How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to GA 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 Georgia?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Iowa
to Georgia, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,140 – $4,674 |
$812 – $1,963 |
$669 – $1,296 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,375 – $5,724 |
$1,515 – $2,788 |
$701 – $1,556 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,177 – $8,036 |
$2,027 – $3,791 |
$872 – $1,748 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,053-mile relocation from IA to
GA, 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 Georgia
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Iowa to Georgia, you’ll likely pay between
$1,140
and $4,674.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,375 and $5,724
for the same journey (IA to GA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,177
to $8,036.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Georgia
When you’re heading from Iowa to Georgia, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $812 and
$1,963. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,515 and
$2,788. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,027
to $3,791. 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 Georgia
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
$669
to $1,296.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $701
to $1,556, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Iowa to Georgia costs around
$872 to
$1,748.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to GA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Iowa to Georgia. 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 GA
If you’re moving to Georgia from Iowa, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Georgia
Understanding how costs compare between Iowa and Georgia can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Iowa |
Georgia |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,221 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$326,617 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$71,355 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
91 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
7.32% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
5.49% |
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Rent is about 34% higher in Georgia 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 Georgia are typically about 48% higher than in Iowa.
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The average income is about the same in both Iowa and Georgia, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Georgia and Iowa, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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The unemployment rate in Georgia is about 20% higher than in Iowa. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in Iowa and Georgia, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income taxes in Georgia are 25% higher than in Iowa, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Georgia 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 Georgia and Iowa line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Georgia |
Iowa |
| Population |
11,029,227 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 51-49 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
90ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
20.58 |
16.18 |
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The population of Georgia is approximately 244% 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 election, Georgia voted Democrat, while Iowa went Republican.
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Georgia averages 90°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 Georgia average 33°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 50 inches of rain each year in Georgia, 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.
-
In Georgia, you’ll only get about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than Iowa.
That means moving to Georgia brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
-
Georgia has a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 20.58 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. Georgia
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Georgia and Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in Georgia |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Beautiful landscapes |
| High quality of education |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| No traffic |
Pleasant weather |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Home of atlanta |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Georgia
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 Georgia:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in Georgia |
| Severe weather conditions |
Hot humid summers |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Pollen |
| High taxes |
Insects |
| High emphasis on politics |
High crime rate |
| Rustic food |
Poor healthcare |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Georgia 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.
-
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.
-
State licensing:
Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a Georgia moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Georgia, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
-
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 Georgia 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. Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover’s responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Georgia
While you’re in Georgia, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Georgia
- Tybee Island Light Station And Museum
- Augusta Canal Discovery Center
- National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
- St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
- Hay House
Parks in Georgia
- Amicalola Falls State Park
- Chattahoochee Bend State Park
- Cloudland Canyon State Park
- F.D. Roosevelt State Park
- Fort Yargo State Park
Sports teams in Georgia
- Atlanta Blaze (MLL)
- Atlanta Braves (MLB)
- Atlanta Dream (WNBA)
- Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
- Atlanta Hawks (NBA)
Universities in Georgia
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University
- Emory University
- Kennesaw State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Georgia?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Georgia?
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 Georgia on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Georgia?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Iowa to Georgia to enjoy all the great benefits Georgia provides, such as ample economic opportunity and beautiful landscapes.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Georgia?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Georgia.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 25% less and home prices 33% lower than in Georgia.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Georgia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Georgia?
Thinking of moving to Georgia on your own? You’ll want to earn around $92,416 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,350 per month, or around $5,179 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Atlanta and Columbus 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 Georgia, you’ll likely pay between $2,375–$5,724 with professional movers, roughly
$2,151 for a moving container, and about
$1,128
for a rental truck.
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