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West Virginia to Iowa Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- The cost to move from West Virginia to Iowa with professional movers will cost between $2,500 and $5,400.*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and two–seven day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
- 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 West Virginia 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.
Who are the best movers to move from West Virginia to Iowa?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia to Iowa
We recommend that you use a professional, long-distance mover for your West Virginia to Iowa move. A professional mover is better equipped to handle the complex logistics that can arise during the 868 mile journey. After assessing 3,180 movers, moveBuddha concluded that 2,642 (83%) provide interstate moving. Applying our thorough rating methodology, our experts narrowed the list to the best companies equipped to manage your move from West Virginia to Iowa. Our top recommendation is Safeway Moving.
- 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
How much does it cost to move from West Virginia to Iowa?
It costs between $2,500–$7,600 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from West Virginia 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.
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FAQ
How much does it cost to move from West Virginia to Iowa?
Moving from West Virginia to Iowa can cost anywhere from $1,110–$6,604, but most people pay around $2,450–$5,378 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,110 – $4,381 | $779 – $1,910 | $560 – $1,089 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,450 – $5,710 | $1,359 – $2,790 | $593 – $1,256 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,972 – $7,610 | $1,845 – $3,477 | $727 – $1,449 |
These are approximate estimates for a 868-mile move from WV 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 $2,450 – $5,710 to hire a moving company to move you from West Virginia to Iowa. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,110 – $4,381
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,450 – $5,710
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,972 – $7,610
How much do moving containers cost from West Virginia to Iowa?
Using a moving container from West Virginia to Iowa costs, on average, $1,359 – $2,790. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $779 – $1,910
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,359 – $2,790
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,845 – $3,477
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from West Virginia to Iowa will costs you between $593 – $1,256, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $560 – $1,089
- 2–3 bedrooms: $593 – $1,256
- 4+ bedrooms: $727 – $1,449
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 West Virginia 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 WV 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 $899 in West Virginia to $914 in Iowa, and average home values go from $168,172 to $220,277.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (90 vs. 89), unemployment (4.2% vs. 3.0%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.0% vs. 6.94%) and state income tax (6.5% 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.
| West Virginia | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $899 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $168,172 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $55,217 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.2% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 6.0% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 6.5% | 4.4% |
Will rent be more expensive in Iowa?
Rent is about the same in West Virginia and Iowa.
Avg rent: $899 vs. $914
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 31% higher in Iowa than in West Virginia.
Avg home value: $168,172 vs. $220,277
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 28% higher in Iowa than in West Virginia.
Avg income (per capita): $55,217 vs. $70,571
Is the overall cost of living higher in Iowa?
The cost of living is about the same in West Virginia and Iowa.
Cost of living index: 90 vs. 89
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 16% higher in Iowa than in West Virginia.
Avg sales tax: 6.0% vs. 6.94%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 32% lower in Iowa than in West Virginia.
State income tax: 6.5% vs. 4.4%
How is daily life different in Iowa compared to West Virginia?
Relocating is about more than a job or a place to live — it’s how your day-to-day life will feel.
| Iowa | West Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 1,782,959 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 21ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 45″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 33″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 17.47 |
Will Iowa feel more crowded than West Virginia?
Iowa is about 80% more populous than West Virginia — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both West Virginia and Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (84°F vs. 83°F).
Winter: Iowa is colder on average (10°F vs. 21°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Iowa?
Rain: Iowa gets less rain (35″ vs. 45″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (30 inches vs. 33 inches).
Is Iowa safer than West Virginia?
Iowa has a lower crime index than West Virginia (16.18 vs. 17.47), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your West Virginia to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Iowa moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance (“released value protection”) free of charge. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Iowa?
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles.
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?
You won’t need a moving permit 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.
Interstate movers must provide basic insurance at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
Discount availability varies by mover.
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
West Virginia Moving Services
Frequently Traveled West Virginia Routes
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