How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to IA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 100 Illinois moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Iowa?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Iowa.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$772 – $2,798 |
$547 – $1,374 |
$272 – $510 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,459 – $3,897 |
$1,025 – $1,959 |
$285 – $623 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,911 – $5,673 |
$1,378 – $2,598 |
$364 – $698 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 259-mile move from IL to
IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Iowa
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Iowa typically costs between
$772 and
$2,798.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$1,459
and $3,897
when moving from IL to IA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Illinois to Iowa,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $1,911
up to $5,673.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Iowa
If you’re relocating from Illinois to Iowa,
you’ll typically spend between $547
and $1,374 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,025 up to
$1,959.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,378 and
$2,598. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Iowa
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$272 and
$510.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$285 to
$623.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $364 and
$698.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to IA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Illinois to Iowa. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Illinois, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from IL to IA
Transitioning from Illinois to Iowa gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Iowa
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Illinois and Iowa are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Illinois |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
4.4% |
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Rent is about 22% less expensive in Iowa than in Illinois, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Iowa are about 12% lower than in Illinois, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Iowa are roughly 10% lower than in Illinois.
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With a similar cost of living in both Illinois and Iowa, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 43% lower than Illinois, Iowa offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Iowa is 21% lower than in Illinois, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 11% lower in Iowa compared to Illinois. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Illinois
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Iowa and Illinois compare.
|
Iowa |
Illinois |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
19.7 |
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With a population roughly 74% smaller than Illinois, Iowa gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Illinois supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Iowa is 84°F, while Illinois averages 86°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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In the coldest months, Iowa dips to about 10°F, colder than 17°F in Illinois.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Iowa, you’ll experience about 35 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, far more than the 22 inches you might be accustomed to in Illinois.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
Iowa boasts a lower crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 16.18 compared to 19.7.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Iowa
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Iowa to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Home of chicago |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of education |
| Delicious food |
No traffic |
| World-class sports culture |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Iowa
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Illinois to Iowa:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| Harsh winter weather |
Severe weather conditions |
| Bad traffic |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| High crime rate |
High taxes |
| Dull landscape |
High emphasis on politics |
| Strict laws |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Iowa move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Iowa, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Iowa
Get excited to explore Iowa. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Iowa?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Illinois to
Iowa
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Iowa?
Many people are making the move from Illinois to Iowa to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Iowa has to offer, like low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Illinois.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 22% less and home prices 12% lower than in Illinois.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Planning to move to Iowa? A single adult should aim for an income of around $63,616 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,436 for an individual, or $5,230 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Illinois:
1 movers offer AAA member savings;
1 provide military discounts;
2 have senior-discount programs;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Illinois to Iowa, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,459 to
$3,897, roughly
$1,492 for a container move, and close to
$454
for a rental truck.
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