Fargo, ND to Des Moines, IA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Fargo to Des Moines typically costs $2,700–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 477 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Fargo to Des Moines
Moving from Fargo, ND to Des Moines, IA typically costs $2,700–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 477-mile move from Fargo to Des Moines, 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
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $2,545 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $2,551 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $5,043 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 26, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 26, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 17, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 15, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 09, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 04, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Fargo to Des Moines
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Fargo to Des Moines might be as low as $1,500, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,000.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Fargo.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Fargo, ND guide.
Best Fargo to Des Moines movers by type
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Best professional movers from Fargo to Des Moines
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Fargo 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.
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 ND→IA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 11 North Dakota 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 Fargo to Des Moines
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Des Moines runs about 21% higher for singles and 33% higher for families than Fargo.
Singles spend around $1,891 in Des Moines versus $1,566 in Fargo; families pay $4,380 compared with $3,299.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Fargo | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $963 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,563 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $287,548 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,493 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,566 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,299 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 2.9% | 4.4% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 9% higher in Des Moines than in Fargo, which may impact your monthly finances.
- With home prices being nearly 33% cheaper in Des Moines, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Des Moines and Fargo, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person in Des Moines is 21% greater than in Fargo. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Des Moines, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 33% more than it is in Fargo.
- The unemployment rate in Des Moines exceeds that of Fargo by about 64%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 7% lower in Des Moines than Fargo, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 52% higher in Iowa than in North Dakota. 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 Fargo and Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Fargo | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $159.44 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.00 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.00 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.25 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $50.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $55.00 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Fargo than in Des Moines.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Fargo than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Fargo than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Fargo than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Fargo than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Fargo than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Fargo than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Fargo vs. Des Moines
| Fargo | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 125,990 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 49 | 39 |
| Crime index | 8.0 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 56.17 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 455% greater than Fargo.
- Des Moines's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Fargo's score of 4.
- Des Moines and Fargo are similarly walkable.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Fargo, which has a score of 49.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than Fargo with a score of 5.0 compared to Fargo's 8.0. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
- Des Moines and Fargo have a similar safety level, with scores of 57.8 and 56.17.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Fargo it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Fargo 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 Fargo to Des Moines?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Fargo to Des Moines. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Fargo.
When is the cheapest time to move from Fargo to Des Moines?
With many people choosing to move from Fargo 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 Fargo to Des Moines take?
Covering 477 miles, the move from Fargo, ND to Des Moines, IA typically takes one to four days. Some Fargo movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Fargo can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Fargo, 5 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of ND, there are 9 piano movers and 4 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.
