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($1,085) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Tulsa, OK

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Estimated cost & time: For a 460 mile move from Des Moines to Tulsa, costs typically range from $398 to $4,895. Plan for the travel time to be around one–four days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Tulsa

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Des Moines to Tulsa

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Des Moines to Tulsa, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 9 interstate moving companies located in Des Moines, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Tulsa seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Des Moines to Tulsa

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 460-mile move from Des Moines to Tulsa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,113 – $3,608
  • Moving Container $953 – $1,570
  • Rental Truck $374 – $739
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,842 – $4,895
  • Moving Container $1,173 – $2,324
  • Rental Truck $398 – $869
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,351 – $7,157
  • Moving Container $1,527 – $2,893
  • Rental Truck $506 – $1,024
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.
United Van Lines
Lucas, IA Oologah, OK
3 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
BLVD Moving
Stuart, IA Drumright, OK
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 04, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Newton, IA Mounds, OK
4 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
North American Van Lines
Alleman, IA Wynona, OK
3 Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Macksburg, IA Hominy, OK
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Allied Van Lines
St. Charles, IA Claremore, OK
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Ankeny, IA Bristow, OK
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 05, 2025
Roadway Moving
Bouton, IA Westport, OK
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
Safeway Moving
Melcher-Dallas, IA Vera, OK
2 Bedrooms
Aug 30, 2025
American Van Lines
Huxley, IA Verdigris, OK
3 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tulsa, OK to Des Moines, IA guide.

The best local movers for Des Moines to Tulsa moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Des Moines that also handles long-distance moves to Tulsa. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 13 local movers in Des Moines who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Des Moines to Tulsa.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck earns its reputation for being fast, careful, and professional, with 92% of customer feedback praising efficient service, attention to detail, and courteous movers. Most people said the crews worked quickly, handled belongings with care, communicated well, and made moving less stressful. Many customers noted the movers were polite, helpful, and followed directions accurately, setting them apart from less organized competitors. Some even reported coming in under budget due to team efficiency, and highlighted transparent pricing and great office support. Negative feedback primarily cited issues with item damage, inexperienced movers, and unexpected costs. A small number of reviewers mentioned poor packing, lack of effort to resolve damages, and occasional rude remarks, especially in more complex moves. While damage to belongings arose more often than other negatives, the vast majority of feedback still positions this company as one of the most reliably consistent options for moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.0% of all reviews were positive
36.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, affordable, and careful—most customer feedback praises All Mighty Movers LLC for their quick moving process, professional crews, and attentive handling of belongings. Out of 25 reviews analyzed, 64% are positive, often highlighting low rates, polite staff, and efficient service. Clients commonly appreciate how speedily and safely items were moved, noting that furniture and fragile goods arrived undamaged. Many mention the company beats local competitors in both price and quality, thanks to thoughtful movers who keep an upbeat attitude even with challenging jobs. On the downside, 36% of feedback centers on inaccurate estimates, unexpected charges, and unclear communication, especially regarding additional fees and scheduling. Some customers feel misled when final costs exceeded quoted amounts. Compared to many moving companies, All Mighty Movers earns high marks for efficiency and pricing but leaves room to improve transparency and customer relations, especially for billing and communication during more complex moves.
Get a Quote (515) 313-1395

Company Info

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2468266

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never looked so easy. From 260 customer feedback entries, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving earned praise for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, with 92.7% of responses reflecting positive experiences. The staff often receives high marks for friendliness and effective communication, outperforming many competitors on reliability. Customers commonly mention the quick moving process and how carefully items are treated. On the downside, some reported damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and unprofessional conduct—chiefly in the few negative submissions, which account for 7.3% of the total. Compared to others, College Hunks stands out for speed, courteous crews, and strong problem-solving skills, but attention to quality control and transparent billing could prevent negative encounters. The company sets a high standard for service and staff demeanor, making it a leading choice in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (515) 393-4253

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 3527158

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.6% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews consistently place Adamantine Spine Moving at the top of moving services in Iowa and beyond. Analyzing 223 customer reviews, 99.6% of feedback highlights professionalism, efficient service, excellent communication, careful handling, and quick moving crews. Customers repeatedly mention that staff are polite, approachable, and make stressful moves easy with precise organization and prompt responses. Quotes tend to be accurate, crews are well-trained, and moves large or small are handled with care. Compared to larger moving firms, Adamantine stands out for its hard-working teams and reliable pricing, with many clients calling the experience the best they’ve had. The only significant complaint noted involves a billing discrepancy where the final charge was much higher than the initial estimate, and the situation wasn’t resolved effectively. This single negative input strongly contrasts the otherwise outstanding reputation. Adamantine’s client input sets it apart from typical moving companies and makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking for trusted moving professionals.
Get a Quote (319) 519-0154

Company Info

Pricing: $100/hr

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 1471037

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Des Moines to Tulsa?

The average hourly rate for movers in Iowa is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,085 – $3,205 $643 – $1,496 $374 – $682
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,842 – $4,895 $1,173 – $2,324 $398 – $869
4+ bedrooms $3,351 – $7,157 $1,527 – $2,893 $506 – $1,024
*Approximate cost ranges for a 460-mile move from Des Moines to Tulsa are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Tulsa

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Tulsa will cost between $1,085 and $3,205. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Des Moines to Des Moines will range from $1,842 to $4,895, and a large move from Des Moines to Tulsa will cost from $3,351 to $7,157.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Tulsa

If you’re moving from Des Moines to Tulsa, expect to pay between $643 and $1,496 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,173 up to $2,324. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,527 and $2,893. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Tulsa

Renting a moving truck from Des Moines to Tulsa is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $374 and $682. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $398 and $869. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $506 up to $1,024 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Des Moines to Tulsa

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,461, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,126.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Des Moines, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($374–$923) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Tulsa

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tulsa runs about 43% higher for singles and -35% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,700 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $2,850 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Tulsa
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,153
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $1,763
Average home value $192,347 $199,876
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $52,438
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,700
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $2,850
Unemployment rate 5.9% 4.7%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.52%
State income tax 4.4% 4.75%
  • Budgeting for a move from Des Moines to Tulsa won’t necessitate major adjustments since rent remains relatively constant.
  • Given that home prices are within a 5% margin between Tulsa and Des Moines, sticking to your current mortgage strategy is sensible unless you’re planning for a bigger home.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 10% lower in Tulsa compared to Des Moines.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Tulsa, since the cost of living for a single person in Tulsa is 43% higher than in Des Moines. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • Choosing to move to Tulsa can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 35% less than in Des Moines.
  • Tulsa enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 20% lower compared to Des Moines, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 22% in Tulsa over Des Moines, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 8% higher in Oklahoma than in Iowa, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Des Moines and Tulsa:

Living Expense Des Moines Tulsa
Basic utilities $144.82 $230.03
Cell phone plan $51.25 $57.00
Dozen eggs $3.61 $3.62
Loaf of bread $2.50 $3.75
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $17.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $70.00
Gym membership $66.67 $48.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Tulsa, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Tulsa.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Tulsa.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Tulsa.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Tulsa.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Tulsa.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Tulsa.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Tulsa

Des Moines Tulsa
Population 699,292 413,066
Transportation score 5 4
Walkability score 45 39
Bike friendliness score 39 47
Crime index 5.0 51.94
Safety index 57.8 48.06
Air quality Good Good
  • Tulsa’s population is about 41% less than Des Moines.
  • Tulsa’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Tulsa is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 47 out of 100, Tulsa is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Tulsa’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 51.94 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Tulsa neighborhoods are safer than 51.94% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Tulsa is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 48.06 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Tulsa is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Tulsa move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: In Oklahoma, in-state household goods movers are certified and licensed by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC). Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Oklahoma moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Oklahoma doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Tulsa. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opting for Released Value Protection is the most cost-effective choice since it comes at no extra expense. Movers provide this option without additional charges, but the coverage it offers is minimal. With Released Value Protection, the mover’s liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover were to lose or damage a set of fine china weighing 15 pounds, you would only be compensated $9 (60 cents x 15 pounds). If you require coverage for the full value of your items, it is advisable to discuss alternative options with the moving company or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Tulsa

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Oil Capital of the World, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Tulsa.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Brookside
  • Downtown Tulsa
  • Brady Arts District
  • Cherry Street
  • Kendall-Whittier

Best neighborhoods for families

  • South Tulsa
  • Maple Ridge
  • Florence Park
  • Midtown
  • Cherry Street

Things to do in Tulsa

Once you’re settled into your new home in Oklahoma, it’s time to get out and discover what Tulsa has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Tulsa, such as the Philbrook Museum of Art, Gilcrease Museum, Woody Guthrie Center, and Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gathering Place, Woodward Park, River Parks, and LaFortune Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an FC Tulsa (USL Championship)Tulsa Oilers (ECHL)Tulsa Drillers (Double-A Central)Tulsa Athletic (National Premier Soccer League)FC Tulsa Spirit (Women’s Premier Soccer League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Tulsa?

The best time to move from Des Moines to Tulsa is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Des Moines.

When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Tulsa?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Des Moines to Tulsa, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Des Moines to Tulsa take?

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Tulsa, covers 460 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Des Moines movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Tulsa.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Des Moines?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 10 movers in Des Moines advertise piano moving expertise. 6 movers in Des Moines provide antique moving services. State totals show 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

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