Best Movers From Iowa to Minnesota (2025 Cost Data)
When planning a move from Iowa to Minnesota, professional movers typically run between
$1,809 and $5,051, a moving container averages about
$1,656, and a rental truck is around
$571.
Fact Checked by:
Let’s get moving.
-
$965 — $5,051 Top local mover
-
$965 — $7,220 Top long-distance mover
-
$599 — $2,845 Top container company
-
$356 — $911 Top truck rental
-
$61 — $81/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Iowa to Minnesota
After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from Iowa to Minnesota.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Iowa to Minnesota
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 22, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 10, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Oct 31, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Oct 26, 2025
Studio apartment
Oct 22, 2025
Studio apartment
Sep 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 12, 2025
Studio apartment
Sep 09, 2025
Studio apartment
Sep 06, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Minnesota?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $965 – $3,058 | $599 – $1,554 | $356 – $615 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,809 – $5,051 | $1,129 – $2,184 | $398 – $744 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,859 – $7,220 | $1,556 – $2,845 | $447 – $911 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $965 – $3,058
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,809 – $5,051
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,859 – $7,220
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Minnesota?
- Small move: $599 – $1,554
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,129 – $2,184
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,556 – $2,845
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $356 – $615
- 2–3 bedrooms: $398 – $744
- 4+ bedrooms: $447 – $911
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 403-mile move from IA to MN 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 MN?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Iowa | Minnesota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $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% |
Will rent be more expensive in Minnesota?
Rent is about 29% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $1,178
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 52% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $334,119
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 19% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $84,313
Is the overall cost of living higher in Minnesota?
The cost of living is 6% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 94
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 16% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 8.03%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 124% higher in Minnesota than in Iowa.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 9.85%
How is daily life different in Minnesota compared to Iowa?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| 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 |
Will Minnesota feel more crowded than Iowa?
Minnesota is about 79% more populous than Iowa — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Minnesota voted Democratic while Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (81°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Minnesota is colder on average (2°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Minnesota?
Rain: Minnesota gets less rain (29″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Minnesota gets more snow (47 inches vs. 30 inches).
Is Minnesota safer than Iowa?
Minnesota has a higher crime index than Iowa (22.47 vs. 16.18). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Minnesota?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Minnesota move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- 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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Minnesota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- 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: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance for free. 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: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Minnesota?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Minnesota?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Minnesota moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. 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.
Some movers in Iowa offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
Popular moving resources
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
