Quick answer: A typical 1,676-mile move from Anaheim to Des Moines runs $1,374–$9,047 and takes four to 15 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Des Moines to Anaheim guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Anaheim to Des Moines

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Anaheim to Des Moines isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to IA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies in Anaheim

  1. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo's Moving Company Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Seka Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Merit Moving Systems: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Meathead Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.
Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RigosMovingAndStorage/,
80% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo's Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items.
Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo's stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo's would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
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Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/sekamoving, https://twitter.com/SekaMoving/
88% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend.
Clients appreciate Seka's responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
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Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057481208808, https://twitter.com/meritmovingsyst
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Merit Moving Systems stands out for smooth coordination and a dedicated customer-focused team. Of the 258 customer inputs analyzed, 95.3% express positive experiences. Customers frequently highlight prompt and friendly communication, consistent professionalism, careful handling of items, speedy service, and movers who work efficiently.
Many stress that their property arrived safely, with no or minimal damage, and that the moving crews were courteous and respectful throughout. A substantial number also mention how staff provided regular updates and accommodated last-minute timeline shifts. On the downside, a small percentage report cases of belongings being damaged, items lost or misplaced, or surprise charges that were not clearly explained beforehand. Most criticism centers on damage or incomplete claims resolution, with some reviewers citing miscommunication regarding insurance or inventory. Compared to typical moving companies, Merit receives more praise for communication and professionalism, though negative feedback follows common moving industry complaints about damage and claims. For those seeking a moving partner that values customer interaction and efficiency, Merit matches or exceeds industry standards in key service areas.
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Get a Quote (855) 950-4471

Company Info

State license #: 0192009

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 1839600

Alternate Names: Merit Moving & Logistics LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/meatheadmovers?lang=en
77% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process.
On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
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Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Anaheim to Des Moines?

Anaheim movers charge $75 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,578 - $5,813 $1,318 - $3,345 $1,173 - $2,419
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,664 - $9,047 $2,304 - $4,938 $1,374 - $2,708
4+ bedrooms $6,918 - $12,161 $3,143 - $6,238 $1,700 - $3,484
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,676 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to Iowa

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Iowa will cost between $1,578 and $5,813. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to IA will range from $3,664 to $9,047, and a large move from California to Iowa will cost from $6,918 to $12,161.

Cost of moving containers from California to Iowa

If you’re relocating from California to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $1,318 and $3,345 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,304 up to $4,938. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,143 and $6,238. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Iowa

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,173 and $2,419. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,374 and $2,708. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,700 up to $3,484 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Anaheim to Des Moines movetoggle

The cost of Anaheim movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Anaheim to Des Moines might cost as little as $1,578, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,449.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Anaheim, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,173 to $3,089 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Anaheim to Des Moines

Moving from Anaheim to Des Moines means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Anaheim than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Anaheim compares to Des Moines so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Anaheim Des Moines
Average rent cost $2,550 $1,150
Average home value $924,742 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $88,538 $58,492
Cost of living (single person) $5,451 $1,891
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,381 $4,380
Unemployment rate 4.1% 5.9%
Sales tax 7.75% 7.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.4%
  • Rent prices in Des Moines are 55% lower than in Anaheim, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Des Moines.
    Home prices in Des Moines are 79.2% lower than in Anaheim.
  • Income in Des Moines is 33.9% lower than in Anaheim, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Des Moines — including MercyOne, Principal Financial Group, and Ppw Holdings — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 65.3% lower than in Anaheim.
  • A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 61.5% less than what it costs in Anaheim.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 43.90% higher than in Anaheim.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Des Moines, since the city's sales taxes in Des Moines are 9.68% lower than in Anaheim.
  • One perk of moving to Des Moines is paying less in state income taxes, which are 66.92% lower than in Anaheim.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,040.73 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Anaheim.

How life is different in Anaheim vs. Des Moines

Des Moines Anaheim
Population 699,292 346,824
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 5
Walkability score 45 56
Bike friendliness score 39 52
Crime Index 5.0 53.18
Safety Index 57.8 46.82
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Des Moines is about 102% greater than Anaheim, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Des Moines will be about the same as it currently is in Anaheim. The cities share a similar public transportation score, which means their transit systems are comparable in terms of how connected they are, how often they provide service, and how close they are to jobs, housing, retail and food stores, and other important locations.
  • Des Moines neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Anaheim. Based on its score of 45 out of 100, Des Moines isn't as walkable as Anaheim, which has a score of 56 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Des Moines, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Anaheim. While Anaheim has a bike-friendliness score of 52 out of 100, Des Moines earned a 39. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Des Moines has a lower crime rate than Anaheim based on scores of 5.0 and Anaheim's 53.18, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Des Moines than in Anaheim, based on Des Moines's safety index of 57.8 versus 46.82 for Anaheim. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Des Moines and Anaheim is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Anaheim vs. Des Moines move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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 verify a Iowa moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Des Moines. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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

Now that you've chosen Hartford of the West as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Des Moines to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • North of Grand
  • Woodland Heights
  • Arbor Peaks
  • Beaverdale

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Westwood
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

After getting comfortable in your new Iowa home, it's time to see what Des Moines is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, Salisbury House, and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Anaheim to Des Moines?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Anaheim to Des Moines. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Anaheim.

When is the cheapest time to move from Anaheim to Des Moines?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Anaheim to Des Moines moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Anaheim to Des Moines take?

Covering 1,676 miles, the move from Anaheim, CA to Des Moines, IA typically takes four to 15 days. Some Anaheim movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources