($1,450) Cost of Moving From Iowa to Pennsylvania
Quick answer: Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania typically costs between $860 and $7,452 and usually takes two–seven 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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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Pennsylvania to Iowa guide.
Our track record
The best Iowa to Pennsylvania full-service movers
Heading from Iowa to Pennsylvania? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.
Kick off your move to Pennsylvania with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve Iowa.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Iowa
With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Iowa. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Key City Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 27
2601 104th St #400, Urbandale, IA 50322Two 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 2378173
Years in Business: 7
10500 Hickman Rd Suite H, Clive, IA 50325College 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2378173
Key City Moving & Storage
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 125563
Years in Business: 114
9710 Royal Wood Dr, Peosta, IA 52068Key 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 125563
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 69
5600 Harbor Dr, Sioux City, IA 51111Claeys 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 70719
Black Belt Movers
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 3527158
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 17
1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B, ANKENY, IA 50023Black 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3527158
The best Iowa to Pennsylvania moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Iowa and dropping it off at your new home in Pennsylvania.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Iowa to Pennsylvania moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Iowa to Pennsylvania labor-only movers
If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.
Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from Iowa to Pennsylvania:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to PA move
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Iowa to Pennsylvania. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,450 - $5,410 | $1,014 - $2,295 | $751 - $1,463 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,004 - $7,452 | $1,856 - $3,605 | $860 - $1,756 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,915 - $9,710 | $2,353 - $4,400 | $1,048 - $2,174 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 907 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 Pennsylvania
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Pennsylvania typically costs between $1,450 and $5,410. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,004 and $7,452 when moving from IA to PA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Iowa to Pennsylvania, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,915 up to $9,710.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Pennsylvania
If you’re relocating from Iowa to Pennsylvania, you’ll typically spend between $1,014 and $2,295 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,856 up to $3,605. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,353 and $4,400. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Pennsylvania
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $751 and $1,463. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $860 and $1,756. Planning a move from Iowa to Pennsylvania or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,048 up to $2,174 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to PA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania. 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 PA
If you’re moving to Pennsylvania from Iowa, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Pennsylvania
Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in Iowa and Pennsylvania. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:
| Iowa | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $1,110 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $73,170 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 99 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 3.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.94% | 6.34% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 3.07% |
- Rent in Pennsylvania is about 21% higher than in Iowa. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
- Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Pennsylvania are typically about 22% higher than in Iowa.
- Great news—you’re likely to make about 4% more in Pennsylvania compared to Iowa. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- Moving to Pennsylvania means you’ll be spending 11% more than you did in Iowa. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in Pennsylvania is about 13% higher than in Iowa. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
- Sales tax in Pennsylvania is 9% lower than in Iowa. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Pennsylvania could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
- Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 30% lower than in Iowa. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania versus Iowa across some essential lifestyle factors:
| Pennsylvania | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,961,683 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-49 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 83ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 44" | 35" |
| Annual snow | 38" | 30" |
| Crime index | 17.62 | 16.18 |
- Pennsylvania is about 304% more populous than Iowa. With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure—better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
- In the latest presidential election, Pennsylvania voted Republican, while Iowa chose Republican.
- Summer highs typically reach 83ºF in Pennsylvania and 84ºF in Iowa. Since those temps are similar, adjusting to your new home’s climate should be a breeze. Just remember to also consider humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs for a true sense of what summer will be like.
- During winter, temperatures in Pennsylvania drop to around 19ºF, while Iowa can plunge as low as 10ºF. Moving to Pennsylvania means you’ll enjoy milder winters—think easier living, lower costs, and more opportunities to get outside. If you’re looking to trade snow shovels for sunshine, this move is right up your alley.
- Get ready for about 44 inches of rain each year in Pennsylvania. That’s quite a change from the 35 inches you’re used to back in Iowa. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
- Each year, Pennsylvania gets about 38 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, upkeep, and plenty of cozy gear.
- Pennsylvania reports a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 17.62 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. Pennsylvania
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Pennsylvania versus Iowa.
| Pros of living in Iowa | Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity | Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| High quality of education | Beautiful landscapes |
| No traffic | Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful outdoors | Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Pennsylvania
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania, keep these tips in mind.
| Cons of living in Iowa | Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Severe weather conditions | Harsh winter weather |
| Limited recreational opportunities | Bad driving conditions |
| High taxes | Nuclear power plants |
| High emphasis on politics | Unpredictable weather |
| Rustic food | High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Pennsylvania move
- Weather: Pennsylvania experiences cold winters and humid summers. Summers are generally hot and humid. Moving toward the mountainous interior of the state, the winter climate becomes colder, the number of cloudy days increases, and snowfall amounts are greater. Tornadoes occur annually in the state, sometimes in large numbers, such as 30 recorded tornadoes in 2011; generally speaking, these tornadoes do not cause significant damage.
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- State licensing: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a Pennsylvania moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Pennsylvania, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- 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 Pennsylvania right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Pennsylvania
Get ready to discover Pennsylvania. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports Teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
