Quick answer: For a 1,107-mile move from New York City to Des Moines, expect to spend around $943–$7,032 and two to eight days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Des Moines to New York City guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from New York City to Des Moines

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from New York City to Des Moines isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to IA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

The top local movers servicing New York City to Des Moines moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in New York City that also handles long-distance moves to Des Moines. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in New York City who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from New York City to Des Moines.

  1. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Great Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Roadway Moving : 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/PieceofCakeMoving/, https://twitter.com/pieceofcakemove?lang=en
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions.
Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 651-7273

Company Info

State license #: 40244

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3066988

Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/greatmoversnyc/, https://twitter.com/greatmoversny
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input about Great Movers stands out for its consistency—210 out of 221 reviews are positive, amounting to 95% glowing feedback. Clients repeatedly praise the company for efficient, friendly, and highly professional service. Most cite careful handling of possessions, quick and seamless moves, affordable pricing, and clear communication as standouts.
People frequently highlight stress-free relocations, respectful crews, and precise timing, making Great Movers an appealing choice for those seeking reliability. Negative feedback, only 5%, centers largely on significant damages to items, disappointing insurance payouts, and surprise charges. Some report unprofessional behaviors during complaints and claim poor handling of property damage issues. Compared with other movers, Great Movers excels in customer satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, but documented damages and insurance disputes are notable risks, so care is warranted on that front.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 306-9980

Company Info

State license #: 39493

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2180117


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RoadwayMoving/, https://x.com/roadwaymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves aren’t a myth—Roadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move.
Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focus—making them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 812-5240

Company Info

State license #: 38589

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1854436


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/DumboMoving, https://twitter.com/dumbomoving
55% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs.
Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problems—unexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyalty—or frustration—in a crowded industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 222-8282

Company Info

State license #: 36990

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1543241


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantmove?lang=en
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out thanks to an unusually high satisfaction rate: 128 reviews analyzed, with 96% reporting a positive experience. Most clients highlight respectful, professional crews who work efficiently, handle belongings with care, and maintain excellent communication throughout the move. Many mention that moves—whether simple or complex—are quick and problem-free, with polite staff consistently exceeding expectations even in challenging circumstances.
On the downside, a small number of clients express frustration over higher-than-expected costs, unexpected charges, and communication delays, especially for long-distance moves. Rare negatives cite slow follow-up or items arriving late. Damage to items is scarcely mentioned compared to competitors, making Gentle Giant’s reputation for careful handling particularly notable. Overall, Gentle Giant earns more praise for reliability, professionalism, and care than most moving companies, with very few clients dissatisfied.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 907-1830

Company Info

State license #: 36518

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from New York City to Des Moines?

New York City movers charge $110 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,375 - $5,137 $1,052 - $2,781 $934 - $1,726
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,822 - $7,032 $2,021 - $3,767 $943 - $2,032
4+ bedrooms $5,000 - $8,639 $2,757 - $4,871 $1,269 - $2,572
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,107 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from New York to Iowa

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New York to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,375 and $5,137. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,822 to $7,032 on the same route (NY to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from New York to Iowa typically runs between $5,000 and $8,639.

Cost of moving containers from New York to Iowa

Moving containers from New York to Iowa will cost you $1,052 to $2,781 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,021 to $3,767. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,757 to $4,871. 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

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you'll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you're moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $934 and $1,726. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $943 and $2,032. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,269 and $2,572.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from New York City to Des Moinestoggle

The cost of New York City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from New York City to Des Moines might cost as little as $1,375, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,712.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in New York City, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $934 to $2,175 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from New York City to Des Moines

Moving from New York City to Des Moines means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how New York City compares to Des Moines so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New York City Des Moines
Average rent cost $4,340 $1,150
Average home value $752,778 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $58,492
Cost of living (single person) $5,683 $1,891
Cost of living (family of 4) $15,081 $4,380
Unemployment rate 11.2% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.0%
State income tax 10.9% 4.4%
  • Rent prices in Des Moines are 74% lower than in New York City, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Des Moines.
    Home prices in Des Moines are 74.4% lower than in New York City.
  • Income in Des Moines is 25.1% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Des Moines — including MercyOne, Principal Financial Group, and Ppw Holdings — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 66.7% lower than in New York City.
  • 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 71.0% less than what it costs in New York City.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 47.32% lower than in New York City.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Des Moines, since the city's sales taxes in Des Moines are 12.50% lower than in New York City.
  • One perk of moving to Des Moines is paying less in state income taxes, which are 59.63% lower than in New York City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $998.24 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.

How life is different in New York City vs. Des Moines

Des Moines New York City
Population 699,292 8,258,035
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 10
Walkability score 45 88
Bike friendliness score 39 69
Crime Index 5.0 50.83
Safety Index 57.8 49.17
Air Quality Good Good
  • Des Moines might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 92% less than New York City.
  • Getting around Des Moines without a car might be more difficult than in New York City. Des Moines has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, whereas New York City is ranked 10. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Des Moines neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as New York City. Based on its score of 45 out of 100, Des Moines isn't as walkable as New York City, which has a score of 88 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Des Moines, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than New York City. While New York City has a bike-friendliness score of 69 out of 100, Des Moines earned a 39. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Des Moines has a lower crime rate than New York City based on scores of 5.0 and New York City's 50.83, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Des Moines than in New York City, based on Des Moines's safety index of 57.8 versus 49.17 for New York City. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Des Moines and New York City is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your New York City vs. Des Moines move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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: To confirm a moving company's license in Iowa, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Iowa doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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

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
  • East Village
  • North of Grand
  • Arbor Peaks
  • Chautauqua Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

After getting comfortable in your new Iowa home, it's time to see what Des Moines is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • 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, Salisbury House, and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New York City to Des Moines?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from New York City to Des Moines are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in New York City. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Des Moines?

Because most people are moving from New York City 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 New York City to Des Moines take?

Moving from New York City, NY to Des Moines, IA covers 1,107 miles and usually takes two to eight days Need to move faster? Some New York City movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.

Helpful moving resources