Best Movers From Iowa to Pennsylvania (2025 Cost Data)
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.
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$1,187 — $5,804 Top local mover
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$1,187 — $8,026 Top long-distance mover
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$805 — $3,751 Top container company
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$573 — $1,580 Top truck rental
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$59 — $80/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Iowa to Pennsylvania
After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from Iowa to Pennsylvania.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
3 Bedrooms
Nov 24, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 04, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Oct 29, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 20, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Oct 15, 2025
Studio apartment
Oct 03, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 09, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Pennsylvania?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| 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 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,187 – $4,214
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,482 – $5,804
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,946 – $8,026
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Pennsylvania?
- Small move: $805 – $1,882
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,390 – $2,615
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,908 – $3,751
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $573 – $1,173
- 2–3 bedrooms: $619 – $1,381
- 4+ bedrooms: $808 – $1,580
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 909-mile move from IA to PA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IA to PA?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| 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% |
Will rent be more expensive in Pennsylvania?
Rent is about 21% higher in Pennsylvania than in Iowa.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $1,110
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 22% higher in Pennsylvania than in Iowa.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $268,824
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in Iowa and Pennsylvania.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $73,170
Is the overall cost of living higher in Pennsylvania?
The cost of living is 11% higher in Pennsylvania than in Iowa.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 99
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 9% lower in Pennsylvania than in Iowa.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 6.34%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 30% lower in Pennsylvania than in Iowa.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 3.07%
How is daily life different in Pennsylvania compared to Iowa?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| 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 |
Will Pennsylvania feel more crowded than Iowa?
Pennsylvania is about 304% more populous than Iowa — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Pennsylvania voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (83°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Pennsylvania is milder on average (19°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Pennsylvania?
Rain: Pennsylvania gets more rain (44″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Pennsylvania gets more snow (38 inches vs. 30 inches).
Is Pennsylvania safer than Iowa?
Pennsylvania has a higher crime index than Iowa (17.62 vs. 16.18). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Pennsylvania?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance 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.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Pennsylvania?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Pennsylvania?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Pennsylvania moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. 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.
Some movers in Iowa offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
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Popular Iowa routes
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