Best Columbus to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Columbus to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 664 mile move from Ohio to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), 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 Columbus 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 Columbus to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Integrity Moving and Storage | 8.98 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Columbus to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 664 miles from Columbus, OH to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,346 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Des Moines move is roughly $5,624. 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 | $1,579 | 300 ft³ | 5.26 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,346 | 450 ft³ | 5.21 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,872 | 750 ft³ | 5.16 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,624 | 1100 ft³ | 5.11 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,101 | 1600 ft³ | 5.06 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,024 | 1800 ft³ | 5.01 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Columbus guide.
Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Des Moines Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Blue Men Moving LLC
10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW
Pickerington, OH, 43147
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3544037 / 1184394 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,500 (2022) |
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) |
Manifest Shipping Llc
501 Southwick Pl
Trenton, OH, 45067
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3050908 / 49758 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 46,740 (2022) |
Integrity Moving and Storage
2050 Corvair Blvd Unit 1
Columbus, OH, 43207
About Integrity Moving and Storage
With over three decades of expertise and a small-town customer-first approach, Integrity Moving and Storage offers exceptional service in Central Ohio....
Services
- Long-Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1343775 / 517527 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (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.
Columbus vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. That's why we've crafted this guide to compare the local neighborhoods between Columbus, OH & Des Moines, IA , helping you find an area in Des Moines that mirrors the vibe and community you love in Columbus. It's like having a familiar neighborhood, just in a new city.
| Columbus | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Short North | East Village | Vibrant arts scene, trendy |
| German Village | Sherman Hill | Historic homes, tight-knit community |
| Clintonville | Beaverdale | Family-friendly, community-focused |
| Grandview Heights | Ingersoll Park | Walkable, local eateries and shops |
| Victorian Village | Waterbury | Charming architecture, mature trees |
| Brewery District | Western Gateway | Urban, with breweries and eateries |
| Italian Village | East Village | Cultural diversity, dining options |
| Olde Towne East | Drake Neighborhood | Historic, artsy community |
| Hilltop | Highland Park | Diverse, community-centric |
| Downtown Columbus | Downtown Des Moines | Business center, entertainment |
In exploring these neighborhoods further, you'll find that East Village in Des Moines captures the eclectic and vibrant essence of Short North, with both areas boasting a dynamic arts scene, local boutiques, and an array of dining options. For example, you might stumble upon a quaint café similar to Columbus's Fox in the Snow Cafe in East Village's own Horizon Line Coffee, known for its thoughtfully sourced coffee and welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sherman Hill reflects the historic charm and community spirit found in German Village, where you can walk down brick-lined streets and discover hidden gardens alongside well-preserved homes. Whether you're drawn to the trendy vibe of the Brewery District or the family-friendly atmosphere of Clintonville, you'll find a slice of what you loved about Columbus in the heart of Des Moines, making your transition to a new city as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Des Moines
Moving between cities is a significant life decision, fraught with both potential and challenge. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Columbus, OH to Des Moines, IA . Understanding the nuances of your new city can help you make a well-informed decision.
Columbus, OH- Higher crime rate
- More traffic congestion
- Higher cost of living
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rate
- Less traffic
- More affordable living
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city feel
- Fewer cultural options
- More car-dependent
Columbus, OH- Larger city amenities
- More cultural venues
- Better public transit
While each city has its unique charms, moving from Columbus to Des Moines offers you a blend of benefits that could enhance your quality of life. Columbus, known for its bustling city vibe, lush parks such as the Scioto Mile, and a plethora of cultural venues like the Columbus Museum of Art, offers a rich, urban living experience. On the other hand, Des Moines, with its welcoming community, lower cost of living, and attractions such as the Gray's Lake Park and the Des Moines Art Center, presents a more laid-back lifestyle without compromising on conveniences or quality experiences. This move could be your step towards a balance of affordability, security, and enjoyment in your daily life.
Columbus vs. Des Moines Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus, Ohio, and Des Moines, Iowa, highlighting the rich variety and cultural significance of the food scenes in these cities. As you prepare to move, understanding the local cuisine can deeply enrich your experience and integration into the community.
| Columbus | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candies | Pork tenderloin sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin |
| Most popular street food item | Food truck tacos | Food truck BBQ ribs |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit tacos | Vegan Thai curry |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Columbus, Ohio, you'll find a dynamic food scene with a sweet spot for Buckeye candies, a treat intimately tied to the state itself. The city's German heritage significantly influences the local cuisine, as seen in the popularity of Bratwurst and the historic charm of Schmidt’s Sausage Haus located in the German Village neighborhood. On the other hand, Des Moines, Iowa, boasts a love for all things pork, especially evident in their iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. The East Village area of Des Moines is a haven for foodies, offering a mix of innovative dining concepts like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab and Fong's Pizza, each providing a unique twist on classic dishes. Whether you're exploring the hearty Midwestern fare of Des Moines or diving into the diverse culinary landscape of Columbus, both cities promise a rich tapestry of flavors awaiting your discovery.
Columbus vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering local culinary delights. This comparison of top eateries from Columbus, OH to Des Moines, IA will help ease your transition by finding your new favorite restaurants . By matching beloved Columbus dining spots with their Des Moines counterparts, you'll feel right at home in no time.
| Columbus | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro | 801 Chophouse | Opulent dining environment with high-end French and American dishes |
| Northstar Café | Fresh Café & Market | Focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients |
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Black Cat Ice Cream | Artisanal ice cream with innovative flavors |
| Thurman Café | Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Creative takes on American diner classics, including burgers |
| Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Exile Brewing Co. | Craft brewery with a robust menu of American fare |
| Lincoln Social Rooftop | The Republic on Grand | Elevated cocktails and small plates with a rooftop view |
| Katzinger's Delicatessen | Maccabee's Kosher Deli | Authentic deli experience with a similar menu and vibe |
| Marcella's | Centro | Italian classics in a chic, urban setting |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Big Al’s BBQ | BBQ and comfort food with a unique twist and spicy options |
| Los Guachos Taqueria | Tacos Mariana's | Authentic Mexican street food with a focus on tacos |
Moving cities can be a daunting experience, but discovering places that serve your favorite dishes can make the transition much smoother. For example, fans of The Refectory in Columbus will find 801 Chophouse in Des Moines a pleasing alternative, offering similarly luxurious dining experiences. Lovers of unique, quality ice cream who frequented Jeni's will surely enjoy Black Cat Ice Cream, known for its inventive flavors and dedication to craft. If the culture and community vibe of Northstar Café is what you're missing, Fresh Café & Market steps up with its commitment to local and organic produce. These Des Moines equivalents not only offer similar tastes and experiences but also hold the potential to become your new go-to spots in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of your move; understanding how housing in Columbus, OH and Des Moines, IA compares can make all the difference. From costs to the lifestyle, see how these cities match up to find your perfect home.
| Comparison | Columbus | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Ranch, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to parks | Quiet neighborhoods, family-friendly |
In both Columbus and Des Moines, the Craftsman style is beloved for its aesthetic charm and functionality, reflecting a preference for classic American architecture. However, Columbus presents slightly higher living costs, which is mirrored in both median home prices and rent. Despite this, its urban lifestyle scores higher, indicating a bustling city life that many find appealing. Des Moines, on the other hand, is not far behind in terms of bikeability and offers a more affordable living situation, ideal for those looking for a balance between city life and budget-friendly options. This city's listings frequently highlight quiet, family-oriented neighborhoods, making it an attractive place for settling down.
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.
Columbus vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather compares is crucial when moving from Columbus, OH to Des Moines, IA . This comparison will help you know what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition and adaptation to the local climate.
Columbus, OH
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Thunderstorms, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Severe Winter Weather |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In making the move from Columbus to Des Moines, you'll notice several key climatic differences. While the summer temperatures are relatively similar, winters in Des Moines are notably colder and longer, highlighted by heavier snowfall—something to consider for winter driving and outdoor activities. Additionally, Des Moines enjoys more sunny days annually, which can be a boon for outdoor enthusiasts. Air quality also tends to be better in Des Moines, potentially offering a breath of fresh air for those sensitive to pollutants. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your relocation, ensuring you have the appropriate clothing and gear for a comfortable transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Des Moines
When pondering a move from one city to another, understanding how your expenses will compare is crucial. This guide highlights the financial differences you'll encounter when moving from Columbus, OH to Des Moines, IA. It will help you gauge the economic terrain, from income to living costs and taxes, ensuring no financial surprise awaits you in your new home.
| Comparison | Columbus | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 2.85 - 4.797 | 0.33 - 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56 | 1.57 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Finance, Healthcare | Insurance, Finance, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Lower |
Shifting your life from Columbus to Des Moines, you'll notice some financial changes. Despite both cities having a moderate level of affluence, Des Moines slightly edges out with a higher average household income, which could be a result of its robust insurance and finance sectors. The cost of living in both cities is fairly comparable, with Des Moines being slightly more affordable. However, it's important to pay attention to state income taxes which have a broader range in Des Moines, potentially affecting higher earners more significantly. While property and sales taxes are relatively similar, understanding these nuances will prepare you financially for your move.
Columbus vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
Preparing for a move involves understanding the unique characteristics of your new city. This quick comparison—highlighting the political and religious makeup of residents between Columbus & Des Moines —offers a snapshot to help you grasp the cultural and societal makeup you're moving into.
| Columbus | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Moderately progressive |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities | Christianity predominant, growing diversity in religious practices |
In both Columbus and Des Moines, you'll find a political climate that leans Democratic, though Columbus tends to be more progressive, particularly on social issues. This could be reflected in local policies and the general attitude of the community. Religiously, both cities are predominantly Christian, but they cherish diversity, with multiple faiths coexisting and new religious communities steadily emerging. Understanding these nuances can help you transition more smoothly into your new environment, making it easier to connect with your community right away.
Columbus vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Columbus & Des Moines. Whether you plan to drive or utilize public transportation, knowing these differences can greatly affect your daily routine and lifestyle after moving.
| Comparison | Columbus | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | More challenging |
In Columbus, you'll find a moderately busy traffic scene, but it's slightly more manageable than in larger cities. The public transit system, including COTA, offers decent coverage, making it possible, albeit challenging, to get by without a car. Conversely, Des Moines has lighter traffic but also a more limited public transit system, which includes DART. This makes daily commuting without a car more challenging, pushing a stronger dependence on personal vehicles or carpooling options. Overall, if you rely on public transportation, you'll find Columbus offers slightly better infrastructure in comparison to Des Moines.
Additional Resources
Columbus Moving Services
Popular Columbus to Iowa Routes
Popular Moving Resources
