Best Albuquerque to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Albuquerque to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,051 mile move from New Mexico to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque 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 | JP Moving | 9.37 | 9.63 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Best Move Inc | 9.22 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Pro-Move Logistics | 8.09 | 7.78 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.04 | 7.44 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Albuquerque to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,051 miles from Albuquerque, NM to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,675 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Albuquerque to Des Moines move is roughly $6,429. 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 | $1,798 | 300 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,675 | 450 ft³ | 5.94 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,421 | 750 ft³ | 5.89 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,429 | 1100 ft³ | 5.84 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,271 | 1600 ft³ | 5.79 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,340 | 1800 ft³ | 5.74 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Albuquerque guide.
Compare the 5 Best Albuquerque 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) |
JP Moving
1503 Golf Course Rd SE # D
Rio Rancho, NM, 87124
About JP Moving
JP Moving is a licensed and insured moving company based in Rio Rancho, NM. It provides residential and commercial moving services...
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3585744 / 1212778 Authorized For Property Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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) |
Pro-Move Logistics
7608 Crouch Ct
Santa Fe, NM, 87507
About Pro-Move Logistics
Pro-Move Logistics is a top-rated full-service company with over 15 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers in Santa Fe...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3942498 / 1464643 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
514 Carmony Road NE
Albuquerque, NM, 87107
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a national move company that has offices locally and has been voted "best moving company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2907535 / 978867 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 18 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 456,215 (2024) |
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.
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be quite disorienting. That's why we're here to help you get familiar with your new surroundings by providing this essential guide. By comparing top neighborhoods in Albuquerque, NM, with those in Des Moines, IA, we aim to find you a new place that feels like home. Our comparison of the local neighborhoods between Albuquerque, NM & Des Moines, IA offers an exciting opportunity to explore similar community vibes, amenities, and lifestyles in your new city.
| Albuquerque | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Nob Hill | East Village | Trendy, with local shops & dining |
| North Valley | Beaverdale | Historic, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Corrales | Waterbury | Quiet, upscale living with green spaces |
| Rio Rancho | Urbandale | Suburban feel, good schools & parks |
| Old Town | Sherman Hill | Historic architecture, vibrant community |
| Downtown | Downtown DSM | Urban, with nightlife & businesses |
| Four Hills | South of Grand | Exclusive, with stately homes |
| Uptown | Western Gateway | Artsy, with parks and cafes |
| West Side | Waveland Park | Family-oriented, near amenities |
| Sandia Heights | Windsor Heights | Quiet, well-established community |
In Nob Hill, Albuquerque, you might be used to the vibrant atmosphere filled with local shops, cafes like Flying Star Cafe, and lively nightlife spots. Des Moines' East Village offers a similar trendy vibe, with unique stores and a thriving dining scene featuring places like Zombie Burger. For those who appreciate the historic charm and family-friendly environment of North Valley, Beaverdale in Des Moines presents an equally appealing mix of historic homes and a strong community feel, where events like the Beaverdale Fall Festival bring neighbors together. If the upscale tranquility of Sandia Heights was your preference, Windsor Heights in Des Moines mirrors this with its peaceful streets, mature trees, and well-kept properties, perfect for those seeking a serene yet well-connected neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Albuquerque to Des Moines
Moving can be a complex decision, often involving the weighing of various factors that can significantly impact your lifestyle. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Albuquerque, NM to Des Moines, IA, helping to illuminate both the challenges and opportunities that come with such a move.
Albuquerque, NM- Higher crime rates
- Hot summers
- Less job variety
- Scarcity of water
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rates
- Cooler summers
- Greater job market
- Lush greenery
Des Moines, IA- Smaller cultural scene
- Flatter topography
- Less historical sites
- Less outdoor variety
Albuquerque, NM- Vibrant culture
- Stunning landscapes
- Rich history
- Outdoor activities
While moving from Albuquerque to Des Moines, you'll find a shift from the vibrant, culture-rich environment characterized by iconic landscapes like the Sandia Mountains, found around Albuquerque, to Des Moines's more laid-back, green, and water-rich environment. Des Moines may offer a smaller cultural scene compared to Albuquerque's rich historical tapestry and myriad outdoor activities, yet it counters with its own set of attractions. For instance, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park stand out as serene, green havens amidst the city. Moreover, Des Moines's East Village is burgeoning with trendy restaurants and shops, offering a slice of cosmopolitan life. This balance between a quieter, safer community and access to metropolitan amenities marks the core of Des Moines's appeal.
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Whether you're moving for a new job, adventure, or change of scenery, understanding the food scene is crucial to feel at home. Here, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Albuquerque & Des Moines . This overview offers insight into what culinary delights await in your new city, enhancing your transition with the flavors and places that locals love.
| Albuquerque | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | New Mexican Chile | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Adovada | Smoked Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Breakfast Burrito | Corn Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Blue Corn Tacos | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Albuquerque, the culinary scene is deeply influenced by New Mexican traditions, with local chile playing a pivotal role in dishes like the iconic Carne Adovada. Breakfast burritos, found at places like Frontier Restaurant, showcase the city's ability to merge flavor with convenience. On the other hand, Des Moines boasts a hearty Midwestern appetite, with dishes like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich highlighting local pork's prominence. Both cities cater well to health and fitness enthusiasts, though Albuquerque has a slightly higher food truck and vegan presence. Whether you're exploring the historic Old Town of Albuquerque or the bustling streets of Des Moines, each city offers a unique taste of local culture and cuisine.
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city can be just as important as getting to know its streets and neighborhoods. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from Albuquerque to Des Moines, helping you find your next go-to spots for dining. By matching the top eateries from Albuquerque with their Des Moines counterparts, you’ll be feasting like a local in no time.
| Albuquerque | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Antiquity Restaurant | 801 Chophouse | Upscale dining with a classic steakhouse menu |
| Frontier Restaurant | Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Unique, casual dining with a creative burger menu |
| Vernon's Speakeasy | Centro | Italian fare in a stylish setting, akin to Vernon's hidden charm |
| La Salita Restaurant | El Bait Shop | Broad selection of beers and Mexican-inspired bar food |
| Farm & Table | Table 128 Bistro & Bar | Locally sourced ingredients with a seasonal menu |
| El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina | Malos Cantina | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Padilla's Mexican Kitchen | El Fogon | Family-owned spot with a focus on Mexican classics |
| Sadie's of New Mexico | Amedeos | Homestyle Italian, offering a warmth reminiscent of Sadie's |
| Mary & Tito's Cafe | Gauchos Grill | For the love of meat, a similarly spirited venue |
| Range Café | Drake Diner | Comfy setting with a vast, all-American menu |
Diving deeper into our comparison, Vernons Speakeasy's elusive allure finds a match in Centro, where Des Moines' residents experience Italian cuisine in an environment that speaks to the secretive and intimate ambiance of Vernon's. Meanwhile, Farm & Table's dedication to farm-to-table dining sees its spirit mirrored in Table 128 Bistro & Bar, where the focus on locally sourced ingredients and a dynamic, seasonal menu provides a similar commitment to quality and community engagement. For those missing the unique vibe and extensive beer list of La Salita Restaurant, El Bait Shop's quirky decor and Mexican-inspired bites, alongside one of the most extensive beer selections in the area, stands ready to fill that gap, offering a whimsical dining experience reminiscent of Albuquerque's famous spots.
Ready to start your move?
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Albuquerque, NM, and Des Moines, IA, is crucial. Understanding how these cities match up in housing costs, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle can significantly impact your decision. Here’s a closer look at what each city offers in these vital areas.
| Comparison | Albuquerque | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Pueblo Revival | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Mountain views, outdoor living spaces | Close to downtown, spacious yards |
In comparing Albuquerque and Des Moines, it's evident that Albuquerque tends to have higher home prices and rental rates, though it offers unique Pueblo Revival architecture and stunning mountain views, a testament to its rich cultural landscape. Des Moines, while more affordable, prides itself on its Craftsman-style homes and proximity to dynamic downtown areas, indicative of a slightly more urban lifestyle score. Both cities show a dedication to outdoor living spaces, though they manifest differently based on the local environment and architectural norms. Choosing between the two will largely depend on your preference for the desert vistas of Albuquerque or the Midwestern charm of Des Moines.
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.
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Albuquerque, NM to Des Moines, IA, it's key to understand how the weather conditions in Albuquerque differ from those in Des Moines. Weather influences your daily life, activities, and even your wardrobe. This comparison will help you adjust expectations and prepare accordingly.
Albuquerque, NM
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Albuquerque, NM
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Albuquerque, NM
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Albuquerque, NM
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Albuquerque | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Drought, Wildfire | Tornado, Flood |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In Albuquerque, you'll enjoy significantly more days of sunshine compared to Des Moines, which can be a big adjustment if you love sunny days. The change in humidity level is another adjustment, with Des Moines experiencing much higher humidity than Albuquerque. This can affect how you perceive the temperature and how quickly you become comfortable with the climate. Additionally, while both cities face their own natural disaster risks, Albuquerque's dry conditions lead to drought and wildfire concerns, whereas Des Moines deals with threats from tornadoes and floods. These aspects play a crucial role in determining your living conditions, from home maintenance to daily comfort.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Albuquerque to Des Moines
When planning a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial for a smooth transition. Comparing Albuquerque and Des Moines on aspects like income, taxes, and cost of living is key to setting realistic expectations for your budget and lifestyle. Let’s dive into how these cities match up financially.
| Comparison | Albuquerque | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,512 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.45 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.9 | 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.78 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.88 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Energy, Film | Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | moderate | relatively high |
| Poverty | notable | lower |
| Homelessness | concerning | less prominent |
In Albuquerque, despite a lower average household income and a higher cost of living index compared to Des Moines, the city offers a unique blend of industries, including aerospace and film, that contribute to its economic landscape. On the other hand, Des Moines boasts a higher income level, bolstered by dominant sectors like insurance and financial services, which also help keep its poverty and homelessness rates lower. This difference in economic foundations and living costs can significantly impact your financial wellbeing, making it crucial to consider these factors when moving.
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
This quick comparison aims to give you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents when moving from Albuquerque, NM to Des Moines, IA . Understand the communities you're transitioning between to make your move as smooth as possible.
| Albuquerque | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Moderate with progressive leanings |
| Religion | Mixed, with Catholic majority | Protestant majority, diverse religious landscape |
When moving from Albuquerque to Des Moines, you'll find both cities share a Democratic leaning, though local politics might vary slightly. Albuquerque tends to be more progressive, particularly on social issues, whereas Des Moines presents a mix of moderate and progressive leanings. In terms of religion, Albuquerque's population holds a Catholic majority, indicative of the strong cultural ties within the community. Des Moines, however, has a Protestant majority but features a diverse religious landscape, reflecting its broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds. Understanding these aspects of your new home can enrich your moving experience and help you blend into the community with ease.
Albuquerque vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Albuquerque, NM, to Des Moines, IA, it's vital to understand the differences in daily commutes and traffic to better prepare for your relocation. This comparison between Albuquerque & Des Moines outlines the traffic and transportation options, aiming to help you anticipate changes in your daily routine.
| Comparison | Albuquerque | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25.6 | 20.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | More feasible |
While both Albuquerque and Des Moines offer unique living experiences, there are notable differences in their traffic and transportation systems. Albuquerque's average commute time is slightly longer, reflecting lesser traffic congestion than found in many major cities. However, its public transportation system, with options like the ABQ RIDE, may not fully cater to everyone's needs, making a car more of a necessity. Conversely, Des Moines provides a slightly more efficient public transit experience, including services like the DART buses, which makes getting around without a car more feasible. Despite the higher availability score for public transit in Des Moines, owning a car might still be preferable for convenience and flexibility.
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