Eugene, OR to Des Moines, IA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Eugene to Des Moines typically costs $4,200–$8,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,810 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Eugene to Des Moines
Moving from Eugene, OR to Des Moines, IA typically costs $4,200–$8,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,810-mile move from Eugene to Des Moines, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- AB Moving recently quoted $8,211 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $9,360 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $7,640 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 27, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 18, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 18, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 28, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 25, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 25, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 24, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Eugene to Des Moines
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Eugene to Des Moines might be as low as $2,900, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,700.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Eugene.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,300 to $3,400 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Eugene, OR guide.
Best Eugene to Des Moines movers by type
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Best professional movers from Eugene to Des Moines
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Eugene to Des Moines, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best OR→IA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 36 Oregon movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Eugene to Des Moines
Overall, Eugene and Des Moines land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $1,891 in Des Moines and $1,814 in Eugene, while families in Des Moines see $4,380 versus $4,379 in Eugene.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Eugene | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,306 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,471 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $459,782 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,442 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,814 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,379 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 9.9% | 4.4% |
- Good news! When moving to Des Moines from Eugene, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 28% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 58% cheaper in Des Moines, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 6% lower in Des Moines than in Eugene.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Des Moines and Eugene, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Des Moines and Eugene, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won't notice a significant change in expenses.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 6% lower than Eugene, Des Moines boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Des Moines has a sales tax, while Eugene does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes are 56% lower in Iowa than in Oregon. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Eugene and Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Eugene | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $131.06 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $52.00 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.76 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.83 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $53.00 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Eugene than in Des Moines, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Eugene than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Eugene than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Eugene than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Eugene than in Des Moines.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Eugene than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Eugene vs. Des Moines
| Eugene | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 176,654 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 46 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 39 |
| Crime index | 6.0 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 54.24 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines's population is about 296% greater than Eugene.
- Des Moines's public transportation score is within about 5% of Eugene, making them very similar.
- Des Moines and Eugene are similarly walkable.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Eugene, which has a score of 72.
- Des Moines's crime rate is lower than Eugene with a score of 5.0 compared to Eugene's 6.0. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Eugene neighborhoods are safer than 6.0%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than Eugene with a safety index of 57.8 vs Eugene's 54.24.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Eugene it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Eugene to Des Moines move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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 a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Iowa, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- 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: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
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
- Downtown
- East Village
- North of Grand
- Woodland Heights
- Arbor Peaks
- Chautauqua Park
- Beaverdale
- Westwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Linden Heights
- Waterbury
- Waveland Park
- Westwood
- Salisbury Oaks
- Meredith
- Beaverdale
Things to do in Des Moines
Now that you've made the move to Iowa, it's the perfect time to explore Des Moines. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Eugene to Des Moines?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Eugene to Des Moines. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Eugene.
When is the cheapest time to move from Eugene to Des Moines?
With many people choosing to move from Eugene to Des Moines in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Eugene to Des Moines take?
Covering 1,810 miles, the move from Eugene, OR to Des Moines, IA typically takes five to 16 days. Some Eugene movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Eugene can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Eugene, 5 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of OR, there are 27 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
