Des Moines, IA to Fontana, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Des Moines to Fontana typically costs $3,500–$8,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,637 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Des Moines to Fontana
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Fontana, CA typically costs $3,500–$8,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,637-mile move from Des Moines to Fontana, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $3,742 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $4,379 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $4,185 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 28, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 28, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 24, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 20, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 04, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 04, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Fontana
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Des Moines to Fontana might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,000.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Des Moines.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,100 to $3,000 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Fontana, CA to Des Moines, IA guide.
Best Des Moines to Fontana movers by type
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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Fontana
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Fontana, 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.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IA→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Des Moines to Fontana
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Fontana runs about 57% higher for singles and 57% higher for families than Des Moines.
Singles spend around $2,972 in Fontana versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,875 compared with $4,380.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Des Moines | Fontana | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $2,000 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $3,200 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $631,669 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $72,918 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $2,972 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $6,875 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 7.6% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 7.75% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 161% higher in Fontana than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 228% higher in Fontana than in Des Moines.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 25% higher in Fontana than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Fontana, as the cost of living for a single person in Fontana is 57% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Fontana, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 57% more than it is in Des Moines.
- The unemployment rate in Fontana exceeds that of Des Moines by about 29%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Fontana exceed those in Des Moines by 11%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 202% higher in California than in Iowa. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Fontana, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Fontana |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $226.85 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $61.89 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $4.99 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $4.09 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $10.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $55.00 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Fontana, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Fontana.
- Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Fontana.
- Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Fontana.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Des Moines than in Fontana.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Fontana.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Fontana
| Des Moines | Fontana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 212,704 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 41 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 31.65 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 68.35 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Fontana's population is about 70% less than Des Moines.
- Fontana's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines's score of 5.
- Fontana is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
- Both Fontana and Des Moines have similar bike-friendliness scores (39 vs 41), meaning Fontana is about as safe for cyclists as Des Moines. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Fontana's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 31.65 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Fontana neighborhoods are safer than 31.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Fontana is considered to be safer than Des Moines with a safety index of 68.35 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
- Air quality in Fontana is Good, and in Des Moines it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Fontana 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 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.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, 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 Fontana 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. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Fontana
Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Fontana.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Fontana
- North Fontana
- Rancho Fontana
- South Fontana
- Walnut Village
Best neighborhoods for families
- Sierra Lakes
- Hunter's Ridge
- Southridge Village
- Heritage Village
- Summit Heights
Things to do in Fontana
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Fontana. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Fontana include museums and art centers like the Mary Vagle Museum & Nature Center.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Martin Tudor Jurupa Hills Regional Park, 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 Fontana Fury (Football)Fontana Flyers (Basketball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Fontana?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Fontana. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Des Moines.
When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Fontana?
With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Fontana 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 Des Moines to Fontana take?
Covering 1,637 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Fontana, CA typically takes four to 15 days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Fontana can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Fontana?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Des Moines, 10 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
