Des Moines, IA to Lubbock, TX Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Des Moines to Lubbock typically costs $2,900–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 888 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Des Moines to Lubbock
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Lubbock, TX typically costs $2,900–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 888-mile move from Des Moines to Lubbock, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $2,638 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $6,033 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 21, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 15, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Lubbock
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Des Moines to Lubbock might be as low as $2,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,500.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Des Moines.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $700 to $1,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lubbock, TX to Des Moines, IA guide.
Best Des Moines to Lubbock movers by type
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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Lubbock
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Lubbock, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IA→TX movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Des Moines to Lubbock
Many movers find Lubbock easier on the wallet than Des Moines - roughly 9% less for singles and 9% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,715 for one person in Lubbock versus $1,891 in Des Moines. For a family of four, it's $3,996 compared with $4,380.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Des Moines | Lubbock | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $1,100 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $1,700 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $199,759 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $58,626 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $1,715 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $3,996 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 0.0% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 9% higher in Lubbock than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Lubbock and Des Moines differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Lubbock and Des Moines, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Lubbock. The cost of living for a single person is 9% less compared to Des Moines.
- Relocating to Lubbock could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 9% lower than in Des Moines.
- There's little difference in the unemployment rates of Lubbock and Des Moines, within a margin of 5%, so job opportunities should be similar.
- Sales taxes in Lubbock exceed those in Des Moines by 18%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Lubbock, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Lubbock |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $188.65 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $47.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $3.49 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $3.73 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 | $25.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Lubbock, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Des Moines than in Lubbock.
- Eggs cost more in Des Moines than in Lubbock.
- Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Lubbock.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Des Moines than in Lubbock.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Lubbock.
- Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Lubbock.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Lubbock
| Des Moines | Lubbock | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 263,930 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 39 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 43 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 50.39 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 48.61 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Lubbock's population is about 62% less than Des Moines.
- Lubbock's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines's score of 5.
- Lubbock is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
- With a score of 43 out of 100, Lubbock is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Lubbock's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 50.39 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Lubbock neighborhoods are safer than 50.39% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Lubbock is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 48.61 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
- Air quality in Lubbock is Good, and in Des Moines it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Lubbock move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Texas, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lubbock without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lubbock
Ready to relocate to Hub City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lubbock.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Tech Terrace
- South Overton
- North Overton
- Northridge
- Lakeridge
Best neighborhoods for families
- Rush
- Vintage Township
- Tech Terrace
- Kingsgate
- Lakeridge
Things to do in Lubbock
Now that you've made the move to Texas, it's the perfect time to explore Lubbock. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lubbock include museums and art centers like the The Buddy Holly Center, National Ranching Heritage Center, Science Spectrum Museum, and Silent Wings Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Maxey Park, Alex & Verna Cooke Park, Mackenzie Park, and Prairie Dog Town, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Texas Tech Red RaidersLubbock RenegadesLubbock Matadors game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Lubbock?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Lubbock. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Des Moines.
When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Lubbock?
With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Lubbock in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Des Moines to Lubbock take?
Covering 888 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Lubbock, TX typically takes two to seven days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lubbock can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Lubbock?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Des Moines, 10 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
