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Local moving companies in McAllen
Out of 7 McAllen movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.
- Rick’s Moving & Storage LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc.: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- Groves Moving and Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Flex Moving & Storage: 4.26 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 009769916C
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 1082164
Alternate Names: Rick’s Moving and Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0000006770
Years in Business: 86
DOT #: 125563
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 005443977C
Years in Business: 26
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 009668291C
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 2
DOT #: 3610638
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in McAllen, TX
Here is a quick look at how many movers in McAllen offer add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from McAllen, TX to Iowa
The table below shows typical price ranges to move from McAllen to Iowa, with service options tailored to your home size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,140 – $4,661 | $904 – $2,305 | $797 – $1,491 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,649 – $6,157 | $1,585 – $3,256 | $836 – $1,756 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,459 – $9,116 | $2,260 – $4,497 | $1,105 – $2,098 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,283-mile move from McAllen, TX, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified rates from moving companies around the country, refreshed monthly for seasonality and market movement. Final charges can fluctuate based on the scope of your move, add-ons, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing multiple estimates for accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from McAllen to Iowa
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from McAllen to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,140 and $4,661. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,649 to $6,157 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home typically runs between $4,459 and $9,116.
Cost of moving containers from McAllen to Iowa
When moving from McAllen to Iowa, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $904 and $2,305. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,585 to $3,256. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,260 up to $4,497. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from McAllen.
Cost of moving truck rentals from McAllen 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 in McAllen to relocate to Iowa and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $797 and $1,491. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $836 and $1,756. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,105 and $2,098.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from McAllen to IA
The cost of McAllen movers will depend on:
- Move size: Larger homes and more belongings increase the total moving cost.
- Time of year: Moving during busy summer months in McAllen can drive up rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY can cut costs, but professional movers provide convenience and peace of mind.
What you should know before moving from McAllen to IA
Heading from McAllen to Iowa comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because Iowa usually has a higher cost of living than McAllen, it’s smart to budget and plan ahead.
Discover how life in McAllen compares with Iowa to help you make an informed moving decision:
Compare cost of living: McAllen vs. Iowa
| McAllen, TX | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,350 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $221,244 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $57,439 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 76 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.9% | 3.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.4% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Expect rent in Iowa to be about 32% cheaper than in McAllen, leaving you with more money each month.
- With home prices nearly the same in Iowa and McAllen, your mortgage budget shouldn’t require big changes.
- In Iowa, average earnings are about 23% higher than in McAllen, giving you some extra financial breathing room.
- Living in Iowa will cost about 17% more than in McAllen, so it’s important to budget for the increase.
- With unemployment about 62% lower in Iowa than in McAllen, you may find it easier to secure work.
- Iowa has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in McAllen, TX from Iowa
If you’re considering a move from McAllen to Iowa, there are some notable lifestyle differences to keep in mind. From climate and population size to political leanings, here’s how life in Iowa compares to life in McAllen.
| McAllen, TX | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 142,210 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 58-41 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 96ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 49ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 22″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 36.26 | 16.18 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while McAllen supported Democratic.
- Summers in Iowa tend to hover around 84ºF, while McAllen often experiences highs near 96ºF. Choosing a location with milder temperatures offers less heat, reduced energy bills, and ample chances to enjoy the open air, ideal if you favor comfort and love spending time outdoors.
- Winter lows in Iowa fall to 10ºF, colder than McAllen at 49ºF. Moving here means colder days and higher heating expenses, but also plenty of winter scenery and seasonal activities.
- Expect 35 inches of rain each year in Iowa, compared with just 22 inches in McAllen. That’s more frequent rainfall, so be ready for lush landscapes and the occasional soggy day.
- Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow each year, while McAllen sees none. Moving to Iowa means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- Crime is lower in Iowa, with an index of 16.18 compared to McAllen at 36.26. This generally points to safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of security.
Other considerations when moving to Iowa
When relocating from McAllen to Iowa, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, it’s helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Make sure to check your neighborhood or community’s moving rules ahead of time to avoid any surprises on moving day.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator ahead of time if one is available for moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities ask for parking permits when you’re using a moving truck or large vehicle. Check in advance to see if you’ll need a permit for your move.
- 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 has all the proper licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit for Iowa, but it’s smart to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. You’ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Iowa seamlessly. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary by state, so be sure to review the regulations where you live. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Simplify your move using our moving checklist. It keeps everything organized and takes care of the details, so you can relax and enjoy making your new place home.
Things to do in Iowa
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Iowa.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from McAllen to Iowa take?
How long will your move from McAllen, TX to Iowa take? It depends on the type of service you pick, but you can usually expect it to take three to eight days. Just keep in mind that moves during the busy summer season may take a bit longer.
To get your move done as quickly as possible, ask for a delivery timeframe before you book your moving company.
What’s the availability of custom crating among movers in McAllen?
We track four movers in McAllen that can build custom crates for items such as art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Be sure to confirm with a McAllen moving company that the materials and dimensions match your item requirements.
What is the best way to get a car from McAllen to Iowa?
Looking to ship your car from McAllen to Iowa? Choose experts who know how to treat your vehicle right and handle every detail with professionalism. Check out our top picks for car shipping from Texas to Iowa.
Why are people moving from McAllen to Iowa?
Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in McAllen?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in McAllen.
Can I use cash to pay a mover in McAllen, TX?
Currently, two movers in McAllen accept cash as a payment option. Still, cash isn’t widely used in the moving industry, which favors traceable methods and clear receipts. Expect to pay a deposit first to secure your move date. The rest is due either at pickup or once delivery is complete—check with your mover on the exact payment schedule and accepted types.
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