How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to PA move
Using rate data from 37 Iowa movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
-
Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
-
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 Pennsylvania?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa
to Pennsylvania with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,187 – $4,214 |
$805 – $1,882 |
$573 – $1,173 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,482 – $5,804 |
$1,390 – $2,615 |
$619 – $1,381 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,946 – $8,026 |
$1,908 – $3,751 |
$808 – $1,580 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 909-mile move from IA to
PA, 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 Pennsylvania
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Pennsylvania,
you can expect to spend between $1,187
and $4,214.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,482 to
$5,804 on the same route
(IA to PA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to Pennsylvania typically runs between
$3,946 and
$8,026.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Pennsylvania
Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $805 and
$1,882. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,390 to
$2,615. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,908 up to
$3,751. 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 Pennsylvania
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
$573 and
$1,173.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$619 and
$1,381.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $808 and
$1,580.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to PA
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania 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.
-
When you move: Summer moves in Iowa fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
-
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 PA
Moving between Iowa and Pennsylvania involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Pennsylvania
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Iowa and Pennsylvania. 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 |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$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 costs 21% more in Pennsylvania compared to Iowa. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
-
Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Pennsylvania to be about 22% more than what you’ll find in Iowa.
-
You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Iowa and Pennsylvania.
-
Moving to Pennsylvania will cost you 11% more than living in Iowa, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
-
Pennsylvania has a higher unemployment rate than Iowa by about 13%. 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.
-
Sales tax is 9% lower in Pennsylvania compared to Iowa, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
-
Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 30% lower than in Iowa. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania differs from Iowa in these areas.
|
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 |
-
If you’re relocating from Iowa to Pennsylvania, you’ll notice that Pennsylvania has about 304% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
-
In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Pennsylvania voted Republican.
-
Summer highs in Pennsylvania average 83°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 Pennsylvania average 19°F, compared to 10°F in Iowa.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
Expect about 44 inches of rain each year in Pennsylvania — 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 Pennsylvania, it snows about 38 inches annually while Iowa gets only about 30 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather 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
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Pennsylvania stacks up against 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
-
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:
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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Pennsylvania moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
Pennsylvania 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. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Pennsylvania 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,” for free. 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:
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 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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania?
More and more folks are relocating from Iowa to Pennsylvania to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Pennsylvania?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 18% less and home prices 18% lower than in Pennsylvania.
However, taxes are
lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Pennsylvania, aim for an income of around $56,150 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,452 if you’re flying solo, or $5,603 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 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
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When planning a move from Iowa to Pennsylvania, professional movers typically run between
$2,482 and $5,804, a moving container averages about
$2,002, and a rental truck is around
$1,000.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
