Local moving companies in Oakland
Out of 101 Oakland movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.
- 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Pure Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0191566
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2950711
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0167668
Years in Business: 44
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191103
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 3207734
Alternate Names: Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190673
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3670248
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0182466
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1836576
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Oakland, CA
Quick breakdown of Oakland movers that offer specialty add-on services:
Cost to move from Oakland, CA to Iowa
The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Oakland to Iowa, varying by home size and service option.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,185 – $4,987 | $1,133 – $2,771 | $1,036 – $1,955 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,047 – $6,791 | $1,864 – $4,136 | $1,191 – $2,351 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,671 – $9,843 | $2,733 – $5,134 | $1,487 – $2,995 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,834-mile move from Oakland, CA, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.
Cost to hire movers from Oakland to Iowa
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Oakland to Iowa will cost between $1,185 and $4,987. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $3,047 to $6,791, and a large move will cost from $5,671 to $9,843.
Cost of moving containers from Oakland to Iowa
If you’re moving from Oakland to Iowa, expect to pay between $1,133 and $2,771 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,864 up to $4,136. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,733 and $5,134. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Oakland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Oakland 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 from Oakland to Iowa, expect to spend between $1,036 and $1,955. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,191 and $2,351. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,487 up to $2,995 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from Oakland to IA
When calculating the price of Oakland movers, consider:
- Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Oakland, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.
What you should know before moving from Oakland to IA
Leaving Oakland for Iowa means embracing a new lifestyle — and likely saving some cash. Living in Oakland typically comes with a higher price tag, so your move could open the door to more affordable living.
Check out the cost of living comparison below to understand how Oakland and Iowa measure up, helping you to prepare for the future.
Compare cost of living: Oakland vs. Iowa
| Oakland, CA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,200 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $736,156 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $94,389 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 196 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 3.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.4% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 58% less expensive in Iowa compared to Oakland, leaving you more flexibility with your income.
- You’ll pay roughly 70% less for housing in Iowa compared to Oakland, saving you money each month.
- The average income is about 25% lower in Iowa than in Oakland, so you may need to adjust your budget accordingly.
- You’ll spend roughly 55% less on the cost of living in Iowa compared to Oakland, a boost for your budget.
- In Iowa, the unemployment rate is about 33% below Oakland’s, a positive sign of healthier job opportunities.
- Iowa has income taxes about 67% lower than California, giving you more breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Oakland, CA from Iowa
When relocating from Oakland to Iowa, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in Iowa stacks up against life in the Oakland.
| Oakland, CA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 440,646 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 72ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 44ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 24″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 68.62 | 16.18 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Oakland supported Democratic.
- Hot summer days in Iowa can escalate up to 84ºF, providing a distinctly warmer experience than Oakland, where temperatures average around 72ºF. Anticipate sunnier skies, enjoyable outdoor recreation, and possible increases in energy spending as you embrace the warmer atmosphere.
- Winter lows in Iowa can drop to 10ºF, colder than Oakland at 44ºF. Moving here means preparing for chillier winters, higher heating costs, and more intense seasonal weather — but also scenic snowy days and winter activities.
- Expect about 35 inches of rain per year in Iowa, a clear jump from 24 inches in Oakland. Be ready for more frequent wet days and plan accordingly with waterproof gear.
- Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow each year, while Oakland sees none. Moving to Iowa means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- Iowa has a lower crime rate than Oakland, with indexes at 16.18 vs 68.62. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.
Other considerations when moving to Iowa
If you’re moving from Oakland to Iowa, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.
- HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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 your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check a Iowa moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.
Things to do in Iowa
No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—Iowa is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from Oakland to Iowa take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Oakland, CA to Iowa? Typically, the process takes about five to 16 days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.
Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.
How many Oakland movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 88 movers in Oakland that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Oakland moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.
What is the best way to get a car from Oakland to Iowa?
Looking to move your car from Oakland to Iowa? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from California to Iowa.
Why are people moving from Oakland to Iowa?
Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Oakland?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Oakland.
Do movers in Oakland, CA, accept cash?
Yes, 30 movers in Oakland accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!