How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to NY move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 37 Iowa moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to New York?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Iowa to New York.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,119 – $4,629 |
$845 – $1,962 |
$648 – $1,243 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,597 – $5,995 |
$1,530 – $2,876 |
$714 – $1,509 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,399 – $7,954 |
$1,926 – $3,716 |
$897 – $1,836 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,089-mile move from IA to
NY using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to New York
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Iowa to New York,
you can expect prices to land between $1,119
and $4,629.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,597 to
$5,995 for the trip from IA
to NY. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,399 and
$7,954.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to New York
Moving containers from Iowa to New York
will cost you $845 to
$1,962 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,530
to $2,876. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,926 to
$3,716.
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 New York
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$648
and $1,243
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $714
to $1,509.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$897
to $1,836.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to NY
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Iowa to New York. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Iowa generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from IA to NY
Making the move from Iowa to New York means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. New York
A clear look at the cost differences between Iowa and New York helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Iowa |
New York |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,507 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$482,742 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$81,386 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
4.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
8.52% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
10.9% |
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Rent in New York is about 65% higher than in Iowa. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in New York are usually around 119% higher than what you’ll find in Iowa.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 15% higher in New York than in Iowa, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in New York costs 12% more than in Iowa. If you’re relocating to New York, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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Unemployment in New York is roughly 47% 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.
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Sales taxes are 23% higher in New York than in Iowa, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in New York are 148% higher than in Iowa, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in New York vs. Iowa
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in New York and Iowa compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
New York |
Iowa |
| Population |
19,571,216 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 60-40 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
16ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
62″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
21.51 |
16.18 |
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New York has a population that’s about 510% larger than Iowa.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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In the latest presidential election, New York voted Democratic, while Iowa chose Republican.
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Summer highs average 81°F in New York, compared to 84°F in Iowa.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
New York has winter lows around 16°F, compared to 10°F in Iowa.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
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You can expect about 44 inches of annual rainfall in New York versus only 35 inches of rainfall in Iowa.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Each year, New York gets about 62 inches of snow, while Iowa sees only 30 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
-
New York has a higher crime rate than Iowa, with crime indexes at 21.51 and 16.18, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. New York
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in New York compared to Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in New York |
| Low cost of living |
Natural beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Arts |
| High quality of education |
Ample economic opportunity |
| No traffic |
Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Distinct seasons |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. New York
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Iowa to New York:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in New York |
| Severe weather conditions |
High tax burden |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Rough winter weather |
| High taxes |
High cost of living |
| High emphasis on politics |
Poor quality healthcare |
| Rustic food |
Populous |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to New York move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
State licensing:
New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a New York moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in New York, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to New York right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in New York
You’ll have plenty to explore in New York! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- New York State Museum
- Erie Canal Museum
Parks in New York
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Central Park
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
Sports teams in New York
- Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York
- Cornell University
- Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York University
- University of Rochester
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to New York?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to New York?
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to New York?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Iowa for New York, drawn by advantages like natural beauty and arts that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or New York?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in New York.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 39% less and home prices 54% lower than in New York.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New York residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New York?
To live comfortably as a single adult in New York, you should aim to make around $78,058.
On average, expect to spend about $5,550 per month, or $12,661 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like New York City and Brooklyn generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Iowa?
Many movers in Iowa publish special-rate programs:
1 offer military-specific savings;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Iowa to New York, budget between $2,597–$5,995 for full-service movers, around
$2,203 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,111
for a rental truck.
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