How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to AZ move
Using rate data from 37 Iowa movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Arizona?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa
to Arizona with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,212 – $4,693 |
$933 – $2,244 |
$774 – $1,587 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,783 – $6,671 |
$1,668 – $3,401 |
$827 – $1,887 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,885 – $9,220 |
$2,176 – $4,479 |
$1,041 – $2,192 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,365-mile move from IA to
AZ, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to Arizona
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Arizona,
you can expect to spend between $1,212
and $4,693.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,783 to
$6,671 on the same route
(IA to AZ). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to Arizona typically runs between
$4,885 and
$9,220.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Arizona
Moving from Iowa to Arizona? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $933 and
$2,244. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,668 to
$3,401. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,176 up to
$4,479. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Arizona
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$774 and
$1,587.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$827 and
$1,887.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,041 and
$2,192.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to AZ
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to Arizona will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Iowa fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from IA to AZ
Moving between Iowa and Arizona involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Arizona
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Iowa and Arizona. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Iowa |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,308 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$72,581 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
107 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
8.4% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
2.5% |
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Rent costs 43% more in Arizona compared to Iowa. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Arizona to be about 95% more than what you’ll find in Iowa.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Iowa and Arizona.
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Moving to Arizona will cost you 20% more than living in Iowa, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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Arizona has a higher unemployment rate than Iowa by about 20%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Shoppers in Arizona pay about 21% more in sales tax than those in Iowa, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in Arizona are 43% lower than in Iowa. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Arizona vs. Iowa
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Arizona differs from Iowa in these areas.
|
Arizona |
Iowa |
| Population |
7,431,344 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 56-44 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
99ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
34ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
12″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
24.89 |
16.18 |
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If you’re relocating from Iowa to Arizona, you’ll notice that Arizona has about 132% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, Arizona voted Democrat and Iowa voted Republican.
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Summers in Arizona reach 99°F, warmer than 84°F in Iowa.
Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
Winters in Arizona average 34°F, compared to 10°F in Iowa.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
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In Arizona, you’ll see about 12 inches of rain each year, less than the 35 inches you’re used to in Iowa.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
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In Arizona, you’ll see just 6 inches of snow each year, compared to Iowa, which gets 30 inches annually.
Moving to Arizona means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
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Arizona reports a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 24.89 versus 16.18.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. Arizona
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Arizona stacks up against Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in Arizona |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Pleasant weather |
| High quality of education |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| No traffic |
Cultural diversity |
| Beautiful outdoors |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Arizona
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Iowa to Arizona, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in Arizona |
| Severe weather conditions |
Extreme weather |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Barren desert land |
| High taxes |
Health hazards |
| High emphasis on politics |
Limited public transportation |
| Rustic food |
No winter |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Arizona move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Arizona moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Arizona right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Arizona
Get ready to discover Arizona. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
Sports teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns Basketball (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities in Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Arizona?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Iowa to Arizona
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Arizona?
More and more folks are relocating from Iowa to Arizona to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Arizona?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 30% less and home prices 49% lower than in Arizona.
However, taxes are
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arizona?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Arizona, aim for an income of around $63,608 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,392 if you’re flying solo, or $5,612 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Phoenix and Tucson usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Iowa?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Iowa.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Iowa to Arizona, professional movers typically run between
$2,783 and $6,671, a moving container averages about
$2,534, and a rental truck is around
$1,357.
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