Best Alaska to Iowa Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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AK to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is not just a change of address; it’s an adventure that promises new beginnings. As you prepare to leave behind the rugged beauty and vast wilderness of the Last Frontier for the rolling plains and warm communities of the Hawkeye State, you’re not just changing sceneries; you’re stepping into a whole new way of life. To ensure this significant transition is as smooth as possible, it’s crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers in the country, making your long-distance move worry-free.

Alaska iconArrow iconIowa icon

Best Alaska to Iowa Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
The Moving Man7.82A+Authorized For HHGContact
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.6.97NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Air Van Moving6.85NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Royal Alaskan Movers6.46A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Alaska guide.

6 Best AK to IA Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,268+ data points

About Adamantine Spine Moving

Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transp...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
based on 520+ data points

About Best Move Inc

Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>

Services

  • Material Packing
  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
2
The Moving Man Logo
Good7.82/10
based on 232+ data points

About The Moving Man

The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Residential Moving
  • Local Commercial Moving
  • Out-of-State Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

807379 / 359080

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2018)
View Full Review
3
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. Logo
6.97/10
based on 45+ data points

About Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.

Having been in the vehicle transportation business since 1951, Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. is a pioneer in the industry in Alaska. With te...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125137 / 118208

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved450,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Air Van Moving Logo
6.85/10
based on 40+ data points

About Air Van Moving

Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town, across the country, or...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125012 / 118474

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Royal Alaskan Movers Logo
6.46/10
based on 338+ data points

About Royal Alaskan Movers

Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since 20...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2077580 / FF-10566 725677

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved92,150 (2022)
View Full Review
6
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Alaska to Iowa

Moving from one state to another can be a complex process, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Alaska to Iowa. Considering various factors will help you make a well-informed decision on your big move.

CONs
PROs
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Cold, dark winters
  • Remote locations
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less job variety
Iowa iconIowa
  • Milder winters
  • More accessible
  • Lower cost of living
  • Broader job market
Iowa iconIowa
  • Less natural wilderness
  • Flatter terrain
  • Fewer wildlife encounters
  • Different cultural feel
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Vast wilderness
  • Stunning landscapes
  • Rich wildlife
  • Unique culture

Moving from the rugged beauty of Alaska to the welcoming heartland of Iowa brings a tapestry of changes. In Iowa, you will find a vibrant community spirit in cities like Des Moines, with its bustling Downtown Farmers' Market, and Iowa City, known for its rich literary culture and the renowned University of Iowa. You'll exchange Alaska's expansive wilderness for the bucolic rolling hills of the Hawkeye State, offering a different but equally appealing form of natural beauty. Iowa's cost of living advantage means more financial freedom to explore local restaurants like the historic Hamburg Inn No. 2 in Iowa City, or to enjoy the state's myriad outdoor activities, from cycling the picturesque trails to visiting the acclaimed Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. While the transition may require adjustments, the welcoming communities and enriching lifestyle in Iowa promise a fulfilling new chapter.

Alaska vs. Iowa Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Alaska & Iowa because food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. Comparing the two locations will help you be better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.

AlaskaIowa
Most iconic local food itemSalmonCorn
Most popular meat dishReindeer SausagePork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular street food itemKing Crab LegsTaco Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodWild Berry BowlVegetarian Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Simon & Seafort's
  • The Saltry
  • Snow City Cafe
  • Augusta Restaurant
  • The High Life Lounge
  • Zombie Burger
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving from Alaska to Iowa, you'll notice a shift from sea to land in your culinary experiences. In Alaska, the iconic salmon dishes and reindeer sausage provide a unique taste of the wilderness, while in Iowa, the agricultural bounty brings corn and pork tenderloin sandwiches to the forefront of local cuisine. Iowa's food scene, with a slightly higher vegan-friendly score, suggests greater availability of plant-based options, noted in places like Zombie Burger in Des Moines, which offers inventive vegan options alongside its carnivorous delights. The abundance of food trucks in Iowa, especially in urban areas like Des Moines and Iowa City, also adds a dynamic street food culture, contrasting with Alaska's more natural, ingredients-focused culinary scene.

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Alaska vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move from Alaska to Iowa, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Here we will compare housing in these states, focusing on median home price, rent, architecture, walkability, bikeability, urban lifestyle, and popular real estate listings for Alaska and Iowa. This comparison is intended to illuminate the significant differences and aid in making an informed decision.

ComparisonAlaskaIowa
Typical Architecture StyleCabin and CraftsmanFarmhouse and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingScenic Views, Proximity to NatureFamily-friendly, Spacious Backyards

Delving deeper into the comparison, you'll find that housing in Alaska tends to be more expensive, both in terms of purchasing a home and renting one, reflecting its remote and unique living conditions. The typical architecture style in Alaska, including cabins and craftsman homes, is heavily influenced by the natural surroundings and need for durability against harsh weather. In contrast, Iowa offers a more traditional Midwestern experience, with ranch and farmhouse styles that emphasize space and comfort. Walkability and bikeability are notably higher in Iowa, supporting a more urban and community-focused lifestyle. In Alaska, real estate listings often highlight the scenic views and proximity to nature, reflecting the state's vast wilderness. Meanwhile, in Iowa, listings regularly promote family-friendly features and spacious backyards, pointing towards a more suburban or rural appeal.

Alaska vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one region to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather might change. This comparison aims to highlight the differences you'll experience in climate and weather patterns, focusing on moving from Alaska to Iowa . By comparing weather conditions , you can better prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
60-80°F / 40-55°F

Alaska

82-86°F / 62-67°F

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
0-30°F / -10-20°F

Alaska

30-34°F / 14-18°F

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22"

Alaska

34"

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
75"

Alaska

36"

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonAlaskaIowa
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, AvalanchesTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Alaska to Iowa brings significant weather changes, especially with warmer summers and slightly milder winters in Iowa. Iowa enjoys more sunny days per year, which can impact daily life and outdoor activities. However, both states share challenges such as seasonal allergies and dealing with humidity. One notable difference is the kind of natural disasters you might prepare for, with Alaska experiencing earthquakes and avalanches, compared to Iowa's tornadoes and blizzards. Understanding these variations can help you adjust to your new home in Iowa with ease.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Alaska to Iowa

When considering a move from Alaska to Iowa, it's pivotal to understand how your financial landscape might change. This comparison sheds light on the monetary aspects you're accustomed to in Alaska versus what to expect in Iowa. Let the comparison of Alaska and Iowa guide your financial planning for a seamless transition.

ComparisonAlaskaIowa
Avg. Household Income$88,121$69,588
Cost of Living Index132.695.9
State Income Tax00.33 to 8.53
Avg. Property Tax1.181.53
Avg. Sales Tax1.766.82
Top 3 IndustriesOil & Gas, Fishing, TourismAgriculture, Manufacturing, Financial Services
AffluenceHigherModerate
PovertyLowerLower
HomelessnessModerateLow

Alaska and Iowa present distinct financial landscapes that could significantly influence your living standards post-move. While Alaska boasts a higher average household income, it's important to factor in the state's higher cost of living and essentially non-existent sales tax, contrasting sharply with Iowa's higher sales and income tax rates. Iowa's cost of living index suggests that your money might go further there, especially considering the significant difference in housing costs reflected by the average property tax rates. Each state's economic backbone—Alaska's oil and gas versus Iowa's agriculture and manufacturing—also hints at different job market landscapes, potentially affecting your employment opportunities and income.

Alaska vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

Understanding the shift in surroundings from Alaska to Iowa involves more than just weather and geography. This comparison of the politics between Alaska & Iowa provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both states, offering insights that could influence your move.

AlaskaIowa
Political Make-upMixed, leans RepublicanSwing state, slight Republican lean
Local PoliticsIndependent and Libertarian influencesStrong emphasis on agriculture and education policy
ReligionChristianity prevalent, diverse beliefsLargely Christian, with a significant Catholic population

When moving from Alaska to Iowa, you’ll notice differences beyond just the physical environment. Alaska's independent spirit is reflected in its political landscape, with a notable mix of Republican, Independent, and Libertarian viewpoints. In contrast, Iowa’s political climate is shaped by its status as a swing state, which sees a fair share of influence from both major political parties, often veering towards Republican. The religious fabric in both states is predominantly Christian, but Alaska presents a more diverse mosaic of beliefs compared to Iowa's significant Catholic presence. Understanding these nuances can help ease your transition and integration into your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Alaska to Iowa

Moving across the country brings a slew of considerations, not least of which is education for those with families. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in school options between Alaska and Iowa, providing a clearer picture of what each state offers for your children's learning journey.

AlaskaIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Alaska Anchorage
Alaska Pacific University
University of Alaska Fairbanks
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Aurora Elementary - Anchorage
Northern Lights ABC - Anchorage
Trailside Elementary - Anchorage
Wickham Elementary - Coralville
Lincoln Elementary - Mount Vernon
North Bend Elementary - North Liberty

Top 3 Middle Schools

Roma Blanche Woodside Middle School - Sitka
Mirror Lake Middle School - Chugiak
Mears Middle School - Anchorage
Ames Middle School - Ames
North Central Junior High - Coralville
Northwest Junior High - Coralville

Top 3 High School Schools

West High School - Anchorage
South Anchorage High School - Anchorage
Dimond High School - Anchorage
Ames High School - Ames
West High School - Iowa City
Decorah High School - Decorah

Top 3 private high schools

Holy Rosary Academy - Anchorage
Grace Christian School - Anchorage
Lumen Christi High School - Anchorage
Regina High School - Iowa City
Dowling Catholic High School - West Des Moines
Xavier High School - Cedar Rapids

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Pacific Northern Academy - Anchorage
Anchorage Christian Schools - Anchorage
Birchwood Christian School - Chugiak
Scattergood Friends School - West Branch
Maharishi School - Fairfield
Cedar Valley Christian School - Cedar Rapids

Top 3 School Districts

Anchorage School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Cedar Rapids Community School District

Choosing the right school is crucial for your child's development and future. In Alaska, the Anchorage School District stands out for its diverse array of programs catering to students' varied interests and needs, including notable options like the Anchorage School District. On the other hand, Iowa boasts highly ranked institutions such as the Iowa City Community School District, known for its strong academic achievements and innovative educational approaches. Moreover, the range of top-ranking private and public schools in both states suggests a healthy environment for educational excellence, ensuring that relocating families can find a perfect match for their children's learning preferences and aspirations.

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