Boise, ID to Des Moines, IA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Boise to Des Moines typically costs $3,900–$8,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,361 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Boise to Des Moines
Moving from Boise, ID to Des Moines, IA typically costs $3,900–$8,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,361-mile move from Boise to Des Moines, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $5,369 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,144 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $7,744 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 09, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 15, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 13, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 07, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Boise to Des Moines move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $3,000 for a one-bedroom, or up to $12,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Boise.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $900 to $2,600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Boise, ID guide.
Best Boise to Des Moines movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Boise to Des Moines
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Boise to Des Moines much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
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 ID→IA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 22 Idaho movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Boise to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Boise - roughly 54% less for singles and 36% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $4,100 in Boise. For a family of four, it's $4,380 compared with $6,810.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Boise | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,579 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,475 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $481,661 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $76,468 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $4,100 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,810 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 4.4% |
- When relocating from Boise to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 23% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 60% more affordable in Des Moines compared to Boise.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 24% lower in Des Moines compared to Boise.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 54% lower compared to Boise.
- A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 36% less than what it costs in Boise.
- Des Moines shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Boise by around 64%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Des Moines are 17% more than in Boise, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 24% below those in Idaho. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Boise and Des Moines:
| Living Expense | Boise | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $136.12 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $49.77 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.88 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.51 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $65.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $39.83 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Boise than in Des Moines, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Boise than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Boise than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Boise than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Boise than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Boise than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Boise than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Boise vs. Des Moines
| Boise | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 235,684 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 88 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 99 | 39 |
| Crime index | 34.99 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 65.01 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 197% greater than Boise.
- Des Moines's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Boise's score of 4.
- Des Moines is less walkable than Boise with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Boise's 88 out of 100.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Boise, which has a score of 99.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than Boise with a score of 5.0 compared to Boise's 34.99. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Boise neighborhoods are safer than 34.99%.
- Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Boise with a score of 57.8 vs Boise's 65.01.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Boise it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Boise to Des Moines move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Des Moines
Planning your move to Hartford of the West? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Des Moines.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Sherman Hill
- Downtown
- East Village
- North of Grand
- Woodland Heights
- Arbor Peaks
- Chautauqua Park
- Beaverdale
- Westwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Linden Heights
- Waterbury
- Waveland Park
- Westwood
- Salisbury Oaks
- Meredith
- Beaverdale
Things to do in Des Moines
After settling into your new Iowa home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Boise to Des Moines?
Planning your move from Boise to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Boise.
When is the cheapest time to move from Boise to Des Moines?
Because most people are moving from Boise to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Boise to Des Moines take?
The 1,361-mile journey from Boise, ID to Des Moines, IA, typically takes three to eight days. Some movers in Boise offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Des Moines.
Are there special savings available from movers in Boise?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Boise?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Boise, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Idaho has 15 piano movers and 5 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
