How we chose the best moving companies for your ND to IA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 11 North Dakota movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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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.
How much does it cost to move from North Dakota to Iowa?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from North Dakota
to Iowa, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,299 – $4,261 |
$733 – $1,653 |
$510 – $920 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,639 – $6,027 |
$1,345 – $2,584 |
$523 – $1,059 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,631 – $8,876 |
$1,783 – $3,291 |
$688 – $1,323 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 715-mile relocation from ND to
IA, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from North Dakota to Iowa
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from North Dakota to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between
$1,299
and $4,261.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,639 and $6,027
for the same journey (ND to IA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,631
to $8,876.
Cost of moving containers from North Dakota to Iowa
When you’re heading from North Dakota to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $733 and
$1,653. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,345 and
$2,584. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,783
to $3,291. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from North Dakota easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Dakota to Iowa
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$510
to $920.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $523
to $1,059, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from North Dakota to Iowa costs around
$688 to
$1,323.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ND to IA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from North Dakota to Iowa. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in North Dakota when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from ND to IA
If you’re moving to Iowa from North Dakota, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: North Dakota vs. Iowa
Understanding how costs compare between North Dakota and Iowa can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
North Dakota |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$912 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$263,410 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$73,959 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.4% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.96% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
2.9% |
4.4% |
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No need to stress about your budget—rental rates are about the same when you’re moving from North Dakota to Iowa.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Iowa are about 16% lower than in North Dakota. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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The average income is about the same in both North Dakota and Iowa, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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The cost of living in Iowa is about 7% lower than in North Dakota. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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The unemployment rate in Iowa is about 25% higher than in North Dakota. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in North Dakota and Iowa, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income taxes in Iowa are 52% higher than in North Dakota, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Iowa vs. North Dakota
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Iowa and North Dakota line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Iowa |
North Dakota |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
783,926 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Republican 68-32 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
0ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
19″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
22.74 |
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The population of Iowa is approximately 309% greater than the population of North Dakota.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential race, both North Dakota and Iowa leaned Republican.
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In Iowa, summer highs are around 84°F, close to 82°F in North Dakota.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter lows in Iowa average 10°F, milder than 0°F in North Dakota.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
-
Get ready for about 35 inches of rain each year in Iowa, which is quite a change from the 19 inches you’re used to in North Dakota.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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In Iowa, you’ll only get about 30 inches of snow each year, much less than North Dakota.
That means moving to Iowa brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
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Iowa is a safer choice than North Dakota, boasting a lower crime index of 16.18 compared to 22.74.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of North Dakota vs. Iowa
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Iowa and North Dakota:
| Pros of living in North Dakota |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Peaceful rural life |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Affordable living costs |
High quality of education |
| High-quality education opportunities |
No traffic |
| Open rural spaces |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in North Dakota vs. Iowa
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving North Dakota for Iowa:
| Cons of living in North Dakota |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| Long and cold winters |
Severe weather conditions |
| Lack of diversity |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Housing shortages |
High taxes |
| Small populations |
High emphasis on politics |
| Relaxed lifestyle |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your North Dakota to Iowa move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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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 your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Iowa right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Iowa
While you’re in Iowa, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit 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 North Dakota to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from North Dakota to Iowa?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from North Dakota to Iowa on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from North Dakota to Iowa?
An increasing number of people are relocating from North Dakota to Iowa to enjoy all the great benefits Iowa provides, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in North Dakota or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 0% less and home prices 16% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Thinking of moving to Iowa on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,616 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or around $5,230 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in North Dakota?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 1 movers.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
North Dakota moving services
Popular North Dakota routes
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When moving from North Dakota to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $2,639–$6,027 with professional movers, roughly
$1,964 for a moving container, and about
$791
for a rental truck.
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