|
|
|
 rating
4.8 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
North Carolina to Iowa Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- When moving from North Carolina to Iowa, a two-bedroom move with professional movers is commonly $2,300–$5,100.*Estimates assume a 2–3 bedroom household with two–eight day delivery. Your costs and timelines vary by home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from North Carolina to Iowa is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 4,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights
Who are the best movers to move from North Carolina to Iowa?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from North Carolina to Iowa is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from North Carolina to Iowa below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from North Carolina to Iowa
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your North Carolina to Iowa move, since they’re built for the coordination a 1,076 mile journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from North Carolina to Iowa.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from North Carolina to Iowa?
It costs between $2,300–$7,500 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from North Carolina to Iowa. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,076-mile move from NC to
IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha curates a nationwide set of thousands of validated moving prices, with monthly updates reflecting seasonal patterns and evolving market conditions. Final charges may fluctuate due to move size, optional services, access/parking constraints, fuel rates, and booking dates. For the best read on cost, gather multiple mover quotes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
BLVD Moving
Brunswick, NC
›
Conway, IA
Studio apartment
Jan 02, 2026
$2,228
Colonial Van Lines
Windsor, NC
›
Slater, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
$5,525
North American Van Lines
Swepsonville, NC
›
Harpers Ferry, IA
4 Bedrooms
Dec 06, 2025
$4,725
1-800-Pack-Rat
Ruth, NC
›
Vining, IA
Studio apartment
Dec 05, 2025
$1,165
Budget Truck Rental
Belhaven, NC
›
Elberon, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
$1,481
Joyce Van Lines
Newton Grove, NC
›
Harvey, IA
2 Bedrooms
Nov 29, 2025
$3,647
Allied Van Lines
Angier, NC
›
Denver, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
$7,387
Mayzlin Relocation
Haw River, NC
›
Arlington, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 15, 2025
$3,055
PODS
Sylva, NC
›
Luther, IA
4 Bedrooms
Nov 11, 2025
$2,939
American Van Lines
Bessemer City, NC
›
Brooklyn, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 23, 2025
$2,930
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from North Carolina to Iowa?
Moving from North Carolina to Iowa can cost anywhere from $1,062–$6,249, but most people pay around $2,274–$5,082 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,062 – $4,391 | $802 – $2,018 | $666 – $1,240 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,274 – $5,740 | $1,467 – $2,841 | $756 – $1,475 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,703 – $7,542 | $2,061 – $3,709 | $895 – $1,740 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,076-mile move from NC to IA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,274 – $5,740 to hire a moving company to move you from North Carolina to Iowa. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,062 – $4,391
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,274 – $5,740
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,703 – $7,542
How much do moving containers cost from North Carolina to Iowa?
Using a moving container from North Carolina to Iowa costs, on average, $1,467 – $2,841. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $802 – $2,018
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,467 – $2,841
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,061 – $3,709
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from North Carolina to Iowa will costs you between $756 – $1,475, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $666 – $1,240
- 2–3 bedrooms: $756 – $1,475
- 4+ bedrooms: $895 – $1,740
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from North Carolina to Iowa, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from NC to IA?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Iowa — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,093 in North Carolina to $914 in Iowa, and average home values go from $328,715 to $220,277.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (96 vs. 89), unemployment (3.7% vs. 3.0%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.98% vs. 6.94%) and state income tax (4.5% vs. 4.4%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| North Carolina | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,093 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $328,715 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,186 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 96 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.7% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 6.98% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 4.4% |
Will rent be more expensive in Iowa?
Rent is about 16% lower in Iowa than in North Carolina.
Avg rent: $1,093 vs. $914
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 33% lower in Iowa than in North Carolina.
Avg home value: $328,715 vs. $220,277
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 7% higher in Iowa than in North Carolina.
Avg income (per capita): $66,186 vs. $70,571
Is the overall cost of living higher in Iowa?
The cost of living is 7% lower in Iowa than in North Carolina.
Cost of living index: 96 vs. 89
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in North Carolina and Iowa.
Avg sales tax: 6.98% vs. 6.94%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income tax rates are similar in North Carolina and Iowa.
State income tax: 4.5% vs. 4.4%
How is daily life different in Iowa compared to North Carolina?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Iowa | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 10,835,491 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 88ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 29ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 4″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 24.69 |
Will Iowa feel more crowded than North Carolina?
Iowa is about 70% less populous than North Carolina — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both North Carolina and Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (84°F vs. 88°F).
Winter: Iowa is colder on average (10°F vs. 29°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Iowa?
Rain: Iowa gets less rain (35″ vs. 48″).
Snow: Iowa gets more snow (30 inches vs. 4 inches).
Is Iowa safer than North Carolina?
Iowa has a lower crime index than North Carolina (16.18 vs. 24.69), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Iowa?
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
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your North Carolina 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance 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.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Iowa?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Iowa?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Iowa moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Iowa?
Iowa does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
Some movers in North Carolina offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 5 military discounts; 2 senior discounts; 1 educator discounts; 2 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
North Carolina Moving Services
Frequently Traveled North Carolina Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All 
Hide All
