St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from St. Louis to Des Moines typically costs $1,800–$5,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 349 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from St. Louis to Des Moines
Moving from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA typically costs $1,800–$5,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 349-mile move from St. Louis 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
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,288 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,196 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $1,843 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 03, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 27, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 12, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 19, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 12, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 26, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 26, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your St. Louis to Des Moines move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,200 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in St. Louis.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $400 to $1,000, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to St. Louis, MO guide.
Best St. Louis to Des Moines movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from St. Louis to Des Moines
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from St. Louis to Des Moines much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
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
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 57 Missouri movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- 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.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from St. Louis to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than St. Louis - roughly 27% less for singles and 33% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,589 in St. Louis. For a family of four, it's $4,380 compared with $6,573.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| St. Louis | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | |
| Average home value | $171,463 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,090 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,589 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,573 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 9.68% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.8% | 4.4% |
- When relocating from St. Louis to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 8% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Des Moines are about 12% higher than those in St. Louis.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 11% lower in Des Moines compared to St. Louis.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 27% lower compared to St. Louis.
- A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 33% less than what it costs in St. Louis.
- The unemployment rate in Des Moines is about 6% lower than in St. Louis. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 28% less in Des Moines relative to St. Louis. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 8% below those in Missouri. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between St. Louis and Des Moines:
| Living Expense | St. Louis | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | |
| Gym membership | $66.67 |
How life is different in St. Louis vs. Des Moines
| St. Louis | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 293,310 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 66 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 58 | 39 |
| Crime index | 69.65 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 30.35 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 138% greater than St. Louis.
- Des Moines's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than St. Louis's score of 8.
- Des Moines is less walkable than St. Louis with a score of 45 out of 100 vs St. Louis's 66 out of 100.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as St. Louis, which has a score of 58.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than St. Louis with a score of 5.0 compared to St. Louis's 69.65. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and St. Louis neighborhoods are safer than 69.65%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than St. Louis with a safety index of 57.8 vs St. Louis's 30.35.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in St. Louis it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your St. Louis to Des Moines move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Des Moines
Planning your move to Hartford of the West? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new Iowa home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from St. Louis to Des Moines?
Planning your move from St. Louis to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in St. Louis.
When is the cheapest time to move from St. Louis to Des Moines?
Because most people are moving from St. Louis to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from St. Louis to Des Moines take?
The 349-mile journey from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in St. Louis offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Des Moines.
Are there special savings available from movers in St. Louis?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in St. Louis?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In St. Louis, 9 movers can manage piano relocations. 5 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Missouri has 37 piano movers and 22 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
