($1,140) Cost to Move From Arlington, VA to Des Moines, IA

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2. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
3. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. My Pro Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Arlington to Des Moines

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Arlington, you can expect prices to land between $1,140 and $4,326. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,464 to $5,407 for the trip from Arlington to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,999 and $7,307.

Cost of moving containers from Arlington to Des Moines

Moving containers from Arlington to Des Moines will cost you $833 to $1,931 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,450 to $2,915. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,956 to $3,874. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Virginia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Arlington to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Arlington to Des Moines typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $647 and $1,217 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $685 to $1,519. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $905 to $1,741.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• When relocating from Arlington to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 58% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 76% more affordable in Des Moines compared to Arlington.
• Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 54% lower in Des Moines compared to Arlington.
• You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 72% lower compared to Arlington.
• A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 63% less than what it costs in Arlington.
• Des Moines shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Arlington by around 48%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
• Sales taxes in Des Moines are 17% more than in Arlington, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• Income taxes in Iowa are 23% below those in Virginia. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

• Des Moines’s population is about 193% greater than Arlington.
• Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Arlington’s score of 9.
• Des Moines is less walkable than Arlington with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Arlington’s 71 out of 100.
• Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Arlington, which has a score of 72.
• Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Arlington with a score of 5.0 compared to Arlington’s 15.67. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
• Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 57.8 vs Arlington’s 79.15.
• Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Arlington it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Sherman Hill
• Downtown
• East Village
• North of Grand
• Woodland Heights
• Arbor Peaks
• Chautauqua Park
• Beaverdale
• Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

• Linden Heights
• Waterbury
• Waveland Park
• Westwood
• Salisbury Oaks
• Meredith
• Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

After settling into your new Iowa home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.