$3,305 Des Moines, IA to California - Best Movers and Cost
Cost and Miles: The move from Des Moines, IA to California covers about 1,808 miles. The cost usually falls between $1,103 and $7,159. Your final price depends on how much you’re moving, the season, and whether you hire movers or do it yourself.
Featured Movers from Des Moines, IA to California
International Van Lines
International
Coverage
Storage
Included
Awarded
Excellence
Best Movers by Move Type
Local
Interstate
Container
Rental Truck
Mayzlin Relocation LLC
Company Based in : North Carolina
Allied Van Lines
Company Based in : Indiana
Colonial Van Lines
Company Based in : Florida
Bellhops
Company Based in : Tennessee
American Van Lines
Company Based in : Florida
United Van Lines
Company Based in : Missouri
Safeway Moving Inc
Company Based in : Florida
Allied Van Lines
Company Based in : Indiana
1-800-PACK-RAT
Company Based in : North Carolina
PODS Moving and Storage
Company Based in : Florida
Zippy Shell
Company Based in : Virginia
MovingYourself
Company Based in : Florida
U-Haul
Company Based in : Arizona
Budget Truck Rental
Company Based in : New Jersey
Penske Truck Rental
Company Based in : Pennsylvania
Home Depot
Company Based in : South Carolina
Average Moving Cost from Des Moines, IA to California
Studio / 1 bedroom
Moving Company: $2,407 - $5,303
Moving Container: $1,548 - $2,852
Rental Truck: $1,045 - $2,014
2 – 3 bedrooms
Moving Company: $3,305 - $7,159
Moving Container: $2,027 - $4,095
Rental Truck: $1,103 - $2,324
4+ bedrooms
Moving Company: $6,168 - $10,525
Moving Container: $2,676 - $5,545
Rental Truck: $1,424 - $2,990
Best Local Moving Companies in Des Moines, IA
Check out the top local movers who can assist with your move to California.
Specialty Movers in Des Moines, IA
Here’s an overview of moving companies in Des Moines that provide specialized services.
International Van Lines
International
Coverage
Storage
Included
Awarded
Excellence
Key Details to Know Before Your Move from Des Moines, IA to California
Relocating to California from Des Moines is a significant change. Keeping a few essential details in mind can help simplify the process.
Cost of living
| Metric | Des Moines | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150 | $1,852 |
| Average home cost | $192,347 | $771,050 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $91,903 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 13.3% |
| Sources |
World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation, Zumper, Numbeo |
|
Life in Des Moines, IA vs. California
When moving from Des Moines to California? Here are some lifestyle changes you’ll want to be aware of.
| Metric | Des Moines | California |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high (avg.) | 86°F | 87°F |
| Winter low (avg.) | 13°F | 59°F |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 28.43 |
| Sources |
U.S. Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, Neighborhood Scout, Best Places Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow, |
|
What You’ll Find in California
Museums in California
- USS California Battleship Memorial Park
- U.S. Space & Rocket Center
- Birmingham Museum of Art
- California Museum of Natural History
Parks in California
- Cheaha State Park
- Wind Creek State Park
- Joe Wheeler State Park
- Little River Canyon National Preserve
Sports Teams in California
- California Crimson Tide – University of California (NCAA)
- Birmingham Barons – Minor League Baseball (Birmingham)
- Rocket City Trash Pandas – Minor League Baseball (Madison/Huntsville)
- South California Jaguars – University of South California (NCAA)
Universities in California
- University of California
- Auburn University
- University of South California
- University of North California
Frequently Asked Questions
The move from Des Moines to California usually takes between one to two days. The duration depends on the amount of belongings you're moving, the type of service you choose (full-service or DIY), and your specific destination.
The cost of moving from Des Moines, IA to California typically ranges from $1,103 to $7,159. Smaller moves, such as a studio or one-bedroom apartment, usually cost between $2,407 and $5,303, while larger homes can go up to $10,525.
The cost of living won’t vary drastically, as many factors remain similar. However, areas like housing and taxes may differ slightly, so it’s best to compare the specific costs that are most important to you.
When moving to California, make sure to update your address and set up utilities in your new home. Then, get an California driver’s license, register your vehicle, and update your voter registration. It’s also advisable to review local taxes, schools, and healthcare options before settling in.
Many people are drawn to California for its affordable housing, abundant outdoor activities, and job opportunities.
