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Kentucky to Iowa Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- For Kentucky to Iowa, the typical two-bedroom professional moving cost is about $2,200–$4,700.*Based on a 2–3 bedroom home and a one–six day delivery estimate. Final cost and timing depend on home size, distance, and season.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Kentucky to Iowa is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
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Who are the best movers to move from Kentucky to Iowa?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Kentucky to Iowa is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from Kentucky to Iowa below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from Kentucky to Iowa
We generally recommend going with a professional interstate mover for your Kentucky to Iowa move, since they can handle the end-to-end logistics of a 666 mile route. After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from Kentucky to Iowa.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from Kentucky to Iowa?
It costs between $2,200–$7,400 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Kentucky to Iowa. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 666-mile move from KY to
IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha maintains a nationwide database of thousands of verified moving prices, updated monthly to mirror seasonal patterns and market changes. Your final bill can vary with move size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel costs, and timing. To get a reliable figure, collect quotes from more than one mover.
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Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Budget Truck Rental
Woodlawn, KY
›
Libertyville, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 06, 2026
$496
Allied Van Lines
Audubon Park, KY
›
Sigourney, IA
Studio apartment
Jan 04, 2026
$2,255
Safeway Moving
Indian Hills, KY
›
Truro, IA
Studio apartment
Jan 01, 2026
$2,075
PODS
New Haven, KY
›
Conesville, IA
3 Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
$2,445
Mayflower Transit
Fort Knox, KY
›
Urbandale, IA
Studio apartment
Dec 22, 2025
$2,800
Colonial Van Lines
Henderson, KY
›
Shell Rock, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
$4,800
Roadway Moving
West Liberty, KY
›
St. Marys, IA
4 Bedrooms
Dec 02, 2025
$5,336
1-800-Pack-Rat
Cynthiana, KY
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Blencoe, IA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 25, 2025
$1,854
United Van Lines
Burnside, KY
›
Stockton, IA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 15, 2025
$5,831
Joyce Van Lines
Stanford, KY
›
Wapello, IA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 09, 2025
$4,024
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Kentucky to Iowa?
Moving from Kentucky to Iowa can cost anywhere from $1,107–$6,565, but most people pay around $2,168–$4,705 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,107 – $3,412 | $660 – $1,744 | $452 – $906 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,168 – $5,622 | $1,238 – $2,368 | $528 – $1,076 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,847 – $7,357 | $1,688 – $3,289 | $602 – $1,189 |
These are approximate estimates for a 666-mile move from KY to IA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,168 – $5,622 to hire a moving company to move you from Kentucky to Iowa. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,107 – $3,412
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,168 – $5,622
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,847 – $7,357
How much do moving containers cost from Kentucky to Iowa?
Using a moving container from Kentucky to Iowa costs, on average, $1,238 – $2,368. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $660 – $1,744
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,238 – $2,368
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,688 – $3,289
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from Kentucky to Iowa will costs you between $528 – $1,076, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $452 – $906
- 2–3 bedrooms: $528 – $1,076
- 4+ bedrooms: $602 – $1,189
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from Kentucky to Iowa, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from KY to IA?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Iowa — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $902 in Kentucky to $914 in Iowa, and average home values go from $212,088 to $220,277.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (93 vs. 89), unemployment (5.0% vs. 3.0%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.0% vs. 6.94%) and state income tax (4.0% vs. 4.4%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| Kentucky | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $902 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $212,088 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $60,183 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 93 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 6.0% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 4.0% | 4.4% |
Will rent be more expensive in Iowa?
Rent is about the same in Kentucky and Iowa.
Avg rent: $902 vs. $914
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are pretty similar in Kentucky and Iowa.
Avg home value: $212,088 vs. $220,277
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 17% higher in Iowa than in Kentucky.
Avg income (per capita): $60,183 vs. $70,571
Is the overall cost of living higher in Iowa?
The cost of living is about the same in Kentucky and Iowa.
Cost of living index: 93 vs. 89
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 16% higher in Iowa than in Kentucky.
Avg sales tax: 6.0% vs. 6.94%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 10% higher in Iowa than in Kentucky.
State income tax: 4.0% vs. 4.4%
How is daily life different in Iowa compared to Kentucky?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| Iowa | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 4,526,154 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 24ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 11″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 16.63 |
Will Iowa feel more crowded than Kentucky?
Iowa is about 29% less populous than Kentucky — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Kentucky and Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (84°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: Iowa is colder on average (10°F vs. 24°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Iowa?
Rain: Iowa gets less rain (35″ vs. 48″).
Snow: Iowa gets more snow (30 inches vs. 11 inches).
Is Iowa safer than Kentucky?
Iowa and Kentucky have similar crime rates (16.18 vs. 16.63). It’s still smart to check the city/neighborhood level.
What are some things to do in Iowa?
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
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- 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 has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Iowa, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Iowa?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Iowa?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Iowa moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Iowa?
No moving permit is required in Iowa.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
Some movers in Kentucky offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
Kentucky Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Kentucky Routes
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