Best San Antonio to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Antonio to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,029 mile move from Texas to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 San Antonio 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 New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC), 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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Little Guys Movers | 9.26 | 9.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Move Logistics Inc. | 9.24 | 9.12 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Antonio to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,029 miles from San Antonio, TX to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,656 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Antonio to Des Moines move is roughly $6,383. 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 | $1,786 | 300 ft³ | 5.95 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,656 | 450 ft³ | 5.90 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,390 | 750 ft³ | 5.85 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,383 | 1100 ft³ | 5.80 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,205 | 1600 ft³ | 5.75 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,265 | 1800 ft³ | 5.70 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to San Antonio guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Antonio to Des Moines Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC
4310 FM482 ste c
New Braunfels, TX, 78132
About New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC
New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC was established in 2014, after its founder and owner had acquired over 15 years of experience...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2992735 / 1117672 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 0 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 35,000 (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) |
Little Guys Movers
222 Wonder World Dr
San Marcos, TX, 78666
About Little Guys Movers
Little Guys Movers is a franchised nationwide moving company operating in eight states, including Texas. It has a location in San...
Services
- LONG DISTANCE MOVING
- LOCAL MOVING
- COMMERCIAL MOVING
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 880583 / 689082 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 52 |
| Registered Drivers | 80 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 667,000 (2023) |
Move Logistics Inc.
10510 I-35 Frontage Rd
San Antonio, TX, 78233
About Move Logistics Inc.
This family-owned moving company was founded on the values of professionalism, service, and high standards. Move Logistics performs both residential and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2295112 / 919701 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 54,850 (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) |
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.
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Whether you're relocating for a new job or simply in search of a change, getting to know your new city can be challenging. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with Des Moines, IA, by drawing parallels to what you know and love about San Antonio, TX. We'll provide a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Antonio, TX & Des Moines, IA, pinpointing the Des Moines neighborhoods that mirror your San Antonio favorites, making the transition feel like a breeze.
| San Antonio | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Alamo Heights | South of Grand | Historic homes, green spaces |
| Stone Oak | Waveland Park | Family-friendly, great parks |
| The Pearl | East Village | Trendy shops, vibrant nightlife |
| Leon Valley | Beaverdale | Residential with a strong community feel |
| Monte Vista | Drake | Historic charm, university vibe |
| Downtown | Downtown Des Moines | Urban living, cultural attractions |
| Terrell Hills | Waterbury | Upscale, architecturally diverse |
| King William | Sherman Hill | Historic district, close-knit community |
| La Cantera | Jordan Creek | Upscale shopping, dining options |
| Helotes | Urbandale | Quiet, suburban feel |
When you move from San Antonio to Des Moines, finding a neighborhood that feels like home is crucial. For example, if you've enjoyed the blend of historic charm and modern conveniences in Alamo Heights, South of Grand in Des Moines will likely appeal to you with its lovely historic homes and spacious greenery. Similarly, The Pearl's eclectic mix of trendy boutiques, dining, and cultural hotspots finds a counterpart in Des Moines's East Village, where the blend of old and new creates a vibrant, artsy atmosphere. Or, for those who love the family-oriented and outdoor-friendly vibe of Stone Oak, Waveland Park offers an array of parks and recreational opportunities, perfect for active families. By identifying neighborhoods that share similar characteristics, you can ease the transition and quickly feel at home in your new community.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Antonio to Des Moines
Moving can be a complex decision that requires weighing various factors carefully. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of both the good and the bad aspects of relocating from San Antonio, TX to Des Moines, IA . By comparing the cons and pros in a visual format, we hope to provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about this life-changing move.
San Antonio, TX- Hot summers
- Lower walkability
- Less green space
- Larger population
Des Moines, IA- Milder summers
- More walkable
- More parks
- Smaller community
Des Moines, IA- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer historic sites
- Smaller food scene
- Lesser events
San Antonio, TX- Vibrant culture
- Rich history
- Diverse food scene
- Year-round events
When considering the move from San Antonio to Des Moines, there's a lot to think about. San Antonio is renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history, highlighted by landmarks such as The Alamo and the bustling River Walk lined with exquisite dining options. In contrast, Des Moines offers a more serene lifestyle with access to numerous parks like Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and a smaller, yet close-knit community. While Des Moines might not have the same breadth of food and entertainment options, places like East Village offer unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The choice between these two cities ultimately depends on your priorities — whether it's the lively beat of a large city or the calm of a smaller town with room to breathe.
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Food is a significant aspect of local culture and what living in an area is like. In this guide, we'll delve into the culinary experiences, providing a comparison of the local cuisine between San Antonio & Des Moines . This will help you get a taste of what to expect and where your next favorite meal might come from as you plan your move.
| San Antonio | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Texas BBQ Brisket | Iowa Pork Tenderloin |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Guisada | Smoked Pork Loin |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Elote (Mexican Street Corn) |
| Most popular vegan food | Tex-Mex Quinoa Salad | Vegan Sweet Corn Soup |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Antonio, the culinary landscape is rich with flavors reflecting its deep-rooted Hispanic heritage, with tacos being a ubiquitous delight found throughout the city, especially in vibrant neighborhoods like the Pearl District. In contrast, Des Moines showcases its agricultural prowess with dishes such as the Iowa Pork Tenderloin, celebrated in establishments like Smokey D's BBQ. This city's food scene is warmly embracing vegan options, with inventive dishes like Vegan Sweet Corn Soup popping up in menus. Both cities offer a unique taste of local culture, promising an exciting gastronomic journey as you settle into your new home.
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Antonio, TX, and Des Moines, IA will guide you in discovering your next favorite eatery, drawing parallels from what you know and love.
| San Antonio | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Biga on the Banks | Table 128 | Creative New American cuisine |
| Cured | Proof | Known for inventive dishes and quality meats |
| La Panadería | La Mie Bakery | Both celebrate the art of bread-making |
| Botika | Aroi Thai | Offering vibrant Asian fusion options |
| 2M Smokehouse | Smoky D's BBQ | Renowned for smoked meats and homestyle sides |
| Rosario's Mexican Cafe Y Cantina | El Bait Shop | Known for a wide beer selection and hearty Mexican food |
| Pho Kim Long | Pho 515 | Authentic Vietnamese dishes that warm the soul |
| Hot Joy | Fong's Pizza | Adventurous toppings in a playful setting |
| Mi Tierra Café y Panadería | Gusto Pizza Co. | Unique flavors that bring people together |
| The Luxury | Zombie Burger+Drink Lab | Both offer a unique take on casual dining |
Embarking on a culinary journey in a new city can be both exciting and comforting, especially when you find places reminiscent of your old favorites. For instance, if La Panadería held a special place in your heart for morning pastries and coffee in San Antonio, La Mie Bakery in Des Moines welcomes you with similar warmth and a passion for baked goods. Similarly, the leap from 2M Smokehouse's Texas-sized portions and flavors to Smoky D's BBQ in Des Moines is smaller than you'd think, with both spots priding themselves on their expertly smoked meats and friendly, casual atmospheres. It's finding these parallels that can turn the daunting task of settling into a new city into an adventure filled with delicious discoveries.
Ready to start your move?
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element to consider when planning a move. Understanding how the housing market, from costs to community features, compares between San Antonio, TX, and Des Moines, IA is essential for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to provide clarity on your potential new home.
| Comparison | San Antonio | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Outdoor spaces, luxury kitchens | Energy efficiency, spacious yards |
When comparing the real estate landscapes of San Antonio and Des Moines, several factors stand out. San Antonio's real estate market features homes with Spanish Colonial architecture, an aesthetic deeply rooted in the city's history. However, the median home price is slightly higher than in Des Moines, where Craftsman-style homes dominate the market, offering spacious yards and a focus on energy efficiency—a growing trend in home preferences. Moreover, Des Moines presents a more walkable and bikeable environment, which could be appealing if you prefer a lifestyle with less reliance on a car. While San Antonio offers a robust urban feel with its outdoor spaces and luxury kitchens, Des Moines counters with its slightly more appealing urban lifestyle score, reflecting its community-centric atmosphere.
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.
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another means adapting to new environments, and weather plays a significant role in this transition. Understanding how the weather in San Antonio compares to Des Moines will help you prepare for the changes you'll face in your new home.
San Antonio, TX
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Antonio, TX
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Antonio, TX
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Antonio, TX
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Antonio | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, hurricanes | Tornadoes, severe snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both San Antonio and Des Moines enjoy a fair amount of sunshine throughout the year, the type and severity of natural disasters they experience differ significantly. Moving from San Antonio's heatwaves and occasional hurricanes to Des Moines' tornadoes and harsh snowstorms will require a considerable adjustment. Additionally, the significant difference in winter temperatures, with Des Moines experiencing much colder winters, means you'll have to prepare with proper clothing and perhaps adjust your home heating solutions. The variation in air quality and top seasonal allergies between these cities is also something to keep in mind as it may affect your daily comfort and health.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Antonio to Des Moines
If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and general financial atmosphere between San Antonio and Des Moines will compare with what you're accustomed to. This understanding will help ensure a smoother transition and better financial planning.
| Comparison | San Antonio | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,923 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.7 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0% (Texas has no state income tax) | Up to 8.53% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.94% | 1.56% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Tourism, Aerospace/Defense | Insurance, Financial Services, Advanced Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Higher than average | Lower than average |
| Homelessness | Notable | Less prevalent |
San Antonio offers a unique financial landscape with no state income tax, which can be particularly appealing if you're aiming to maximize your earnings. However, it does have a higher cost of living index and property taxes when compared to Des Moines. On the flip side, Des Moines boasts a lower cost of living and is notable for its affluence, attributed mainly to its robust insurance and financial services industries. Despite the appealing average household income in Des Moines, it's essential to consider the state's income tax, which could offset some financial benefits. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for budgeting and lifestyle planning in your new city.
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
If you're planning a move from San Antonio, TX to Des Moines, IA, understanding the comparison of the politics between San Antonio & Des Moines alongside the religious landscape can offer significant insights into the community you're about to join. This quick snapshot aims to provide a clearer picture of what to expect.
| San Antonio | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Active participation in city and county level | High engagement in local elections and policies |
| Religion | Majority Christian, with a significant Catholic demographic Archdiocese of San Antonio | Primarily Christian, diverse denominations with a strong presence of Evangelical Protestants Diocese of Des Moines |
When moving from San Antonio to Des Moines, you'll find that both cities share a tendency to lean towards Democratic values in their political makeup, ensuring a somewhat familiar political environment. San Antonio shows a vibrant engagement in both city and county-level politics, a trait also mirrored in Des Moines, albeit with a unique focus on local elections and policy developments. Religion plays a central role in both cities; however, the primary denomination shifts from a strong Catholic presence in San Antonio to a more varied Christian demographic in Des Moines, including a notable number of Evangelical Protestants. This transition may influence your experience, offering new community engagements and perspectives.
San Antonio vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Antonio, TX to Des Moines, IA brings a variety of changes, especially when it comes to daily commutes. This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Comparison | San Antonio | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | More feasible |
The transition from the bustling streets of San Antonio to the more laid-back atmosphere of Des Moines will be noticeable, especially during rush hour. San Antonio's average commute time is a few minutes longer than in Des Moines, highlighting the larger city's denser traffic scenarios. Although both cities offer public transportation options, your dependency on a car might change significantly. In San Antonio, getting by without a car can be challenging due to the city's sprawling nature and less frequent public transit services. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a slightly more compact urban environment, making it relatively easier for residents to rely on public transportation or even consider commuting by bike or on foot for shorter distances.
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