How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to LA 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 Louisiana?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Iowa
to Louisiana, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,182 – $4,718 |
$837 – $1,963 |
$651 – $1,188 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,531 – $5,780 |
$1,415 – $2,759 |
$689 – $1,382 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,825 – $7,419 |
$1,890 – $3,819 |
$857 – $1,699 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,020-mile relocation from IA to
LA, 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 Louisiana
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Iowa to Louisiana, you’ll likely pay between
$1,182
and $4,718.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,531 and $5,780
for the same journey (IA to LA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,825
to $7,419.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Louisiana
When you’re heading from Iowa to Louisiana, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $837 and
$1,963. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,415 and
$2,759. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,890
to $3,819. 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 Louisiana
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
$651
to $1,188.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $689
to $1,382, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Iowa to Louisiana costs around
$857 to
$1,699.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to LA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Iowa to Louisiana. 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 LA
If you’re moving to Louisiana from Iowa, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Louisiana
Understanding how costs compare between Iowa and Louisiana can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Iowa |
Louisiana |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$996 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$201,519 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$57,852 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 9% higher in Louisiana than in Iowa. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Louisiana are about 9% lower than in Iowa. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Louisiana are about 18% lower than in Iowa.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Louisiana and Iowa, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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The unemployment rate in Louisiana is about 37% 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 Louisiana, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income tax rates are similar in Louisiana and Iowa, so your paycheck deductions won’t change. You’ll enjoy a comparable financial landscape when moving between these states.
How life is different in Louisiana 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 Louisiana and Iowa line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Louisiana |
Iowa |
| Population |
4,573,749 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60.2-38.2 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
92ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
39ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
60″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
33.77 |
16.18 |
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The population of Louisiana is approximately 43% 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 Louisiana leaned Republican.
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Louisiana averages 92°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 Louisiana average 39°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 60 inches of rain each year in Louisiana, 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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Louisiana doesn’t get snow, while Iowa sees around 30 inches annually.
Relocating to Louisiana means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
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Louisiana has a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 33.77 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. Louisiana
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Louisiana and Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in Louisiana |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Delicious regional food |
| High quality of education |
Diverse culture |
| No traffic |
Fun outdoor activities |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Cajun culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Louisiana
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 Louisiana:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in Louisiana |
| Severe weather conditions |
Extreme weather |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Pesky wildlife and insects |
| High taxes |
Limited economic opportunities |
| High emphasis on politics |
High crime rate |
| Rustic food |
Hot humidity |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Louisiana 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:
If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC).
During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC.
In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative 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 Louisiana
While you’re in Louisiana, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Louisiana
- The National WWII Museum
- USS Kidd
- Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
- R. W. Norton Art Gallery
- Shreveport Water Works Museum
Parks in Louisiana
- Millennium Park
- Prien Lake Park
- Sam Houston Jones State Park
- Camp Salmen Nature Park
- Lafreniere Park
Sports teams in Louisiana
- New Orleans Saints (NFL)
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
- New Orleans Gold (MLR)
- Ragin’ Cajuns (NCAA)
- Tigers and Lady Tigers (NCAA)
Universities in Louisiana
- Louisiana State University
- Tulane University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of New Orleans
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Louisiana?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Louisiana?
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 Louisiana on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Louisiana?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Iowa to Louisiana to enjoy all the great benefits Louisiana provides, such as low cost of living and delicious regional food.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Louisiana?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Louisiana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Louisiana,
with average rent about 9% less and home prices 9% lower than in Iowa.
Taxes are also
lower in Louisiana, most notably income taxes, which are more than 3% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Louisiana?
Thinking of moving to Louisiana on your own? You’ll want to earn around $53,317 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,452 per month, or around $5,746 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge 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 Louisiana, you’ll likely pay between $2,531–$5,780 with professional movers, roughly
$2,087 for a moving container, and about
$1,035
for a rental truck.
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