($1,318) Cost of Moving From Iowa to Minnesota

Quick answer: Moving from Iowa to Minnesota typically costs between $482 and $6,177 and usually takes one–four days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Minnesota to Iowa guide.

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The best Iowa to Minnesota full-service movers

Thinking about moving from Iowa to Minnesota? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from Iowa to Minnesota with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in Iowa.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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(866) 835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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(866) 935-3437
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Iowa

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Iowa, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Key City Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Black Belt Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 27

2601 104th St #400, Urbandale, IA 50322

Two Men and a Truck, a reputable moving company in Urbandale, IA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1998. Renowned for their packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out by requiring no deposit and accepting credit cards, adding convenience for their clients. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google from over 500 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they excel in customer satisfaction compared to other nearby movers. Their proven track record makes them a trusted choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 7

10500 Hickman Rd Suite H, Clive, IA 50325

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, serving Clive, IA since 2018, specializes in local residential moves and stands out from other nearby movers with their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. They also cater to office moving needs, making them a versatile choice. While their Yelp reviews average 3.2 from 14 ratings, their astounding 4.8 out of 1452 Google reviews suggest a generally positive customer experience. Additionally, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, offering convenience and flexibility. Despite their F rating from the BBB, their extensive positive feedback on Google indicates a largely satisfactory service.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Key City Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 125563

Years in Business: 114

9710 Royal Wood Dr, Peosta, IA 52068

Key City Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Peosta, IA since 1910. With glowing customer feedback, including an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among local competitors. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized fragile-only packing, ensuring a stress-free move. Unlike other movers, they don't require a deposit and accept both cash and credit cards, making them a customer-friendly choice for your next move.

Get a Quote (563) 582-3237

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 70719

Years in Business: 69

5600 Harbor Dr, Sioux City, IA 51111

Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, a staple in Sioux City, IA since 1955, offers comprehensive local residential moving services. With a strong reputation reflected in their 4.2 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice among local movers. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Claeys Brothers also offer packing and unpacking services, as well as the capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. The firm accepts both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a flexible and customer-friendly option for local moves.

Get a Quote (712) 252-1335

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Black Belt Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 3527158

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 17

1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B, ANKENY, IA 50023

Black Belt Movers, serving the Ankeny, IA area since 2009, offers a comprehensive range of local residential moving services. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and an average Yelp rating of 4.0 based on 15 reviews, their reputation stands strong among nearby moving companies. They also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and specialized services like moving pianos and antiques. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards, require no deposit, and provide full valuation insurance coverage.

Get a Quote (515) 393-4253

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

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The best Iowa to Minnesota moving container companies

Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Iowa and delivering it to your new place in Minnesota.

Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Iowa to Minnesota moving truck rentals

Looking to cut costs on your move from Iowa to Minnesota? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.

Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Iowa to Minnesota labor-only movers

Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.

When you’re getting ready to move from Iowa to Minnesota, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.72 / 5
  • Years in Business: 27
  • Yelp: 3.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 7
  • Yelp: 3.2 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 114
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to MN movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 24 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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 Minnesota?

Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Iowa to Minnesota, broken down by home size and type of moving service.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,318 - $3,696 $832 - $1,805 $452 - $873
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,323 - $6,177 $1,406 - $2,640 $482 - $936
4+ bedrooms $3,977 - $9,270 $1,883 - $3,653 $586 - $1,217

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 404 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Iowa to Minnesota

Planning a move from Iowa to Minnesota? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,318 and $3,696. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,323 and $6,177 for the same journey (IA to MN). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,977 to $9,270.

Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Minnesota

Moving containers from Iowa to Minnesota will cost you $832 to $1,805 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,406 to $2,640. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,883 to $3,653. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Minnesota

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, expect to pay between $452 and $873. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $482 to $936. If you’re heading from Iowa to Minnesota or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $586 and $1,217.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to MN

Several factors influence the cost of moving from Iowa to Minnesota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:

  • Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
  • Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Iowa.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.

What to know before moving from IA to MN

If you’re moving from Iowa to Minnesota, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.

Cost of living: Iowa vs. Minnesota

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Iowa and Minnesota. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

Iowa Minnesota
Average rent cost $914 $1,178
Average home cost $220,277 $334,119
Average income (per capita) $70,571 $84,313
Cost of Living Index 89 94
Unemployment rate 3.0% 3.4%
Average Sales Tax 6.94% 8.03%
State Income Tax 4.4% 9.85%
  • Rent is about 29% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
  • Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Minnesota to be about 52% more than what you'll find in Iowa.
  • Good news—you can expect to earn about 19% more in Minnesota than in Iowa. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
  • Moving to Minnesota means you’ll be paying 6% more than you did in Iowa. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
  • Unemployment in Minnesota is roughly 13% higher than in Iowa. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
  • Sales taxes are 16% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes in Minnesota are 124% higher than in Iowa. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.

How life is different in Minnesota vs. Iowa

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in Minnesota versus Iowa across some essential lifestyle factors:

Minnesota Iowa
Population 5,737,915 3,207,004
Political leaning Democratic 51.1-46.9 Republican 53-45
Summer high 81ºF 84ºF
Winter low 2ºF 10ºF
Annual rain 29" 35"
Annual snow 47" 30"
Crime index 22.47 16.18
  • The population of Minnesota is approximately 79% greater than the population of Iowa. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
  • In the last presidential election, Minnesota voted Democratic and Iowa voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in Minnesota is 81ºF and in Iowa, it’s 84ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Minnesota reaches about 2ºF and Iowa only gets down to 10ºF. Moving to Minnesota with its colder winters means you need to prepare for higher heating costs, possible lifestyle shifts, and more intense weather, but it can also offer unique seasonal experiences and beauty.
  • You can expect only about 29 inches of annual rainfall in Minnesota versus 35 inches of rainfall in Iowa. Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
  • In Minnesota, it snows about 47 inches annually while Iowa gets only about 30 inches of snow. With the additional snowm you'll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
  • Minnesota has a higher crime rate than Iowa with a crime index of 22.47 vs. 16.18. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.

Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. Minnesota

Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Minnesota to Iowa.

Pros of living in Iowa Pros of living in Minnesota
Low cost of living Ample economic opportunity
Ample economic opportunity Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities
High quality of education Multitudinous lakes
No traffic Diverse festivals
Beautiful outdoors Friendly people

Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Minnesota

No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Iowa to Minnesota.

Cons of living in Iowa Cons of living in Minnesota
Severe weather conditions Bland food
Limited recreational opportunities Cold snowy winters
High taxes Terrible traffic
High emphasis on politics High tax burden
Rustic food Thick accents

Other things to consider for your Iowa to Minnesota move

  • Weather: Minnesota experiences temperature extremes characteristic of its continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. Minnesota does experience weather such as: rain, snow, blizzards, thunderstorms, hail, derechos, tornadoes, and high-velocity straight-line winds.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
  • State licensing: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Minnesota moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Minnesota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Minnesota. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.

Things to do in Minnesota

Get ready to discover all that Minnesota has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:

Museums in Minnesota

  • Minneapolis Institute of Art
  • Science Museum of Minnesota
  • Mill City Museum
  • Minnesota History Center
  • Paisley Park

Parks in Minnesota

  • Minnehaha Park
  • Teddy Bear Park
  • Enger Park and Tower
  • Canal Park
  • Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

Sports Teams in Minnesota

  • Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
  • Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
  • Minnesota Twins (MLB)
  • Minnesota United FC (MLS)
  • Minnesota Vikings (NFL)

Universities in Minnesota

  • University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
  • Carleton College
  • Rasmussen College
  • University of St. Thomas
  • Minnesota State University, Mankato

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Minnesota? toggle

If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Iowa moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Minnesota? toggle

Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from Iowa to Minnesota using a top-rated auto transport company.

What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Minnesota? toggle

An increasing number of people are relocating from Iowa to Minnesota to enjoy all the great benefits Minnesota provides, such as: ample economic opportunity and bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities.

Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Minnesota? toggle

Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Minnesota. Housing is much more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 22% less and home prices 34% lower than in Minnesota. Taxes are also lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Minnesota residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Minnesota? toggle

Thinking of moving to Minnesota on your own? You’ll want to earn around $78,470 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living on your own, expect to spend about $3,191 per month, or around $6,662 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Bloomington and Duluth tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.

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