Best Des Moines to Houston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Houston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 936 mile move from Iowa to Texas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Des Moines to Houston moving companies and more than 20,000 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Houston. 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 Houston 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 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Pinpoint Movers | 8.76 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Right Rate Movers of Houston | 8.67 | 8.59 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Houston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 936 miles from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX will cost on average $2,577 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Houston move is roughly $6,190. 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 | $1,733 | 300 ft³ | 5.78 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,577 | 450 ft³ | 5.73 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,258 | 750 ft³ | 5.68 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,190 | 1100 ft³ | 5.63 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,923 | 1600 ft³ | 5.58 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,949 | 1800 ft³ | 5.53 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Houston to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Houston 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) |
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) |
Pinpoint Movers
7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199
Houston, TX, 77036
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3070055 / 944442 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Right Rate Movers of Houston
2925 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX, 77098
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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. Houston Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX, it's vital to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Houston, TX . By identifying the similarities between neighborhoods in both cities, we hope to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings more quickly.
| Des Moines | Houston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Montrose | Diverse, artistic community |
| Beaverdale | Heights | Historic homes, vibrant community |
| Shawdow Ridge | Clear Lake | Family-friendly, close to nature |
| Waterbury | West University | Upscale, peaceful neighborhoods |
| Drake | Museum District | Cultural hub, educational institutions |
| Waveland Park | Rice Military | Young, energetic environment |
| Southwestern Hills | Katy | Family-oriented, great schooling options |
| Highland Park | Midtown | Urban, with a mix of residential and commercial |
| Sherman Hill | Montrose again | Rich historical background |
| Gray's Lake | Buffalo Bayou Park | Scenic views, outdoor activities |
In Des Moines' East Village, you'll find a rich blend of boutique shops, local restaurants, and cultural institutions that mirror the eclectic vibe found in Houston's Montrose. Both neighborhoods are celebrated for their diversity and active arts scene. Similarly, Beaverdale's charm with its historic homes and tightly-knit community finds a counterpart in Houston's Heights, known for its vibrant art scene, unique local businesses, such as 19th Street's shops, and community events. For those drawn to the outdoors, Gray's Lake in Des Moines offers a peaceful retreat with its beautiful park and recreational activities, much like Houston's Buffalo Bayou Park, where the skyline views at sunrise or sunset are truly unparalleled. Whether it's the cultural richness of Drake and Museum District or the youthful energy of Waveland Park and Rice Military, moving from Des Moines to Houston means you won't have to compromise on the neighborhood qualities you love.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Houston
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX is a significant life change that comes with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the pros and cons thoroughly. By examining how the lifestyle, climate, and cultural scenes contrast between your old and new homes, you can prepare for what's ahead.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller City Feel
- Fewer Job Opportunities
- Colder Winters
- Less Cultural Diversity
- Lesser Dining Variety
Houston, TX- Larger Metro Area
- More Diverse Economy
- Warmer Climate
- Rich Cultural Mix
- Vast Cuisine Options
Houston, TX- Higher Expenses
- Busier Lifestyle
- Traffic Congestion
- Hotter Summers
- Greater Flood Risk
Des Moines, IA- Lower Cost of Living
- Quiet, Close-Knit
- Easy Navigation
- More Seasons
- Less Natural Disaster Risk
Relocating from Des Moines to Houston introduces you to a dramatically different lifestyle. You'll trade the calmness and easier navigation of a smaller city for Houston's bustling metro vibe, where Space City offers an expansive job market in sectors like energy, aeronautics, and technology. Say goodbye to long, cold winters and welcome milder winters with open arms. The culinary scene is a feast for foodies, with neighborhoods like Montrose offering everything from authentic Tex-Mex to gourmet dining experiences. However, prepare for the hotter summers and consider the risks of flooding in certain areas. But with careful planning, such as choosing a home in a less flood-prone neighborhood, you can embrace all the opportunities Houston has to offer.
Des Moines vs. Houston Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial when moving to a new city. It offers a taste of local culture and everyday life. In this guide, we’ll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Houston to give you a better sense of the food scene in your new home.
| Des Moines | Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Texas BBQ Brisket |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chops | Fajitas |
| Most popular street food item | Walking Taco | Tacos al Pastor |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Chili | Vegan Tex-Mex |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Houston, the vibrant Montrose and Midtown neighborhoods are bustling hubs for foodies, offering an eclectic mix of Tex-Mex, barbecue, and international cuisines. Local favorites like Killen's Barbecue in Pearland and The Original Ninfa's on Navigation are legendary for their traditional Texan fare. The abundant food truck scene, especially in areas like East Downtown (EaDo), serves up diverse street foods, from authentic Tacos al Pastor to innovative vegan options, showcasing Houston's culinary diversity compared to Des Moines. Whether you’re dining at one of Houston’s iconic establishments or grabbing a bite from a food truck, the city's blend of cultures promises an exciting and flavorful food journey.
Des Moines vs. Houston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in transforming a new area into a place that feels like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Des Moines to Houston will assist you in discovering new favorite spots, effortlessly transitioning your culinary preferences from your current city to your future one.
| Des Moines | Houston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Nancy's Hustle | Eclectic menu with a cozy, urban vibe |
| Fong's Pizza | Frank's Pizza | Known for late-night slices and unique toppings |
| Alba | Oxheart | Innovative dining with a chef-driven menu |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Hubcap Grill | Gourmet burgers with a cult following |
| Jethro’s BBQ | Killen's Barbecue | Renowned Texas BBQ with a devoted fan base |
| A Dong Restaurant | Pho Binh | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a homely feel |
| Harbinger | Uchi | High-end sushi and Japanese plates in a chic setting |
| Lucca | Da Marco | Upscale Italian dining with an intimate atmosphere |
| El Bait Shop | The Hay Merchant | Vast beer selection paired with hearty pub fare |
| Tasty Tacos | Torchy's Tacos | Inventive tacos that have gathered a cult following |
Exploring the culinary landscapes of Des Moines and Houston reveals a delightful array of eateries that cater to various tastes and occasions. For instance, the transition from Fong's Pizza in Des Moines to Frank's Pizza in Houston ensures that your cravings for innovative and savory slices are well met in your new city. Similarly, aficionados of unique burgers will find solace in moving from the creative concoctions of Zombie Burger + Drink Lab to the inventive and satisfying burgers at Hubcap Grill. Moreover, the transition from the smoked delights of Jethro’s BBQ to the acclaimed and authentic Texas barbecue experience at Killen's Barbecue highlights the seamless culinary bridge between Des Moines and Houston, nurturing your appetite for exceptional smoked meats in your new Texas home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Houston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move. Understanding how Des Moines and Houston stack up against each other in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can help make your decision more informed. Let's dive into the comparison.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Ranch | Modern and Traditional |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Quiet neighborhoods, proximity to schools | Energy efficiency, luxury finishes |
While Des Moines and Houston both offer unique living experiences, specific differences might sway your decision. Homes in Houston, for instance, tend to be more expensive, but the city compensates with a vibrant urban lifestyle, scoring a 9 out of 10. Houston's modern and traditional architecture may appeal if you're seeking a contemporary living space, with many listings highlighting luxury finishes and energy efficiency. In contrast, Des Moines offers a more laid-back setting with a focus on colonial and ranch-style homes, boasting quiet neighborhoods and proximity to schools. These contrasting elements can play a significant role depending on what you value in your day-to-day living environment.
Des Moines vs. Houston Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs from what you're accustomed to is crucial. This comparison between Des Moines, IA and Houston, TX weather aims to prepare you for your move, highlighting key climatic differences. Let's dive into the specifics to help you adjust better to your new environment.
Des Moines, IA
Houston, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Houston, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Houston, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Houston, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Winter Storms | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to Houston will bring you into a warmer, more humid environment, particularly noticeable during the summer. Houston's higher average UV index suggests a greater need for sun protection. While both cities experience significant annual precipitation, Houston's is primarily rain, leading to flooding risks, unlike Des Moines' mix of rain and snow. Adapting to Houston means preparing for hurricanes instead of the tornadoes and winter storms more common in Des Moines. Also, the change in top seasonal allergies could impact your daily life, requiring adjustments to alleviate symptoms. Considering these differences will aid in a smoother transition to your new home's climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Houston
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how the cost of living and key economic factors in Des Moines and Houston will impact your budget and lifestyle. It's important to weigh these differences to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $55,499 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 92.2 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 to 8.53 | 0 (Texas has no state income tax) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53 | 2.09 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, and Healthcare | Energy, Manufacturing, and Aeronautics |
| Affluence | Moderate | Mixed |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
While Des Moines boasts a slightly higher average household income and a lower cost of living index than Houston, the latter city benefits from having no state income tax. This distinction can offset the higher expenses found in Houston, such as its cost of living index and property tax rate. The industries dominating each city's economy greatly influence the local job markets and could impact your career opportunities. Des Moines thrives on finance, insurance, and healthcare, while Houston's economy is powered by energy, manufacturing, and aeronautics. These differences highlight the importance of considering your career path and financial priorities when deciding between these two diverse cities.
Des Moines vs. Houston Political & Religious Comparison
When considering moving from Des Moines, IA, to Houston, TX, it's helpful to understand the differences in the community's composition you'll encounter. This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of Des Moines & Houston , providing insight into the characteristics that define the residents of your current and future home.
| Des Moines | Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Diverse, with a Democratic majority in urban areas |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Progressive with emphasis on immigration and business |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a mix of other faiths | Highly diverse, including Christianity, Islam, and others |
In moving from Des Moines to Houston, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a majority Christian population that leans Democratic to a highly diverse metropolis both in demographics and political affiliations. Local politics in Houston place a considerable emphasis on immigration and business-friendly policies, reflecting its position as a global city. Also, Houston's religious landscape is notably diverse, hosting a wide array of faiths and places of worship, including the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for Christians and the Islamic Society of Greater Houston for Muslims, marking a significant shift from the religious composition you might be used to in Des Moines.
Des Moines vs. Houston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This comparison will help you better grasp what to expect regarding your daily commute and navigating around your new home.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with some planning | Challenging |
While Des Moines offers a somewhat relaxed commute with an average time of about 20 minutes and lower levels of traffic congestion, Houston presents a bit of a challenge with average commute times reaching 30 minutes and higher congestion rates. Public transit in Houston is slightly more available than in Des Moines, reflecting the larger size and dense urban layout of the city. However, getting around without a car in Houston can be more challenging compared to Des Moines, where the city's scale and services like the DART provide a bit more flexibility for residents without personal vehicles.
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