Best Baltimore to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Baltimore to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,074 mile move from Maryland to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Baltimore to Des Moines 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 Bookstore Movers), 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 Baltimore compared to Des Moines. 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.

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Best Baltimore to Des Moines Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
2Adamantine Spine Moving9.539.4Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Treasure Moving Company9.399.41Authorized For HHGContact
4Johnson Piano Moving9.389.44Authorized For PropertyContact
5Best Move Inc9.239.19Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Baltimore to Des Moines

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,074 miles from Baltimore, MD to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,695 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Baltimore to Des Moines move is roughly $6,477. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,811300 ft³6.04
1 Bedroom$2,695450 ft³5.99
2 Bedrooms$4,453750 ft³5.94
3 Bedrooms$6,4771100 ft³5.89
4 Bedrooms$9,3411600 ft³5.84
5+ Bedrooms$10,4181800 ft³5.79
*Please note: These Maryland to Iowa moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Maryland & Iowa. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MD to IA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Baltimore guide.

Compare the 5 Best Baltimore to Des Moines Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo

Adamantine Spine Moving

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 956+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Treasure Moving Company Logo

Treasure Moving Company

Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,791+ data points

11140 Rockville Pike # 300

Rockville, MD, 20852

About Treasure Moving Company

Carrying all of your worldly possessions to a new location is no small feat. Throw in the fact that you’re probably...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Residential Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/8/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2431129 / 847222

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Johnson Piano Moving Logo

Johnson Piano Moving

Exceptional9.38/10
based on 824+ data points

14300 Cherry Lane Ct

Laurel, MD, 20707

About Johnson Piano Moving

Johnson Piano Moving is a specialist piano moving company based in Laurel, Maryland that has been operating since 1978. Over its...

Services

  • Local & Long-Distance Piano Movers
  • Piano Moving Local & Long-Distance
  • Climate-Controlled Piano Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1849560 / 667776

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Best Move Inc Logo

Best Move Inc

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 520+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Baltimore vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when relocating to a city you're unfamiliar with. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between Baltimore, MD & Des Moines, IA . By comparing neighborhoods in Baltimore to their counterparts in Des Moines, we aim to help you find a new home that feels familiar. Let's dive into the neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and preferences.

BaltimoreDes MoinesHow They're Similar
Fells PointEast VillageVibrant nightlife and unique shops
CantonBeaverdaleTight-knit community vibe
Mount VernonSherman HillHistoric homes and arts scene
HampdenDrakeEclectic and artsy atmosphere
Harbor EastDowntownModern luxury and waterfront views
Federal HillRooseveltLively with a mix of charm and modernity
Charles VillageWaveland ParkDiverse and academic-centric
Little ItalyWaterburyStrong sense of community and heritage
Roland ParkSomersetGreen spaces and family-friendly
Inner HarborGray's LakeRecreational activities with scenic views

Understanding the character and amenities of a neighborhood can significantly influence your relocation experience. For instance, if you're drawn to the waterfront restaurants and boutique shops of Baltimore's Harbor East, you'll appreciate the comparable modern luxury and Riverside dining options in Des Moines' Downtown area. Similarly, Hampden's unique blend of quirkiness and artistic flair finds a parallel in Drake's eclectic vibe, where local coffee shops and indie businesses thrive. Both neighborhoods host various festivals and events that highlight local creativity and community spirit. For those who enjoy staying active, Baltimore's Inner Harbor and Des Moines' Gray's Lake offer scenic paths for walking and biking, ensuring you won't miss the outdoor urban lifestyle you've grown to love.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Baltimore to Des Moines

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that involves weighing various factors. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the transition from Baltimore, MD to Des Moines, IA , highlighting both the pros and cons associated with such a move. By analyzing the differences, you can make an informed decision on whether this relocation aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Baltimore, MD iconBaltimore, MD
  • Higher crime rates
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Denser population
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower crime rates
  • More affordable living
  • Less traffic
  • Smaller, close-knit community
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer historical sites
  • More limited dining options
  • Landlocked city
Baltimore, MD iconBaltimore, MD
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich historical sites
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Access to water activities

In Baltimore, the vibrant Inner Harbor area, with its array of restaurants like Phillips Seafood, alongside historical sights such as Fort McHenry, offers residents and visitors alike a blend of culinary delight and rich American history. Conversely, Des Moines, while quieter, boasts a thriving community spirit, evident in events held at the Water Works Park and the Downtown Farmers' Market, which bring people together in a celebration of local produce and crafts. Des Moines' pace of life may be slower, but it also offers a sense of serenity and community that is harder to find in the bustling streets of Baltimore. This shift to a more affordable and less congested city might be just what you're looking for, assuming you're ready to trade the ocean's proximity for the charm of Midwestern life.

Baltimore vs. Des Moines Food Guide

Food is a vital part of local culture and what it’s like to live in an area. Knowing this, we’ll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Baltimore & Des Moines . This will help you better understand the food scene you're moving into.

BaltimoreDes Moines
Most iconic local food itemCrab CakesPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dishPit BeefSmoked Pork
Most popular street food itemSoft Shell Crab SandwichTacos
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQVegan Corn Dogs
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Charleston
  • Woodberry Kitchen
  • Thames Street Oyster House
  • Centro
  • Fong’s Pizza
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Baltimore, the food scene is a significant part of its charm, with crab cakes and pit beef standing out as local favorites. Neighborhoods like Fells Point and the Inner Harbor are hotspots for discovering these delicacies, especially at iconic restaurants like Charleston and Woodberry Kitchen. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a unique spin with its famous Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and a dynamic food scene evident at places like Centro and Fong’s Pizza. Whether you’re exploring the East Village for innovative vegan options or participating in the city’s diverse food truck rallies, Des Moines presents an evolving culinary scene that's both vibrant and satisfying.

Baltimore vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

Finding the tastes and ambiance of a new city can be a daunting task, but if you're moving from Baltimore, MD to Des Moines, IA, we've got you covered. Food plays a key role in making a place feel like home. This guide will help you in finding your new favorite eateries in Des Moines by comparing them with the top restaurants from Baltimore , ensuring a smoother culinary transition.

BaltimoreDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
CharlestonApostoUpscale dining with a personal touch, similar in elegance and menu creativity
Woodberry KitchenTable 128 Bistro + BarFarm-to-table ethos, with a commitment to local sourcing akin to Woodberry Kitchen
Thames Street Oyster HouseWaterfront Seafood MarketA choice for fresh, high-quality seafood paralleling Thames Street's approach
Joe Benny’sGusto Pizza Co.Casual, yet gourmet pizzas that bring a creative twist much like Joe Benny’s
Miss Shirley's CafeWaveland CafeClassic brunch spot with a local flair that matches Miss Shirley's beloved breakfasts
The Prime Rib801 ChophouseOffers a similar upscale steakhouse experience with top-tier meats and sides
Di Pasquale's Italian MarketplaceLuccaItalian eateries with a focus on authentic dishes and a cozy, inviting atmosphere
Petit Louis BistroBaru 66Classic French cuisine with an intimate dining experience comparable to Petit Louis
Sotto SopraCafe Baratta’sItalian dining with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and homemade pasta, echoing Sotto Sopra’s charm
La CucharaHarbingerExotic and innovative dishes with a chef-driven menu, offering an experience akin to La Cuchara’s Basque inspirations

When searching for dining experiences that resonate with the flavors of Baltimore, you'll find Des Moines offers its own unique twists on comparable eateries. Aposto and Charleston share a commonality in providing an upscale dining atmosphere coupled with innovative menu selections, making it perfect for those special nights out. Fans of fresh, meticulously prepared seafood like that of Thames Street Oyster House will find solace in Waterfront Seafood Market's extensive offerings. For those who relish a cozy and authentic Italian meal, Lucca stands out in Des Moines as a counterpart to Di Pasquale's Italian Marketplace, emphasizing a warm atmosphere and traditional dishes. These comparisons not only ease the transition for food enthusiasts moving from Baltimore but also enrich their culinary explorations in their new city.

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Baltimore vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Baltimore, MD, and Des Moines, IA is crucial. This comparison sheds light on housing affordability, style, and livability, guiding you to make an educated decision on your new home.

ComparisonBaltimoreDes Moines
Typical Architecture StyleRow HousesRanch Style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood Floors, Historical CharmSpacious Yards, Quiet Neighborhoods

Baltimore and Des Moines offer contrasting choices in housing. In Baltimore, the architecture predominantly comprises charming row houses, reflecting the city's historical character. This style contrasts with the ranch style homes common in Des Moines, which often come with spacious yards ideal for families. Walkability and bikeability vary between the cities, with Baltimore offering a more urban lifestyle, significant for those who appreciate city living. Des Moines' real estate listings typically emphasize family-friendly attributes, such as quiet neighborhoods and open spaces, appealing to those seeking a more laid-back and spacious environment.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA

1. Beaverdale: Known for its charming brick homes and a strong sense of community, Beaverdale offers numerous parks and pet-friendly events making it an ideal place for you and your furry friend.

2. East Village: This eclectic area is not only rich in culture and shopping but also boasts several pet-friendly restaurants and shops, including East Village Pet Hospital for your pet's health needs.

3. Gray's Lake Park area: While not a neighborhood per se, the area around Gray's Lake Park is highly popular among pet owners for its spacious park, perfect for long walks, and the nearby residential areas offer a welcoming community for pet owners.

Baltimore vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Baltimore, MD to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand how the weather will change. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities in weather patterns and climate conditions between Baltimore and Des Moines, helping you adapt to your new environment.

Summer icon
87/66

Baltimore, MD

86/65

Des Moines, IA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41/24

Baltimore, MD

31/14

Des Moines, IA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.94

Baltimore, MD

36.00

Des Moines, IA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
20.1

Baltimore, MD

33.3

Des Moines, IA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBaltimoreDes Moines
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Baltimore and Des Moines have similar summer temperatures, Des Moines experiences colder winters. This means you might need to invest in heavier winter clothing and potentially consider snow tires or a vehicle more suitable for snowy conditions. Despite fewer days of sunshine, Des Moines offers good air quality but brace yourself for more snow. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, both cities present similar challenges. Understanding these differences can help ease your transition and prepare you for your new climate.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Baltimore to Des Moines

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of your decision. This comparison will shed light on key financial factors you should consider, boldly highlighting the differences in cost of living, tax rates, and income between Baltimore, MD and Des Moines, IA . Grasping these variances will empower you with knowledge for a smoother transition to your new home.

ComparisonBaltimoreDes Moines
Avg. Household Income$54,652$60,693
Cost of Living Index119.490.9
State Income Tax4.75 - 5.750.33 - 8.53
Avg. Property Tax1.11.5
Avg. Sales Tax66 - 7 (local variations)
Top 3 IndustriesHealth & Science, Education, DefenseInsurance, Financial Services, Agriculture
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyNotableLower
HomelessnessConcerningModerate

When moving from Baltimore to Des Moines, you'll find both cities offer a moderate level of affluence, but there are significant differences in cost of living and taxes. Des Moines enjoys a lower cost of living index, making day-to-day life potentially more affordable than in Baltimore. However, property taxes are higher, which is an important factor if you're planning to buy a home. Income tax in Des Moines varies widely and can reach higher maximum rates compared to Baltimore, depending on your income bracket. In terms of job opportunities, the dominant industries in each city reflect the local economy's focus; health and science prevail in Baltimore, whereas insurance and financial services lead in Des Moines. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare financially for your move and leverage the economic opportunities in your new city.

Baltimore vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Baltimore, MD, to Des Moines, IA? This quick comparison offers an insight into the political and religious landscape between Baltimore & Des Moines , providing a glimpse into what you might expect from the local populations in both cities. It's an essential aspect to consider for a smoother transition to your new hometown.

BaltimoreDes Moines
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticMix of Democratic/Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesBalanced Political Views
ReligionChristianity predominant, diverse religious presenceChristianity prevalent, significant Catholic community

Moving from Baltimore to Des Moines, you'll transition from a city with a predominantly Democratic political leaning to one with a more mixed political makeup. Baltimore's local politics tend to favor progressive policies, while Des Moines showcases a balance of political perspectives, possibly making it appealing to those looking for a politically diverse community. In terms of religion, both cities have a strong Christian presence, but in Des Moines, the Catholic community plays a significant role. Understanding these aspects can help you gauge the social and community landscape of your prospective new home.

Baltimore vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Baltimore, MD to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand how daily commutes and traffic compare. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what to expect when navigating through these cities.

ComparisonBaltimoreDes Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3120
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingDifficult

Baltimore and Des Moines offer distinct commuting experiences. In Baltimore, the average commute time is longer, partly due to higher traffic congestion. However, the city boasts better public transit options, making it somewhat possible to navigate the city without a car. On the contrary, Des Moines offers a shorter average commute time with less traffic congestion but has limited public transit options. Here, owning a car is almost a necessity for comfortable daily movements. This fundamental difference in public transit availability and the necessity of a car between the two cities significantly impacts daily life and planning. Transitioning from Baltimore to Des Moines, you'll likely appreciate the reduced traffic but might need to adjust to the increased reliance on personal vehicles.

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