Best Des Moines to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,836 mile move from Iowa to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Des Moines to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,836 miles from Des Moines, IA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $3,343 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Seattle move is roughly $8,061. 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 | $2,243 | 300 ft³ | 7.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,343 | 450 ft³ | 7.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,533 | 750 ft³ | 7.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,061 | 1100 ft³ | 7.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,645 | 1600 ft³ | 7.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,010 | 1800 ft³ | 7.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a maze of unknowns. To help you navigate, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Seattle, WA . This guide is designed to match you with a neighborhood in Seattle that shares the vibes and amenities you love back in Des Moines, making the transition just a bit easier.
| Des Moines | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Capitol Hill | Vibrant nightlife and indie stores |
| Beaverdale | Ballard | Cozy, with historic homes and strong community |
| Drake | University District | College town feel with diverse food options |
| Waterbury | Madrona | Leafy residential areas next to boutiques and cafes |
| Sherman Hill | Queen Anne | Historic architecture with a mix of modern amenities |
| South of Grand | Leschi | Lake views and upscale dining with a relaxed vibe |
| Waveland Park | Green Lake | Active outdoor community with a park and lake |
| Highland Park | West Seattle | Strong sense of community with waterfront access |
| Ingersoll Park | Wallingford | Quiet, family-friendly with great local dining |
| Gray's Lake | South Lake Union | Bustling tech hub with recreational activities |
Imagining life in Seattle becomes easier when you can draw parallels with Des Moines. For instance, East Village's artsy, progressive spirit finds its echo in Capitol Hill, where murals color the streets and indie shops abound. Imagine sipping coffee at Stumptown Coffee Roasters after a stroll through Cal Anderson Park. Those missing the cozy, community vibes of Beaverdale will find comfort in Ballard's Sunday Farmers Market and historic Ballard Avenue. Similarly, the tranquility and grand homes of Waterbury are mirrored in Madrona's leafy streets, where you can enjoy a lakeview brunch at Hi-Spot Café. Seattle offers a mosaic of communities, each with unique characteristics but with surprising parallels to the neighborhoods you’ve come to love in Des Moines.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Seattle
Moving can be a significant life decision, with plenty of factors to consider. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Seattle, WA. By examining the cons and pros in parallel, you'll gain a clearer picture of what each city offers, helping you make a more informed choice.
Des Moines, IA- Lesser job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Lower diversity
- Harsh winters
- Limited seafood options
Seattle, WA- Thriving tech industry
- Vibrant arts community
- Greater cultural diversity
- Milder climate
- Fresh seafood abundancy
Seattle, WA- Higher cost of living
- Longer commutes
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Higher property taxes
- Difficult parking
Des Moines, IA- Affordable living
- Shorter commute times
- Friendly communities
- Lower property taxes
- Easy navigation
Moving from Des Moines to Seattle introduces you into a world teeming with diverse cultures and an impressive arts scene that includes landmarks like the Seattle Art Museum and the iconic Space Needle. The tech job market in Seattle is robust, with giants like Amazon and Microsoft headquartered there, offering plentiful opportunities for career growth. While Seattle's cost of living and property taxes are higher, the city compensates with its stunning natural beauty, exemplified by places like Discovery Park, and a gastronomic paradise especially for seafood lovers highlighted by eateries such as Pike Place Fish Market. Despite the potential for longer commutes, Seattle's comprehensive public transport system, including the Seattle Light Rail, makes navigating the city manageable.
Des Moines vs. Seattle Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital as food is a significant part of local culture and impacts the living experience in an area. To aid in your relocation decision-making, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Seattle , offering insight into what culinary delights await you in either city.
| Des Moines | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Pork Chops | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Truck Tacos | Food Truck Pho |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BLT | Seitan Steak |
| 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 the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich at local favorites like Zombie Burger, while in Seattle, fresh Salmon and Dungeness Crab are must-tries, with Pike Place Market offering an abundance of fresh, local seafood. Seattle's food scene is renowned for its diversity and innovation, particularly in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard, where food trucks, plant-based restaurants, and sustainable seafood eateries thrive. Meanwhile, Des Moines' burgeoning food scene boasts an impressive array of vegan options and local meat dishes, reflecting the city's agricultural roots and innovative culinary spirit. Both cities offer a unique taste of local flavors that are reflective of their respective cultures and regions.
Des Moines vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the significance of cuisine in creating a sense of belonging, this comparison aims to ease your transition by aligning your culinary favorites from Des Moines to the closest equivalent spots in Seattle. Food plays a pivotal role in feeling at home, and by using this guide, you'll be well on your way to discovering your new favorite eateries.
| Des Moines | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Cafe Lago | Family-style Italian reminiscent of Centro's charm |
| Alba | Altura | Innovative American cuisine with a high-end touch |
| Fong's Pizza | Delancey | Artisanal pizzas that match Fong's unique flavors |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Katsu Burger | Creative burgers with a twist similar to Zombie Burger |
| Harbinger | Walrus and the Carpenter | Offering a foodie haven with unique dishes |
| Jethro’s BBQ | Jack’s BBQ | Authentic barbeque experience mirroring Jethro’s comfort vibes |
| Miyabi 9 | Umi Sake House | Japanese cuisine that rivals Miyabi 9’s sushi and offerings |
| A dong | Long Provincial Vietnamese | Captivating flavors similar to A dong’s menu |
| La Mie Bakery | Bakery Nouveau | A beloved spot for pastries and baked goods plein air |
| Gusto Pizza Co. | Serious Pie | Pizza with an elevated twist that mirrors Gusto’s creativity |
Transitioning to a new city doesn't mean you have to leave behind the flavors you love. For instance, if Centro’s Italian cuisine holds a special place in your heart, Cafe Lago in Seattle will comfort you with its similar family-style Italian dishes and warm atmosphere. Interestingly, both Alba in Des Moines and Altura in Seattle elevate the dining experience with their own unique takes on American cuisine, offering innovative dishes that cater to the fine dining aficionado. On a more casual note, Fong's Pizza and Delancey stand out for their dedication to crafting artisanal pizzas, making sure that whether you're in Des Moines or Seattle, your pizza cravings are met with top-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Venturing into such restaurants not only introduces you to Seattle's diverse culinary scene but also bridges the gap between the old and new chapters of your life.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial, particularly when comparing Des Moines, IA, and Seattle, WA. This comparison offers insights into housing costs, architecture, and the overall lifestyle in both cities, aiding in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Contemporary and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large Yards, Quiet Streets | Views, Eco-friendly Features |
The discrepancies in housing between Des Moines and Seattle highlight the contrasting lifestyle preferences and financial requirements of the two cities. While Des Moines offers affordability with a median home price and rent far below that of Seattle, the latter compensates with its high walkability and urban lifestyle score, indicative of a vibrant city life. Seattle's emphasis on eco-friendly features and the views of the Puget Sound or mountain ranges in real estate listings reflect the city's connection with nature and modern living standards. Conversely, Des Moines real estate prides itself on more traditional values like large yards and quiet, family-friendly streets, appealing to those seeking a quieter, more spacious living environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Des Moines vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
If you're planning on moving, understanding the weather comparison between Des Moines, IA and Seattle, WA is crucial. This comparison will help prepare you for the weather changes you're about to experience, ensuring there are no surprises as you adjust to your new city.
Des Moines, IA
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Landslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Des Moines to Seattle, you'll notice a significant difference in weather patterns. Seattle's milder summer highs and warmer winter lows compared to Des Moines mean that you'll experience less of a temperature range over the year. Additionally, while Des Moines enjoys more sunny days annually, Seattle's higher average humidity can make its fewer sunny days feel quite pleasant. Understanding the prevalence of natural disasters in each area—tornadoes and floods in Des Moines versus earthquakes and landslides in Seattle—can also help you prepare for emergencies. Lastly, the slight difference in annual rainfall might not seem significant, but Seattle's reputation for rain is due to its frequent drizzle rather than heavy downpours, contrasting with Des Moines' more intense but less frequent rainfall events.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Seattle
When planning a move, understanding how your financial standing will change is critical. This chart aims to capture the essential monetary differences to anticipate when relocating. It highlights the cost of living, taxes, and earning potential from Des Moines, IA to Seattle, WA, providing a clear financial roadmap for your upcoming transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.99% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Technology, Aerospace, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
While Des Moines boasts a more affordable cost of living and lower sales taxes, Seattle offers significantly higher average household incomes. However, the considerable difference in the cost of living index between the two cities indicates that this increased income is necessary to maintain a similar standard of living. Seattle's lack of state income tax may initially seem like a financial advantage, but it's compensated for by higher sales and property taxes. Additionally, the unemployment rates and industry focus reflect the diverse economic landscapes, with Des Moines favoring traditional sectors like finance and manufacturing, and Seattle leaning towards technology and aerospace. Understanding these financial nuances will help you better prepare for your move.
Des Moines vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Des Moines, IA to Seattle, WA, it's helpful to understand the community you'll be joining. This quick comparison provides insights into the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities.
| Des Moines | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Liberal | Very Liberal |
| Local Politics | Combination of Progressive and Traditional | Strong Progressive Policies |
| Religion | Christianity Dominant Local Churches | Less Religious, Diverse Beliefs Seattle Unity Church |
In Des Moines, you'll find a dynamic political environment where liberalism is prominent yet balanced with traditional perspectives. The city's politics can be described as a mix, engaging both progressive and conservative communities. Moving to Seattle, expect a shift towards a more pronounced liberal atmosphere, where progressive policies and viewpoints shape the city. Religion in Des Moines primarily revolves around Christian practices, with numerous churches serving as community hubs. By contrast, Seattle presents a more secular lifestyle, with a diversity of religious beliefs and a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious. The community welcomes a range of spiritual and secular perspectives, making it a mosaic of cultural and religious backgrounds.
Des Moines vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving cities can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to navigating new streets and understanding local transit options. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Seattle, helping you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Reasonably easy |
When relocating from Des Moines to Seattle, you'll notice a significant shift in your daily transit experience. Seattle's slightly higher average commute time and traffic congestion reflect its dense urban structure. However, its public transit system is more robust, with services like the Sound Transit Light Rail and King County Metro, making it easier to move around without a car. While Des Moines offers a more relaxed commute with less congestion, its dependency on cars is greater due to a less extensive public transit network. Transitioning to Seattle, you might find your reliance on a vehicle significantly reduced, offering a different but potentially more sustainable lifestyle.
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