How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to WI move
Using rate data from 37 Iowa movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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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 Wisconsin?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa
to Wisconsin with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| 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 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 323-mile move from IA to
WI, 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 Wisconsin
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Wisconsin,
you can expect to spend between $871
and $2,834.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $1,637 to
$4,299 on the same route
(IA to WI). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to Wisconsin typically runs between
$2,332 and
$6,138.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Wisconsin
Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $591 and
$1,400. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,019 to
$2,040. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,432 up to
$2,639. 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 Wisconsin
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
$319 and
$563.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$334 and
$668.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $424 and
$813.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to WI
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to Wisconsin will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Iowa fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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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 WI
Moving between Iowa and Wisconsin involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Wisconsin
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Iowa and Wisconsin. 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 |
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% |
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Rent costs 20% more in Wisconsin compared to Iowa. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Wisconsin to be about 39% more than what you’ll find in Iowa.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Iowa and Wisconsin.
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Moving to Wisconsin will cost you 11% more than living in Iowa, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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Wisconsin and Iowa have about the same unemployment rate, so you likely won’t see a major shift in job availability or competition from what you’re used to.
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Sales tax is 22% lower in Wisconsin compared to Iowa, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in Wisconsin are 74% higher than in Iowa. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin differs from Iowa in these areas.
|
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 |
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If you’re relocating from Iowa to Wisconsin, you’ll notice that Wisconsin has about 84% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Wisconsin voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Wisconsin average 81°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.
-
In Wisconsin, winter lows are about 7°F, while Iowa averages 10°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
In Wisconsin, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 35 inches you’ve been used to in Iowa.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In Wisconsin, it snows about 48 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.
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Wisconsin and Iowa both have similar crime rates (16.18).
Keep in mind, though, that crime levels can differ significantly between cities and neighborhoods, so it’s smart to check local crime statistics for a more accurate view.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. Wisconsin
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Wisconsin stacks up against Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in Wisconsin |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
High quality of life |
| High quality of education |
Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
| No traffic |
Unique tasty food |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Borders great lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Wisconsin
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Iowa to Wisconsin, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in Wisconsin |
| Severe weather conditions |
High tax burden |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Extreme seasonal weather |
| High taxes |
Lack of diversity |
| High emphasis on politics |
Poor roads |
| Rustic food |
High rate of alcoholism |
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.
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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.
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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.
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Moving permits:
Wisconsin does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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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 Wisconsin right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” 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.
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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 Wisconsin
Get ready to discover Wisconsin. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Wisconsin?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Wisconsin?
More and more folks are relocating from Iowa to Wisconsin to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and high quality of life.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Wisconsin?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Wisconsin.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 17% less and home prices 28% lower than in Wisconsin.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Wisconsin residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Wisconsin?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Wisconsin, aim for an income of around $58,399 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,391 if you’re flying solo, or $5,463 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Milwaukee and Madison 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
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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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