How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to IA move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 370 California 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 California to Iowa?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from California 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 |
$1,254 – $4,725 |
$1,063 – $2,546 |
$1,001 – $2,047 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,256 – $6,835 |
$1,989 – $3,687 |
$1,151 – $2,318 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,708 – $10,112 |
$2,667 – $5,375 |
$1,479 – $2,836 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,849-mile move from CA 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 California to Iowa
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Iowa,
you can expect prices to land between $1,254
and $4,725.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,256 to
$6,835 for the trip from CA
to IA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,708 and
$10,112.
Cost of moving containers from California to Iowa
Moving containers from California to Iowa
will cost you $1,063 to
$2,546 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,989
to $3,687. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,667 to
$5,375.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California 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
$1,001
and $2,047
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,151
to $2,318.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,479
to $2,836.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to IA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from California to Iowa. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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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 California 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 CA to IA
Making the move from California to Iowa means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: California vs. Iowa
A clear look at the cost differences between California 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:
|
California |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
4.4% |
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You’ll pay about 51% less in rent in Iowa compared to California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Iowa are around 71% lower than in California. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 23% lower Iowa than in California.
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Living in Iowa costs about 34% less than in California. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate around 44% lower than California, Iowa offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in Iowa is 20% lower than in California. 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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Income taxes in Iowa are 67% lower than in California. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Iowa vs. California
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 California compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Iowa |
California |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
28.43 |
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The population of Iowa is about 92% smaller than that of California.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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In the latest presidential election, Iowa voted Republican, while California chose Democratic.
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Summer highs average 84°F in Iowa, compared to 87°F in California.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, Iowa reaches lows near 10°F, colder than 59°F in California.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
-
You can expect about 35 inches of annual rainfall in Iowa versus only 22 inches of rainfall in California.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, while California sees only 7 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
-
Moving to Iowa means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 16.18 versus California’s 28.43, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of California 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 California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Pleasant weather |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant recreational options |
High quality of education |
| High quality of life |
No traffic |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in California 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 California to Iowa:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| High cost of living |
Severe weather conditions |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Natural disasters |
High taxes |
| Terrible traffic |
High emphasis on politics |
| Strange laws |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your California 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 California to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from California to Iowa?
What are the benefits of moving from California to Iowa?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave California 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 California or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 51% less and home prices 71% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California 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 California?
Many movers in California publish special-rate programs:
7 honor AAA member discounts;
7 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
2 provide student pricing;
2 have educator discounts;
4 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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For a move from California to Iowa, budget between $3,256–$6,835 for full-service movers, around
$2,838 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,734
for a rental truck.
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