($1,322) Movers From Iowa to Oakland, CA

1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
2. Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Key City Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
5. White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars

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 $1,322 and $4,938. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,401 and $7,429. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Iowa to Oakland, CA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,846 up to $10,672.

Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Oakland, CA

When relocating from Iowa to Oakland, CA, you’ll typically spend between $1,078 and $2,798 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,844 up to $3,857. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,707 and $5,134. 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 $1,015 and $1,935. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,157 to $2,351. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,386 and $3,114.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.