Best Movers from Iowa to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When planning a move from Iowa to California, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,435 to $9,398. Most relocations will take about five–16 days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Iowa guide.
Our track record
The best Iowa to California full-service movers
Moving from Iowa to California? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.
Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving Iowa for your relocation to California:
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Iowa
Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in Iowa, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Key City Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Helpful movers
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inexperienced movers
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck, a reputable moving company in Urbandale, IA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1998. Renowned for their packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out by requiring no deposit and accepting credit cards, adding convenience for their clients. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google from over 500 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they excel in customer satisfaction compared to other nearby movers. Their proven track record makes them a trusted choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Unprofessional behavior
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, serving Clive, IA since 2018, specializes in local residential moves and stands out from other nearby movers with their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. They also cater to office moving needs, making them a versatile choice. While their Yelp reviews average 3.2 from 14 ratings, their astounding 4.8 out of 1452 Google reviews suggest a generally positive customer experience. Additionally, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, offering convenience and flexibility. Despite their F rating from the BBB, their extensive positive feedback on Google indicates a largely satisfactory service.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Highly recommended
- Quick moving process
- Unfriendly or rude staff
- Lack of communication
Company Info
Years in Business: 114
DOT #: 125563
Key City Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Peosta, IA since 1910. With glowing customer feedback, including an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among local competitors. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized fragile-only packing, ensuring a stress-free move. Unlike other movers, they don't require a deposit and accept both cash and credit cards, making them a customer-friendly choice for your next move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Highly recommended
- Affordable rates
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Poor packing quality
Company Info
Years in Business: 69
DOT #: 70719
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, a staple in Sioux City, IA since 1955, offers comprehensive local residential moving services. With a strong reputation reflected in their 4.2 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice among local movers. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Claeys Brothers also offer packing and unpacking services, as well as the capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. The firm accepts both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a flexible and customer-friendly option for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Friendly and approachable staff
- Damage to items
- Unprofessional behavior
- Misplaced or lost items
Company Info
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2991947
White Glove Movers, a local moving company based in Marion, IA, has been providing reliable residential moving services since 2005. Compared to other nearby movers, White Glove stands out with its comprehensive packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to handle delicate items like pianos and art. Renowned for their exceptional service, they hold an average Google rating of 4.9 from 234 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their excellent consumer feedback and array of services make them a top choice for local moves, offering peace of mind and quality assurance.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Iowa to California moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Iowa and drops it off at your new home in California.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Iowa to California moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Iowa to California, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Iowa to California labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Iowa to California, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,609 - $6,004 | $1,405 - $3,438 | $1,378 - $2,603 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,140 - $9,398 | $2,408 - $4,833 | $1,435 - $3,006 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,400 - $13,242 | $3,292 - $6,969 | $1,809 - $3,679 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,849 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Iowa to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,609 and $6,004. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,140 to $9,398 for the trip from IA to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,400 and $13,242.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to California
If you're moving from Iowa to California, expect to pay between $1,405 and $3,438 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,408 up to $4,833. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,292 and $6,969. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to California
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 $1,378 and $2,603. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,435 and $3,006. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,809 up to $3,679 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to CA
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to California will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Iowa is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from IA to CA
When moving from Iowa to California, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. California
Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Iowa and California. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:
| Iowa | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.94% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 103% higher in California than in Iowa. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 250% more than what you'll find in Iowa.
- Good news—you can expect to earn about 30% more in California than in Iowa. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be paying 51% more than you did in Iowa. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is roughly 80% higher than in Iowa. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
- Sales taxes are 25% higher in California than in Iowa. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in California are 202% higher than in Iowa. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Iowa
Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in California compared to Iowa across a few key lifestyle factors:
| California | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 35" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 30" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 16.18 |
- California has a population that's about 1,117% larger than Iowa. A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
- In the most recent presidential election, California voted Democratic, while Iowa went Republican.
- Summer highs average 87ºF in California and 84ºF in Iowa. That means your move shouldn’t require you to adjust too much to the summer weather. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, unique weather quirks, and energy costs to really know what summer will feel like in your new home.
- In the heart of winter, temperatures in California dip to 59ºF, while Iowa can get as cold as 10ºF. Relocating to California means enjoying milder winters, which comes with lower expenses and more chances to enjoy the outdoors. If you’d rather soak up the sun than deal with winter storms, this move could be perfect for you.
- You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of rain each year in California, compared to 35 inches in Iowa. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Iowa, which gets 30 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, lower upkeep, and fewer weather-related headaches. giving you a smoother, more relaxed winter.
- California has a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 28.43 compared to 16.18. While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. California
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in California versus Iowa.
| Pros of living in Iowa | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity | Pleasant weather |
| High quality of education | Abundant recreational options |
| No traffic | High quality of life |
| Beautiful outdoors | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. California
Moving from Iowa to California comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother.
| Cons of living in Iowa | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Severe weather conditions | High cost of living |
| Limited recreational opportunities | Heavy tax burdens |
| High taxes | Natural disasters |
| High emphasis on politics | Terrible traffic |
| Rustic food | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to California move
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
- 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 contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- 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 California
Get excited to explore California. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports Teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
