How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to NC move
Using rate data from 37 Iowa movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to North Carolina?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa
to North Carolina with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,200 – $4,487 |
$804 – $2,124 |
$641 – $1,230 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,622 – $5,696 |
$1,426 – $3,114 |
$729 – $1,555 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,022 – $8,034 |
$1,946 – $3,833 |
$934 – $1,762 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,075-mile move from IA to
NC, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to North Carolina
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to North Carolina,
you can expect to spend between $1,200
and $4,487.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,622 to
$5,696 on the same route
(IA to NC). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to North Carolina typically runs between
$4,022 and
$8,034.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to North Carolina
Moving from Iowa to North Carolina? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $804 and
$2,124. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,426 to
$3,114. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,946 up to
$3,833. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to North Carolina
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$641 and
$1,230.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$729 and
$1,555.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $934 and
$1,762.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to NC
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to North Carolina will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Iowa fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from IA to NC
Moving between Iowa and North Carolina involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. North Carolina
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Iowa and North Carolina. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Iowa |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
4.5% |
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Rent costs 20% more in North Carolina compared to Iowa. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in North Carolina to be about 49% more than what you’ll find in Iowa.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in North Carolina are about 6% lower than in Iowa.
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Moving to North Carolina will cost you 8% more than living in Iowa, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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North Carolina has a higher unemployment rate than Iowa by about 23%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Sales tax is similar in North Carolina and Iowa, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
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Income taxes are similar in North Carolina and Iowa, so your paycheck deductions will stay consistent. You can count on steady finances when moving between these states.
How life is different in North Carolina vs. Iowa
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how North Carolina differs from Iowa in these areas.
|
North Carolina |
Iowa |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
16.18 |
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If you’re relocating from Iowa to North Carolina, you’ll notice that North Carolina has about 238% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Iowa and North Carolina voted Republican.
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Summer highs in North Carolina average 88°F, almost the same as 84°F in Iowa.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in North Carolina average 29°F, compared to 10°F in Iowa.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
Expect about 48 inches of rain each year in North Carolina — a big shift from the 35 inches you’re used to in Iowa.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In North Carolina, you’ll see just 4 inches of snow each year, compared to Iowa, which gets 30 inches annually.
Moving to North Carolina means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
North Carolina reports a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 24.69 versus 16.18.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. North Carolina
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in North Carolina stacks up against Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Low cost of living |
Great communities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| High quality of education |
Ample economic opportunity |
| No traffic |
High quality of life |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. North Carolina
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Iowa to North Carolina, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Severe weather conditions |
Hurricanes |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Bland weather |
| High taxes |
High crime rate |
| High emphasis on politics |
High tax burden |
| Rustic food |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to North Carolina 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.
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State licensing:
For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division.
All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a North Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to North Carolina right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in North Carolina
Get ready to discover North Carolina. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Fontana Lake
Sports teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)
Universities in North Carolina
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to North Carolina?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Iowa to North Carolina
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to North Carolina?
More and more folks are relocating from Iowa to North Carolina to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as great communities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or North Carolina?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in North Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 16% less and home prices 33% lower than in North Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 2% less than those paid by North Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Carolina?
If you’re planning to live on your own in North Carolina, aim for an income of around $43,333 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,876 if you’re flying solo, or $6,644 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Iowa?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Iowa.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Iowa to North Carolina, professional movers typically run between
$2,622 and $5,696, a moving container averages about
$2,270, and a rental truck is around
$1,142.
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