Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,240) Cost to Move From Chula Vista, CA to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,755 miles from Chula Vista to Des Moines is generally between $1,128 and $7,045. The trip duration should be approximately five–16 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Chula Vista to Des Moines

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 Chula Vista to Des Moines

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chula Vista to Des Moines, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Chula Vista, you have a choice of 25 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Des Moines smoothly and with confidence.

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 Chula Vista to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,755-mile move from Chula Vista to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,404 – $5,133
  • Moving Container $1,441 – $2,635
  • Rental Truck $1,031 – $1,983
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,143 – $7,045
  • Moving Container $1,842 – $3,689
  • Rental Truck $1,128 – $2,267
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,857 – $9,626
  • Moving Container $2,516 – $4,953
  • Rental Truck $1,394 – $3,003
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.
BLVD Moving
Alpine, CA Valeria, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 23, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Lakeside, CA Berkley, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
Safeway Moving
San Diego Country Estates, CA Grimes, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 13, 2025
North American Van Lines
La Presa, CA Elkhart, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
United Van Lines
Chula Vista, CA Osceola, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Casa de Oro-Mount Helix, CA Luther, IA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
American Van Lines
Rancho San Diego, CA Williamson, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025
Roadway Moving
Bonita, CA Indianola, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 12, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Spring Valley, CA Nevada, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Lemon Grove, CA Swan, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Jul 30, 2025

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

Top local movers for Chula Vista to Des Moines moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Chula Vista that also provides long-distance services to Des Moines can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 29 local movers in Chula Vista who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Chula Vista to Des Moines.

  1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Grizzly Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.4% of all reviews were positive
21.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic’s track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.6% of all reviews were positive
6.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.0% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Stella Moving & Delivery shows a standout excellence in moving services. Out of 331 reviews analyzed, 94% are positive, highlighting reliable efficiency, courteous and skilled crews, and careful handling of customer belongings. Many reviewers praise their rapid pace, clear communication, and impressive professionalism compared to other moving companies. Clients repeatedly cite stress-free experiences, transparent pricing, and well-organized teams as key benefits. On the flip side, a small portion of reviewers report concerns about damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and difficulties reaching the company after issues arise. Some mention poor problem resolution by management, particularly regarding claims and complaints. While negative input does exist, it’s significantly outweighed by positive experiences. Compared to most moving services, Stella maintains a much higher percentage of five-star ratings and customer satisfaction, with efficiency and care as their calling card.
Get a Quote (619) 393-6426

Company Info

State license #: 0191958

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3299407

Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery , The Remarkable Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.2% of all reviews were positive
16.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dominant Moving Company stands out in San Diego’s moving industry for fast, careful, and professional crews. Of the 360 feedback entries reviewed, more than 82% came from highly satisfied customers praising efficient service, polite staff, and impressive price-to-quality value. Clients emphasize how movers protect belongings, communicate well, and finish jobs on schedule. Affordable rates and careful handling of items set Dominant apart from many competitors. Some negative input highlights recurring issues: damage to furniture or property, slow or late arrivals, and unsatisfactory responses to complaints. A few clients report unresolved claims for damage or difficulty contacting management after a problem. While delays and breakage occasionally impact experiences, most people say their moves were smooth and cost-effective—attributes that help Dominant edge out local rivals in reliability and value. The company’s reputation is built on speed, care, and affordability, but future customers should clarify damage procedures and timing expectations before booking.
Get a Quote (855) 699-2299

Company Info

State license #: 191165

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2718191

Alternate Names: Velorom LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Chula Vista to Des Moines?

Movers in California generally charge an average of $128 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,240 – $4,644 $1,076 – $2,760 $1,000 – $2,042
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,143 – $7,045 $1,842 – $3,689 $1,128 – $2,267
4+ bedrooms $5,857 – $9,626 $2,516 – $4,953 $1,394 – $3,003
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,755-mile move from Chula Vista to Des Moines, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Chula Vista to Des Moines

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chula Vista to Des Moines typically costs between $1,240 and $4,644. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,143 and $7,045 when moving from Chula Vista to Des Moines. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chula Vista to Des Moines, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,857 up to $9,626.

Cost of moving containers from Chula Vista to Des Moines

If you’re relocating from Chula Vista to Des Moines, you’ll typically spend between $1,076 and $2,760 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,842 up to $3,689. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,516 and $4,953. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chula Vista to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chula Vista to Des Moines move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,042. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,128 to $2,267. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,394 and $3,003.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Chula Vista to Des Moines

The cost of Chula Vista movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chula Vista to Des Moines might be as low as $2,584, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,692.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Chula Vista.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,000 to $2,508 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Chula Vista to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Chula Vista – roughly 74% less for singles and 64% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $7,167 in Chula Vista. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $12,120.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Chula Vista Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $2,500 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $4,500 $1,763
Average home value $844,142 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $92,913 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $7,167 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $12,120 $4,380
Unemployment rate 7.9% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.75% 7.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.4%
  • Good news! When moving to Des Moines from Chula Vista, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 63% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 77% cheaper in Des Moines, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 37% lower in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person is 74% less compared to Chula Vista.
  • Relocating to Des Moines could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 64% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 25% lower than Chula Vista, Des Moines boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes are 20% lower in Des Moines than Chula Vista, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 67% lower in Iowa than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chula Vista and Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Chula Vista Des Moines
Basic utilities $277.33 $144.82
Cell phone plan $62.50 $51.25
Dozen eggs $5.83 $3.61
Loaf of bread $4.50 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $77.50
Gym membership $20.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Chula Vista vs. Des Moines

Chula Vista Des Moines
Population 275,487 699,292
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 46 45
Bike friendliness score 41 39
Crime index 56.3 5.0
Safety index 43.7 57.8
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 154% greater than Chula Vista.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chula Vista’s score of 6.
  • Des Moines and Chula Vista are similarly walkable.
  • Both Des Moines and Chula Vista have similar bike-friendliness scores (41 vs 39), meaning Des Moines is about as safe for cyclists as Chula Vista. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Chula Vista with a score of 5.0 compared to Chula Vista’s 56.3. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chula Vista neighborhoods are safer than 56.3%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Chula Vista with a safety index of 57.8 vs Chula Vista’s 43.7.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Chula Vista it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Chula Vista to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Iowa, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Des Moines without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Des Moines

Ready to relocate to Hartford of the West? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Des Moines.

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

Now that you’ve made the move to Iowa, it’s the perfect time to explore Des Moines. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chula Vista to Des Moines?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chula Vista to Des Moines. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chula Vista.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chula Vista to Des Moines?

With many people choosing to move from Chula Vista to Des Moines in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Chula Vista to Des Moines take?

Covering 1,755 miles, the move from Chula Vista, CA to Des Moines, typically takes five to 16 days. Some Chula Vista movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Chula Vista offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in Chula Vista offer AAA member savings. 1 movers provide military discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Chula Vista can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chula Vista, 21 movers can handle pianos. 16 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle