Moving from Iowa to Tennessee (2026 Best Movers and Costs)
Quick answer: A move from Iowa to Tennessee usually costs between $2,321 and $5,580 , based on how much you’re moving and the service you choose. Moving containers average about $1,911 , while a rental truck costs roughly $1,000 .
Featured Moving Companies
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 Iowa to Tennessee
Studio / 1 bedroom
Moving Company: $1,600 – $4,170
Moving Container: $1,022 – $1,911
Rental Truck: $492 – $1,000
2 – 3 bedrooms
Moving Company: $2,321 – $5,580
Moving Container: $1,312 – $2,468
Rental Truck: $536 – $1,108
4+ bedrooms
Moving Company: $3,724 – $8,122
Moving Container: $1,704 – $3,239
Rental Truck: $651 – $1,424
Top-Rated Local Moving Companies in Iowa
We gathered some of the best local movers in Iowa who offer fair prices, dependable service, and strong customer reviews to help you make the right choice.
Best Iowa to Tennessee Moving Container Companies
Moving containers make relocating easier and more affordable. You pack and unpack your items, while the company handles the pickup and delivery. They’ll collect the container in Iowa and drop it off at your new home.
Here are some trusted moving container companies:
PODS Moving and Storage
Convenient container-based moving
Secure weather-resistant storage
Reliable door-to-door delivery
Zippy Shell
Century-long trusted mover
Full packing & storage
Long and international moves
Best Iowa to Tennessee Moving Truck Rentals
If you’re trying to keep moving costs low, renting a truck is a practical option. You’ll be responsible for packing, loading, and driving, but it gives you full control over your move.
Here are some reliable truck rental companies:
U-Haul
DIY moves
One-way rentals
Moving supplies
Budget Truck Rental
Wide range of truck sizes
Real-time online reservation system
Flexible one-way return options
Penske Truck Rental
Unlimited free miles on one-way rentals
24/7 roadside assistance
Over 2,500 convenient locations
How we picked the best movers for your Iowa to Tennessee move
We focus on finding moving companies that offer real value and reliable service for people relocating from Iowa to Tennessee. We look at real customer experiences and a few key factors that help separate the best movers from the rest:
Key Things to Know Before Moving from Iowa to Tennessee
Cost of living
Before moving, take time to compare living expenses in Iowa and Tennessee. This overview shows the main differences that may influence your budget and daily routine.
| Metric | Iowa | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $910 | $1,045 |
| Average home cost | $220,272 | $319,204 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,565 | $64,031 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 3.3% |
| Average sales tax | 6.94% | 9.55% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 0.0% |
| Sources |
World Population Review, Zillow, U.S. Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation |
|
Life in Iowa vs. Tennessee
Moving to another state involves more than just relocating your things. Here’s what everyday life in Iowa looks like compared to Tennessee.
| Metric | Iowa | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 7,126,489 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high | 84°F | 88°F |
| Winter low | 10°F | 27°F |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 53″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 5″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 29.24 |
| Sources |
U.S. Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, Neighborhood Scout, Best Places, |
|
Pros and Cons: Iowa vs. Tennessee
| Pros of living in Iowa | Pros of living in Tennessee |
|---|---|
| National leader in wind energy production | No state income tax on wages |
| Strong college-town culture with active community events | Scenic Appalachian mountain views |
| Very low traffic congestion across most regions | Strong country music and recording scene |
| High levels of community volunteer participation | Growing logistics and warehousing sector |
| Well-kept trail systems and greenways | Lower utility costs in many areas |
| Cons of living in Iowa | Cons of living in Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Frequent tornado warnings in spring months | High humidity levels in summer |
| Ice storms that disrupt winter travel | Flash flooding in certain regions |
| Slow population growth affecting local economies | Overcrowded tourist districts |
| Limited corporate headquarters presence | Increased road maintenance issues |
| Short construction season due to frost cycles | Inconsistent zoning regulations |
Moving from Iowa to Tennessee Checklist
Moving to another state takes preparation, but a simple checklist can help you stay organized. Follow these steps to make your move easier:
Plan ahead:
Start preparing at least one or two months before moving. Request quotes from movers and choose your moving date.
Set your budget:
List all possible expenses such as packing supplies, gas, truck rental, and short-term housing if needed.
Declutter your home:
Sort through your belongings and sell or donate things you no longer use. This helps save space and money.
Gather packing materials:
Get boxes, tape, and labels. Pack room by room and keep a small bag with essentials for the first few days.
Change your address:
Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance providers, and any subscriptions.
Transfer utilities:
Contact your providers to disconnect services in Iowa and start them in Tennessee before your arrival.
