Best Des Moines to Columbus Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Columbus and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 649 mile move from Iowa to Ohio go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Des Moines to Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Columbus. 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 Columbus Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For Property, 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 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Columbus
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 649 miles from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH will cost on average $2,333 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Columbus move is roughly $5,593. 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 | $1,570 | 300 ft³ | 5.23 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,333 | 450 ft³ | 5.18 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,851 | 750 ft³ | 5.13 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,593 | 1100 ft³ | 5.08 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,056 | 1600 ft³ | 5.03 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,973 | 1800 ft³ | 4.98 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Columbus Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Blue Men Moving LLC
10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW
Pickerington, OH, 43147
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3544037 / 1184394 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,500 (2022) |
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) |
Manifest Shipping Llc
501 Southwick Pl
Trenton, OH, 45067
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3050908 / 49758 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 46,740 (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. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings through the lens of your old neighborhood can ease the transition. In this guide, we provide a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Columbus, OH , to help you find a new home that feels familiar. Whether you’re looking for vibrant social scenes, serene parks, or historic charm, this comparison will guide you through the best neighbourhood matches.
| Des Moines | Columbus | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Short North | Diverse, artsy community with vibrant nightlife |
| Beaverdale | Clintonville | Family-friendly, with charming homes and local shops |
| Drake | University District | Young, energetic, near higher education |
| Sherman Hill | German Village | Historic homes, cobblestone streets |
| Waveland Park | Grandview Heights | Mix of residential and commercial, community feel |
| Highland Park | Merion Village | Affordable, close-knit community with parks |
| South of Grand | Bexley | Upscale, spacious homes with green spaces |
| Gray's Lake | Scioto Mile | Waterfront views, outdoor activities |
| Waterbury | Italian Village | Quaint, with a mix of modern and historic homes |
| Ingersoll Avenue | Brewery District | Lively, historic, with craft breweries and dining options |
If you're moving from the artsy and bustling East Village of Des Moines to Columbus, you'll feel right at home in the Short North, where art galleries, boutiques, and trendy eateries line the streets much like they do on Des Moines' East Locust Street. Similarly, those accustomed to the historic charm and tight-knit community of Sherman Hill might find a new love for German Village, Columbus, known for its picturesque brick roads and an array of local cafes like Pistacia Vera. For outdoor enthusiasts used to the recreational activities around Gray's Lake, the Scioto Mile in Columbus offers abundant green spaces and riverfront trails perfect for jogging and biking, complemented by the COSI Science Museum for weekend outings. These neighborhoods in Columbus not only mirror the community vibe and amenities found in Des Moines but also provide unique local flavors and experiences to their residents.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Columbus
Moving across states brings its unique set of challenges and delights. This guide aims to unveil the reality of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, providing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. The purpose of the following charts is to compare the cons to the pros and vice versa, aiding in your decision-making process.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine options
- Fewer job opportunities
- Lower cultural happenings
- Less public transportation
Columbus, OH- Larger metropolitan area
- Broader culinary scene
- Greater job market
- Richer cultural experiences
- More public transport options
Columbus, OH- More anonymity
- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- Complex city landscape
- Fewer green spaces
Des Moines, IA- Close-knit community
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic congestion
- Easy city navigation
- More green spaces
While Des Moines offers a smaller, more intimate community atmosphere with less traffic and an easy-to-navigate city layout, Columbus opens doors to a richer cultural experience and a broader job market. Columbus boasts a vibrant culinary scene with restaurants like Lindey's and a wealth of cultural institutions like the Columbus Museum of Art. Furthermore, while Des Moines’s green spaces like The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden provide serene escapes, Columbus counters with bustling public spaces such as The Scioto Mile, offering both recreational activities and scenic beauty. Despite Columbus having a higher cost of living and more traffic, the move promises greater opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Des Moines vs. Columbus Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new city, as food is an important part of local culture and living experience. This guide will help you explore what each city has to offer by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Columbus , so you can get a taste of your new home before you even arrive.
| Des Moines | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Buckeye Candy |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | Columbus-style Pizza |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Gyros |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, local delicacies like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich can be savored in the historic East Village, where eateries reflect the city's rich agricultural heritage. In contrast, Columbus offers a diverse culinary scene, highlighted by innovative establishments like North Market, where you can explore a variety of cuisines from all over the world. The city is also well-known for its health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, with neighborhoods like Short North boasting restaurants that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you're exploring the vibrant food truck scene or indulging in local specialties like Buckeye Candy, moving to Columbus will satisfy your culinary curiosity.
Des Moines vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, discovering local dining spots can significantly help in calling a place home. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Columbus is designed to guide newcomers in finding their next favorite eateries, ensuring a smoother transition. Let's make your move tasteful!
| Des Moines | Columbus | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Marcella's | A vibrant, bustling atmosphere with Italian classics |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Thurman Cafe | Known for creative burgers and a funky vibe |
| Fong's Pizza | Harvest Pizzeria | Innovative pizzas with a focus on local ingredients |
| A Dong | Indochine Cafe | Authentic Southeast Asian cuisine with a cozy ambience |
| 801 Chophouse | Mitchell's Steakhouse | Upscale dining with prime cuts and elegant setting |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Craft brewery with a strong focus on gastronomy |
| Django | Brassica | Casual yet chic, offering a modern take on Mediterranean |
| La Mie Bakery | Pistacia Vera | High-quality bakery with a wide selection of pastries |
| Smokey D's BBQ | Ray Ray's Hog Pit | Authentic barbecue experience with a passionate following |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Seventh Son Brewing | Renowned for its beers and vibrant social scene |
Discovering places that remind you of home can make the transition to a new city like Columbus much smoother. For example, if you’re a fan of the unique and innovative pies at Fong's Pizza in Des Moines, you'll find a kindred spirit in Harvest Pizzeria in Columbus, which also embraces creativity with its use of local ingredients. Similarly, lovers of craft beer and hearty dishes will appreciate both Exile Brewing Co. and Wolf's Ridge Brewing for their commitment to quality and ambiance. And for those special nights out, 801 Chophouse and Mitchell's Steakhouse offer that perfect mix of fine dining and high-quality meat cuts, ensuring that no matter where you are, you can find a spot that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between your current city and your potential new home is crucial for making an informed decision. For those moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyles can significantly impact your choice and transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman and Ranch | Colonial Revival and Cape Cod |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, quiet neighborhoods | Urban amenities, proximity to parks |
Digging deeper into the comparison, you'll notice that while Columbus has a higher median home price and rent, it compensates with larger urban lifestyle offerings including a variety of local establishments and parks. The architectural styles reflect the historical growth of both cities, with Des Moines featuring more Craftsman and Ranch homes ideal for those looking for a classic American feel. Columbus, on the other hand, offers Colonial Revival and Cape Cod styles which might appeal to those seeking a touch of historical elegance. Moreover, Columbus scores higher in walkability and bikeability, making it a potentially better fit for those who prioritize an active, urban lifestyle.
Des Moines vs. Columbus Weather Considerations
Moving between cities requires understanding how the weather might change. This comparison offers insights into the weather differences you can expect when moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, focusing on climate conditions, air quality, and potential seasonal allergies. Knowing these can help you prepare for your new home.
Des Moines, IA
Columbus, OH
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Columbus, OH
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Columbus, OH
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Columbus, OH
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Tornadoes, Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Des Moines and Columbus enjoy similar summer temperatures, winters in Columbus are slightly milder, reducing the heaviness of snowfall to around 22 inches compared to Des Moines' 34 inches. Sunshine is more plentiful in Des Moines, potentially affecting mood and Vitamin D intake. Regarding air quality and allergies, Columbus' air quality is considered moderate, which might be a consideration for those sensitive to atmospheric conditions. Lastly, both cities face the risk of tornadoes and storms, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for natural disasters in these areas.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Columbus
Understanding the financial implications of relocating is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in money and finance between Des Moines, IA, and Columbus, OH, assisting you in making an informed decision about your move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $58,202 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 92 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5 | 4.8 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 1.7 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Finance, Manufacturing | Government, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
When considering a move from Des Moines to Columbus, it's essential to note the subtle yet significant financial differences. While the average household income is slightly higher in Des Moines, Columbus presents a marginally higher cost of living. State income tax is more favorable in Columbus, possibly offsetting some expenses despite the city's higher sales tax rate. Both cities boast moderate levels of affluence, but Columbus tends to have higher rates of poverty and homelessness, which may reflect broader socio-economic dynamics. Understanding these financial nuances can help you better prepare for your relocation.
Des Moines vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Columbus. It's designed to help you grasp the communal atmosphere you're moving into, highlighting key differences and similarities.
| Des Moines | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Des Moines | City of Columbus |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population | Diverse, with a significant Christian population |
While both Des Moines and Columbus lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, the nuances in local politics could offer a new palette for civic engagement opportunities. Websites like the City of Des Moines and City of Columbus provide avenues for you to understand specific local issues and how you can participate. The religious landscape in both cities is predominantly Christian, reflecting a fair degree of religious diversity. This diversity underscores the inclusive communities you're likely to encounter, fostering a space for varied cultural and religious expressions.
Des Moines vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH can significantly impact your daily routine, especially when it comes to the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Columbus. This comparison aims to provide a better understanding of what you might expect in your daily commute and traffic encounters in these two cities.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Moderately Easy |
In Des Moines, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is reported to be less intense compared to Columbus. However, Columbus offers a more robust public transit system, making it easier for residents to get around the city without a car. This is significant if you're moving from Des Moines and are used to driving everywhere. Columbus's higher score in public transit availability indicates that you might find using buses or other local transit options more convenient for your daily commute or exploring the city. While both cities pose some challenges for those looking to rely solely on public transit, Columbus offers a somewhat more accessible experience.
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