Local moving companies in Iowa
When relocating from Iowa to Gainesville, FL, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 32 Iowa movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Gainesville, FL.
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 70719
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 299154
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2991947
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Iowa to Gainesville, FL
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa to Gainesville, FL with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,129 – $4,628 | $829 – $2,074 | $751 – $1,476 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,747 – $6,053 | $1,501 – $3,234 | $812 – $1,671 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,683 – $7,970 | $2,160 – $4,286 | $972 – $2,079 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,229-mile move from Iowa to Gainesville, FL using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Iowa to Gainesville, FL
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Gainesville, FL, you can expect to spend between $1,129 and $4,628. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,747 to $6,053 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $4,683 and $7,970.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Gainesville, FL
When moving from Iowa to Gainesville, FL, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $829 and $2,074. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,501 to $3,234. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,160 up to $4,286. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Gainesville, FL
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from Iowa to Gainesville, FL, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $751 and $1,476. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $812 and $1,671. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $972 and $2,079.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Iowa to Gainesville, FL
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Action Moving & Storage, Inc. | × | ✓ | × | × |
| White Glove Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,179 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Iowa movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Iowa | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 40% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Iowa to Gainesville, FL
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Gainesville, FL is really like compared to Iowa. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Gainesville, FL
| Iowa | Gainesville | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $1,600 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $288,002 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $59,013 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 4.4% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 0.0% |
Gainesville sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Gainesville is roughly 75% higher than in Iowa. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- Home prices in Gainesville are approximately 31% higher than in Iowa. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- The average income is about 16% lower in Gainesville than in Iowa. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
- With unemployment 47% higher in Gainesville than Iowa, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- In Florida, no income tax means more money stays in your pocket — an immediate financial boost for most people.
How life is different in Gainesville from Iowa
| Gainesville | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 141,085 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 63-36 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 92ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 41ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 50″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 8.0 | 16.18 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Gainesville voted Democratic, while Iowa was Republican.
- Get set for summer temperatures reaching around 92ºF in Gainesville, hotter than the average 84ºF in Iowa. You’ll enjoy more sunshine and outdoor activities, but be ready for increased cooling costs and warmer days.
- During the coldest part of the year, Gainesville reaches a temperature of 41ºF while Iowa gets down to 10ºF. Relocating to Gainesville means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
- Expect about 50 inches of rain each year in Gainesville—compared to just 35 inches in Iowa. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
- Gainesville doesn’t get snow, while Iowa sees around 30 inches annually. Relocating to Gainesville means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Gainesville has a lower crime rate than Iowa with a crime index of 8.0 vs 16.18. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, tighter communities, and fewer hassles. While it’s not the only thing to look for when moving, it definitely gives you some extra peace of mind.
Things to do in Gainesville
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Gainesville has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in Gainesville
- Florida Museum of Natural History
- Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art
- Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention
- Matheson History Museum
Parks in Gainesville
- Sweetwater Wetlands Park
- Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
- Depot Park
- Kanapaha Park
- A Nan Buddhist Statue Park
Sports teams in Gainesville
- Florida Gators (SEC)
Universities in Gainesville
- University of Florida
- Santa Fe College
- City College Gainesville
Other considerations when moving to Gainesville, FL
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
- State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Florida moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Florida, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Florida without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Iowa to Gainesville take?
The time frame for a move from Iowa to Gainesville, FL, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in Iowa, the longer it’ll take to reach Gainesville. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Delivery from Iowa to Gainesville can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Iowa to Gainesville?
If you’re gearing up for a 1,229-mile move from Iowa to Gainesville, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Gainesville, FL?
Summer in Gainesville can reach highs of 92°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 41°F. That’s why most people moving from Iowa to Gainesville opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
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