Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines typically costs $1,400–$4,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 193 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Kansas City to Des Moines
Moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA typically costs $1,400–$4,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 193-mile move from Kansas City 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
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $1,998 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,178 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
- AB Moving recently quoted $2,713 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 12, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 09, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 25, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 20, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 17, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 25, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 19, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 07, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 29, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Kansas City to Des Moines
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Kansas City to Des Moines might be as low as $900, while a four-bedroom could reach $5,800.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Kansas City.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $300 to $600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO guide.
Best Kansas City to Des Moines movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Kansas City to Des Moines
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Kansas City to Des Moines, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 MO→IA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 57 Missouri movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Kansas City - roughly 24% less for singles and 31% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,473 in Kansas City. For a family of four, it's $4,380 compared with $6,361.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Kansas City | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,350 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,375 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $233,378 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,551 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,473 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,361 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 8.4% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.8% | 4.4% |
- Good news! When moving to Des Moines from Kansas City, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 12% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 18% cheaper in Des Moines, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 9% lower in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person is 24% less compared to Kansas City.
- Relocating to Des Moines could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 31% lower than in Kansas City.
- The unemployment rate in Des Moines exceeds that of Kansas City by about 11%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 17% lower in Des Moines than Kansas City, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 8% lower in Iowa than in Missouri. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Kansas City and Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Kansas City | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $218.18 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.08 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.48 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $58.33 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
- Eggs are priced about the same in both cities.
- Bread is more expensive in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Kansas City vs. Des Moines
| Kansas City | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 508,090 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 39 |
| Crime index | 58.4 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 42.6 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 38% greater than Kansas City.
- Des Moines's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Kansas City's score of 4.
- Des Moines is more walkable than Kansas City with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Kansas City's 35 out of 100.
- With a score of 39 out of 100, Des Moines is more bike-friendly than Kansas City, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than Kansas City with a score of 5.0 compared to Kansas City's 58.4. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than Kansas City with a safety index of 57.8 vs Kansas City's 42.6.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Kansas City it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Kansas City to Des Moines move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Iowa, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Des Moines without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Des Moines
Ready to relocate to Hartford of the West? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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
Now that you've made the move to Iowa, it's the perfect time to explore Des Moines. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Kansas City to Des Moines?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Kansas City to Des Moines. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Kansas City.
When is the cheapest time to move from Kansas City to Des Moines?
With many people choosing to move from Kansas City to Des Moines in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Kansas City to Des Moines take?
Covering 193 miles, the move from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA typically takes one to two days. Some Kansas City movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Kansas City offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Kansas City can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Kansas City, 18 movers can handle pianos. 13 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MO, there are 37 piano movers and 22 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
