Des Moines, IA to Oxnard, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Des Moines to Oxnard typically costs $3,600–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,738 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Des Moines to Oxnard
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Oxnard, CA typically costs $3,600–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,738-mile move from Des Moines to Oxnard, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- United Van Lines recently quoted $6,603 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $5,864 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,845 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 26, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 19, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 16, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 27, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 25, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 23, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 21, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 12, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Oxnard
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Des Moines to Oxnard might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,500.
- 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 $1,100 to $3,300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Oxnard, CA to Des Moines, IA guide.
Best Des Moines to Oxnard movers by type
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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Oxnard
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Oxnard, 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.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IA→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Des Moines to Oxnard
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Oxnard runs about 23% higher for singles and 25% higher for families than Des Moines.
Singles spend around $2,328 in Oxnard versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $5,460 compared with $4,380.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Des Moines | Oxnard | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $1,950 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $3,250 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $753,934 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $83,180 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $2,328 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $5,460 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 7.6% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 9.25% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 152% higher in Oxnard than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 292% higher in Oxnard than in Des Moines.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 42% higher in Oxnard than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Oxnard, as the cost of living for a single person in Oxnard is 23% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Oxnard, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 25% more than it is in Des Moines.
- The unemployment rate in Oxnard exceeds that of Des Moines by about 29%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Oxnard exceed those in Des Moines by 32%, 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 Oxnard, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Oxnard |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $179.03 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $54.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $5.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $1.31 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $18.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $57.50 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 | $37.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Oxnard, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Oxnard.
- Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Oxnard.
- Bread is more expensive in Des Moines than in Oxnard.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Oxnard.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Oxnard.
- Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Oxnard.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Oxnard
| Des Moines | Oxnard | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 202,063 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 57 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 51 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 45.83 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 54.17 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Oxnard's population is about 71% less than Des Moines.
- Oxnard's public transportation score is within about 5% of Des Moines, making them very similar.
- Oxnard is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 57 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
- With a score of 51 out of 100, Oxnard is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Oxnard's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 45.83 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Oxnard neighborhoods are safer than 45.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Oxnard is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 54.17 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
- Air quality in Oxnard is Good, and in Des Moines it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Oxnard 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 Oxnard 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 Oxnard
Ready to relocate to Lima Bean Capital of the World[? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Oxnard.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Oxnard
- Hollywood Beach
- Oxnard Shores
- Seabridge
- Mandalay Bay
Best neighborhoods for families
- RiverPark
- Victoria Estates
- Southwinds
- Cypress Gardens
- College Park
Things to do in Oxnard
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Oxnard. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Oxnard include museums and art centers like the Mullin Automotive Museum, Channel Islands Maritime Museum, The Murphy Auto Museum, and Carnegie Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Heritage Square and Peninsula 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 Mighty Mights SportsFlag FootballJr. High SoccerJr. High SoftballOxnard Guerreros FC (Soccer)Oxnard United Soccer Club game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Oxnard?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Oxnard. 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 Oxnard?
With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Oxnard 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 Oxnard take?
Covering 1,738 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Oxnard, CA typically takes four to 15 days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Oxnard can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Oxnard?
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 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
