Best Raleigh to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,096 mile move from North Carolina to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Raleigh to Des Moines 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 $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.52 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best Move Inc | 9.22 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,096 miles from Raleigh, NC to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,713 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Des Moines move is roughly $6,522. 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 | $1,824 | 300 ft³ | 6.08 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,713 | 450 ft³ | 6.03 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,485 | 750 ft³ | 5.98 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,522 | 1100 ft³ | 5.93 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,407 | 1600 ft³ | 5.88 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,493 | 1800 ft³ | 5.83 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. This guide aims to ease that transition by comparing Raleigh, NC & Des Moines, IA neighborhoods . By identifying the most similar neighborhoods between these two cities, you can find a new community that feels like home.
| Raleigh | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Five Points | Beaverdale | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| North Hills | West Des Moines | Shopping and dining hub |
| Boylan Heights | Sherman Hill | Historic, vibrant community |
| Warehouse District | East Village | Diverse, artsy, nightlife |
| Cameron Village | Waveland Park | Unique shops, local eateries |
| Mordecai | Roosevelt | Quiet, tree-lined streets |
| Glenwood South | Ingersoll Avenue | Trendy, walkable, nightlife |
| Oakwood | Drake | Historic district with unique charm |
| Brier Creek | Urbandale | Ample amenities, family-oriented |
| Hayes Barton | South of Grand | Prestigious homes, scenic |
If you're moving from Raleigh, NC, and have enjoyed the vibrant arts scene and diverse dining options of the Warehouse District, the East Village in Des Moines, IA, will feel like a seamless transition. Here, you can explore a similar mix of eclectic shops, art galleries, and events like the Des Moines Art Festival. For those drawn to the historic and peaceful ambiance of Boylan Heights, Sherman Hill offers an equally charming setting with its preserved Victorian homes and close-knit community. Noteworthy spots in Sherman Hill include the Hoyt Sherman Place, an intimate venue for arts and music. Meanwhile, West Des Moines, with its modern conveniences and array of eateries, mirrors North Hills’ bustling environment, providing a smooth shift for those craving a lively suburban feel with urban amenities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to ensure the destination aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. This guide offers a balanced exploration, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of relocating. By comparing Raleigh, NC to Des Moines, IA, we aim to provide an honest reflection of what to expect from both locales, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Raleigh, NC- Higher humidity
- Longer summers
- Denser traffic
- Higher cost of living
Des Moines, IA- Lower humidity
- Mild summers
- Less traffic
- More affordable
Des Moines, IA- Smaller tech scene
- Less diverse
- Quieter nightlife
- Fewer universities
Raleigh, NC- Vibrant tech scene
- Cultural diversity
- Richer nightlife
- More universities
While Raleigh boasts a vibrant tech scene with numerous startups and tech companies, Des Moines, albeit having a smaller tech presence, offers a growing market with potential for personal career growth. In Raleigh, you might enjoy visiting establishments in the bustling Warehouse District or savoring diverse cuisines at restaurants like Bida Manda. In contrast, Des Moines provides a more laid-back atmosphere with attractions such as the Water Works Park for outdoor enthusiasts and the historic East Village for quaint shops and eateries like Zombie Burger. Each city presents a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and lifestyle opportunities, making the decision to relocate a matter of aligning with personal preferences and priorities.
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Des Moines highlights the significance of food in understanding the cultural vibe of a place. Delve into this guide to get a taste of what awaits in your new city.
| Raleigh | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Eastern North Carolina Barbecue | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Iowa Chop |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegan Corn Dogs |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Raleigh to Des Moines, you'll notice a shift in the local cuisine's highlights. In Raleigh, the Eastern North Carolina Barbecue, particularly pulled pork, takes a prominent spot, with a strong presence in areas like the Warehouse District. Des Moines, however, boasts a deep affinity for pork tenderloin sandwiches and Iowa Chops, found in vibrant neighborhoods such as East Village. For the vegans, Raleigh's BBQ Jackfruit is popular, juxtaposing Des Moines' innovative Vegan Corn Dogs. Moreover, restaurants like Poole's Diner in Raleigh offer a glimpse into the city's gourmet scene, whereas Des Moines' Fong's Pizza introduces a quirky twist to dining. Both cities offer a rich dining experience but differ in their specialities and atmosphere.
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a place feel like home. This comparison aims to help you discover your next go-to dining spots in Des Moines by leveraging familiar favorites from Raleigh. For those moving from Raleigh to Des Moines, this restaurant comparison chart will assist in the transition, ensuring you won’t miss out on the flavors you love.
| Raleigh | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bida Manda | Aroy-Dee | Authentic Asian dishes with a cozy atmosphere. |
| Garland | Harbinger | Innovative cuisine and a focus on local ingredients. |
| Poole’s Diner | Apollo Cafe | Retro vibe with modern American menu. |
| Beasley’s Chicken + Honey | High Life Lounge | Classic comfort food with a side of nostalgia. |
| Brewery Bhavana | Confluence Brewing Company | Craft beers and community feel. |
| Crawford and Son | Centro | Urban eatery offering a refined take on traditional dishes. |
| The Pit | Smoky D's BBQ | Authentic barbecue experience. |
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Mallo | Small plates and intimate setting for a tapas-style experience. |
| Caffe Luna | Lucca | Italian cuisine with a sophisticated touch. |
| Death & Taxes | Proof | Contemporary dining with an experimental edge. |
For enthusiasts of rich, cultural dining experiences, transitioning from Bida Manda in Raleigh to Aroy-Dee in Des Moines will feel like a seamless journey across continents, with both restaurants providing an authentic Asian dining experience right in the heart of their respective cities. If you're seeking a more avant-garde or innovative culinary experience reminiscent of Garland, Harbinger in Des Moines offers an exciting menu that changes with the seasons, focusing on local ingredients and complex flavor profiles. And for those who relish the American classics with a unique twist, transitioning from Beasley’s Chicken + Honey to the High Life Lounge will satisfy your cravings for comfort food served within a nostalgically charged atmosphere. Each Des Moines establishment mirrors the essence of Raleigh's dining scene, promising an exciting and familiar culinary adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor to consider when relocating. Understanding how Raleigh, NC and Des Moines, IA compare in terms of housing , including costs, styles, and livability, can make your transition smoother and help you find your perfect home.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Ranch, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, Large yards | Energy efficiency, Proximity to parks |
When you delve into the real estate aspects of Raleigh and Des Moines, you'll notice significant differences that could impact your decision. For instance, the median home price in Raleigh is notably higher than in Des Moines, reflecting Raleigh's booming tech industry and its impact on housing demand. Raleigh homes often feature Colonial or Craftsman architecture, catering to those who appreciate a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern design. On the other hand, Des Moines offers more affordable housing, with a preference for Ranch and Bungalow styles, perfect for those seeking a more compact and efficient living space. Additionally, Des Moines scores slightly higher in walkability and bikeability, indicating a potentially more lifestyle-friendly environment, especially if you're keen on reducing your reliance on a car. Both cities have their unique charms in terms of architecture and lifestyle; your choice will heavily depend on your personal preferences and financial considerations.
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.
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will highlight how the weather in Raleigh, NC, and Des Moines, IA varies, helping you prepare for what's ahead.
Raleigh, NC
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Severe Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Raleigh to Des Moines, you'll find milder summers but significantly colder winters. Des Moines experiences more snowfall, with an average of 36 inches compared to Raleigh's 4 inches, indicating a need for preparedness for winter driving and home maintenance. Additionally, while both cities face potential natural disasters, the type varies, with hurricanes and tornadoes being more common in Raleigh, and tornadoes and severe winter storms in Des Moines. This change in weather and environmental conditions may also influence your health, especially if you have seasonal allergies, as both cities list pollen and mold as major allergens.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Des Moines
When choosing to relocate, examining how the cost of living and financial conditions between Raleigh and Des Moines will compare to your current situation is essential. This ensures a smoother transition, especially when it comes to budgeting your finances in a new city.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | Up to 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84 | 1.29 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 7.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Insurance, Financial Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Considerable | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
In comparing Raleigh and Des Moines, you'll find that while the average household income in Raleigh is higher, Des Moines benefits from a significantly lower cost of living index, making daily expenses more affordable. Although Des Moines has a higher property tax rate, which can impact homeowners, it compensates with its lower overall cost of living. Additionally, each city has distinct leading industries, so career opportunities may vary notably between them. Understanding these financial and economic differences will be crucial in making an informed decision and ensuring a financially stable move.
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the political and religious makeup between Raleigh & Des Moines. By examining these aspects, you'll get a sense of the community vibes you're moving from and to.
| Raleigh | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Swing City |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, focus on tech and education Raleigh Local Gov | Moderate, with a strong emphasis on local businesses and agriculture Des Moines Local Gov |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral | Christianity predominant, strong interfaith dialogue Diocese of Des Moines |
When relocating from Raleigh to Des Moines, you'll find both cities have a predominant Christian community, but Des Moines is noted for stronger interfaith engagement, reflecting its diverse population. Politically, Raleigh leans Democratic with a focus on progressive policies and innovation, whereas Des Moines presents a blend, often swinging in national elections, creating a dynamic political environment. This diversity in local politics and religion across both cities enriches the community experience, offering you a blend of perspectives and cultural practices.
Raleigh vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC to Des Moines, IA involves understanding the significant contrasts in daily commutes and traffic patterns. This comparison aims to give you a clearer perspective on what to anticipate regarding transportation options and traffic congestion in these cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More challenging |
When considering the move, you'll find Raleigh has a slightly longer average commute time compared to Des Moines, indicating potentially busier roads during peak hours. Despite Raleigh's higher traffic congestion score, both cities have invested in public transit systems, with Des Moines surprisingly scoring higher in availability. However, it's important to note that Raleigh offers GoTriangle, a regional public transit system that connects key areas, which can be an advantage for those wishing to reduce car dependency. Conversely, Des Moines's public transit, managed by DART, is efficient but may not cover as expansive an area as other larger cities, making car ownership more of a necessity for broader exploration and convenience.
Additional Resources
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