Best Des Moines to Oklahoma City Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 543 mile move from Iowa to Oklahoma go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Des Moines to Oklahoma 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 Adamantine Spine Moving), 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma City Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Serenity Moving Services | 9.11 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Sneedworks | 9.04 | 7.7 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Oklahoma City
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 543 miles from Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma City, OK will cost on average $2,243 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Oklahoma City move is roughly $5,373. 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 | $1,510 | 300 ft³ | 5.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,243 | 450 ft³ | 4.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,701 | 750 ft³ | 4.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,373 | 1100 ft³ | 4.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,735 | 1600 ft³ | 4.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,612 | 1800 ft³ | 4.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oklahoma City to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Oklahoma City 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) |
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) |
Serenity Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by Serenity Moving Services3217 Bart Conner Dr suite d
Norman, OK, 73072
About Serenity Moving Services
Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, community. This...
Services
- Full Service Moving
- Packing & Unpacking
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2439364 / 988784 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
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) |
Sneedworks
Newcastle, OK, 73065
About Sneedworks
Sneedworks is a locally owned and operated moving company specializing in commercial and residential moving and storage services. Their team of...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3556816 / 1535559 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (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. Oklahoma City Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into the unknown, but familiarizing yourself with your future home is key to a smooth transition. By comparing Des Moines, IA & Oklahoma City, OK neighborhoods , we aim to make this process easier, helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Des Moines | Oklahoma City | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Quail Creek | Family-friendly, strong community vibe |
| East Village | Plaza District | Vibrant arts scene and unique shops |
| Waveland Park | Crown Heights | Historic area with charming homes |
| Sherman Hill | Heritage Hills | Historic preservation, close to downtown |
| Drake | Paseo Arts District | Eclectic and vibrant with artistic community |
| Ingersoll Park | Lincoln Terrace | Rich in history, near medical/educational institutions |
| Waterbury | Nichols Hills | Upscale, with spacious parks and boutiques |
| Highland Park | Capitol Hill | Diverse, with a strong sense of community |
| Downtown | Bricktown | Energetic nightlife and entertainment options |
| South of Grand | Edgemere Park | Beautiful, with a mix of historic and modern homes |
Preferences in neighborhoods reflect one's lifestyle and personality. If you enjoy the artistic and bohemian atmosphere of Des Moines's East Village, you'll feel right at home in Oklahoma City's Plaza District. The Plaza District is renowned for its lively arts scene, hosting monthly art walks that showcase local talent. For those who appreciate historic preservation alongside modern conveniences, Sherman Hill in Des Moines and Heritage Hills in Oklahoma City share a kinship, with Heritage Hills boasting beautifully maintained early-20th-century homes a stone's throw from the bustling downtown area. Meanwhile, Waterbury's emphasis on upscale living with access to boutique shops and spacious parks mirrors that of Nichols Hills, where high-end shopping and manicured parks offer a refined lifestyle. Through these comparisons, transitioning from Des Moines to Oklahoma City can be less about leaving behind what you love and more about discovering new places to call home.
Things to Do in Oklahoma City
Explore Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden.- Stroll around Myriad Botanical Gardens.
- Attend a Thunder basketball game.
- Catch a film at OKC Museum of Art.
- Learn history at OKC National Memorial & Museum.
- Sample food at Paseo Arts District.
- Enjoy Frontier City Theme Park rides.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City
Moving from one city to another always comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma City, OK. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, we hope to offer a balanced perspective to help you make an informed decision.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser job opportunities
- Colder winters
- Lesser entertainment options
Oklahoma City, OK- Larger metro area
- More diverse job market
- Milder winters
- Rich cultural scene
Oklahoma City, OK- Less personal
- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Larger, more spread out
Des Moines, IA- Community feel
- Lower cost of living
- Easy to navigate
- Close-knit neighborhoods
While moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City, you'll find that the change in weather from colder winters to milder ones can make a significant difference in your daily activities and how you plan your year-round events. Oklahoma City's larger metro area, compared to the smaller city vibe of Des Moines, opens up a variety of cultural and entertainment options. For instance, Bricktown in Oklahoma City is a bustling entertainment district filled with restaurants, canal-side attractions, and even the Bricktown Water Taxi. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a unique blend of community feel with its local businesses like Raygun, a popular store known for its quirky Midwestern-themed merchandise. These distinct experiences contribute to the diverse lifestyle you’ll encounter moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City.
Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Food Guide
When considering a move, the local food scene provides a deep insight into the culture and lifestyle of an area. In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & Oklahoma City, OK so you can anticipate the culinary adventures that await in your new home.
| Des Moines | Oklahoma City | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Chicken Fried Steak |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Pork | Barbecue Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Loaded Nachos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, you'll find a thriving food scene that balances traditional Midwestern fare with innovative culinary trends. The city's love for the pork tenderloin sandwich can be seen in countless local eateries, but for an unexpected twist on pizza, Fong’s Pizza combines quirky flavors with Asian influences. Oklahoma City, on the other hand, offers a deep-rooted barbecue culture with its signature chicken fried steak and barbecue brisket. For those exploring the vegan scene, Oklahoma City’s BBQ Jackfruit is a must-try. The Jones Assembly stands out as a multi-purpose venue offering great food and entertainment, embodying the city's vibrant and evolving foodie scene. Both cities boast an impressive number of food trucks and vegan options, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Restaurant Comparison
Finding the right food spots can turn a new city into home. This comparison aims to ease your transition from Des Moines, IA, to Oklahoma City, OK, by matching your old favorites with new ones. By using Des Moines' top restaurants as a guide, you'll discover Oklahoma City's culinary equals, helping you find your next go-to eateries.
| Des Moines | Oklahoma City | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Nonesuch | Small plate dining focusing on local, seasonal ingredients, mirroring Centro’s dedication to quality and taste. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | The Garage Burgers and Beer | Offering creative burgers in a casual atmosphere that's similar to Zombie Burger. |
| Fong's Pizza | Empire Slice House | Known for eclectic and innovative pizza options much like Fong's. |
| Harbinger | The Pritchard | A wine bar and restaurant with inventive plates that parallel Harbinger’s approach to dining. |
| La Mie Bakery | Belle Kitchen | Both highly praised for their freshly baked goods and cozy, inviting atmospheres. |
| 801 Chophouse | Mahogany Prime Steakhouse | Offers a sophisticated steakhouse experience comparable to 801 Chophouse. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Prairie Artisan Ales Taproom | Both have a unique selection of locally brewed beers and a friendly environment. |
| Aroy-Dee | Thai House | Delicious and authentic Thai cuisine that rivals the experience at Aroy-Dee. |
| Tursi's Latin King | Gusto Pizza Co. | While Gusto leans more towards Italian-American offerings, its quality and vibe are reminiscent of Latin King’s legacy. |
| Alba | Ludivine | Both are known for their inventive and locally-sourced menus, offering a high-end dining experience. |
Whether you're reminiscing over Centro's innovative cuisine or longing for Zombie Burger's creative comfort food, Oklahoma City's dining scene is ready to fill the void. Nonesuch's intimate setting and focus on local ingredients will appeal to Centro's fans, offering an exceptional dining adventure reminiscent of your Des Moines favorite. On a more casual note, Empire Slice House's expansive and creative pizza menu will inevitably remind you of Fong's Pizza, ensuring your cravings for originality in pizzas are well catered to. For those special occasions, Mahogany Prime Steakhouse stands as Oklahoma City's parallel to 801 Chophouse, offering an equally sophisticated and high-quality steakhouse experience. Embrace the culinary journey in Oklahoma City, where every bite brings you closer to feeling right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when planning a move; understanding the differences between your starting point and destination is key. In comparing Des Moines, IA , and Oklahoma City, OK , this guide focuses on housing characteristics to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Oklahoma City |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Ranch | Ranch, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to schools, Quiet neighborhoods | Spacious backyards, Near parks |
While both Des Moines and Oklahoma City offer affordable housing options, differences in median home prices and rents can influence your decision. Des Moines homes typically reflect Prairie and Ranch styles, resonating with its Midwestern roots, whereas Oklahoma City features a mix of Ranch and Bungalow architectures, giving it a distinct character. Walkability and bikeability scores indicate that Des Moines might offer a slightly more active urban lifestyle compared to Oklahoma City. Additionally, real estate listings in Des Moines often highlight proximity to schools and quiet neighborhoods, while listings in Oklahoma City frequently boast spacious backyards and closeness to parks, catering to those who value outdoor recreational space.
Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma City, OK, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Des Moines compares to Oklahoma City. This comparison will help you adjust to the climate differences and plan accordingly for your new life in a different city.
Des Moines, IA
Oklahoma City, OK
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Oklahoma City, OK
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Oklahoma City, OK
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Oklahoma City, OK
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Oklahoma City |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornados | Tornados, Hailstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Oklahoma City enjoys more sunshine and warmer temperatures, especially during summer, compared to Des Moines. The higher average UV index in Oklahoma City suggests a greater need for sun protection. While both cities face the risk of tornadoes, Oklahoma City's more frequent tornadoes and hailstorms highlight the importance of preparedness for these natural disasters. Additionally, the difference in annual snowfall is noteworthy, with Des Moines experiencing significantly more snow. This contrast in weather conditions may require adjustments in your outdoor activities and wardrobe.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City
If you're contemplating a move, grasping the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. Compare the cost of living and financial statistics between Des Moines, IA, and Oklahoma City, OK to grasp how your finances might shift.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Oklahoma City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $59,214 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 91.7 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 0.9% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 8.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Healthcare | Energy, Aerospace, Health Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | Comparable |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Low | Low |
When dissecting financial indicators between Des Moines, IA, and Oklahoma City, OK, it's evident that while the average household income is slightly higher in Des Moines, Oklahoma City presents a marginally higher cost of living index. However, the lower state income tax and property tax rates in Oklahoma may offset some of these costs, offering a potentially more favorable scenario for property owners. Despite these variances, both cities showcase a strong commitment to key industries that drive their economies, indicating healthy employment prospects. Understanding these financial nuances can greatly assist in making an informed decision about your relocation.
Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents comparing Des Moines & Oklahoma City, helping you understand the community you're moving into.
| Des Moines | Oklahoma City | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Democratic | Lean Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Traditional, with conservative leadership |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious presence | Strongly Christian, with a significant evangelical presence |
In Des Moines, you might find a more moderate political climate, with residents generally leaning Democratic, especially on social issues. This aligns with the city's progressive stance on various matters. Contrastingly, in Oklahoma City, the community inclines more conservative, reflecting the traditional values upheld by its residents. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, with Christianity being predominant. However, Oklahoma City has a noticeably stronger evangelical presence. Such differences underscore the distinct communal fabrics of Des Moines and Oklahoma City, each fostering a unique environment shaped by its political and religious landscape.
Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Oklahoma City, OK, isn't just about a new home; it's also a transition in the traffic and transportation options these cities offer. Understanding the daily commute and traffic can help you better prepare for life in Oklahoma City.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Oklahoma City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
Although both Des Moines and Oklahoma City offer relatively short average commute times, slight differences exist which could impact your daily routine. Des Moines exhibits slightly less traffic congestion compared to Oklahoma City, which might be due to its smaller population or road infrastructure. Public transit availability is mildly better in Des Moines, making it somewhat easier to navigate without a car, though it still presents challenges. In Oklahoma City, the reliance on a car becomes more pronounced, given the slightly higher traffic congestion and lower public transit availability. Adapting to these conditions will be key in easing your transition and planning your daily commutes after moving.
Additional Resources
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