How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to IA move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 148 New York moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from New York to Iowa?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from New York to Iowa.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,008 – $4,086 |
$787 – $1,942 |
$688 – $1,217 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,093 – $5,081 |
$1,471 – $3,114 |
$758 – $1,524 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,588 – $6,742 |
$1,906 – $3,833 |
$906 – $1,911 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,090-mile move from NY to
IA using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from New York to Iowa
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from New York to Iowa,
you can expect prices to land between $1,008
and $4,086.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,093 to
$5,081 for the trip from NY
to IA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,588 and
$6,742.
Cost of moving containers from New York to Iowa
Moving containers from New York to Iowa
will cost you $787 to
$1,942 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,471
to $3,114. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,906 to
$3,833.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New York to Iowa
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$688
and $1,217
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $758
to $1,524.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$906
to $1,911.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NY to IA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from New York to Iowa. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in New York generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from NY to IA
Making the move from New York to Iowa means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: New York vs. Iowa
A clear look at the cost differences between New York and Iowa helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
New York |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$1,507 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$482,742 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,386 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.4% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.52% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
10.9% |
4.4% |
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You’ll pay about 39% less in rent in Iowa compared to New York, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Iowa are around 54% lower than in New York. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 13% lower Iowa than in New York.
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Living in Iowa costs about 11% less than in New York. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate around 32% lower than New York, Iowa offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in Iowa is 19% lower than in New York. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Iowa could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Income taxes in Iowa are 60% lower than in New York. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Iowa vs. New York
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Iowa and New York compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Iowa |
New York |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
19,571,216 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Democratic 60-40 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
62″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
21.51 |
-
The population of Iowa is about 84% smaller than that of New York.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
-
In the latest presidential election, Iowa voted Republican, while New York chose Democratic.
-
Summer highs average 84°F in Iowa, compared to 81°F in New York.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, Iowa reaches lows near 10°F, colder than 16°F in New York.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect only about 35 inches of annual rainfall in Iowa versus 44 inches of rainfall in New York.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
In Iowa, you’ll get about 30 inches of snow each year, far less than New York.
That means moving to Iowa will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
-
Moving to Iowa means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 16.18 versus New York’s 21.51, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of New York vs. Iowa
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Iowa compared to New York:
| Pros of living in New York |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Natural beauty |
Low cost of living |
| Arts |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
High quality of education |
| Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
No traffic |
| Distinct seasons |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in New York vs. Iowa
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from New York to Iowa:
| Cons of living in New York |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| High tax burden |
Severe weather conditions |
| Rough winter weather |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| High cost of living |
High taxes |
| Poor quality healthcare |
High emphasis on politics |
| Populous |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your New York to Iowa move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
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 proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Iowa moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding 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,” free of charge. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Iowa
You’ll have plenty to explore in Iowa! Check out these top spots 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 New York to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from New York to Iowa?
What are the benefits of moving from New York to Iowa?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave New York for Iowa, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and ample economic opportunity that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in New York or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in New York.
Housing
is more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 39% less and home prices 54% lower than in New York.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New York residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Iowa, you should aim to make around $63,616.
On average, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or $5,230 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in New York?
Many movers in New York publish special-rate programs:
7 offer military-specific savings;
6 extend deals for seniors;
2 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from New York to Iowa, budget between $2,093–$5,081 for full-service movers, around
$2,292 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,141
for a rental truck.
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