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($1,197) Cost to Move From Santa Clarita, CA to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,680 miles from Santa Clarita to Des Moines typically costs between $1,012 and $6,532. The trip is expected to last from four–15 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Santa Clarita, there are 72 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Des Moines.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,680-mile move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,214 – $4,843
  • Moving Container $1,467 – $2,762
  • Rental Truck $956 – $1,855
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,955 – $6,532
  • Moving Container $1,932 – $3,600
  • Rental Truck $1,012 – $2,206
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,465 – $10,300
  • Moving Container $2,483 – $5,334
  • Rental Truck $1,356 – $2,863
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
United Van Lines
South El Monte, CA Knoxville, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Walnut Park, CA Mingo, IA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Elizabeth Lake, CA Huxley, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 07, 2025
BLVD Moving
Hidden Hills, CA Woodward, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 03, 2025
North American Van Lines
Sun Village, CA Clive, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 31, 2025
American Van Lines
Simi Valley, CA Gilbert, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 19, 2025
PODS
Castaic, CA Williamson, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 10, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
El Segundo, CA Luther, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 09, 2025
Safeway Moving
Alhambra, CA Carlisle, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 05, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Manhattan Beach, CA Panora, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 30, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Santa Clarita, CA guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Santa Clarita to Des Moines move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Santa Clarita that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 77 top local movers in Santa Clarita who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines.

  1. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Affordable Quality Moving and Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. Precision Moving & Storage Corp.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Elite Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.4% of all reviews were positive
27.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Night-and-day experiences define Air 1 Moving & Storage’s reputation, based on 545 customer reviews. About 71% of the feedback highlights professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient and fast moves, and affordable prices. Many people praise the company for managing stressful relocations with skill, moving items without damage or delays, and maintaining courteous communication throughout. Customers frequently mention the team’s reliability and trustworthiness, setting Air 1 apart from other movers. On the other hand, nearly 27% of the input focuses on negative incidents—most notably, unexpected charges, damaged or lost items, and delivery delays. Some report being billed far above initial quotes or experiencing broken or missing property without adequate resolution. Issues with last-minute fees and withheld communication stand out as significant frustrations. Compared to industry competitors, Air 1 garners above-average praise for its staff’s professionalism but struggles with cost transparency and consistency on long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Company Info

State license #: 0189688

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 1095485

Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
10.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback highlights Affordable Quality Moving and Storage as one of the most well-reviewed moving companies in the region. Out of 580 reviews, approximately 89% reported positive experiences. Clients praise the company for a consistently fast moving process, respectful and friendly staff, professionalism, and great care with belongings. Many point out how staff’s upbeat attitude eases moving day stress, with teams working efficiently and showing courtesy in both communication and handling property. Costs are considered fair, and most see accurate estimates honored without surprises. On the downside, a portion of reviews detail issues like property damage, unexpected extra charges, and late deliveries—less common but notable flags. Problems range from furniture scratches to billing confusion, and a few mention difficulty resolving damage claims or gaps in communication after a problem. Compared to others, AQMS stands out for five-star mover performance and reliability, but buyers should stay vigilant about contract details and insurance coverage.
Get a Quote (661) 254-7823

Company Info

State license #: 188503

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 659014

Alternate Names: Affordable Quality Moving & Storage Company, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.1% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Precision Moving & Storage Corp. impresses with consistently outstanding feedback from nearly all 222 reviews, and more than 94% of customers praise the company for efficiency, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and clear communication. Positive comments highlight friendly staff who arrive on time, safeguard belongings, and make moving remarkably easy. Clients mention stress-free and well-organized experiences, often noting better results than with other movers. The few critical reviews cite item damage, surprise charges, and communication issues—especially during out-of-state and complex moves. Compared to similar companies, Precision receives significantly more positive ratings for reliability and customer care, but should address the rare but impactful cases of mishandling or price discrepancies to maintain their reputation for excellence.
Get a Quote (818) 332-9701

Company Info

State license #: 0191163

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2569585

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.0% of all reviews were positive
22.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day? Elite Moving & Storage Inc. receives high praise for efficiency, professional conduct, and careful handling of belongings, with 435 out of 572 feedback entries (76%) expressing satisfaction. Customers frequently highlight friendly, polite movers who work quickly yet take the time to protect fragile or valuable items. Many comment on stress-free moves, transparent quotes, and responsive communication. On the flip side, 23% of customer input describes serious concerns like unexpected charges not disclosed until after the move, damage to items, or delayed arrivals and deliveries. While complaints about hidden fees and poorly packed boxes appear more frequently here than with many moving companies, many customers still appreciate the above-average speed and care shown by the teams. Few express neutral sentiment, mostly noting pricing for packing materials. Elite stands out for fast, friendly service but should clarify pricing and better ensure item protection to match the best in the industry.
Get a Quote (888) 693-9080

Company Info

State license #: 0189126

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 1360438

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.2% of all reviews were positive
11.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving can test anyone’s patience, but NorthStar Moving Company wins high marks from most of its customers. Analyzing 658 pieces of feedback reveals 86% gave positive marks, making them stand out among moving services. Many praised NorthStar for efficient service, professional and polite movers, careful handling of possessions, and excellent communication throughout the process. Their teams show up on time, work quickly, and handle belongings with respect—customers often mention peace of mind and less stress thanks to the quality service. Some also highlight their helpful office staff, transparent pricing, and ability to handle last-minute moves. Yet, not every experience was smooth. The most common concerns involve damage to items, lost or misplaced boxes, and occasional delays with pick-up or delivery. A few clients documented serious issues with missing valuables, difficulty in resolving claims for damages or loss, and communication breakdowns during or after the move. Compared to other moving companies, NorthStar’s high satisfaction rate is notable, but there remain rare situations where things went wrong and support fell short. Overall, most customers receive fast, polite, and careful service, but safeguarding valuables and double-checking details is still wise.
Get a Quote (800) 275-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0189008

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

How much does it cost to move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines?

In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,197 – $4,832 $1,062 – $2,696 $966 – $1,836
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,955 – $6,532 $1,932 – $3,600 $1,012 – $2,206
4+ bedrooms $5,465 – $10,300 $2,483 – $5,334 $1,356 – $2,863
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,680-mile move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Santa Clarita, you can expect prices to land between $1,197 and $4,832. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,955 to $6,532 for the trip from Santa Clarita to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,465 and $10,300.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

Moving containers from Santa Clarita to Des Moines will cost you $1,062 to $2,696 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,932 to $3,600. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,483 to $5,334. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Santa Clarita to Des Moines typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $966 and $1,836 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,012 to $2,206. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,356 to $2,863.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Santa Clarita to Des Moines move

The cost of Santa Clarita movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,579 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,320 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Santa Clarita.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $966 to $2,515, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Santa Clarita to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Santa Clarita – roughly 43% less for singles and 35% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $3,290 in Santa Clarita. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $6,722.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Santa Clarita Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $2,908 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $3,898 $1,763
Average home value $804,740 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $106,166 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $3,290 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $6,722 $4,380
Unemployment rate 9.6% 5.9%
Sales tax 9.5% 7.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.4%
  • When relocating from Santa Clarita to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 65% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 76% more affordable in Des Moines compared to Santa Clarita.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 45% lower in Des Moines compared to Santa Clarita.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 43% lower compared to Santa Clarita.
  • 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 35% less than what it costs in Santa Clarita.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is about 39% lower than in Santa Clarita. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes are 26% less in Des Moines relative to Santa Clarita. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Iowa are 67% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Santa Clarita and Des Moines:

Living Expense Santa Clarita Des Moines
Basic utilities $263.33 $144.82
Cell phone plan $66.79 $51.25
Dozen eggs $5.26 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.97 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85.00 $77.50
Gym membership $37.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Clarita than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Santa Clarita vs. Des Moines

Santa Clarita Des Moines
Population 228,673 699,292
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 35 45
Bike friendliness score 33 39
Crime index 35.92 5.0
Safety index 64.08 57.8
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 206% greater than Santa Clarita.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Santa Clarita, making them very similar.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Santa Clarita with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Santa Clarita’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 39 out of 100, Des Moines is more bike-friendly than Santa Clarita, which has a score of 33 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Santa Clarita with a score of 5.0 compared to Santa Clarita’s 35.92. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Clarita neighborhoods are safer than 35.92%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Santa Clarita with a score of 57.8 vs Santa Clarita’s 64.08.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Santa Clarita it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Clarita to Des Moines move

  • 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Des Moines

Planning your move to Hartford of the West? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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

After settling into your new Iowa home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • 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, and Salisbury House.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines?

Planning your move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Santa Clarita.

When is the cheapest time to move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines?

Because most people are moving from Santa Clarita to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Santa Clarita to Des Moines take?

The 1,680-mile journey from Santa Clarita, CA to Des Moines, , typically takes four to 15 days. Some movers in Santa Clarita offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Des Moines.

Are there special savings available from movers in Santa Clarita?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 2 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Santa Clarita?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Santa Clarita, 64 movers can manage piano relocations. 52 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

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