Best Movers From Iowa to Wisconsin (2025 Cost Data)
When planning a move from Iowa to Wisconsin, professional movers typically run between
$1,637 and $4,299, a moving container averages about
$1,529, and a rental truck is around
$501.
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Let’s get moving.
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$871 — $4,299 Top local mover
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$871 — $6,138 Top long-distance mover
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$591 — $2,639 Top container company
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$319 — $813 Top truck rental
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$60 — $80/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Iowa to Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Iowa to Wisconsin
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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2 Bedrooms
Nov 14, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 06, 2025
Studio apartment
Oct 10, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 05, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Oct 02, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 30, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Sep 05, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Wisconsin?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $871 – $2,834 | $591 – $1,400 | $319 – $563 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,637 – $4,299 | $1,019 – $2,040 | $334 – $668 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,332 – $6,138 | $1,432 – $2,639 | $424 – $813 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $871 – $2,834
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,637 – $4,299
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,332 – $6,138
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Wisconsin?
- Small move: $591 – $1,400
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,019 – $2,040
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,432 – $2,639
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $319 – $563
- 2–3 bedrooms: $334 – $668
- 4+ bedrooms: $424 – $813
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 323-mile move from IA to WI 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 WI?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Iowa | Wisconsin | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $914 | $1,100 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $306,566 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $72,458 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 99 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 2.9% |
| Average sales tax | 6.94% | 5.43% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 7.65% |
Will rent be more expensive in Wisconsin?
Rent is about 20% higher in Wisconsin than in Iowa.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $1,100
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 39% higher in Wisconsin than in Iowa.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $306,566
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in Iowa and Wisconsin.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $72,458
Is the overall cost of living higher in Wisconsin?
The cost of living is 11% higher in Wisconsin than in Iowa.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 99
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 22% lower in Wisconsin than in Iowa.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 5.43%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 74% higher in Wisconsin than in Iowa.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 7.65%
How is daily life different in Wisconsin compared to Iowa?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Wisconsin | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,910,955 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-49 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 7ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 34″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 48″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 16.82 | 16.18 |
Will Wisconsin feel more crowded than Iowa?
Wisconsin is about 84% 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 Wisconsin voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (81°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Lows are very similar (7°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Wisconsin?
Rain: Annual rainfall is pretty similar (34″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Wisconsin gets more snow (48 inches vs. 30 inches).
Is Wisconsin safer than Iowa?
Wisconsin and Iowa have similar crime rates (16.82 vs. 16.18). It’s still smart to check the city/neighborhood level.
What are some things to do in Wisconsin?
Museums in Wisconsin
- Harley-Davidson Museum
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Civil War Museum
- Hearthstone Historic House Museum
- Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame
Parks in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Deer Park
- Cave Point County Park
- Timbavati Wildlife Park
- Carson Park
- Petrifying Springs Park
Sports teams in Wisconsin
- Green Bay Packers (NFL)
- Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)
- Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)
- Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League)
- Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
Universities in Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Marquette University
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Wisconsin 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: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Wisconsin moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Wisconsin 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. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
- 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 Wisconsin?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Wisconsin?
Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Wisconsin moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin 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. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
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
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
Popular moving resources
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