Best Seattle to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,835 mile move from Washington to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle 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 Seattle to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,835 miles from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $3,342 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Des Moines move is roughly $8,059. 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 | $2,243 | 300 ft³ | 7.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,342 | 450 ft³ | 7.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,532 | 750 ft³ | 7.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,059 | 1100 ft³ | 7.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,642 | 1600 ft³ | 7.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,007 | 1800 ft³ | 7.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Des Moines Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
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.
Seattle vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison between popular neighborhoods in Seattle, WA & Des Moines, IA . This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing neighborhoods in Seattle to their counterparts in Des Moines.
| Seattle | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | East Village | Vibrant arts scene and nightlife |
| Ballard | Beaverdale | Rich history and strong community vibe |
| Fremont | Valley Junction | Eclectic shops and artistic spirit |
| Greenwood | Windsor Heights | Family-friendly with a quiet charm |
| Queen Anne | South of Grand | Stately homes and tree-lined streets |
| West Seattle | Waterbury | Laid-back lifestyle with local shops |
| Belltown | Sherman Hill | Diverse dining options and architecture |
| Pioneer Square | Historic East Village | Cobblestone streets and cultural hub |
| Madrona | Drake Neighborhood | Academic atmosphere and historic homes |
| Wallingford | Highland Park | Revitalized and family-oriented |
In the heart of Des Moines' East Village, the vibrant arts scene and nightlife closely mirror what you'd find in Seattle's Capitol Hill, with both neighborhoods boasting a plethora of dining options, boutiques, and cultural events that attract residents and visitors alike. Over in Beaverdale, a strong sense of community and historic charm give off a vibe similar to Ballard, where Seattleites gather for the busy farmers markets and community events. For those enamored with Fremont's eclectic and artistic spirit, Valley Junction's unique shops and art galleries offer a creative haven in Des Moines. Meanwhile, the academic atmosphere and historic homes of the Drake Neighborhood invite comparisons to Madrona, with both areas offering a blend of academic influences and stately residences amidst lush surroundings. By exploring these neighborhood comparisons, newcomers can find familiar comforts as they navigate the exciting transition to life in Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Des Moines
Considering a move from the bustling streets of Seattle, WA, to the tranquil cityscapes of Des Moines, IA? This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of moving from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA , laying out the benefits and drawbacks. Let these charts guide you through the significant changes you can expect, helping you weigh your options meticulously.
Seattle, WA- High cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
Des Moines, IA- More affordable housing
- Milder weather
- Less congestion
- Smaller, tight-knit community
Des Moines, IA- Fewer job opportunities in tech
- Less diverse
- Fewer outdoor activities
- Less seafood variety
Seattle, WA- Vibrant tech scene
- Rich cultural diversity
- Abundant nature
- Seafood cuisine
Moving from Seattle to Des Moines involves a significant lifestyle shift. Seattle's bustling tech scene, exemplified by companies like Amazon and Microsoft, contrasts with Des Moines's quieter job market. However, Des Moines offers unique opportunities, especially for entrepreneurs and in the insurance sector. While you might miss Seattle's majestic Mount Rainier views and the fresh Pacific seafood at Pike Place Market, Des Moines has its charm with places like the Gray’s Lake Park and the flourishing culinary scene in the East Village. This transition might mean trading in the dense, rainy cityscape for a calmer, more community-focused environment. While the cultural diversity and outdoor activities of Seattle are unparalleled, Des Moines's affordability and quality of life present an attractive alternative for many.
Seattle vs. Des Moines Food Guide
When planning a move, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of your new home, especially something as vital as local cuisine, as food plays a key role in the local culture and daily life. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look through a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Des Moines, offering insights to help you better understand the food scene you're about to dive into.
| Seattle | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Pho | Steak de Burgo |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Fried on a Stick |
| Most popular vegan food | Mushroom Bao | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the food scene is as vibrant and diverse as its neighborhoods. The iconic salmon dish can be enjoyed in waterfront restaurants, while Pho, indicative of Seattle's rich Vietnamese culture, can be found in enclaves like the International District. Taco trucks, a popular street food choice, serve up a variety of flavors, reflecting the city's multicultural influence. Vegan options, like the mushroom bao, are widely available, catering to a health-conscious population. Iconic restaurants such as Canlis and Matt's in the Market offer a glimpse into the city's culinary innovation and tradition. In contrast, Des Moines presents a heartland appeal with its famous Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Steak de Burgo, a testament to its Midwestern roots. The state fair-inspired 'Fried on a Stick' items highlight a playful side of the city's street food culture. With a growing foodie scene, Des Moines provides both traditional and modern dining experiences, such as those found at Centro and Fong's Pizza, where local ingredients meet creative recipes.
Seattle vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding a great meal can turn a new city into your home. This restaurant comparison between Seattle, WA, and Des Moines, IA, is designed to guide you towards your next favorite eateries, making the transition smoother and more delicious. Let's dive into a culinary journey, comparing top spots in both cities to help you find comfort in familiar yet new flavors.
| Seattle | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Aposto | Upscale dining with a personalized touch reminiscent of Canlis |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | Harbinger | Creatively prepared small plates echo the innovation found at Walrus and the Carpenter |
| Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures | Bubba | Southern comforts that match the vibe of Renee Erickson's establishments |
| Salumi | Lucca | Italian delicacies that offer a taste akin to Salumi's artisanal approach |
| Pike Place Chowder | Splash Seafood Bar & Grill | A haven for chowder and seafood enthusiasts much like Pike Place |
| Maneki | Akai Umi | Authentic Japanese cuisine that parallels the experience at Maneki |
| Dahlia Lounge | Centro | American cuisine with a creative twist, evoking the spirit of Dahlia Lounge |
| Space Needle SkyCity | 801 Chophouse | Though not in the sky, it offers high-end dining that rivals the experience at SkyCity |
| Matt's in the Market | Proof | The local and fresh ingredients philosophy is mirrored in both these culinary gems |
| Tilth | Table 128 Bistro & Bar | Organic and sustainable practices that resonate with Tilth's mission |
In your quest for familiar flavors or new culinary explorations in Des Moines, spots like Harbinger stand out as a beacon for those who've loved the creativity at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Harbinger crafts small plates with an innovative twist, providing a unique dining experience. Similarly, if the Italian charm of Salumi captured your heart in Seattle, Lucca in Des Moines awaits with its artisanal approach to Italian cuisine, promising a comforting echo of your Seattle favorites. For those who treasure sustainable and organic dining, Table 128 Bistro & Bar mirrors Tilth’s commitment to these principles, featuring menus rich with local produce and ethically sourced meats. These Des Moines establishments not only offer a taste of Seattle's culinary scene but also embrace the local flavor and hospitality that make them standouts in their own right.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, evaluating the real estate market is crucial to understanding your new living environment. This comparison between Seattle, WA and Des Moines, IA focuses on housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall lifestyle for potential movers.
| Comparison | Seattle | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Ranch and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Eco-friendly features | Family-friendly neighborhoods, Spacious yards |
In comparing Seattle and Des Moines, we see a stark contrast not only in housing costs but in lifestyle as well. Seattle's housing market is quite challenging, with a median home price significantly higher than Des Moines. This could be a deciding factor for many, especially when considering the much more affordable options in Des Moines. The typical architectural styles also reflect the landscapes and lifestyles of each city— modern and Craftsman homes amidst Seattle's lush landscapes and tech-driven environment versus the ranch and Craftsman styles that reflect Des Moines' more laid-back, spacious suburban feel. Seattle scores higher in terms of urban lifestyle, indicating a bustling city life that's rich in culture and amenities, something that is less pronounced in Des Moines. These differences not only highlight the cost of living but also the type of community and lifestyle one might expect upon moving.
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.
Seattle vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can significantly alter your day-to-day life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding the weather differences between Seattle, WA, and Des Moines, IA will help you better prepare for your relocation. Here's a comparison to illustrate how the climate varies between these two cities.
Seattle, WA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Seattle enjoys milder summers and winters with more rain and less snow, Des Moines experiences a more distinct range of seasons. Summers in Des Moines can be notably hotter and winters significantly colder, leading to greater annual snowfall. Additionally, the number of sunny days in Des Moines exceeds that of Seattle, which could be a factor to consider if sunshine plays a vital role in your daily wellbeing. Understanding these differences ensures you are well-prepared for the weather changes accompanying your move from Seattle to Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Des Moines
When considering a move from one location to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate how the cost of living, tax rates, and economic environments in Seattle and Des Moines might impact your financial health and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Seattle | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | Up to 8.53% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99% | 1.56% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Retail, Aerospace | Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA will bring about significant financial and lifestyle changes. While Seattle offers a strikingly high average household income, it also comes with a cost of living index far above the national average. In contrast, Des Moines presents a much more affordable living situation, though with a slightly lower average household income. It's important to note that Washington state has no income tax, which may offset some of the higher living costs in Seattle, whereas Iowa has a progressive income tax that peaks at 8.53%. Furthermore, the dominant industries shift from technology and aerospace in Seattle to insurance and financial services in Des Moines, suggesting career opportunities may differ significantly between the two cities.
Seattle vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
When relocating from Seattle, Washington to Des Moines, Iowa, understanding the community you'll be joining is essential. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Seattle & Des Moines , offering insights into the residents' leanings and beliefs. This brief comparison aims to paint a clearer picture of the local environment in both cities.
| Seattle | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderate, with a mix of Democratic and Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, environmental focus | Balance of progressive and conservative initiatives |
| Religion | Less religious, with a variety of faiths | Moderately religious, Christian majority |
Moving from the progressive, environmentally-focused city of Seattle might be a change of pace as you adjust to Des Moines's balanced political landscape that embraces both conservative and progressive initiatives. While Seattle's residents tend to lean less religious with a broad spectrum of faiths present, you'll find Des Moines carries a moderate religious atmosphere, predominantly Christian. This blend of political and religious backgrounds could provide a fresh perspective, perhaps offering a different sense of community engagement and local issues priorities.
Seattle vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA offers a distinct change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Des Moines is designed to help you better understand what to expect when navigating each city.
| Comparison | Seattle | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
In Seattle, the average commute time is longer, and traffic congestion is considerably higher compared to Des Moines. This is partly due to Seattle's larger population density and its geographic constraints, such as water bodies and hills, which limit road expansion. The city does offer a range of public transit options, including buses, light rail, and ferries, making it somewhat possible to get around without a car, especially in the denser urban areas. In contrast, Des Moines has less traffic congestion and shorter commute times, indicative of the city's smaller size and less dense urban development. However, its public transit options are more limited, making it more challenging to rely solely on public transportation for daily commuting.
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