Best Pittsburgh to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 793 mile move from Pennsylvania to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For 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 | Meta Movers | 9.12 | 9.43 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.80 | 8.2 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 793 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,456 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Des Moines move is roughly $5,893. 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 | $1,652 | 300 ft³ | 5.51 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,456 | 450 ft³ | 5.46 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,055 | 750 ft³ | 5.41 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,893 | 1100 ft³ | 5.36 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,491 | 1600 ft³ | 5.31 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,462 | 1800 ft³ | 5.26 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Pittsburgh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Des Moines Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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) |
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) |
Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
3555 Valley Dr
Pittsburgh, PA, 15234
About Two Men and a Truck
With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1321899 / 509618 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 260,000 (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.
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease this transition, we have created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & Des Moines, IA . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Des Moines that shares the vibe and amenities of your beloved Pittsburgh community, making you feel right at home from day one.
| Pittsburgh | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Shadyside | East Village | Trendy, with boutique shops |
| Squirrel Hill | Beaverdale | Cozy, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Lawrenceville | Sherman Hill | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| South Side Flats | Drake Neighborhood | Vibrant nightlife, close to university |
| Strip District | Ingersoll Avenue | Eclectic mix of dining and shopping |
| Mount Washington | Waveland Park | Great views, public golf course |
| Bloomfield | Highland Park | Rich in heritage, local eateries |
| Oakland | Gray's Lake | Cultural heart, recreational activities |
| North Shore | Waterworks Park | Ample green space, sports facilities |
| East Liberty | West Des Moines | Shopping centers, modern conveniences |
For instance, if you're charmed by the trendy boutiques and quaint cafes of Shadyside, you'll adore the East Village in Des Moines with its unique shops like RAYGUN, known for its quirky Midwest-themed merchandise. Those appreciating Squirrel Hill's cozy, family-friendly neighborhood will find a similar vibe in Beaverdale, where events like the annual Fall Festival foster a sense of community. Meanwhile, lovers of Lawrenceville's artistic and historical richness can explore Sherman Hill, where strolling past well-preserved Victorian homes might lead you to the renowned Des Moines Art Center. This comparative approach not only assists in finding a new neighborhood with the comforts of your old one but also in discovering new local favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Des Moines
Embarking on a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Des Moines, IA, involves considering various factors to ensure a well-informed decision. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the relocation dynamics between Pittsburgh and Des Moines, highlighting both the appealing and challenging aspects to expect.
Pittsburgh, PA- Higher crime rate
- Colder winters
- Less job diversity
- Denser population
- Higher living costs
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rate
- Milder winters
- More job opportunities
- Smaller community feel
- Lower living costs
Des Moines, IA- Less historical sites
- Fewer sports options
- More car dependency
- Smaller city scale
- Less nightlife
Pittsburgh, PA- Richer history
- More sports teams
- Better public transit
- Larger city feel
- More entertainment venues
While Des Moines boasts a lower crime rate and a more comfortable cost of living, Pittsburgh offers a rich tapestry of history and a vibrant sports culture, with iconic teams like the Steelers and the Penguins. Des Moines, though smaller, is not without its charms, such as the Water Works Park for outdoor enthusiasts and the East Village for those who appreciate a bustling neighborhood full of unique shops and restaurants. On the other hand, Pittsburgh’s Heinz History Center and the bustling districts of Downtown and the Strip District offer distinctive cultural experiences. Choosing between these cities depends on what aspects of city life you prioritize—whether it's the historical depth and vibrant sports scene of Pittsburgh or the quieter, more affordable lifestyle in Des Moines.
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Des Moines, spotlighting the diverse food scenes as an integral part of understanding local culture and lifestyle in these areas. This overview will help you get a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Pittsburgh | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Primanti Sandwich | Loose-Meat Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Pittsburgh Salad (with steak) | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Pierogies | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Primavera | Vegan Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Pittsburgh, the Primanti Sandwich, a unique combination of meat, coleslaw, and fries all stuffed between Italian bread, symbolizes the city's love for hearty, comforting meals. This local favorite can be savored at Primanti Bros., alongside other culinary staples at iconic spots such as Pamela's Diner and Meat & Potatoes. Over in Des Moines, the culinary scene shines with its own specialties like the legendary Loose-Meat Sandwich. Fong's Pizza, offering a creative fusion of Asian and American flavors, along with Achiote and Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, are must-visit eateries that showcase the city's diverse and evolving food scene. Both cities offer a rich tapestry of tastes, yet Des Moines edges slightly ahead in terms of health consciousness and vegan offerings.
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a culinary adventure as much as a geographical one. Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Pittsburgh, PA, and Des Moines, IA , aims to ease your transition by guiding you to familiar flavors and exciting new spots. Discover your next favorite eateries, using your current favorites as a blueprint.
| Pittsburgh | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Poulet Bleu | Baru 66 | French fine dining with a similarly upscale ambiance. |
| Primanti Bros. | Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Both offer unique, iconic sandwiches with a twist. |
| DiAnoia's Eatery | Lucca | Similar commitment to fresh, Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. |
| Altius | Django Restaurant | Both provide a high-end dining experience with exceptional service. |
| Gaucho Parrilla Argentina | Argentina Grill | For a similar focus on Argentinian meats and flavors. |
| Noodlehead | Krunkwich Ramen House | Both are loved for their innovative and flavorful noodle dishes. |
| Meat & Potatoes | Jesse's Embers | Known for hearty portions and a focus on meat-centric dishes. |
| Spoon | Table 128 Bistro + Bar | Both are fine dining spots known for creative American cuisines. |
| Umami | Akebono 515 | Offers a comparable exploration of umami flavors through Japanese cuisine. |
| Pizzeria Davide | Centro | Both specialize in providing an elevated pizza experience. |
While no two cities are exactly alike, Des Moines offers a rich array of dining experiences that resonate with the culinary diversity found in Pittsburgh. For those who cherish the refined flavors of French cuisine, the transition from Poulet Bleu to Baru 66 will be seamless, with both restaurants offering dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The shift from the iconic sandwiches at Primanti Bros. to the creative concoctions at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab represents how one can find culinary creativity and comfort in the most unexpected places. Moreover, the comparison between Noodlehead and Krunkwich Ramen House underlines the universal appeal of noodle dishes, transcending geographical boundaries to deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite. These transitions not only promise the discovery of new favorite spots but also a delightful continuity of culinary experiences.
Ready to start your move?
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is critical. This comparison aims to illuminate the key differences and similarities in housing between Pittsburgh, PA, and Des Moines, IA, providing a deeper insight into what you can expect. From costs to lifestyle, every aspect matters in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Colonial | Ranch, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Historic charm | Spacious backyards, Modern updates |
Moving to either Pittsburgh or Des Moines offers distinctive lifestyle and housing opportunities. Pittsburgh, with its Victorian and Colonial architecture, appeals to those who value historic charm and an urban atmosphere, indicated by its higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores. The city's housing market features homes with hardwood floors, emphasizing their historic character. Des Moines, on the other hand, leans more towards a suburban lifestyle, evident in its appreciation for Ranch and Craftsman architectural styles, spacious backyards, and modern updates in homes. Despite a lower walkability score, Des Moines slightly edges out in bikeability, making it a favorable option for those who enjoy biking as part of their daily routine. While the median home prices and monthly rents suggest that Des Moines might offer a more affordable living situation, Pittsburgh provides an appealing urban environment for those willing to spend a bit more.
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Des Moines, IA, it's vital to understand how the weather of your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you prepare for the changes in climate, weather patterns, and potential environmental challenges you might face in your new home.
Pittsburgh, PA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pittsburgh, PA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Storms, Floods | Tornadoes, Severe Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Pittsburgh and Des Moines share certain similarities like their prominent pollen allergies, moving to Des Moines means you'll experience a slightly warmer summer, colder winters, and more sunny days annually. Des Moines also has a higher average UV index, which might necessitate a stronger sunscreen routine. Another significant difference between the two cities is the risk of natural disasters; while both cities face their fair share of storms, Des Moines is particularly known for tornadoes and severe weather patterns. Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for life in Des Moines, from your wardrobe to your home maintenance habits.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Des Moines
When considering a move from one city to another, discerning the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how the cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities between Pittsburgh, PA and Des Moines, IA will impact your wallet. Understanding these differences will ensure a smoother transition and help you manage your finances effectively in your new home.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $57,821 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | Up to 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.07 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Finance, Insurance, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower than national average |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Less prevalent |
While making a move from Pittsburgh to Des Moines, you'll find several financial differences that could impact your decision. Notably, the average household income is higher in Des Moines, coupled with a lower cost of living index, making it an attractive option for many looking to stretch their earnings further. However, it's essential to note that state income tax in Iowa can be significantly higher than Pennsylvania's flat rate, depending on your income bracket. Des Moines presents a thriving economic landscape dominated by finance, insurance, and agriculture, contrasting with Pittsburgh’s strong foundation in healthcare, education, and technology. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your financial planning and career prospects as you transition to life in Des Moines.
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Pittsburgh, PA, to Des Moines, IA, it's valuable to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you will soon be among. This comparison of the politics and religious orientation between Pittsburgh & Des Moines serves as an essential guide for understanding the social and cultural environment awaiting you.
| Pittsburgh | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Swing, leaning Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with liberal urban policies | Centrist with progressive elements |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, with Catholic majority | Christianity predominant, diverse denominations |
In Pittsburgh, the political scene has historically leaned towards the Democratic side, reflected in its urban policies that often tilt liberal. This is complemented by a religious landscape dominated by Christianity, specifically with a Catholic majority. On the other hand, your new home, Des Moines, presents a more politically mixed environment that fluctuates but generally leans Democratic. The city boasts a centrist approach to local politics, integrating progressive elements that may provide a fresh perspective. Des Moines's religious makeup is similarly Christian-dominant but boasts a greater variety of denominations, reflecting a diverse community that you'll be joining. This comparison highlights the subtle yet significant differences in the sociopolitical and religious fabric of both cities, setting the stage for your seamless adaptation.
Pittsburgh vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Des Moines, IA entails a significant change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Des Moines is designed to help you better understand what to expect as you make your transition. Whether you're driving to work, using public transit, or wondering if you can get by without a car, understanding these differences is crucial.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | With Difficulty | No |
When moving from Pittsburgh to Des Moines, you'll notice a difference in your commute times and traffic congestion. Pittsburgh's average commute time is a bit longer, reflecting its larger population and denser urban environment. While Pittsburgh scores higher in terms of public transit availability, thanks to services like the Port Authority offering extensive bus and light rail options, Des Moines offers a more car-dependent lifestyle with limited public transit options. Consequently, having a car is more of a necessity in Des Moines, while living in Pittsburgh provides a bit more flexibility for those wanting to reduce their reliance on personal vehicles. This shift represents a crucial consideration for your lifestyle and daily routines.
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