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Florida to Iowa Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- For a move from Florida to Iowa, a two-bedroom home with professional movers typically costs $2,400–$4,800.*Estimates reflect a 2–3 bedroom move and a three–eight day delivery window. Actual cost and timing depend on home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Florida to Iowa is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Who are the best movers to move from Florida to Iowa?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Florida to Iowa is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from Florida to Iowa below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from Florida to Iowa
For a move from Florida to Iowa, we generally recommend hiring a professional interstate mover—they’re better equipped for the complex logistics that can come with a 1,396 mile relocation. Based on a review of 3,180 movers, moveBuddha found 2,642 (83%) that perform interstate moves. Leveraging our thorough rating methodology, our experts curated the best options to manage your relocation from Florida to Iowa.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
How much does it cost to move from Florida to Iowa?
It costs between $2,400–$7,300 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Florida to Iowa. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
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FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Florida to Iowa?
Moving from Florida to Iowa can cost anywhere from $997–$6,776, but most people pay around $2,421–$4,800 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $997 – $3,929 | $939 – $2,190 | $823 – $1,576 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,421 – $5,511 | $1,547 – $3,422 | $855 – $1,819 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,263 – $7,338 | $2,168 – $4,292 | $1,110 – $2,243 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,396-mile move from FL to IA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,421 – $5,511 to hire a moving company to move you from Florida to Iowa. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $997 – $3,929
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,421 – $5,511
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,263 – $7,338
How much do moving containers cost from Florida to Iowa?
Using a moving container from Florida to Iowa costs, on average, $1,547 – $3,422. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $939 – $2,190
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,547 – $3,422
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,168 – $4,292
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from Florida to Iowa will costs you between $855 – $1,819, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $823 – $1,576
- 2–3 bedrooms: $855 – $1,819
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,110 – $2,243
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from Florida to Iowa, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from FL to IA?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Iowa — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,444 in Florida to $914 in Iowa, and average home values go from $392,176 to $220,277.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (102 vs. 89), unemployment (2.9% vs. 3.0%), and taxes — including average sales tax (7.08% vs. 6.94%) and state income tax (0.0% vs. 4.4%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| Florida | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,444 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $392,176 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,917 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 102 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 7.08% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.4% |
Will rent be more expensive in Iowa?
Rent is about 37% lower in Iowa than in Florida.
Avg rent: $1,444 vs. $914
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 44% lower in Iowa than in Florida.
Avg home value: $392,176 vs. $220,277
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in Florida and Iowa.
Avg income (per capita): $67,917 vs. $70,571
Is the overall cost of living higher in Iowa?
The cost of living is 13% lower in Iowa than in Florida.
Cost of living index: 102 vs. 89
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in Florida and Iowa.
Avg sales tax: 7.08% vs. 6.94%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Iowa has a state income tax, while Florida does not — plan for higher paycheck deductions.
State income tax: 0.0% vs. 4.4%
How is daily life different in Iowa compared to Florida?
Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size.
| Iowa | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 22,610,726 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 51-48 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 49ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 55″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 0″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 21.39 |
Will Iowa feel more crowded than Florida?
Iowa is about 86% less populous than Florida — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Florida and Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Iowa is cooler on average (84°F vs. 91°F).
Winter: Iowa is colder on average (10°F vs. 49°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Iowa?
Rain: Iowa gets less rain (35″ vs. 55″).
Snow: Iowa gets about 30 inches per year, while Florida gets none.
Is Iowa safer than Florida?
Iowa has a lower crime index than Florida (16.18 vs. 21.39), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Iowa?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Florida to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- 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 book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Iowa?
Some cities expect a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Iowa?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Iowa moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Iowa?
You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
Interstate movers provide basic insurance free of charge. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
Some movers in Florida offer discounts: 2 AAA discounts; 11 military discounts; 13 senior discounts; 3 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 2 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Make moving day a breeze with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
Florida Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Florida Routes
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