Best Movers From Iowa to Louisiana (2025 Cost Data)
Let’s get moving.
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$1,182 — $5,780 Top local mover
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$1,182 — $7,419 Top long-distance mover
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$837 — $3,819 Top container company
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$651 — $1,699 Top truck rental
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$61 — $81/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
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Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Iowa to Louisiana
Based on a review of 3,180 movers, moveBuddha found 2,641 (83%) that perform interstate moves. Leveraging our thorough rating methodology, our experts curated the best options to manage your relocation from Iowa to Louisiana.
Estimated cost to move from Iowa to Louisiana
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2 – 3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Louisiana?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| 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 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,182 – $4,718
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,531 – $5,780
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,825 – $7,419
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Louisiana?
- Small move: $837 – $1,963
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,415 – $2,759
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,890 – $3,819
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $651 – $1,188
- 2–3 bedrooms: $689 – $1,382
- 4+ bedrooms: $857 – $1,699
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 1,020-mile move from IA to LA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IA to LA?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| 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% |
Will rent be more expensive in Louisiana?
Rent is about 9% higher in Louisiana than in Iowa.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $996
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 9% lower in Louisiana than in Iowa.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $201,519
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 18% lower in Louisiana than in Iowa.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $57,852
Is the overall cost of living higher in Louisiana?
The cost of living is about the same in Iowa and Louisiana.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 92
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in Iowa and Louisiana.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 7.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income tax rates are similar in Iowa and Louisiana.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 4.25%
How is daily life different in Louisiana compared to Iowa?
Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size.
| 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 |
Will Louisiana feel more crowded than Iowa?
Louisiana is about 43% more populous than Iowa — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Louisiana voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Louisiana is hotter on average (92°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Louisiana is milder on average (39°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Louisiana?
Rain: Louisiana gets more rain (60″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Louisiana gets no snow, while Iowa gets about 30 inches per year.
Is Louisiana safer than Iowa?
Louisiana has a higher crime index than Iowa (33.77 vs. 16.18). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Louisiana?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
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.
- State regulator: You can verify a Louisiana moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance 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.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Louisiana?
Some cities expect a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Louisiana?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Louisiana moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Louisiana?
You don’t need a moving permit in Louisiana.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
Interstate movers provide basic insurance free of charge. 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.
Some movers in Iowa offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Make moving day a breeze with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
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