Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Des Moines to Kansas City typically costs $1,500–$4,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 193 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Des Moines to Kansas City
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO typically costs $1,500–$4,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 193-mile move from Des Moines to Kansas City, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $1,846 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $941 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $2,500 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 27, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 20, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 17, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 18, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 31, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 31, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 20, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 14, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Kansas City
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Des Moines to Kansas City might be as low as $900, while a four-bedroom could reach $5,600.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Des Moines.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $300 to $600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA guide.
Best Des Moines to Kansas City movers by type
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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Kansas City
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Kansas City, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IA→MO movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Des Moines to Kansas City
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Kansas City runs about 31% higher for singles and 45% higher for families than Des Moines.
Singles spend around $2,473 in Kansas City versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,361 compared with $4,380.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Des Moines | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $1,350 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $2,375 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $233,378 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $64,551 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $2,473 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $6,361 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.3% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.4% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 4.8% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 13% higher in Kansas City than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 21% higher in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Kansas City than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Kansas City, as the cost of living for a single person in Kansas City is 31% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Kansas City, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 45% more than it is in Des Moines.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 10% lower than Des Moines, Kansas City boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Kansas City exceed those in Des Moines by 20%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 9% higher in Missouri than in Iowa. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Kansas City, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $218.18 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $62.08 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $3.48 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 | $58.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Kansas City, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- Eggs are priced about the same in both cities.
- Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Kansas City
| Des Moines | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 508,090 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 35 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 58.4 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 42.6 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Kansas City's population is about 27% less than Des Moines.
- Kansas City's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines's score of 5.
- Kansas City is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
- Kansas City has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Des Moines, which has a score of 39.
- Kansas City's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 58.4 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 42.6 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
- Air quality in Kansas City is Good, and in Des Moines it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Kansas City move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Missouri moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Missouri, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Kansas City without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Kansas City
Ready to relocate to KC? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Kansas City.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- River Market
- Union Hill
- Volker
- West Plaza
- West Waldo
Best neighborhoods for families
- Armour Hills
- Brookside
- Sunset Hill
- Volker
- Waldo
Things to do in Kansas City
Now that you've made the move to Missouri, it's the perfect time to explore Kansas City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Kansas City include museums and art centers like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, National World War I Museum and Memorial, and Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Loose Park, Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, and Line Creek Trail, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)Kansas City Royals (MLB)Sporting Kansas City (MLS)Sporting Kansas City II (MLS Next Pro)Kansas City Current (NWSL)Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL)Kansas City Comets (MASL)Kansas City Monarchs (American Association)Kansas City Blues (USA Rugby D1)Kansas City Storm (WTFA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Kansas City?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Kansas City. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Des Moines.
When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Kansas City?
With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Kansas City in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Des Moines to Kansas City take?
Covering 193 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO typically takes one to two days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Kansas City can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Kansas City?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Des Moines, 10 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
