When planning a move from Minnesota to Iowa, professional movers typically run between
$1,889 and $5,276, a moving container averages about
$1,666, and a rental truck is around
$583.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Minnesota
In Minnesota, you have a choice of 39 interstate moving companies that can accomodate your move to Iowa. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Minnesota based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Matt’s Moving Company : 4.76 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- College Muscle Movers, LLC: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- AAA Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 374236
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1704106
Matt’s Moving Company has been serving the St. Paul, MN area since 2009, specializing in local residential moves. Demonstrating a strong reputation, they hold a BBB rating of A+ and boast an impressive average Google rating of 4.6 from 227 reviews. Unlike many competitors, Matt’s Moving Company also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services and accepts credit cards without requiring a deposit. With a 3.9 average rating from 25 Yelp reviews, they stand out in the local moving market, making them a reliable choice for your moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1446174
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Hopkins, MN since 2000. They offer a range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and are equipped to move items like pianos and safes. While their Yelp reviews average a modest 2.3 stars from 25 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts 285 reviews with a strong 4.4-star average, and they hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This company distinguishes itself from other nearby movers with their comprehensive service options and two decades of industry experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 125550
Ace Moving & Warehousing, established in 2009, offers top-tier local residential moving services in and around Coon Rapids, MN. Setting them apart from many nearby movers, Ace Moving also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services, catering to a variety of specialty items such as pianos and antiques. Their impressive Google My Business profile, boasting an average rating of 4.8 from 283 reviews, underscores their reliability and quality, while their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further attests to their reputable standing. Although their Yelp rating is lower, the overall sentiment from a majority of customers indicates they are a dependable choice for your local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 1443087
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 1443087
Alternate Names: College Muscle , College Muscle Movers
College Muscle Movers, LLC has been reliably serving the St. Paul, MN area with local residential moving services since 2008. With an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A and an average Yelp rating of 4.2 from 203 reviews, they are highly regarded among their customers. Unlike some nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques. Although a deposit is required, they accept credit cards and provide full valuation insurance coverage, making them a trustworthy and versatile choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 36
DOT #: 1140502
Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota
AAA Movers, a trusted local moving company serving Minnesota residents since 1989, offers comprehensive residential moving services. Unlike some competitors, they provide a broad range of additional services such as office moving, packing and unpacking, and even piano moving. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and a strong average rating of 4.2 from over 700 reviews on Google, their reputation is solid despite mixed feedback on Yelp. AAA Movers stands out for their no-deposit policy and flexibility in payment methods, making them a reliable choice for your next local move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Minnesota to Iowa moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Minnesota and delivering it to your new place in Iowa.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best Minnesota to Iowa moving truck rentals
If you’re looking to cut costs on your move from Minnesota to Iowa, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you’ll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best Minnesota to Iowa labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Minnesota to Iowa, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MN to IA move
Using rate data from 46 Minnesota movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
- Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
- Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
- 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 Minnesota to Iowa?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Minnesota to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,082 – $3,130 | $601 – $1,532 | $343 – $676 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,889 – $5,276 | $1,203 – $2,129 | $381 – $786 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,204 – $6,889 | $1,442 – $2,887 | $458 – $933 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 404-mile move from MN to IA, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 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 Minnesota to Iowa
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Minnesota to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,082 and $3,130. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,889 to $5,276 on the same route (MN to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Minnesota to Iowa typically runs between $3,204 and $6,889.
Cost of moving containers from Minnesota to Iowa
Moving from Minnesota to Iowa? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $601 and $1,532. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,203 to $2,129. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,442 up to $2,887. 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 Minnesota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Minnesota 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 $343 and $676. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $381 and $786. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $458 and $933.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MN to IA
There are many factors that influence Minnesota moving costs. The cost to move from Minnesota to Iowa will depend on these factors:
- How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
- When you move: Summer moves in Minnesota fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
- 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 MN to IA
Moving between Minnesota and Iowa involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Minnesota vs. Iowa
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Minnesota 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:
| Minnesota | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,178 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $334,119 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $84,313 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 94 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 8.03% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 9.85% | 4.4% |
- Rent in Iowa is about 22% cheaper than in Minnesota, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in Iowa are roughly 34% less than in Minnesota, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
- Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Iowa are about 16% lower than in Minnesota.
- Since the cost of living is about the same in Minnesota and Iowa, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
- Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than Minnesota by about 12%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Sales tax is 14% lower in Iowa compared to Minnesota, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 55% lower than in Minnesota. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Minnesota
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 Minnesota in these areas.
| Iowa | Minnesota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 5,737,915 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 2ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 29″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 22.47 |
- With a population about 44% smaller than Minnesota, 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.
- In the last presidential election, Iowa voted Republican and Minnesota voted Democratic.
- Summer highs in Iowa average 84°F, almost the same as 81°F in Minnesota. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
- Winters in Iowa average 10°F, compared to 2°F in Minnesota. The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
- Expect about 35 inches of rain each year in Iowa — a big shift from the 29 inches you’re used to in Minnesota. While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
- In Iowa, you’ll see just 30 inches of snow each year, compared to Minnesota, which gets 47 inches annually. Moving to Iowa means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Iowa offers a safer environment than Minnesota, with a crime index of 16.18 versus 22.47. 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 Minnesota vs. Iowa
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in Iowa stacks up against Minnesota:
| Pros of living in Minnesota | Pros of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities | Ample economic opportunity |
| Multitudinous lakes | High quality of education |
| Diverse festivals | No traffic |
| Friendly people | Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Minnesota vs. Iowa
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Minnesota to Iowa, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Minnesota | Cons of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Bland food | Severe weather conditions |
| Cold snowy winters | Limited recreational opportunities |
| Terrible traffic | High taxes |
| High tax burden | High emphasis on politics |
| Thick accents | Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Minnesota 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Minnesota to Iowa?
Hiring a full-service Minnesota moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Minnesota 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 Minnesota to Iowa separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Minnesota to Iowa?
More and more folks are relocating from Minnesota 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 Minnesota or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Minnesota. Housing is more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 22% less and home prices 34% lower than in Minnesota. Taxes are also lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Minnesota. There are 3 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts. Savings for seniors are available from 1 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Minnesota moving services
Popular Minnesota routes
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