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($1,290) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Chula Vista, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,750 miles from Des Moines to Chula Vista is generally between $1,083 and $7,255. The trip duration should be approximately five–16 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Chula Vista

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 Des Moines to Chula Vista

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Chula Vista, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Des Moines, you have a choice of 9 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Chula Vista smoothly and with confidence.

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 Des Moines to Chula Vista

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,750-mile move from Des Moines to Chula Vista using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,265 – $5,391
  • Moving Container $1,470 – $2,635
  • Rental Truck $1,072 – $2,003
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,269 – $7,255
  • Moving Container $1,823 – $3,960
  • Rental Truck $1,083 – $2,384
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,683 – $10,641
  • Moving Container $2,646 – $4,953
  • Rental Truck $1,408 – $2,917
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.
Mayflower Transit
Johnston, IA Ramona, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
United Van Lines
Baxter, IA Winter Gardens, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 08, 2025
Roadway Moving
St. Charles, IA Chula Vista, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 05, 2025
North American Van Lines
Sandyville, IA La Presa, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 26, 2025
PODS
Monroe, IA Lakeside, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Boone, IA San Diego Country Estates, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Gilbert, IA San Diego, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
State Center, IA Rancho San Diego, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
New Virginia, IA Lemon Grove, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 05, 2025
American Van Lines
Lorimor, IA Poway, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 05, 2025

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

Top local movers for Des Moines to Chula Vista moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Des Moines that also provides long-distance services to Chula Vista can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 13 local movers in Des Moines who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Des Moines to Chula Vista.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck earns its reputation for being fast, careful, and professional, with 92% of customer feedback praising efficient service, attention to detail, and courteous movers. Most people said the crews worked quickly, handled belongings with care, communicated well, and made moving less stressful. Many customers noted the movers were polite, helpful, and followed directions accurately, setting them apart from less organized competitors. Some even reported coming in under budget due to team efficiency, and highlighted transparent pricing and great office support. Negative feedback primarily cited issues with item damage, inexperienced movers, and unexpected costs. A small number of reviewers mentioned poor packing, lack of effort to resolve damages, and occasional rude remarks, especially in more complex moves. While damage to belongings arose more often than other negatives, the vast majority of feedback still positions this company as one of the most reliably consistent options for moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.0% of all reviews were positive
36.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, affordable, and careful—most customer feedback praises All Mighty Movers LLC for their quick moving process, professional crews, and attentive handling of belongings. Out of 25 reviews analyzed, 64% are positive, often highlighting low rates, polite staff, and efficient service. Clients commonly appreciate how speedily and safely items were moved, noting that furniture and fragile goods arrived undamaged. Many mention the company beats local competitors in both price and quality, thanks to thoughtful movers who keep an upbeat attitude even with challenging jobs. On the downside, 36% of feedback centers on inaccurate estimates, unexpected charges, and unclear communication, especially regarding additional fees and scheduling. Some customers feel misled when final costs exceeded quoted amounts. Compared to many moving companies, All Mighty Movers earns high marks for efficiency and pricing but leaves room to improve transparency and customer relations, especially for billing and communication during more complex moves.
Get a Quote (515) 313-1395

Company Info

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2468266

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never looked so easy. From 260 customer feedback entries, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving earned praise for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, with 92.7% of responses reflecting positive experiences. The staff often receives high marks for friendliness and effective communication, outperforming many competitors on reliability. Customers commonly mention the quick moving process and how carefully items are treated. On the downside, some reported damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and unprofessional conduct—chiefly in the few negative submissions, which account for 7.3% of the total. Compared to others, College Hunks stands out for speed, courteous crews, and strong problem-solving skills, but attention to quality control and transparent billing could prevent negative encounters. The company sets a high standard for service and staff demeanor, making it a leading choice in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (515) 393-4253

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 3527158

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.6% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews consistently place Adamantine Spine Moving at the top of moving services in Iowa and beyond. Analyzing 223 customer reviews, 99.6% of feedback highlights professionalism, efficient service, excellent communication, careful handling, and quick moving crews. Customers repeatedly mention that staff are polite, approachable, and make stressful moves easy with precise organization and prompt responses. Quotes tend to be accurate, crews are well-trained, and moves large or small are handled with care. Compared to larger moving firms, Adamantine stands out for its hard-working teams and reliable pricing, with many clients calling the experience the best they’ve had. The only significant complaint noted involves a billing discrepancy where the final charge was much higher than the initial estimate, and the situation wasn’t resolved effectively. This single negative input strongly contrasts the otherwise outstanding reputation. Adamantine’s client input sets it apart from typical moving companies and makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking for trusted moving professionals.
Get a Quote (319) 519-0154

Company Info

Pricing: $100/hr

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 1471037

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Des Moines to Chula Vista?

Movers in Iowa generally charge an average of $128 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,290 – $4,983 $1,097 – $2,550 $1,062 – $2,062
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,269 – $7,255 $1,823 – $3,960 $1,083 – $2,384
4+ bedrooms $5,683 – $10,641 $2,646 – $4,953 $1,408 – $2,917
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,750-mile move from Des Moines to Chula Vista, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Chula Vista

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Chula Vista typically costs between $1,290 and $4,983. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,269 and $7,255 when moving from Des Moines to Chula Vista. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Des Moines to Chula Vista, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,683 up to $10,641.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Chula Vista

If you’re relocating from Des Moines to Chula Vista, you’ll typically spend between $1,097 and $2,550 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,823 up to $3,960. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,646 and $4,953. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Chula Vista

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Des Moines to Chula Vista move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,062 and $2,062. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,083 to $2,384. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,408 and $2,917.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Chula Vista

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Des Moines to Chula Vista might be as low as $2,459, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,787.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Des Moines.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,062 to $2,534 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Chula Vista

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chula Vista runs about 279% higher for singles and 177% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $7,167 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $12,120 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Chula Vista
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $2,500
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $4,500
Average home value $192,347 $844,142
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $92,913
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $7,167
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $12,120
Unemployment rate 5.9% 7.9%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.75%
State income tax 4.4% 13.3%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 170% higher in Chula Vista than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 339% higher in Chula Vista than in Des Moines.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 59% higher in Chula Vista than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Chula Vista, as the cost of living for a single person in Chula Vista is 279% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Chula Vista, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 177% more than it is in Des Moines.
  • The unemployment rate in Chula Vista exceeds that of Des Moines by about 34%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes in Chula Vista exceed those in Des Moines by 25%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 202% higher in California than in Iowa. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Chula Vista, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Des Moines Chula Vista
Basic utilities $144.82 $277.33
Cell phone plan $51.25 $62.50
Dozen eggs $3.61 $5.83
Loaf of bread $2.50 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $100.00
Gym membership $66.67 $20.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Chula Vista, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Chula Vista.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Chula Vista

Des Moines Chula Vista
Population 699,292 275,487
Transportation score 5 6
Walkability score 45 46
Bike friendliness score 39 41
Crime index 5.0 56.3
Safety index 57.8 43.7
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Chula Vista’s population is about 61% less than Des Moines.
  • Chula Vista’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Chula Vista and Des Moines are similarly walkable.
  • Both Chula Vista and Des Moines have similar bike-friendliness scores (39 vs 41), meaning Chula Vista is about as safe for cyclists as Des Moines. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Chula Vista’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 56.3 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Chula Vista neighborhoods are safer than 56.3% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Chula Vista is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 43.7 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Chula Vista is Moderate, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Chula Vista move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Chula Vista without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Chula Vista

Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Chula Vista.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Eastlake
  • Hilltop
  • Otay Ranch
  • Sunbow

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Eastlake
  • Otay Ranch
  • Rancho Del Rey
  • Bonita
  • Sunbow

Things to do in Chula Vista

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Chula Vista. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chula Vista include museums and art centers like the Chula Vista Heritage Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Chula Vista Bayside Park, Marina View Park, Mountain Hawk Park, and Discovery Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Chula Vista is the site of the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, formerly the Olympic Training Center. The U.S. national rugby team practices at the OTC. game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Chula Vista?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Chula Vista. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Des Moines.

When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Chula Vista?

With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Chula Vista in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Des Moines to Chula Vista take?

Covering 1,750 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Chula Vista, typically takes five to 16 days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chula Vista can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Chula Vista?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Des Moines, 10 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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