Best Michigan to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Michigan to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 580 mile MI to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 99 Michigan to Iowa 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 Pro-Low 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 Michigan compared to Iowa. 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 Michigan to Iowa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pro-Low Moving | 9.68 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.42 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Handle With Care Moving & Delivery | 9.05 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | MASS Movers | 9.02 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Michigan to Iowa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 580 miles from Michigan to Iowa will cost on average $2,274 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom MI to IA move is roughly $5,450. 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 in Michigan and dropoff in Iowa 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 Michigan to Iowa movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,531 | 300 ft³ | 5.10 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,274 | 450 ft³ | 5.05 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,753 | 750 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,450 | 1100 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,847 | 1600 ft³ | 4.90 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,738 | 1800 ft³ | 4.85 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Michigan guide.
Popular Michigan to Iowa Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Michigan to Iowa
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Michigan to Iowa Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best MI to IA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pro-Low Moving
665 136th Ave
Holland, MI, 49424
About Pro-Low Moving
Pro-Low Moving is a trusted moving company located in Holland, MI, with services available in Grand Haven and surrounding areas. Its...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3508434 / 1160481 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 105,000 (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) |
Adamantine Spine Moving
656 S Governor St
Iowa City, IA, 52240
About Adamantine Spine Moving
Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transport your...
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) |
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery
4260 Varsity Dr
Ann Arbor, MI, 48108
About Handle With Care Moving & Delivery
Our company, Handle With Care Moving & Delivery, aims to provide you with professional, courteous, and helpful movers at an affordable...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 808976 / 359936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2023) |
MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |
Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Michigan to Iowa
Moving from one state to another can be a significant change. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of Michigan to Iowa relocation, highlighting the good and the bad. Understanding these aspects will help you navigate your decisions effectively.
Michigan- Colder winters
- Higher taxes
- Dense population
Iowa- Milder winters
- Lower taxes
- More open space
Iowa- No major lakes
- Less diversity
- Fewer industry options
Michigan- Great Lakes access
- Diverse urban areas
- Robust auto industry
When pondering the move from Michigan to Iowa, there are several nuanced aspects to consider beyond the surface-level pros and cons. For instance, Iowa's Des Moines Register has highlighted the state's commitment to a balanced lifestyle, offering considerable open spaces which allow for personal hobbies, family time, and a close connection to nature. Though Iowa lacks the Great Lakes that Michigan prides itself on, it compensates with charming destinations like the Des Moines Waterfront and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. The state's renowned lower cost of living, when compared to Michigan's diverse but pricier urban areas, allows for a comfortable lifestyle with access to unique local establishments such as the Hickory Park Restaurant in Ames, as well as seasonal events that foster community. While Iowa's milder winters may appeal to those weary of Michigan's harsh cold, those relocating should be prepared for the lifestyle adjustments required when moving from a state with such a rich industrial history to an area where agriculture plays a pivotal role.
Michigan vs. Iowa Food Guide
As you consider relocating, it's essential to recognize that food plays a significant role in the local culture and overall living experience. In this guide, we'll explore a comparison of the local cuisine between Michigan & Iowa to ensure you're well-informed about the culinary scene awaiting you in your new home.
| Michigan | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Detroit-style Pizza | Iowa Pork Chop |
| Most popular meat dish | Coney Island Hot Dog | Corn-fed Beef Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Pasties | Fried Butter on a Stick |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegan Sweet Corn |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
The culinary landscapes of Michigan and Iowa both offer unique gustatory experiences reflective of their local cultures. In Michigan, Detroit-style pizza, known for its thick, rectangular crust and caramelized cheese edges, is a must-try. You can sample this iconic dish at places like Supino Pizzeria in Detroit. Iowa, famously known for its agriculture, prides itself on its Iowa Pork Chops and corn-fed beef steak, available at establishments such as Jethro's BBQ in Des Moines. For those who prioritize plant-based diets, Michigan's tempeh reuben is popular among vegans, while in Iowa, vegan preparations of the state's renowned sweet corn can be found. Both states boast vibrant foodie scenes with a notable number of food trucks and vegan-friendly options, ensuring that your move to either state will be a delicious adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Michigan vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal part of relocating. Knowing how the housing market in Michigan compares to that in Iowa can profoundly influence your decision and prepare you for the move. This comparison focuses on cost, statistics, architecture, and lifestyle to help you understand the essentials.
| Comparison | Michigan | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Late Victorian, Craftsman | Ranch, Split-level |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lakefront, green space | Family-friendly, quiet neighborhoods |
Moving from Michigan to Iowa, you'll notice a distinct difference in housing costs, with Iowa often being the more affordable option. The typical architecture reflects the cultural and historical influences of each state, with Michigan boasting late Victorian and Craftsman styles, and Iowa favoring Ranch and Split-level homes. This difference hints at Michigan's rich industrial history versus Iowa's agricultural roots. Additionally, Michigan's higher walkability and bikeability ratings align with its more urbanized areas and emphasis on outdoor recreation, including lakefront properties. Conversely, Iowa's real estate listings highlight the value placed on family-friendly and quiet neighborhoods, which might be more appealing to those seeking a serene living environment.
Michigan vs. Iowa Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Michigan to Iowa, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for adapting to your new environment. This guide provides a detailed comparison focusing on weather differences between Michigan and Iowa to help you prepare for your relocation.
Michigan
Iowa
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Michigan
Iowa
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Michigan
Iowa
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Michigan
Iowa
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Michigan | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Michigan to Iowa, you'll notice more sunny days and warmer summers in Iowa, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s. Winters are fairly comparable in terms of temperatures, but Michigan experiences nearly double the average annual snowfall of Iowa. Both states share similar humidity levels, but it's important to note that Iowa's air quality can vary more, and the average annual UV index is higher, indicating more frequent sunscreen application is advised. Keeping these factors in mind will help you adjust more smoothly to your new climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Michigan to Iowa
When considering a move from Michigan to Iowa, understanding the differences in the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison will illuminate how the cost of living, taxes, and economy between Michigan and Iowa can impact your life and your wallet.
| Comparison | Michigan | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,986 | $69,588 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.2 | 95.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | Up to 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.45 | 1.53 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 6.82 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, IT, Agriculture | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Financial Services |
| Affluence | Mid-level | Mid-level |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lower |
Though the average household income in Iowa is slightly higher than in Michigan, the cost of living and taxes show a varied picture. Iowa has a progressive state income tax, which could mean higher taxes for some residents compared to Michigan's flat rate. Meanwhile, the slightly higher cost of living index in Iowa is contrasted by its lower poverty and homelessness levels, suggesting a marginally more comprehensive support system or economic stability. Additionally, the difference in the top industries between the states indicates diverse job markets, which is an important consideration for your career prospects and lifestyle.
Michigan vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison
This quick comparison is designed to give you a snapshot between Michigan & Iowa , focusing on the political and religious makeup of their residents. Understanding these aspects can greatly aid in your transition, providing insights into the community dynamics you’re moving into.
| Michigan | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Battleground State | Lean Conservative |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with urban areas leaning left | Conservative, with notable liberal pockets |
| Religion | Christian majority, diverse religious communities | Christian majority, with a strong Protestant presence |
Both Michigan and Iowa have their unique political climates. Michigan, known as a battleground state, showcases a blend of ideologies with urban centers tending towards more progressive policies. In contrast, Iowa's political landscape leans more conservative, though it also has its spaces of liberal inclination, particularly in cities like Iowa City. Religion plays a significant role in both states, with a Christian majority. Michigan stands out for its religious diversity, hosting a range of communities beyond its Christian majority. This comparison underlines the nuances in the political and religious makeup between your current and future home, offering a glimpse into the socio-cultural fabric of each state.
Education Guide When Moving from Michigan to Iowa
Relocating can bring a multitude of changes, especially when it involves your children’s education. To help you make an informed decision, we've compared educational institutions in both states. To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Michigan and Iowa, take a look at the chart below. This will guide you through the differences and help you find the best fit for your family’s needs.
| Michigan | Iowa |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Michigan Michigan State University Wayne State UniversityUniversity of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern Iowa | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools James B. Angell Elementary - Ann Arbor Bingham Farms Elementary - Bingham Farms Spring Mill Elementary - Bloomfield HillsGrant Ragan Elementary - Waukee Shimek Elementary School - Iowa City Brookview Elementary School - West Des Moines | |
Top 3 Middle Schools West Middle School - Rochester Boulan Park Middle School - Troy East Middle School - Grand RapidsNorth Central Junior High - Coralville Northwest Junior High - Iowa City Ames Middle School - Ames | |
Top 3 High School Schools International Academy - Bloomfield Hills City Middle/High School - Grand Rapids Troy High School - TroyWest Senior High - Iowa City Ames High School - Ames Valley High School - West Des Moines | |
Top 3 private high schools Detroit Country Day School - Beverly Hills Greenhills School - Ann Arbor Roeper School - Bloomfield HillsDowling Catholic High School - West Des Moines Xavier High School - Cedar Rapids Des Moines Christian School - Urbandale | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Roeper School - Bloomfield Hills Detroit Country Day School - Beverly Hills Greenhills School - Ann ArborMaharishi School - Fairfield Scattergood Friends School - West Branch Cedar Valley Christian School - Cedar Rapids | |
Top 3 School Districts Bloomfield Hills Schools Ann Arbor Public Schools Troy School DistrictWaukee Community School District Iowa City Community School District Ames Community School District | |
Delving deeper into the educational landscapes of Michigan and Iowa reveals marked strengths in specific areas. For instance, Michigan's University of Michigan and Michigan State University are recognized nationally not only for their academic excellence but also for their substantial research contributions. Meanwhile, Iowa takes pride in its high-ranking public schools, such as Waukee Community School District and Iowa City Community School District, known for their innovative educational programs and consistently high performance in standardized tests. When considering private education, the prestigious Roeper School in Michigan offers a personalized learning approach, whereas Maharishi School in Iowa emphasizes consciousness-based education, offering a unique learning environment. Choices abound in both states, whether you’re leaning towards public or private education, ensuring a smooth transition for your family.
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