake | Central Park South, Manhattan | Proximity to iconic city parks |
| Ingersoll Avenue | West Village, Manhattan | Trendy with a mix of shops and restaurants |
| South of Grand | Greenwich Village, Manhattan | Offers a mix of residential charm and urban access |
If you're enchanted by the East Village of Des Moines with its lively arts scene, you'll feel right at home in New York City's East Village, where the streets thrum with artistic expression and indie spirit. For those who admire the historic appeal and cozy atmosphere of Beaverdale, Bay Ridge in Brooklyn offers a comparable small-town feel in the big city, complete with renowned restaurants and boutiques. The grandiose aura of Waterbury's upscale residences finds its match in the Upper West Side, known for its refined dining establishments like Lincoln Center and the natural oasis of Central Park. On the scholarly vibe of Drake Neighborhood, Morningside Heights mirrors this closely with its own prestigious academic institutions, bordered by the vibrant culinary and cultural spots.
Things to Do in New York City
Explore Central Park on foot or bike- Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Enjoy a Broadway show
- Walk the High Line
- Savor eats at Chelsea Market
- Catch a game at Yankee Stadium
- Attend a workshop at Brooklyn Public Library
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to New York City
Moving from Des Moines, IA to New York City, NY is a big step, filled with both excitement and challenges. To help you visualize what lies ahead, we will present a comparison showcasing both the obstacles and opportunities this relocation presents. The purpose of the charts below is to offer an honest reflection of living in Des Moines versus New York City , ensuring you’re fully aware of what to expect.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller job market
- Lower cultural diversity
- Minimal public transit
- Fewer entertainment options
New York City, NY- Vast career opportunities
- Rich multiculturalism
- Extensive subway system
- World-class entertainment
New York City, NY- High living expenses
- Scarce greenery
- Fast-paced environment
- Dense population
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Abundant green spaces
- Quiet, slower pace
- Community feel
The move from Des Moines, IA to New York City, NY introduces you to a vibrant metropolis bustling with life and opportunities not found anywhere else. While Des Moines offers a more relaxed environment with plenty of green spaces like the Gray’s Lake Park, New York City boasts iconic parks such as Central Park, which, despite the city’s dense population, provides a vast outdoor retreat. The city’s myriad neighborhoods, from the historic streets of Greenwich Village to the lively corridors of Chinatown, are brimming with an unparalleled selection of restaurants, sights, and entertainment options. While the transition might come with its set of challenges, such as adjusting to the high cost of living and fast-paced lifestyle, the prospect of exploring, living, and growing in such a culturally rich and diverse environment is undeniably exciting.
Des Moines vs. New York City Food Guide
Food greatly enriches the experience of living in a new city, revealing much about its culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we're offering you a comprehensive comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & New York City, NY , so you can savor the flavors of your new home and navigate its dining scene with ease.
| Des Moines | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Bagels |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Pork Chops | Pastrami on Rye |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegan Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Des Moines boasts a hearty food scene characterized by its iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and flavorful BBQ Jackfruit for the vegan palate, New York City's diverse culinary landscape offers you a taste from every corner of the world, featuring legendary Bagels and innovative Vegan Pizza. With neighborhoods like Williamsburg in Brooklyn and the East Village in Manhattan, you'll find bustling food scenes that cater to every taste and dietary requirement. Iconic establishments such as Katz's Delicatessen for a slice of the city's best pastrami or Junior's Cheesecake for a sweet treat exemplify the city's rich culinary offerings. Whether you're exploring the high-energy food truck scene or indulging in health-conscious eateries, New York City's foodie culture promises an adventure for your taste buds.
Des Moines vs. New York City Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel daunting, especially when it comes to finding those perfect dining spots that feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart from Des Moines, IA to New York City, NY aims to bridge that gap for food lovers. Whether you’re in search of haute cuisine, casual bites, or iconic eats, let this guide help you discover your next favorite meal in the Big Apple.
| Des Moines | New York City | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Shake Shack | Both offer creative burgers and a relaxed, fun atmosphere. |
| Centro | Barbuto | Italian staples with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. |
| A Dong | Pho Bang | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine, known for their pho. |
| Fong's Pizza | Rubirosa Ristorante | Unique and innovative pizzas in a cozy setting. |
| 801 Chophouse | Keens Steakhouse | High-end dining with exquisite steak selections. |
| Bubba | Sylvia's | Comforting Southern cuisine with a warm hospitality. |
| La Mie Bakery | Amy's Bread | Artisanal bakery known for handcrafted baked goods. |
| Harbinger | Blue Hill | Farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on local sourcing. |
| Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop | Katz's Delicatessen | Iconic sandwiches and a New York staple. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Brooklyn Brewery | Craft beer lovers will appreciate the quality and variety. |
For those making the transition from Des Moines to New York City, finding a place that replicates the charm and flavors of home is crucial. If you've enjoyed the innovative pizzas and laid-back atmosphere at Fong's Pizza, you'll find a similar vibe at Rubirosa Ristorante, where the pizzas are not only inventive but also pay homage to traditional Italian flavors. Similarly, the transition from enjoying the artisanal breads and pastries of La Mie Bakery can be smoothly made to Amy's Bread in NYC, where the passion for baking shines through their wide array of handcrafted goods. These comparisons are not just about similar menus but also about capturing the essence and spirit of each restaurant's commitment to quality and the dining experience.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. New York City Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a vital role when relocating. Understanding the differences in housing between Des Moines, IA and New York City, NY is crucial for a well-informed move. This comparison aims to highlight key real estate aspects such as cost, statistics, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Des Moines | New York City |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Ranch | Art Deco, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to subways, luxury amenities |
While Des Moines offers more affordable housing options with spacious backyards and a preference for Craftsman and Ranch styles, New York City stands out for its high-paced urban lifestyle and the prominence of Art Deco and Modern architecture. The significant difference in median home prices and monthly rent reflects the desirability and demand of living in New York City. Moreover, NYC’s unparalleled walkability and its extensive public transit system play a crucial role for those considering a move, especially when evaluating the cost and convenience of commuting in such a vibrant metropolis. Des Moines, with its lower cost of living, presents a contrasting, more laid-back lifestyle, yet lacks the New York City's intense urban experience and architectural diversity.
Des Moines vs. New York City Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison focuses on Des Moines, IA and New York City, NY , to help you gauge what kind of climate adjustments you might need to make. Whether preparing for harsher winters, hotter summers, or simply packing the right clothes, seeing these differences laid out can guide your preparations.
Des Moines, IA
New York City, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
New York City, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
New York City, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
New York City, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | New York City |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Hurricanes, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to New York City, you'll find warmer winters and more sunshine throughout the year. However, New York City experiences higher annual rainfall and has slightly higher average humidity than Des Moines. Air quality is another consideration; Des Moines generally enjoys better air quality compared to the moderate levels in New York City. Both cities face their share of natural disasters, with Des Moines encountering tornadoes and blizzards, while New York City may deal with hurricanes and nor'easters. Understanding these differences can greatly assist in your relocation preparation, from wardrobe adjustments to planning for potential weather disruptions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to New York City
When contemplating a move from one city to another, a key consideration should be the financial implications. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance from Des Moines, IA to New York City, NY , ensuring you're well-informed on what to expect in terms of living costs and economic environment.
| Comparison | Des Moines | New York City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $67,997 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 185.8 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 8.82% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.88% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 8.875% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Finance, Real Estate, Professional & Technical Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
Moving from Des Moines to New York City, you will notice a significant disparity in the cost of living—an increase that is not wholly offset by the higher average household income in New York City. While Des Moines offers a more affordable lifestyle with a lower sales and property tax rate, New York City boasts a higher affluence level and a vibrant financial and real estate industry. However, this comes with its challenges, including higher rates of poverty and homelessness. It's crucial to weigh these financial and economic factors carefully to prepare for the adjustments needed in your budgeting and day-to-day expenses.
Des Moines vs. New York City Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Des Moines to New York City presents an exciting shift not only in scenery but in the community you'll be joining. This comparison of the politics and religion between Des Moines & New York City aims to provide a quick glance at what you might expect from the local population in terms of their political leanings and religious commitments.
| Des Moines | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on agricultural and educational policies | Focus on immigration, housing, and public health |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian population | Diverse, with large Christian and Jewish communities |
In Des Moines, you might find the political atmosphere a tad more moderate compared to the very progressive environment of New York City, where local politics often emphasizes immigrant rights, affordable housing, and extensive public health campaigns. The religious landscape in New York is notably diverse, hosting large Christian and Jewish communities alongside other faiths, reflecting the city's global population. This diversity might offer you a wider range of cultural and religious communities to join, compared to Des Moines, which has a significant Christian population but less overall religious plurality. In both cities, however, you'll find communities passionate about their local issues and engaged in shaping their city's future.
Des Moines vs. New York City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & New York City to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like as you consider moving. Knowing the differences can significantly impact your daily life and logistics.
| Comparison | Des Moines | New York City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 40 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Des Moines offers a generally swift and less congested commuting experience with an average time of 20 minutes, quite the opposite is true for New York City, where the norm is a 40-minute commute among densely packed streets. New York's superior public transportation score reflects its comprehensive subway, bus, and taxi networks, allowing most residents to conveniently forgo a personal vehicle. On the other hand, although Des Moines is making strides in improving its public transit system, a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently in the city. This distinct difference in transport dynamics significantly affects lifestyle, daily schedules, and even housing choices between the two cities.
Additional Resources
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