How we chose the best moving companies for your AR to IA move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 24 Arkansas moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Arkansas to Iowa?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Arkansas to Iowa.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,094 – $3,354 |
$692 – $1,637 |
$457 – $786 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,021 – $5,042 |
$1,225 – $2,378 |
$488 – $953 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,573 – $7,835 |
$1,618 – $3,193 |
$603 – $1,186 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 598-mile move from AR to
IA using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Arkansas to Iowa
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Arkansas to Iowa,
you can expect prices to land between $1,094
and $3,354.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,021 to
$5,042 for the trip from AR
to IA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,573 and
$7,835.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to Iowa
Moving containers from Arkansas to Iowa
will cost you $692 to
$1,637 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,225
to $2,378. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,618 to
$3,193.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to Iowa
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$457
and $786
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $488
to $953.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$603
to $1,186.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AR to IA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Arkansas to Iowa. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Arkansas generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from AR to IA
Making the move from Arkansas to Iowa means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Arkansas vs. Iowa
A clear look at the cost differences between Arkansas and Iowa helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Arkansas |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$868 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$208,078 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$56,335 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.3% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
9.51% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
2.0% |
4.4% |
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No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from Arkansas to Iowa.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Iowa are usually around 6% higher than what you’ll find in Arkansas.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 25% higher in Iowa than in Arkansas, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Iowa and Arkansas are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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Unemployment in Iowa is roughly 30% higher than in Arkansas. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
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Sales tax in Iowa is 27% lower than in Arkansas. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Iowa could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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State income taxes in Iowa are 120% higher than in Arkansas, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Arkansas
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Iowa and Arkansas compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Iowa |
Arkansas |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
3,067,732 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
28ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
30.97 |
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Both Iowa and Arkansas have similar population sizes, so you can expect a comparable level of resources and opportunities.
What really shapes your daily life, though, is each state’s unique vibe, economy, and culture.
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Arkansas and Iowa both voted Republican in the last election.
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Summers in Iowa average 84°F, compared to 91°F in Arkansas.
That cooler climate means less intense summers, easier days outdoors, and lower utility bills.
-
In winter, Iowa reaches lows near 10°F, colder than 28°F in Arkansas.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect only about 35 inches of annual rainfall in Iowa versus 50 inches of rainfall in Arkansas.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, while Arkansas sees only 4 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
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Moving to Iowa means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 16.18 versus Arkansas’s 30.97, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Arkansas vs. Iowa
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Iowa compared to Arkansas:
| Pros of living in Arkansas |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
High quality of education |
| Fantastic weather |
No traffic |
| Natural beauty |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Arkansas vs. Iowa
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Arkansas to Iowa:
| Cons of living in Arkansas |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| High crime rate |
Severe weather conditions |
| Dangerous wildlife |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Poor education |
High taxes |
| Pervasive poverty |
High emphasis on politics |
| Strange laws |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Arkansas to Iowa move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
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 proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Iowa moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Iowa right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Iowa
You’ll have plenty to explore in Iowa! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Arkansas to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from Arkansas to Iowa?
What are the benefits of moving from Arkansas to Iowa?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Arkansas for Iowa, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and ample economic opportunity that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Arkansas or Iowa?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Iowa.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 5% less and home prices 6% lower than in Iowa.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Iowa, you should aim to make around $63,616.
On average, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or $5,230 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Arkansas?
Many movers in Arkansas publish special-rate programs:
1 offer military-specific savings;
1 extend deals for seniors;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Arkansas to Iowa, budget between $2,021–$5,042 for full-service movers, around
$1,801 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$720
for a rental truck.
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