How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to IA move
Using rate data from 84 Michigan 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 Michigan to Iowa?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Michigan
to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,150 – $3,452 |
$679 – $1,556 |
$413 – $835 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,229 – $5,139 |
$1,273 – $2,237 |
$450 – $1,002 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,907 – $7,670 |
$1,634 – $2,889 |
$568 – $1,104 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 580-mile move from MI to
IA, 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 Michigan to Iowa
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Iowa,
you can expect to spend between $1,150
and $3,452.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,229 to
$5,139 on the same route
(MI to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Michigan to Iowa typically runs between
$3,907 and
$7,670.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Iowa
Moving from Michigan to Iowa? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $679 and
$1,556. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,273 to
$2,237. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,634 up to
$2,889. 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 Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Iowa
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
$413 and
$835.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$450 and
$1,002.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $568 and
$1,104.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to IA
There are many factors that influence Michigan moving costs. The cost to move from Michigan to Iowa 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 Michigan 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 MI to IA
Moving between Michigan and Iowa involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Iowa
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Michigan and Iowa. 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:
|
Michigan |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
4.4% |
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Rent in Iowa is about 12% cheaper than in Michigan, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Iowa are roughly 10% less than in Michigan, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Michigan and Iowa.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Michigan and Iowa, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than Michigan by about 36%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Iowa pay about 16% more in sales tax than those in Michigan, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes are similar in Iowa and Michigan, so your paycheck deductions will stay consistent. You can count on steady finances when moving between these states.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Michigan
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 Iowa differs from Michigan in these areas.
|
Iowa |
Michigan |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 68% smaller than Michigan, Iowa offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
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In the last presidential election, both Michigan and Iowa voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Iowa average 84°F, almost the same as 81°F in Michigan.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
In Iowa, winter lows are about 10°F, while Michigan averages 14°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
In Iowa, you’ll get about 35 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 34 inches you’ve been used to in Michigan.
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 Iowa, you’ll see just 30 inches of snow each year, compared to Michigan, which gets 64 inches annually.
Moving to Iowa means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Iowa offers a safer environment than Michigan, with a crime index of 16.18 versus 19.98.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Iowa
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Iowa stacks up against Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Scenic beauty |
Low cost of living |
| Good higher education |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of education |
| Low cost of living |
No traffic |
| Beautiful lakes |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Iowa
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Michigan to Iowa, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| Cold snowy winters |
Severe weather conditions |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
High taxes |
| Expensive education |
High emphasis on politics |
| Thick accents |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Iowa 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:
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 you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Iowa 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. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Iowa 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. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
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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 Iowa
Get ready to discover Iowa. Check out these must-visit places 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 Michigan to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Iowa?
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 Michigan to Iowa
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Iowa?
More and more folks are relocating from Michigan to Iowa to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Michigan.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 12% less and home prices 10% lower than in Michigan.
However, taxes are
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 3% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Iowa, aim for an income of around $63,616 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,436 if you’re flying solo, or $5,230 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Michigan.
There are 1 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 6 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 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 Michigan to Iowa, professional movers typically run between
$2,229 and $5,139, a moving container averages about
$1,755, and a rental truck is around
$726.
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