When moving from Colorado to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $2,419–$5,866 with professional movers, roughly
$2,055 for a moving container, and about
$884
for a rental truck.
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The best local moving companies in Colorado
In Colorado, there are 62 interstate moving companies available to accommodate your move to Iowa. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Colorado, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- Exodus Moving and Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Skyline Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Local Moving LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- At Your Service Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 26
Alternate Names: AAA Exodus Moving and Storage Inc
Exodus Moving and Storage, serving Fort Collins, CO since 1998, is a seasoned local moving company specializing in residential relocations. The company offers an extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, labor-only services, and piano moving, setting them apart from many nearby movers. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an impressive average of 4.4 stars across 143 Google reviews, they are considered highly reputable, despite mixed feedback on Yelp. Exodus accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the moving process convenient and stress-free for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00472
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2840634
Alternate Names: Skyline Moving Company LLC
Skyline Moving Company, based in Commerce City, CO, excels in local residential moves and has been serving the community since 2017. Renowned for their exceptional service, they also offer office moving, packing, and unpacking services, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With 4.4 stars on Yelp and an impressive 4.8 on Google, they outshine many nearby competitors and hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, they provide both convenience and reliability.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Colorado Springs, CO, standing out among nearby competitors with their comprehensive offerings. Renowned for their efficiency, they also provide packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, and are even equipped to move pianos and safes. Exceptional customer satisfaction is evidenced by their 4.2 average rating on Yelp and an impressive 4.6 on Google My Business. With no deposit required and acceptance of credit cards, they ensure a convenient and trustworthy moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00426
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2498325
Local Moving LLC specializes in local residential moving services in and around Denver, CO, and has been a trusted name in the community since 2013. They stand out among nearby movers with their top-notch packing and unpacking services, as well as their ability to handle specialty items like pianos. Boasting an impressive average rating of 4.7 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google from over 1,200 combined reviews, they have built a reputation for reliability and excellence. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, Local Moving LLC is a reputable choice for those seeking seamless local moves without the hassle of deposits.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3462713
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3462713
At Your Service Moving & Storage, based in Aurora, CO, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2018. Their strong reputation is highlighted by glowing reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.6 on Google My Business, coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, this company also offers specialized services like fragile item packing, piano moving, and full valuation insurance coverage, making them a versatile choice for various moving needs. Despite requiring a deposit, their exceptional customer satisfaction indicates a trustworthy and professional service.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Colorado to Iowa moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Colorado and dropping it off at your new home in Iowa.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Colorado to Iowa moving truck rentals
Want to save money on your move from Colorado to Iowa? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you’ll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Colorado to Iowa labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from Colorado to Iowa, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CO to IA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 79 Colorado movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Colorado to Iowa?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Colorado to Iowa, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,123 – $3,911 | $723 – $1,753 | $522 – $1,075 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,419 – $5,866 | $1,341 – $2,770 | $576 – $1,192 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,099 – $8,050 | $1,835 – $3,369 | $713 – $1,534 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 776-mile relocation from CO to IA, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Colorado to Iowa
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Colorado to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $1,123 and $3,911. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,419 and $5,866 for the same journey (CO to IA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,099 to $8,050.
Cost of moving containers from Colorado to Iowa
When you’re heading from Colorado to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $723 and $1,753. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,341 and $2,770. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,835 to $3,369. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Colorado easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Colorado to Iowa
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $522 to $1,075. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $576 to $1,192, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Colorado to Iowa costs around $713 to $1,534.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CO to IA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Colorado to Iowa. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
- The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Colorado when demand for movers is highest.
- DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from CO to IA
If you’re moving to Iowa from Colorado, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Colorado vs. Iowa
Understanding how costs compare between Colorado and Iowa can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
| Colorado | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,594 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $541,072 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $87,598 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 7.81% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 4.4% |
- Rent in Iowa is around 43% less than in Colorado, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
- Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Iowa are about 59% lower than in Colorado. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
- Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Iowa are about 19% lower than in Colorado.
- With the cost of living being about the same in Iowa and Colorado, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
- Iowa boasts an unemployment rate about 27% lower than Colorado. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
- Sales tax in Iowa is 11% lower than in Colorado. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Iowa can really help cut down your living expenses.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 20% lower than in Colorado. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Colorado
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Iowa and Colorado line up on these lifestyle indicators.
| Iowa | Colorado | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 5,877,610 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Democrat 54-46 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 13ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 16″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 63″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 36.4 |
- The population of Iowa is approximately 45% lower than the population of Colorado. Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
- In the most recent presidential election, Iowa voted Republican, while Colorado went Democrat.
- In Iowa, summer highs are around 84°F, close to 86°F in Colorado. With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
- Winter temperatures usually fall to 10°F in Iowa and 13°F in Colorado. With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
- Get ready for about 35 inches of rain each year in Iowa, which is quite a change from the 16 inches you’re used to in Colorado. The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
- In Iowa, you’ll only get about 30 inches of snow each year, much less than Colorado. That means moving to Iowa brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- Iowa is a safer choice than Colorado, boasting a lower crime index of 16.18 compared to 36.4. You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Colorado vs. Iowa
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Iowa and Colorado:
| Pros of living in Colorado | Pros of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Low cost of living |
| Awesome snow recreational activities | Ample economic opportunity |
| Quality healthcare | High quality of education |
| High quality of life | No traffic |
| Beautiful outdoors | Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Colorado vs. Iowa
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Colorado for Iowa:
| Cons of living in Colorado | Cons of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | Severe weather conditions |
| High cost of living | Limited recreational opportunities |
| Altitude sickness | High taxes |
| Overcrowding | High emphasis on politics |
| Bad traffic | Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Colorado to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Iowa right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Iowa
While you’re in Iowa, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Colorado to Iowa?
Going with a full-service Colorado moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Colorado to Iowa?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Colorado to Iowa on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Colorado to Iowa?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Colorado to Iowa to enjoy all the great benefits Iowa provides, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Colorado or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Colorado. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 43% less and home prices 59% lower than in Colorado. Taxes are also lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Colorado residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Thinking of moving to Iowa on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,616 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or around $5,230 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Colorado?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Colorado, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies. Seniors are eligible for savings with 2 movers.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
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