Best Kansas City to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Kansas City to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 194 mile move from Missouri to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Kansas City 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 Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Kansas City 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.
Best Kansas City to Des Moines 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 | God's Movers, LLC | 9.06 | 9.29 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Golden Rule Relocation | 8.98 | 8.75 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Courtesy Movers LLC | 8.97 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Kansas City to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 194 miles from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $1,946 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Kansas City to Des Moines move is roughly $4,647. 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 | $1,312 | 300 ft³ | 4.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,946 | 450 ft³ | 4.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,206 | 750 ft³ | 4.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,647 | 1100 ft³ | 4.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,680 | 1600 ft³ | 4.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,425 | 1800 ft³ | 4.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Kansas City guide.
Compare the 5 Best Kansas City to Des Moines 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) |
God's Movers, LLC
11815 E 60 St
Kansas City, MO, 64133
About God's Movers, LLC
God’s Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has served Greater Kansas City, MO for more than 20 years....
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2417601 / 946280 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Golden Rule Relocation
1600 Swift St # 200
North Kansas City, MO, 64116
About Golden Rule Relocation
Golden Rule Relocation is a premier residential and commercial moving and storage company based in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves the...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3420954 / 1105839 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2022) |
Courtesy Movers LLC
9353 NE 79th St
Kansas City, MO, 64158
About Courtesy Movers LLC
Courtesy Movers LLC is a client-oriented, Kansas City-based company that provides quality moving services at an affordable price. Its priority is...
Services
- Cheap Moving Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3241776 / 1018373 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (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.
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new neighborhood. To help ease this transition, we've created a comparison of Kansas City, MO & Des Moines, IA local neighborhoods . This guide aims to match you with a Des Moines neighborhood that mirrors the vibe and lifestyle of your Kansas City haunt, making your move as seamless as possible.
| Kansas City | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Brookside | Beaverdale | Family-friendly with a strong sense of community |
| Westport | East Village | Vibrant nightlife and unique shops |
| Country Club Plaza | Historic East Village | Upscale shopping and dining experiences |
| Waldo | Drake Neighborhood | Cozy, with a mix of local eateries and bars |
| River Market | Sherman Hill | Historic homes and a tight-knit community |
| Crossroads Arts District | Ingersoll Avenue | Artistic community with galleries and theaters |
| Quality Hill | Gray's Lake | Great outdoor activities and scenic views |
| Power & Light District | Western Gateway Park | Urban hub for entertainment and culture |
| The Northland | Merle Hay | Quiet, suburban feel with convenient amenities |
| Union Hill | South of Grand | Historic homes with lush landscapes |
In Kansas City, neighborhoods like Westport and Country Club Plaza are known for their bustling nightlife and upscale shopping, respectively. Similarly, East Village in Des Moines offers a lively atmosphere with unique shops and bars, while Historic East Village is renowned for its fine dining and sophisticated boutiques. For those enchanted by Kansas City's Brookside’s family-friendly vibe, Beaverdale in Des Moines mirrors this with its own close-knit community feel. Meanwhile, art lovers moving from the Crossroads Arts District will find a new haven in Des Moines's Ingersoll Avenue, celebrated for its vibrant art scene and cultural events. Each neighborhood, whether in Kansas City or Des Moines, holds its unique charm, offering parks like Quality Hill’s nearby Penn Valley Park or Gray's Lake in Des Moines, alongside popular eateries such as Waldo Pizza in Waldo or Drake Diner in the Drake Neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Making a move from Kansas City, MO, to Des Moines, IA, involves weighing both sides. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of this relocation , highlighting how life will change. Let’s explore the advantages and challenges of making such a move through detailed charts.
Kansas City, MO- Higher crime rates
- More traffic
- Hot summers
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rates
- Less traffic
- More temperate summers
Des Moines, IA- Smaller arts scene
- Fewer restaurant options
- Less emphasis on sports
Kansas City, MO- Vibrant arts scene
- More restaurant options
- Better sports culture
When considering the move from Kansas City to Des Moines, it's important to weigh factors such as the difference in crime rates and traffic congestion. Des Moines offers a quieter, more relaxed pace of life with its lower crime rates and less traffic, making it a potentially safer and more peaceful place to live. However, Kansas City boasts a vibrant arts scene with destinations like The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and a wide array of dining options including famous barbecue joints like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. It's also known for its passionate sports culture, supported by teams such as the Kansas City Chiefs. On the other hand, Des Moines offers its own charms with a more temperate summer climate, appealing to those who prefer milder weather, and although it may have a smaller arts scene, it still provides unique cultural experiences like those found at the Des Moines Performing Arts centers. As with any relocation, it's about finding the right balance that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding local food culture is crucial to feeling at home in a new city. This guide compares the local cuisine between Kansas City & Des Moines so you can delve into the culinary scene awaiting you. From iconic dishes to the vibrancy of the foodie scene, we’ve got you covered.
| Kansas City | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue Ribs | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Burnt Ends | Smoked Pork Chop |
| Most popular street food item | Barbecue Brisket Sandwich | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you arrive in Des Moines, you'll discover a burgeoning food scene that marries traditional Midwestern comfort with inventive culinary twists. The Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a local favorite and a must-try, can be found at diners and pubs across the city. For those interested in vegan options, places like Centro offer creative takes on classic dishes. And if you're craving something unique, Fong’s Pizza fuses Asian flavors with traditional pizza for an unforgettable experience. This melding of diverse culinary styles showcases Des Moines’ gastronomic diversity, ensuring you'll always find something to satisfy your palate.
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding a city's culinary gems is a key part of making it feel like home. This comparison helps you discover your next go-to eateries in Des Moines, using Kansas City's top restaurants as your guide. Whether you adore high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic flavors, this guide will help bridge the culinary gap between Kansas City, MO, and Des Moines, IA.
| Kansas City | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que | Smokey D's BBQ | Signature smoked meats with a local twist |
| Bluestem | Harbinger | Creative, farm-to-table dishes with a modern interpretation |
| Jack Stack Barbecue | Jethro’s BBQ | A wide selection of barbecue favorites in a laid-back atmosphere |
| The Rieger | Centro | Italian classics with a contemporary flair |
| Grunauer | Hessen Haus | Authentic German cuisine and a vast beer selection |
| Fox and Pearl | Proof | New American cuisine with innovative and globally influenced dishes |
| Port Fonda | Malo | Modern takes on traditional Mexican dishes with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Lidia's Kansas City | Aposto | Italian fine dining that focuses on seasonal and high-quality ingredients |
| Gates Bar-B-Q | Woody's Smoke Shack | Classic barbecue dishes that emphasize flavor and tradition |
| Garozzo's Ristorante | Baratta's | Italian American favorites in a cozy, family-friendly setting |
Amongst these curated matches, a few stand out for their ability to deliver a taste of home with a new twist. For those missing the iconic Kansas City barbecue, Smokey D's BBQ in Des Moines serves up a storm with its signature smoked meats that can easily rival the best of KC. Similarly, Harbinger transcends your typical dining experience, offering creative, seasonal dishes that echo Bluestem’s commitment to quality and innovation. If the eclectic and global influences of Fox and Pearl captivated you in Kansas City, then Proof in Des Moines will not disappoint, with its fresh ingredients and inventive dishes sure to satisfy your adventurous palate. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary parallels between the two cities but also promise exciting new food journeys amidst the familiar.
Ready to start your move?
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical factor to consider when moving. Understanding how Kansas City's and Des Moines' housing markets compare can significantly impact your relocation decisions. From the cost and type of available properties to the lifestyle each city offers, this comparison aims to deliver essential insights.
| Comparison | Kansas City | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival, Tudor | Ranch, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, historic details | Modern updates, energy-efficient |
When considering a move from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA, it's important to note the differences in housing costs and lifestyles. Des Moines offers more affordable median home prices, which may be attractive for homebuyers. However, renters might find Kansas City more economical. Architecture enthusiasts will find varied styles, with Kansas City leaning towards Colonial Revival and Tudor while Des Moines favors Ranch and Craftsman. Urban living scores are slightly higher in Kansas City, reflecting its larger population and denser infrastructure. However, Des Moines is gaining traction for its modern updates and emphasis on energy efficiency in housing, displaying a blend of traditional charm and contemporary living.
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.
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Whether you're moving for a job, family, or just a change of scenery, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're used to is crucial. This comparison between Kansas City and Des Moines will highlight key differences and similarities in weather patterns to help you prepare for your move.
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Kansas City | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Tornadoes, Severe Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Kansas City and Des Moines experience the richness of four distinct seasons, you'll notice some notable differences, especially in winter temperatures and snowfall. Des Moines tends to be slightly cooler with more snow, doubling Kansas City's average annual snowfall. This could impact your daily life, from commuting to choosing your home's location. Both cities share a risk of tornadoes, but Des Moines also faces severe winter storms, making emergency preparedness for different types of natural disasters essential. Additionally, while the air quality in Des Moines is generally good, Kansas City falls under the moderate category, which might be a consideration for those with respiratory issues.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation could be affected. This comparison focuses on moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA , examining cost of living , income , taxes , and other factors that directly impact your wallet. It's a valuable resource for making an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Kansas City | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,396 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.8 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0%-5.4% | 0.33%-8.53% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2% | 1.5% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.6% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Lower |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Moderate |
A closer look at the financial aspects reveals that while the average household income is higher in Des Moines, this is balanced by its cost of living index being marginally lower than Kansas City. This suggests that your dollar might stretch a bit further in Des Moines, giving you a slightly better living standard for the same income level. Of particular note is the state income tax in Des Moines, which can be higher; however, that might be offset by the higher average household income and the lower sales tax. Considering the top industries, moving to Des Moines might be particularly advantageous if you're in the finance or insurance sectors. Lastly, the rates of poverty and homelessness are indicative of broader socioeconomic trends that could influence your community engagement and lifestyle in your new city.
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome! Moving between cities can be a monumental change, and understanding the community you're entering is crucial. This section offers a quick look into the comparison of the politics between Kansas City & Des Moines to give you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these vibrant cities.
| Kansas City | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Active in social issues | Community-driven initiatives |
| Religion | Diverse, with a notable Christian presence. Local Churches | Varied, predominantly Christian. Local Congregations |
Both Kansas City and Des Moines lean Democratic in their political makeup, highlighting a shared value system on many national issues. However, the approach to local politics can vary: Kansas City is known for being actively engaged in social issues, reflecting a vibrant scene of civic engagement, while Des Moines prides itself on strong community-driven initiatives, often showcasing a more collaborative approach to tackling local challenges. Religion plays an essential role in the fabric of both cities, with Christianity being the predominant faith. Each city offers a rich tapestry of religious communities and places of worship, catering to a diverse population seeking spiritual connection and community involvement.
Kansas City vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Kansas City & Des Moines will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like.
| Comparison | Kansas City | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with effort | Challenging |
While Kansas City and Des Moines both offer unique commuting experiences, you'll find that Kansas City has a slight edge in terms of public transit availability. The average commute time is shorter in Des Moines, likely due to less traffic congestion. Getting by without a car is somewhat more feasible in Kansas City, attributed to its broader public transportation network and services. However, in Des Moines, this might pose more of a challenge, suggesting a greater reliance on personal vehicles to navigate the city efficiently.
Additional Resources
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