Best Fresno to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the vibrant, agricultural heart of Fresno, CA to the dynamic, cultural hub of Des Moines, IA signifies an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. While you may be leaving behind Fresno's sunny landscapes and the allure of the "Raisin Capital" for Des Moines' bustling downtown and the charm of the "Hartford of the West," the transition promises to be an enriching experience. Acknowledging the long journey ahead, the importance of relying on trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstated, which is why we at Great Guys Moving use an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers for your cross-country adventure.
Best Fresno 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 |
| All In A Day Moving Services | 8.75 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Pete's Moving Services LLC | 8.44 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Meathead Movers | 7.99 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Fresno guide.
5 Best Fresno 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
This listing has been claimed by All In A Day Moving ServicesAbout All In A Day Moving Services
All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving company that ser...Read More >>
Services
- Local and long-distance moving
- Piano moving
- Packing services
About Pete's Moving Services LLC
Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commerci...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moves
About Meathead Movers
Since 1997, Meathead Movers has been providing high-quality relocation services to the entire California area, including Fresno. This moving...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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.
Fresno vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Making a move to a new city can feel like a step into the unknown. To ease this transition, we're offering a guide aimed at comparing the local neighborhoods between Fresno, CA & Des Moines, IA . This side-by-side comparison is designed to help you find a similar community in Des Moines, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort in your new surroundings. Let's delve into the neighborhoods that offer a comparable lifestyle, vibe, and local amenities.
| Fresno | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Tower District | East Village | Vintique shops, eclectic dining |
| Figueroa Park | Waterbury | Historic, affluent with spacious parks |
| Sunnyside | Waveland Park | Family-friendly, with park access |
| Woodward Park | Gray's Lake | Nature trails, lake activities |
| The Bluffs | South of Grand | Prestigious homes, scenic beauty |
| Van Ness Extension | Sherman Hill | Historic district, classic architecture |
| Huntington Boulevard | Drake Neighborhood | Historic homes, collegiate vibe |
| Old Fig Garden | Beaverdale | Quaint, with older homes and charm |
| Tarpey Village | Highland Park | Community-focused, local businesses |
| River Park | Ingersoll Park | Vibrant nightlife, diverse dining |
If you are drawn to the charm and culture of Fresno's Tower District, with its rich blend of historical landmarks and modern conveniences like Tower Theatre, you'll find a similar eclectic and vibrant experience in Des Moines' East Village, where shops like RAYGUN provide a unique local flavor. For those who appreciate the spacious parks and affluent atmosphere of Figueroa Park, Waterbury in Des Moines offers a similar upscale, suburban feel, complete with lush landscapes and grand homes. Lastly, the Sunnyside neighborhood's family-oriented vibe is mirrored in Des Moines' Waveland Park, where families gather for outings at Waveland Golf Course and enjoy easy access to multiple parks, forging a strong sense of community.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Fresno to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another brings its unique set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Fresno, CA to Des Moines, IA. Understanding both sides will help you make a well-informed decision about your move.
Fresno, CA- Higher crime rate
- Extreme summer heat
- Lower job growth
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rate
- Milder summer temps
- Higher job growth
Des Moines, IA- Less agricultural jobs
- Snowy winters
- Smaller food scene
Fresno, CA- Vibrant agriculture
- More sunny days
- Diverse food scene
While moving from Fresno, CA to Des Moines, IA, it's essential to consider the lifestyle adjustments required. For instance, Des Moines offers a calmer pace of life with its lower crime rate and growing job market, notably within its insurance sector. Major employers like Principal Financial Group and Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield provide stable opportunities. Despite Des Moines having a smaller food scene, you'll find gems like Centro offering exquisite Italian dishes. The colder climate brings snowy winters, a stark contrast to Fresno's sunny days, but also opportunities for winter sports and activities at places like Sleepy Hollow Sports Park. The change in weather also highlights the beauty of the city's parks, like Gray’s Lake Park, which offers stunning views and a variety of activities year-round.
Fresno vs. Des Moines Food Guide
In understanding a city's culture, the local cuisine plays a pivotal role. This is why we're offering a direct comparison to give you a taste—literally—of your potential new home. This comparison of the local cuisine between Fresno & Des Moines is meant to help you navigate the food scene, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Fresno | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Almonds | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip | Corned Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Oreos |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Vegetable Bowl | Tempeh Reuben Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Des Moines from Fresno can be a culinary adventure. In Des Moines, be sure to check out locations like the East Village for a dose of the local foodie scene—this is where you'll find Centro, a restaurant adored for its modern Italian dishes. Meanwhile, Zombie Burger serves up a unique twist on American fast food, showcasing the city's playful take on cuisine. The Pork Tenderloin Sandwich holds a nearly iconic status in Iowa, and understandably so; it's a must-try for any newcomer. Health and fitness are slightly more emphasized in Des Moines compared to Fresno, reflecting in the availability of dishes catering to a healthier lifestyle, such as the Tempeh Reuben Sandwich. While Fresno boasts a vibrant scene of food trucks and an affinity for dishes like the Tri-tip and tacos, Des Moines brings its own charm with a mix of tradition and innovative food experiences.
Fresno vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the importance of food in making a new city feel like home, we've created a comparison to guide you in finding your next favorite dining spots in Des Moines using Fresno's top restaurants as a reference. This way, you can start exploring the culinary scene in Des Moines with a sense of familiarity.
| Fresno | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Lime Lite | Bubba | Southern comfort food with an upscale twist |
| Tower District Diner | Waveland Cafe | Iconic diner known for hearty breakfasts and a classic vibe |
| Casa de Tamales | Malos Cantina | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on traditional tamales |
| Cracked Pepper Bistro | Table 128 Bistro + Bar | Gourmet dishes and a sophisticated atmosphere |
| Mediterranean Grill | Open Sesame | Lebanese cuisine that brings a taste of the Mediterranean |
| Roger Rocka's Dinner Theater | Des Moines Playhouse | Dinner theater offering a blend of entertainment and dining |
| Phoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and Grill | Amani's Mediterranean Grill | Offers an array of Mediterranean flavors in a cozy setting |
| Max's Bistro and Bar | Centro | Urban Italian eatery known for its creative dishes |
| Annex Kitchen | Baru 66 | French cuisine with an innovative twist |
| Yosemite Ranch | 801 Chophouse | Premier steakhouse offering the finest cuts |
When you move from Fresno to Des Moines, you might miss the specific flavors and experiences of your favorite eateries, but there are places in Des Moines ready to fill that void. For example, if you were a regular at the Lime Lite in Fresno, you'll find a comparable atmosphere and Southern comfort dishes at Bubba. Similarly, lovers of the rich Mediterranean flavors from Phoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and Grill will appreciate the offerings and ambiance at Amani’s Mediterranean Grill. Through these comparisons, you can start to build a collection of go-to spots in Des Moines that resonate with your dining preferences back in Fresno, ensuring your culinary adventures continue seamlessly in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Fresno vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when considering a move, and comparing the housing characteristics between Fresno, CA and Des Moines, IA will highlight essential aspects to consider. Here's how they stack against each other in terms of cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Fresno | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Modern | Tudor, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Large Backyard | Garage, Basements |
When you move between Fresno and Des Moines, you're not just changing locations; your entire living experience shifts. In Fresno, larger backyards and pools are common features highlighted in real estate listings, catering to those who love outdoor living and entertainment. The city's lean towards Ranch and Modern architectural styles speaks to a preference for spacious and contemporary homes. Des Moines, on the other hand, often features homes with garages and basements, indicating a practical need for storage and space due to the seasonal changes. Its architecture leans more towards Tudor and Craftsman styles, offering a hint of historical charm combined with durability. Both cities exhibit moderate levels of walkability and bikeability, but Des Moines slightly edges out with a more vibrant urban lifestyle rating, suggesting a bustling city life with close-knit community vibes.
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.
Fresno vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another requires adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison aims to prepare you for the differences you'll experience in the weather between Fresno, CA, and Des Moines, IA. Understanding these changes is crucial for planning your relocation and day-to-day life in a new city.
Fresno, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Fresno, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Fresno, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Fresno, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Fresno | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Fresno to Des Moines, one of the most noticeable changes will be in the winter temperatures and snowfall. Des Moines experiences significantly colder winters with average lows in the teens and a substantial amount of snow, something Fresno residents are not accustomed to. Additionally, the humidity in Des Moines averages higher than in Fresno, which can affect how cold or hot the weather actually feels. Lastly, it's worthwhile to note the difference in natural disaster risks, as Des Moines is prone to tornadoes and floods, unlike Fresno's more frequent earthquakes and wildfires.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Fresno to Des Moines
When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to grasp the financial implications. Understanding how the cost of living and financial environment of Fresno compare to Des Moines will help you make an informed decision. This comparison gives insight into vital economic factors that could influence your lifestyle and budgeting in your new home.
| Comparison | Fresno | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $61,250 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 117.3 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 1-13 | 0.33-8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Health Services | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Relatively higher |
| Poverty | High | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Less prevalent |
When comparing Fresno and Des Moines, one of the most notable distinctions is the difference in the cost of living index; Des Moines is significantly more affordable. Lower average sales tax and a generally lower state income tax range in Des Moines further enhance its affordability. While Fresno offers a warmer climate and strong agricultural and manufacturing sectors, Des Moines stands out for its vibrant finance and insurance industries, which contribute to a relatively higher affluence and a lesser degree of poverty and homelessness. This financial landscape could significantly influence your quality of life and opportunities in Des Moines.
Fresno vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Fresno, California, to Des Moines, Iowa, presents an interesting shift in the community landscape. This comparison of the politics between Fresno & Des Moines and their religious makeup offers a quick snapshot to help you understand the dynamic of your new home. Whether you're curious about local voting trends or the predominant religious communities, this guide aims to provide a clear overview.
| Fresno | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Liberal | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse city governance | Progressive leadership |
| Religion | Mixed, with a strong Christian base | Primarily Christian, with growing diverse religious communities |
When transitioning from Fresno to Des Moines, you'll find both cities exhibit a leaning towards liberal politics, though Des Moines is often considered more progressively led at the city leadership level. In terms of religious makeup, Fresno offers a mixed religious landscape but with a strong Christian base, similar to Des Moines, which is predominantly Christian. However, Des Moines is experiencing a growth in diverse religious communities, reflecting broader demographic shifts. This nuanced view of political and religious orientations will facilitate your understanding and integration into your new community.
Fresno vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Fresno, CA to Des Moines, IA? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Fresno & Des Moines can greatly influence your daily commute and overall satisfaction. This comparison will guide you in setting your expectations rightly and help in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Fresno | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Very Difficult |
While the average commute time is slightly shorter in Des Moines compared to Fresno, the ease of getting around without a car is notably more challenging. In Fresno, the availability of public transit, rated at 6 out of 10, is moderately accommodating with services like the Fresno Area Express (FAX) offering a network of bus routes. In contrast, Des Moines scores lower in public transit availability, reflecting a greater reliance on personal vehicles for daily commute. Traffic congestion in Fresno rates moderately, but moving to Des Moines, you'll enjoy less congested roads. Adjusting to these differences will be key to a smooth transition.
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