How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to IA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 101 Virginia movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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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.
How much does it cost to move from Virginia to Iowa?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Virginia
to Iowa, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,115 – $4,619 |
$845 – $2,042 |
$618 – $1,210 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,425 – $5,804 |
$1,400 – $2,905 |
$731 – $1,498 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,766 – $7,055 |
$1,948 – $3,710 |
$856 – $1,786 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,026-mile relocation from VA to
IA, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Virginia to Iowa
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Virginia to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between
$1,115
and $4,619.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,425 and $5,804
for the same journey (VA to IA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,766
to $7,055.
Cost of moving containers from Virginia to Iowa
When you’re heading from Virginia to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $845 and
$2,042. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,400 and
$2,905. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,948
to $3,710. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Virginia easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to Iowa
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$618
to $1,210.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $731
to $1,498, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Virginia to Iowa costs around
$856 to
$1,786.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to IA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Virginia to Iowa. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Virginia when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from VA to IA
If you’re moving to Iowa from Virginia, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Virginia vs. Iowa
Understanding how costs compare between Virginia and Iowa can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Virginia |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$1,440 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$392,682 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,249 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
5.73% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
4.4% |
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Rent in Iowa is around 37% less than in Virginia, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Iowa are about 44% lower than in Virginia. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Iowa are about 19% lower than in Virginia.
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The cost of living in Iowa is about 11% lower than in Virginia. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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Unemployment rates are pretty similar in Iowa and Virginia, so you probably won’t notice much change in job opportunities or competition after your move.
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Sales taxes are 21% higher in Iowa than in Virginia. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in Iowa are 23% lower than in Virginia. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Virginia
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Iowa and Virginia line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Iowa |
Virginia |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
8,715,698 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Democratic 52-48 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
14″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
19.3 |
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The population of Iowa is approximately 63% lower than the population of Virginia.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential election, Iowa voted Republican, while Virginia went Democratic.
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In Iowa, summer highs are around 84°F, close to 87°F in Virginia.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
In the coldest months, Iowa sees lows of 10°F compared to 25°F in Virginia.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
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In Iowa, you’ll get about 35 inches of rain each year — less than the 44 inches you’re used to in Virginia.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
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Each year, Iowa sees about 30 inches of snowfall, while Virginia averages just 14 inches.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
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Iowa is a safer choice than Virginia, boasting a lower crime index of 16.18 compared to 19.3.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Virginia vs. Iowa
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Iowa and Virginia:
| Pros of living in Virginia |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Strong economy |
Low cost of living |
| Beautiful scenery |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundance of outdoor activities |
High quality of education |
| Enjoyable four season weather |
No traffic |
| Strong military presence |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. Iowa
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Virginia for Iowa:
| Cons of living in Virginia |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| High cost of living |
Severe weather conditions |
| Unpredictable weather |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Bad traffic congestion |
High taxes |
| Lack of public transportation |
High emphasis on politics |
| Air noise pollution |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Virginia to Iowa move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
-
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 is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea 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 moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Iowa right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
-
Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Iowa
While you’re in Iowa, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places 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 Virginia to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from Virginia to Iowa?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Virginia to Iowa on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Virginia to Iowa?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Virginia to Iowa to enjoy all the great benefits Iowa provides, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 37% less and home prices 44% lower than in Virginia.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Thinking of moving to Iowa on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,616 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or around $5,230 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Virginia?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 3 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 2 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 1 moving companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Virginia to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $2,425–$5,804 with professional movers, roughly
$2,152 for a moving container, and about
$1,114
for a rental truck.
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