How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to IA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 29 Kentucky 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 Kentucky to Iowa?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Kentucky 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 |
$1,121 – $3,564 |
$661 – $1,648 |
$481 – $891 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,086 – $5,693 |
$1,278 – $2,398 |
$519 – $1,089 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,933 – $7,606 |
$1,609 – $3,172 |
$667 – $1,280 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 666-mile move from KY 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 Kentucky to Iowa
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Kentucky to Iowa typically costs between
$1,121 and
$3,564.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,086
and $5,693
when moving from KY to IA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Kentucky to Iowa,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,933
up to $7,606.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to Iowa
If you’re relocating from Kentucky to Iowa,
you’ll typically spend between $661
and $1,648 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,278 up to
$2,398.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,609 and
$3,172. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Kentucky.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky 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
$481 and
$891.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$519 to
$1,089.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $667 and
$1,280.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to IA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Kentucky 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 Kentucky, 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 KY to IA
Transitioning from Kentucky 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: Kentucky vs. Iowa
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Kentucky and Iowa are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Kentucky |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
4.4% |
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Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to Iowa from Kentucky with rent being about the same in each state.
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Home prices in Iowa and Kentucky are pretty similar, so you won’t need to adjust your mortgage budget unless you’re planning to move into a bigger or better place.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 17% more in Iowa than in Kentucky. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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With a similar cost of living in both Kentucky 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 40% lower than Kentucky, Iowa offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Iowa runs 16% higher than in Kentucky, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 10% higher in Iowa compared to Kentucky. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Kentucky
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 Kentucky compare.
|
Iowa |
Kentucky |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
16.63 |
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With a population roughly 29% smaller than Kentucky, 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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The last presidential election saw both Kentucky and Iowa siding with the Republican party.
-
The average summer high in Iowa is 84°F, while Kentucky averages 87°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 24°F in Kentucky.
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 get about 35 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in Kentucky.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, far more than the 11 inches you might be accustomed to in Kentucky.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
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Iowa and Kentucky share similar crime rates (16.63).
However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of Kentucky vs. Iowa
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Iowa to Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious food and drink |
High quality of education |
| Horse racing |
No traffic |
| Four season weather |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. Iowa
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Kentucky to Iowa:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| Extreme weather |
Severe weather conditions |
| Low diversity |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Poor air quality |
High taxes |
| Poor infrastructure |
High emphasis on politics |
| Poor education system |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky 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.
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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.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Iowa, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Kentucky to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky 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
Kentucky to
Iowa
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to Iowa?
Many people are making the move from Kentucky 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 Kentucky or Iowa?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Iowa.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 4% lower than in Iowa.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 9% less than those paid by Iowa 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 Kentucky?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Kentucky:
1 provide military discounts;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Kentucky to Iowa, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,086 to
$5,693, roughly
$1,838 for a container move, and close to
$804
for a rental truck.
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