Best Anchorage to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the rugged wilderness of Anchorage, or "The City of Lights and Flowers," to the vibrant heartland of Des Moines, often celebrated as the "Hawkeye State's" capital of culture and commerce, is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. Leaving behind the awe-inspiring vistas of Alaska for Iowa's friendly neighborhoods, flourishing food scene, and dynamic job market is a significant life change. Understanding the importance of this transition, we emphasize the necessity of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, as identifying the best assistance for such a long journey ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
Best Anchorage to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| The Moving Man | 7.82 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Air Van Moving | 6.85 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Royal Alaskan Movers | 6.46 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Anchorage guide.
5 Best Anchorage to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
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
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
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2077580 / FF-10566
725677 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 92,150 (2022) |
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.
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.
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison focusing on Anchorage, AK & Des Moines, IA neighborhoods. This guide will help you find a new area that feels like home by matching your favorite Anchorage locality with its closest counterpart in Des Moines.
| Anchorage | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Addition | South of Grand | Historic charm, spacious homes |
| Bootleggers Cove | Waterbury | Tree-lined streets, established community |
| Rogers Park | Beaverdale | Vibrant community, local shops |
| Turnagain | Sherman Hill | Historic district, close to downtown |
| Hillside East | Waveland Park | Quiet, close to parks and trails |
| Spenard | East Village | Eclectic shopping, dining scene |
| Bear Valley | Drake | University presence, diverse population |
| Bayshore/Klatt | Ingersoll Park | Family-friendly, good amenities |
| Oceanview | Gray's Lake | Waterfront recreation, scenic views |
| Rabbit Creek | Southwestern Hills | Spacious lots, natural beauty |
Explore Des Moines’ Waterbury neighborhood if you cherished the unique, tight-knit community aspect of Bootleggers Cove in Anchorage. Waterbury boasts tree-lined streets and an established feel, making it a desirable residential area. For those drawn to Spenard's eclectic and vibrant culture, Des Moines’ East Village offers a similar blend of unique shopping and dining experiences, reflecting the area's artistic flair and diversity. Meanwhile, the tranquility and spacious homes of South Addition find a match in South of Grand, where historic charm is the backdrop of a welcoming community, making it easy to feel right at home. Each of these neighborhoods captures a piece of what residents loved about their Anchorage communities, providing comfort and familiarity in their new Des Moines surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Anchorage to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another presents a blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Anchorage, AK to Des Moines, IA , offering insight into what changes you can expect. Discover how your life could transform, for better or worse, through this transition.
Anchorage, AK- Colder climate
- Remote location
- Higher cost of living
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer daylight hours (winter)
Des Moines, IA- Milder winters
- Easier travel
- Lower cost of living
- Varied cuisine
- More balanced daylight
Des Moines, IA- Less scenic
- Fewer outdoor options
- Adjustment time
- Common wildlife
- More crowded
Anchorage, AK- Natural beauty
- Outdoor adventures
- Strong community
- Unique wildlife
- Secluded living
Moving from Anchorage to Des Moines comes with notable changes in lifestyle due to both climate and social structure. In Anchorage, opportunities to engage with unique wildlife and embark on outdoor adventures abound, immersing residents in the breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska. Conversely, Des Moines offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and cuisine, thanks to establishments like Des Moines' restaurants and the buzzing Downtown area. The transition may also affect your social interactions, as building a new community in Des Moines could require adjustments. However, the city's diverse events, neighborhood parks like Gray’s Lake Park, and vibrant markets present abundant opportunities to connect and immerse in local life.
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding that food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area, we've prepared a detailed comparison. This will help you get a better feel for the comparison of the local cuisine between Anchorage & Des Moines , ensuring you're well-informed about the food scene in your new home.
| Anchorage | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | King Crab | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Reindeer Sausage | Bacon-wrapped Tamales |
| Most popular street food item | Halibut Tacos | Sweet Corn |
| Most popular vegan food | Seaweed Salad | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When considering the move from Anchorage, famed for its fresh seafood options like King Crab and Halibut Tacos, to Des Moines, known for its heartland classics such as the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, the shift in local culinary delights is noteworthy. Anchorage's top restaurants, like Simon & Seafort's, offer stunning views alongside their meals, accentuating the local flavor with dishes like Reindeer Sausage. Des Moines engages the palate with innovative eateries like Zombie Burger, presenting a twist on American classics amidst a vibrant food truck scene, notably livelier compared to Anchorage's. Both cities cater to health-conscious and vegan diners, though with variations in local specialties—Des Moines's Vegan Chili is a noteworthy contrast to Anchorage’s Seaweed Salad.
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite eatery can truly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart between Anchorage and Des Moines aims to help ease your transition by linking you with familiar tastes and atmospheres. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual eats, or something uniquely local, you're sure to find a Des Moines counterpart to your Anchorage favorites.
| Anchorage | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill | 801 Chophouse | Classic upscale dining with a similar focus on steaks and seafood |
| Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria | Gusto Pizza Co. | Offers creative and unique pizza options, much like Moose's Tooth |
| Snow City Cafe | St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery | Both offer a hip, cozy spot for breakfast and brunch favorites |
| Glacier Brewhouse | Confluence Brewing Company | Similar in their craft beer offerings and hearty pub fare |
| The Crow's Nest | Splash Seafood Bar & Grill | High-end seafood dining with a comparable view and menu |
| Ginger | Akebono 515 | Both serve up contemporary Asian cuisine in a modern setting |
| Spenard Roadhouse | The Cheese Shop of Des Moines | Both have a casual, yet quirky atmosphere with a focus on comfort food |
| Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse | El Bait Shop | Laid back with an extensive beer menu and hearty American eats |
| Club Paris | Jesse's Embers | For that old-school steakhouse vibe and charcoal broiled steaks |
| 49th State Brewing Co. | Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Offers locally brewed beer with a diverse menu in a historic setting |
For those making the big move from Anchorage to Des Moines, finding similarities in dining can offer a comforting bridge between old and new. If you've enjoyed the unique and creative pizza offerings at Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria, Gusto Pizza Co. in Des Moines stands ready to capture your palate with its inventive pies. Meanwhile, the transition from the cozy, hip ambiance of Snow City Cafe to St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery could be just as seamless, as both prioritize quality ingredients in their breakfast and brunch menus. And for the beer enthusiasts, Confluence Brewing Company in Des Moines mirrors the craft beer and pub fare experience you've come to love at Glacier Brewhouse, ensuring the spirit of your Anchorage favorites lives on in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, diving into the real estate comparison between Anchorage, AK, and Des Moines, IA is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle amenities can significantly impact your decision and help tailor your search for the perfect home.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Modern | Colonial and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Privacy | Close to Downtown, Historic Features |
In examining the housing market specifics between Anchorage and Des Moines, it's evident that Des Moines offers a more affordable living situation with a lower median home price and monthly rent. The architectural styles also reflect the historical and cultural differences of each city, with Anchorage favoring more modern and ranch-style homes, indicative of its newer development and rugged landscape. Des Moines showcases an appreciation for colonial and craftsman styles, aligning with its Midwestern roots and historic background. This contributes to Des Moines' slightly higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, suggesting a more integrated city life. Additionally, real estate listings in Anchorage often highlight the natural views and privacy, whereas in Des Moines, the proximity to downtown and historic features are frequently emphasized, showcasing the different lifestyles and priorities of their respective inhabitants.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA
1. Beaverdale: Known for its charming brick homes and a strong sense of community, Beaverdale offers numerous parks and pet-friendly events making it an ideal place for you and your furry friend.
2. East Village: This eclectic area is not only rich in culture and shopping but also boasts several pet-friendly restaurants and shops, including East Village Pet Hospital for your pet's health needs.
3. Gray's Lake Park area: While not a neighborhood per se, the area around Gray's Lake Park is highly popular among pet owners for its spacious park, perfect for long walks, and the nearby residential areas offer a welcoming community for pet owners.
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move from one place to another, adjusting to the new weather conditions is crucial. This comparison aims to prepare you for the significant changes you might encounter, particularly focusing on the weather differences between Anchorage, AK, and Des Moines, IA . Understanding these changes will help you adapt more smoothly to your new environment.
Anchorage, AK
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Anchorage, AK
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Anchorage, AK
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Anchorage, AK
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Anchorage | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Anchorage and Des Moines experience distinct seasonal changes, the shift from Anchorage’s cooler summers and cold, dark winters to Des Moines's warmer summers and slightly milder winters is notable. You'll enjoy more sunny days in Des Moines, but prepare for tornado and flood risks, unlike Anchorage's earthquake and wildfire dangers. Des Moines also has a higher average annual humidity and UV index, which might influence your daily comfort and activities. Adjusting to the different types of seasonal allergies and the significantly different patterns of rainfall and snowfall will also be part of your transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Anchorage to Des Moines
When planning a move from Anchorage, AK to Des Moines, IA, comprehending the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, income, and taxation between Anchorage and Des Moines, thereby enabling better financial planning and decision-making for potential movers.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $86,654 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 128.4 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | Up to 8.53% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.18 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, Oil, Tourism | Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Variable |
| Poverty | Lower | Lower-Middle |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lesser |
Moving from Anchorage to Des Moines, you'll find the cost of living significantly lower, a crucial factor given the disparity in average household incomes. Des Moines' state income and sales taxes introduce new considerations not encountered in Anchorage, potentially affecting disposable income. While both cities offer unique economic strengths—Anchorage with its military and oil sectors, and Des Moines with its booming insurance and financial services industries—the overall affordability of Des Moines, coupled with its growing economic landscape, makes it an attractive option for many looking to relocate.
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider relocating from the scenic landscapes of Anchorage, AK, to the heartland charm of Des Moines, IA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot to help you grasp the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Anchorage & Des Moines, offering insights into the typical lifestyle and values of their residents.
| Anchorage | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately liberal | Leans liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse, with a history of both Republican and Democratic representation | Democratic leadership in recent years |
| Religion | Mixed, with sizable Christian and non-religious communities Local Church Example | Primarily Christian, with a strong presence of Protestant and Catholic communities Local Church Example |
While Anchorage presents a balanced political landscape with its diverse representation, Des Moines has seen a more consistent lean towards liberal policies, reflecting the city's recent governance trends. The religious makeup in both cities underscores the presence of a strong Christian community, though Anchorage exhibits a slightly more pronounced diversity in beliefs. Such nuances in the community profiles of these cities might influence your experience, shaping your social connections and engagement with local culture.
Anchorage vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Anchorage, AK to Des Moines, IA? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Anchorage & Des Moines will help you adjust to what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This comparison aims to make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 19 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
When diving deeper into the differences, you'll find Anchorage's traffic to be slightly less congested than Des Moines, offering a somewhat smoother commute. However, Des Moines edges out with better public transit options, making it easier for those without a vehicle to navigate the city. It's worth noting that both cities present unique challenges for residents without cars, but Des Moines might offer a tad more accessibility in this regard. Planning your move means considering these small but significant differences in day-to-day life to ensure you can get around easily, regardless of your method of transportation.
Popular Anchorage, AK to Iowa Moving Routes
