Local moving companies in Iowa
When relocating from Iowa to San Diego, CA, 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 San Diego, CA.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Key City Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck, a reputable moving company in Urbandale, IA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1998. Renowned for their packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out by requiring no deposit and accepting credit cards, adding convenience for their clients. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google from over 500 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they excel in customer satisfaction compared to other nearby movers. Their proven track record makes them a trusted choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 299154
Action Moving & Storage, Inc. has been reliably serving the Sioux City, IA area since 1983, specializing in local residential moves. They stand out among local movers with their extensive experience and a stellar reputation, evidenced by an impressive average rating of 4.7 from 161 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for art and antiques. Action Moving & Storage also accepts both cash and credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient and trustworthy option for local relocations.
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: 115
DOT #: 125563
Key City Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Peosta, IA since 1910. With glowing customer feedback, including an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among local competitors. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized fragile-only packing, ensuring a stress-free move. Unlike other movers, they don’t require a deposit and accept both cash and credit cards, making them a customer-friendly choice for your next move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 70719
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, a staple in Sioux City, IA since 1955, offers comprehensive local residential moving services. With a strong reputation reflected in their 4.2 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice among local movers. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Claeys Brothers also offer packing and unpacking services, as well as the capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. The firm accepts both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a flexible and customer-friendly option for local moves.
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: 21
DOT #: 2991947
White Glove Movers, a local moving company based in Marion, IA, has been providing reliable residential moving services since 2005. Compared to other nearby movers, White Glove stands out with its comprehensive packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to handle delicate items like pianos and art. Renowned for their exceptional service, they hold an average Google rating of 4.9 from 234 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their excellent consumer feedback and array of services make them a top choice for local moves, offering peace of mind and quality assurance.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Iowa to San Diego, CA
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa to San Diego, CA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,255 – $4,886 | $1,105 – $2,754 | $1,085 – $1,989 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,196 – $7,289 | $1,971 – $4,070 | $1,129 – $2,461 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,678 – $10,825 | $2,483 – $5,154 | $1,423 – $2,780 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,786-mile move from Iowa to San Diego, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. 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 San Diego, CA
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to San Diego, CA, you can expect to spend between $1,255 and $4,886. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,196 to $7,289 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $5,678 and $10,825.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to San Diego, CA
When moving from Iowa to San Diego, CA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,105 and $2,754. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,971 to $4,070. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,483 up to $5,154. 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 San Diego, CA
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 San Diego, CA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,085 and $1,989. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,129 and $2,461. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,423 and $2,780.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Iowa to San Diego, CA
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Action Moving & Storage, Inc. | × | ✓ | × | × |
| Key City Moving & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| White Glove Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,175 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% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Iowa to San Diego, CA
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in San Diego, CA 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. San Diego, CA
| Iowa | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $2,881 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $1,003,444 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $72,963 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 155 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 6.6% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
San Diego sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in San Diego is roughly 215% higher than in Iowa. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- Home prices in San Diego are approximately 356% higher than in Iowa. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- Since income levels in San Diego are similar to those in Iowa, your bank account won’t take much of a hit when you move.
- With unemployment 120% higher in San Diego than Iowa, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- Expect income taxes in California to run about 202% higher than in Iowa, which could cut into your paycheck.
How life is different in San Diego from Iowa
| San Diego | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 60-37 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 12″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 16.18 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- San Diego voted Democratic, while Iowa was Republican.
- Summer in San Diego usually hits around 79ºF, pretty similar to the 84ºF you’re used to in Iowa. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
- During the coldest part of the year, San Diego reaches a temperature of 46ºF while Iowa gets down to 10ºF. Relocating to San Diego means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
- In San Diego, you’ll see just 12 inches of rain annually, much less than the 35 inches you’re used to in Iowa. With fewer rainy days, you’ll have more opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. This sunnier climate can really lift your mood and energy as you settle into your new home.
- San Diego doesn’t get snow, while Iowa sees around 30 inches annually. Relocating to San Diego means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- San Diego has a higher crime rate than Iowa with a crime index of 39.83 vs 16.18. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in San Diego
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, San Diego has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in San Diego
- USS Midway Museum
- Birch Aquarium at Scripps
- Maritime Museum of San Diego
- San Diego Air & Space Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Parks in San Diego
- La Jolla Cove
- Balboa Park
- La Jolla Shores Park
- Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
- Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Sports teams in San Diego
- San Diego Padres (MLB)
- San Diego Gulls (AHL)
- San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship)
Universities in San Diego
- California State University-San Marcos
- California Western School of Law
- San Diego Christian College
- National University
- Point Loma Nazarene University
Other considerations when moving to San Diego, CA
- 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, 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 California without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- 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 San Diego take?
The time frame for a move from Iowa to San Diego, CA, 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 San Diego. 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 San Diego 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 San Diego?
If you’re gearing up for a 1,786-mile move from Iowa to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA?
Summer in San Diego can reach highs of 79°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 46°F. That’s why most people moving from Iowa to San Diego 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
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