Quick answer: The cost to move from Oklahoma City to Des Moines ranges from $598 to $7,053 and the journey will take approximately one to six days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 545-mile move on your own.

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

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

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Oklahoma City to Des Moines

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Oklahoma City to go to Des Moines can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

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 OK to IA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 23 Oklahoma 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.

Local moving companies in Oklahoma City

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Sherpa Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Bigger Better Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Little Guys Movers : 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenOKC, https://twitter.com/TwoMenOKC
67% of all reviews were positive
31% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers widely praise Two Men and a Truck for their efficient service, careful and professional staff, quick moving process, and helpful movers. The team consistently receives compliments for being polite and handling items responsibly, often finishing jobs ahead of schedule or coming in under budget. Most feedback highlights seamless moves that reduce stress, responsive office staff, and transparent communication from booking to follow-up.
Negative feedback most often centers around damage to personal property, surprise or unexpected charges, and slow or poor communication when resolving claims. Some customers have experienced broken items or felt that insurance and complaints were inadequately handled. While the high positive response rate (67.4% of 264 reviews) sets this company apart from many moving services, unresolved claims and billing issues remain an area needing improvement. Customers considering Two Men and a Truck often find reliable and efficient moving services, but should be proactive in clarifying pricing and insurance options before hire to avoid potential pitfalls.
Show more
Get a Quote (405) 595-0558

Company Info

State license #: 2634814

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Two Men and a Truck (to find), Two Men & A Truck, Roll Sooner Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/SherpaMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/SherpaMoving
87% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Impressive efficiency and meticulous care set Sherpa Moving and Storage apart, with nearly 90% of feedback highlighting professionalism, careful handling of belongings, effective communication, and a fast moving process. Clients frequently describe polite, hardworking teams that are prompt and attentive to detail, making moves smoother than with most competitors. Affordability and transparency underscore numerous positive accounts.
The small share of dissatisfied feedback references missed appointments, poor communication about arrival times, unprofessional conduct, and rare reports of damaged items. Compared to many moving companies, Sherpa moves consistently receive higher marks for courteous service and reliability, while persistent no-show or rescheduling issues remain an opportunity for improvement. In summary, customers can expect careful, efficient movers with standout communication, but should confirm booking details to avoid timing setbacks.
Show more
Get a Quote (405) 704-3135

Company Info

State license #: 332313

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 3429977


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySons/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
57% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback on All My Sons Moving & Storage paints a clear story. Out of 360 reviews, 57% praised the company while 42% reported negative experiences. Most customers applauded the movers for being professional, efficient, and careful with their belongings.
Many highlighted the staff's politeness and strong communication. Moves were often quick and organized, with teams taking care to prevent damage. On the downside, complaints focused on unexpected charges, price discrepancies, and lack of transparency about fees. Several people reported damage to items and missing or inadequate communication from management, especially during claims. Compared to competing moving services, All My Sons stands out for staff courtesy and efficiency but falls behind due to complaints about hidden costs and billing practices that disrupt trust. For those seeking attentive and professional movers, the crews often deliver; customers should request clear pricing details and written estimates to avoid surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (405) 358-4396

Company Info

State license #: 1717663

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BiggerBetterMoversOKC/,
83% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews shine a spotlight on Bigger Better Movers’ consistent professionalism and careful handling. Over 250 pieces of customer feedback were examined: 83% were glowing, and clients praised careful handling, efficient service, friendly staff, reliable communication, and speedy moves. Feedback often applauded the movers’ attentiveness to delicate or valuable items, as well as seamless booking and transparent pricing—a combination that’s rare in the moving industry.
While affordability and personable crews set them apart from many competitors, some clients reported significant problems. About 16% cited troubles like damaged belongings, unresponsive claims handling, delayed or missed arrivals, and unsatisfactory communication when problems did arise. When negative experiences happened, they tended to involve serious issues—mainly unresolved damage or being unable to reach management. Most feedback described moves that went faster and with less stress than expected. The team’s reputation for respectfulness and efficiency rivals—or exceeds—larger national brands, but unresolved damage reports from several clients indicate a need for improvement in after-service support and consistency.
Show more
Get a Quote (405) 595-9589

Company Info

State license #: 3046997

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3046997


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LittleGuysMovers,
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—customers' feedback on Little Guys Movers makes that clear. After analyzing 262 reviews, 95% of the input was positive, highlighting reliable, quick, and professional service. Many noted staff worked efficiently and handled furniture with care.
Friendly, helpful movers left a strong impression, with customers praising clear communication and willingness to go above expectations. A few clients mentioned missing or damaged items or found final charges higher than expected. Minor complaints also referenced occasional miscommunication. Despite some problems, negative ratings were rare compared to industry standards, where damage and poor service are often more common. Persistent professionalism and careful handling set Little Guys Movers apart from competitors. Most users recommend them for their next move, proving they earn their top-tier reputation in the moving industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (405) 395-2034

Company Info

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1931566


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Oklahoma City movers charge $105 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 $1,385 - $4,134 $809 - $1,988 $555 - $933
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,640 - $7,053 $1,506 - $2,798 $598 - $1,106
4+ bedrooms $4,679 - $10,152 $2,128 - $3,603 $717 - $1,375
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 545 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 Oklahoma to Iowa

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Oklahoma to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,385 and $4,134. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,640 to $7,053 on the same route (OK to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Oklahoma to Iowa typically runs between $4,679 and $10,152.

Cost of moving containers from Oklahoma to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Oklahoma to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $809 and $1,988 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,506 up to $2,798. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,128 and $3,603. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Oklahoma.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Oklahoma 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 $555 and $933. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $598 and $1,106. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $717 and $1,375.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Oklahoma City to Des Moinestoggle

The cost of Oklahoma City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Oklahoma City to Des Moines might cost as little as $1,385, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,084.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Oklahoma 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 $555 to $1,277 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Oklahoma City to Des Moines

Moving from Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma City than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Oklahoma City Des Moines
Average rent cost $1,249 $1,150
Average home value $195,949 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $64,251 $58,492
Cost of living (single person) $2,150 $1,891
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,520 $4,380
Unemployment rate 4.4% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.63% 7.0%
State income tax 4.75% 4.4%
  • Rent prices in Des Moines are 8% lower than in Oklahoma 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 1.8% lower than in Oklahoma City.
  • Income in Des Moines is 9.0% lower than in Oklahoma 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 12.0% lower than in Oklahoma 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 32.8% less than what it costs in Oklahoma City.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 34.09% higher than in Oklahoma City.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Des Moines, since the city's sales taxes in Des Moines are 18.89% lower than in Oklahoma City.
  • One perk of moving to Des Moines is paying less in state income taxes, which are 7.37% lower than in Oklahoma City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,638.60 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Oklahoma City.

How life is different in Oklahoma City vs. Des Moines

Des Moines Oklahoma City
Population 699,292 681,054
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 3
Walkability score 45 73
Bike friendliness score 39 74
Crime Index 5.0 49.37
Safety Index 57.8 50.63
Air Quality Good Good
  • Des Moines and Oklahoma City have roughly the same population, which could make adjusting to your new life in Iowa easier.
  • Des Moines offers better access to buses and trains than Oklahoma City, based on public transportation ratings. Des Moines has a transit score of 5 out of 10 compared to 3 in Oklahoma City. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Des Moines neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Oklahoma City. Based on its score of 45 out of 100, Des Moines isn't as walkable as Oklahoma City, which has a score of 73 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 Oklahoma City. While Oklahoma City has a bike-friendliness score of 74 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 Oklahoma City based on scores of 5.0 and Oklahoma City's 49.37, 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 Oklahoma City, based on Des Moines's safety index of 57.8 versus 50.63 for Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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
  • Woodland Heights
  • Arbor Peaks
  • Chautauqua Park
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

Once you're settled into your new home in Iowa, it's time to get out and discover what Des Moines has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • 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 Oklahoma City to Des Moines?

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

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

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

Moving from Oklahoma City, OK to Des Moines, IA covers 545 miles and usually takes one to six days Need to move faster? Some Oklahoma City movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.

Helpful moving resources