How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to FL move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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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.
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Florida?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Iowa
to Florida, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,155 – $4,790 |
$923 – $2,331 |
$858 – $1,611 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,833 – $6,194 |
$1,682 – $3,265 |
$875 – $1,861 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,892 – $9,211 |
$2,217 – $4,568 |
$1,102 – $2,317 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,394-mile relocation from IA to
FL, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to Florida
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Iowa to Florida, you’ll likely pay between
$1,155
and $4,790.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,833 and $6,194
for the same journey (IA to FL).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,892
to $9,211.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Florida
When you’re heading from Iowa to Florida, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $923 and
$2,331. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,682 and
$3,265. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,217
to $4,568. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Iowa easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Florida
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$858
to $1,611.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $875
to $1,861, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Iowa to Florida costs around
$1,102 to
$2,317.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to FL
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Iowa to Florida. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Iowa when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from IA to FL
If you’re moving to Florida from Iowa, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Florida
Understanding how costs compare between Iowa and Florida can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Iowa |
Florida |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,444 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$67,917 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
102 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
7.08% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
0.0% |
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Rent is about 58% higher in Florida than in Iowa. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Florida are typically about 78% higher than in Iowa.
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The average income is about the same in both Iowa and Florida, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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The cost of living is 15% higher in Florida than in Iowa. If you’re making the move to Florida with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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Unemployment rates are pretty similar in Florida and Iowa, so you probably won’t notice much change in job opportunities or competition after your move.
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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in Iowa and Florida, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Iowa. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Florida vs. Iowa
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Florida and Iowa line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Florida |
Iowa |
| Population |
22,610,726 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-48 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
49ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
55″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
21.39 |
16.18 |
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The population of Florida is approximately 605% greater than the population of Iowa.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Iowa and Florida leaned Republican.
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Florida averages 91°F in the summer, compared to 84°F in Iowa.
Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
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Winter lows in Florida average 49°F, milder than 10°F in Iowa.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
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Get ready for about 55 inches of rain each year in Florida, which is quite a change from the 35 inches you’re used to in Iowa.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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Florida doesn’t get snow, while Iowa sees around 30 inches annually.
Relocating to Florida means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
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Florida has a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 21.39 compared to 16.18.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. Florida
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Florida and Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in Florida |
| Low cost of living |
Fantastic weather |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant water recreational activities |
| High quality of education |
Ample economic opportunity |
| No traffic |
World-leading entertainment |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Beautiful flora and fauna |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Florida
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Iowa for Florida:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in Florida |
| Severe weather conditions |
High cost of living |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Poor healthcare |
| High taxes |
Natural disasters |
| High emphasis on politics |
Heat and humidity |
| Rustic food |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Florida move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
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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.
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State licensing:
Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Florida moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Florida, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Florida right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Florida
While you’re in Florida, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Florida
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum
Parks in Florida
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
Sports teams in Florida
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
Universities in Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Florida?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Florida?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Iowa to Florida on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Florida?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Iowa to Florida to enjoy all the great benefits Florida provides, such as fantastic weather and abundant water recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Florida?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Florida.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 37% less and home prices 44% lower than in Florida.
However, taxes are
lower in Florida, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Florida?
Thinking of moving to Florida on your own? You’ll want to earn around $61,933 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,010 per month, or around $7,388 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Jacksonville and Miami tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Iowa?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Iowa to Florida, you’ll likely pay between $2,833–$6,194 with professional movers, roughly
$2,473 for a moving container, and about
$1,368
for a rental truck.
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