Local moving companies in Iowa
When you’re moving from Iowa to Oakland, CA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Hawkeye State to the vibrant The Town.
Out of 32 Iowa movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Oakland, CA.
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 70719
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 299154
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2991947
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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
Cost to move from Iowa to Oakland, CA
This table details typical cost ranges to move from Iowa to Oakland, CA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,254 – $4,915 | $1,010 – $2,573 | $1,011 – $2,047 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,193 – $6,762 | $1,914 – $3,725 | $1,107 – $2,483 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,531 – $10,109 | $2,693 – $5,219 | $1,366 – $3,039 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,830-mile move from Iowa to Oakland, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from Iowa to Oakland, CA
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Oakland, CA, typically costs between $1,254 and $4,915. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,193 and $6,762. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Iowa to Oakland, CA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,531 up to $10,109.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Oakland, CA
When relocating from Iowa to Oakland, CA, you’ll typically spend between $1,010 and $2,573 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,914 up to $3,725. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,693 and $5,219. 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 Iowa to Oakland, CA
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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 from Iowa to Oakland, CA, expect to pay between $1,011 and $2,047. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,107 to $2,483. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,366 and $3,039.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from Iowa to Oakland, CA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Action Moving & Storage, Inc. | × | ✓ | × | × |
| White Glove Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Black Belt Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
After evaluating 3,180 movers, here’s how Iowa movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| Iowa | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 40% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Iowa to Oakland, CA
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Oakland, CA differs from what you’re used to in Iowa. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Oakland, CA
| Iowa | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $2,200 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $736,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $94,389 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 196 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 4.5% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
Oakland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Oakland is approximately 141% higher than in Iowa. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Home prices are about 234% higher in Oakland than in Iowa. It’s important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
- Salaries in Oakland are usually 34% higher than in Iowa, giving you more wiggle room for living expenses or saving extra cash.
- Even though unemployment in Oakland is 50% higher than in Iowa, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
- 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.
How life is different in Oakland from Iowa
| Oakland | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 440,646 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 72ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 44ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 24″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 68.62 | 16.18 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Oakland leaned Democratic, while Iowa went Republican.
- In summer, highs in Oakland average 72ºF, compared to 84ºF in Iowa. Making the move to a cooler place lets you beat the heat, save on energy bills, and spend more time outdoors.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Oakland usually drop to around 44ºF, while in Iowa, they can fall as low as 10ºF. Moving to Oakland means you’ll enjoy milder winters, which makes daily life more comfortable, helps you save on heating costs, and lets you spend more time outdoors.
- You can expect only about 24 inches of annual rainfall in Oakland vs the 35 inches you’re used to in Iowa. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- Oakland doesn’t get snow, while Iowa sees around 30 inches annually. Relocating to Oakland means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in Oakland are higher than in Iowa, with a crime index of 68.62 versus 16.18. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Oakland
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Oakland.
Museums in Oakland
- Oakland Museum of California
- Chabot Space & Science Center
- USS Potomac
- Oakland Aviation Museum
- African American Museum and Library
Parks in Oakland
- Redwood Regional Park
- Joaquin Miller Park
- East Bay Regional Park District
- Lakeside Park and Garden Center
- Piedmont Park
Sports teams in Oakland
- Oakland Athletics (MLB)
- Oakland Roots DC (USLC)
Universities in Oakland
- Laney College
- Merritt College
- California College of the Arts (formerly the California College of Arts and Crafts)
- Holy Names University (formerly Holy Names College)
- Lincoln University
Other considerations when moving to Oakland, CA
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in California, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to California on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Iowa to Oakland take?
The time it takes to move from Iowa to Oakland, CA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in Iowa, the longer the drive time to Oakland will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from Iowa to Oakland can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Iowa to Oakland?
If you’re planning a 1,830-mile move from Iowa to Oakland, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Oakland, CA?
Summer temperatures in Oakland can soar to 72°F, while winters can get as chilly as 44°F. That’s why most people making the move from Iowa to Oakland prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
Helpful moving resources
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