Best Irvine to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Irvine to Des Moines Movers

Moving from the sun-kissed streets of Irvine, CA, to the heartwarming community vibes of Des Moines, IA, marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the endless summers and tech innovations of "The OC" for the rich cultural tapestry and down-to-earth allure of "The Heart of America" is a journey ripe with promise. Recognizing the importance of this significant life change, it's crucial to entrust your move to professional, reliable movers, ensuring peace of mind across the miles. With our expertise, we guide you to the best moving services, backed by an unbiased, meticulous ranking system to guarantee your transition is smooth and trustworthy.

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Best Irvine to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Terry Moving & Storage9.37A+Authorized For HHGContact
Safe-Way Moving, Inc.9.27A+Authorized For HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.11A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Irvine guide.

5 Best Irvine to Des Moines Moving Companies

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

Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Terry Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.37/10
based on 2,308+ data points

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Safe-Way Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 2,724+ data points

About Safe-Way Moving, Inc.

As a family-owned and operated moving company, Safe-Way Moving, Inc. has served all of Orange County since 2007. It offers both residential ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1677218 / 616476

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved27,300 (2022)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional9.11/10
based on 621+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Irvine vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make your transition smoother, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Des Moines, IA . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Des Moines that feels just like home, using Irvine's top communities as a reference point.

IrvineDes MoinesHow They're Similar
WoodbridgeBeaverdaleFamily-friendly vibes, community events
NorthwoodWaterburyHistoric homes, lush landscapes
Turtle RockSherman HillUnique architecture, close-knit community
University ParkDrake NeighborhoodAcademic atmosphere, diverse demographics
Quail HillWaveland ParkTranquil, proximity to nature
WestparkHighland ParkCultural diversity, historical landmarks
Shady CanyonSouth of GrandExclusive, large estates
WoodburyIngersoll ParkUrban convenience, community-centric
Great Park NeighborhoodsEast VillageInnovative, vibrant community spaces
Portola SpringsGray's LakeNatural beauty, recreational opportunities

For those moving from Woodbridge in Irvine, you'd find Beaverdale in Des Moines shares a similar sense of community through its annual events and neighborhood gatherings. The historic homes and lush landscapes of Northwood find their match in Des Moines' Waterbury. If you appreciate Turtle Rock's unique architecture and close-knit feel, Sherman Hill in Des Moines offers a similar charm, enhanced by its historical significance and vibrant community life. For the academically inclined residents of University Park, the Drake Neighborhood provides a similar vibrant mix of students, faculty, and professionals. Lastly, the tranquil, nature-adjacent living of Quail Hill can be enjoyed in Des Moines' Waveland Park, known for its peaceful surroundings and proximity to parks like the Waveland Golf Course, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Des Moines

Moving offers a mix of emotions and opportunities, especially when considering leaving Irvine, CA, for Des Moines, IA. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection contrasting the benefits and drawbacks of such a relocation. Understanding both the advantages and less favorable aspects will better prepare you for your big move.

CONs
PROs
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less severe seasons
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Distinct seasons
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities in tech
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Pleasant weather
  • Vibrant multicultural scene
  • Tech & education jobs

While Irvine boasts enviable weather with mild winters and a vibrant cultural scene, including spots like Orange County Great Park, and a strong tech industry presence, Des Moines offers its unique charm. In Des Moines, you'll enjoy the beautiful change of seasons, from the blooming springs at Gray's Lake Park to the snowy winters that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. The cost of living in Des Moines is significantly lower, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle. While it might have fewer multicultural events in comparison to Irvine's bustling scene, Des Moines boasts a strong sense of community and its own cultural landmarks, such as the Des Moines Art Center. This city's growing food scene, with restaurants like Zombie Burger, and community events throughout the year offer newcomers a warm welcome and an engaging lifestyle.

Irvine vs. Des Moines Food Guide

When moving to a new city, diving into the local cuisine is a delightful way to embrace its culture. That's why we've curated a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Des Moines, equipping you with insight into the food scenes of your current and future homes.

IrvineDes Moines
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQBeef Brisket
Most popular street food itemTacosCorn Dogs
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlLentil Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Houston's
  • Habana
  • Din Tai Fung
  • Aria
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Zombie Burger
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Irvine, California, the local cuisine is heavily influenced by global flavors, especially Asian and Latin American, as seen with popular dishes like Korean BBQ and fish tacos. Dining hotspots can be found throughout neighborhoods like the Irvine Spectrum and University Town Center, where you can experience a wide range of culinary delights. On the other hand, Des Moines, Iowa, celebrates hearty American classics with a touch of Midwestern flair, offering dishes such as the legendary pork tenderloin sandwich. The East Village and Gray's Lake areas are vibrant hubs for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in both traditional and innovative culinary offerings. Whether you're craving a vegan acai bowl in Irvine or a comforting lentil soup in Des Moines, each city offers its unique flavors and dining experiences that cater to food lovers of all types.

Irvine vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

Finding a place that feels like home often means finding where you can enjoy your favorite meals. This restaurant comparison chart will help bridge your move from Irvine, CA to Des Moines, IA, guiding you to your new go-to spots that mirror the flavors of your old favorites. Let this be your culinary compass.

IrvineDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
Taco RosaMalos TacosAuthentic tacos with a creative twist
Mastro's Steakhouse801 ChophouseLuxurious steakhouse experience
HiroNori Craft RamenKrunkwich Ramen HouseNoodles and broths with depth of flavor
North ItaliaCentroClassic and innovative Italian dishes
Din Tai FungDumpling DarlingExpertly crafted dumplings and Asian fare
Angelina's Pizzeria NapoletanaGusto Pizza Co.Gourmet pizzas with unique toppings
Kabuki Japanese RestaurantAkebono 515Traditional and modern Japanese cuisine
Veggie GrillFresh Cafe & MarketPlant-based dishes full of flavor
Bosscat Kitchen & LibationsThe Cheese BarDiverse comfort food and cheese pairings
Portola Coffee RoastersMars CafeQuality coffees in a cozy atmosphere

While the ambiance of a restaurant and its geographical location contributes much to its identity, it's the flavors and craftsmanship in the food that leave a lasting impression. For instance, Malos Tacos in Des Moines brings a splash of California flair to Iowa with its innovative taco menu, reminiscent of the variety found at Taco Rosa. On the fancier side, 801 Chophouse’s prime steaks and elegant atmosphere will satisfy those missing the ritzy vibe of Mastro's Steakhouse. For the ramen enthusiasts, Krunkwich Ramen House offers a comforting bowl with distinctive flavors that might just remind one of the broth complexity found at HiroNori Craft Ramen. By exploring these Des Moines equivalents, you'll find not just a meal, but a connection to the familiar tastes and experiences of Irvine.

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Irvine vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, evaluating real estate is crucial. This comparison examines how Irvine, CA , and Des Moines, IA stack up, spotlighting housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences ensures you find your next dream home in a city that fits your needs.

ComparisonIrvineDes Moines
Typical Architecture StyleModern and MediterraneanColonial and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to beaches, top-rated schoolsQuiet neighborhoods, large backyards

While Irvine is known for its high cost of living, it compensates with modern and Mediterranean architecture and close proximity to some of California's best beaches and top-rated schools. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a more affordable housing market, featuring colonial and ranch style homes, known for their quiet neighborhoods and substantial backyards. Walkability and urban lifestyle scores indicate that Des Moines provides a more pedestrian-friendly environment when compared to Irvine, though both cities offer unique advantages depending on your lifestyle preferences and needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Irvine vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Irvine, CA to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to understand the weather differences you'll encounter. Irvine offers a markedly different climate from Des Moines , affecting everything from your daily comfort to your wardrobe and outdoor activities. This comparison will help prepare you for the transition.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Irvine, CA

86°F / 65°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 47°F

Irvine, CA

31°F / 14°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13

Irvine, CA

36

Des Moines, IA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Irvine, CA

36

Des Moines, IA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIrvineDes Moines
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresTornadoes, Severe Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

If you're moving from Irvine to Des Moines, prepare for more pronounced seasons. Winters in Des Moines are significantly colder, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, and annual snowfall averaging 36 inches, a stark contrast to Irvine's mild winters. Additionally, the increase in humidity in Des Moines could affect your comfort and indoor air quality. Summer highs are somewhat similar, though Des Moines experiences fewer sunshine days per year. This change in climate will likely require adjustments in your daily life and wardrobe to remain comfortable throughout the year.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Des Moines

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living, tax rates, and average incomes in Irvine compare to those in Des Moines can greatly influence your financial planning and expectations. This comparison aims to provide a clearer financial picture for your relocation.

ComparisonIrvineDes Moines
Avg. Household Income$105,774$60,693
Cost of Living Index136.490.9
State Income Tax13.38.53
Avg. Property Tax0.731.56
Avg. Sales Tax7.756.00
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, Health ServicesInsurance, Financial Services, Health Services
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessNoticeableLower

While Irvine boasts a significantly higher average household income, it's also coupled with a substantially higher cost of living index. The contrast in state income tax rates, with Irvine's Californian backdrop demanding a higher rate, further contributes to the financial disparity between the two cities. Despite Irvine's higher affluence levels, Des Moines offers a more balanced economic structure with a lower cost of living and more moderate tax rates, making it an attractive city for individuals and families looking for financial stability and a reasonably comfortable lifestyle.

Irvine vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Irvine, CA, to Des Moines, IA, it's crucial to grasp the communities you'll engage with. This guide provides a quick snapshot, honing in on the politics and religious landscape comparing Irvine & Des Moines, to ease your transition and shed light on the vibrant cultures awaiting you.

IrvineDes Moines
Political Make-upLean liberalLean liberal
Local PoliticsDiverse representationCommunity-focused initiatives
ReligionMulticultural and diverseChristian majority with diverse religious communities

When you move from Irvine, with its liberal leanings, diverse religious presence, and multicultural landscape, to Des Moines, you'll notice both cities share a penchant for progressive politics. However, in Des Moines, there's a stronger emphasis on community-focused initiatives, suggesting a more grassroots approach to local governance. Religious diversity is valued in both locales, yet Des Moines has a more pronounced Christian majority, amongst its eclectic spiritual fabric. This juxtaposition of urban and community-centric attitudes towards politics and religion paints a compelling picture of the new experiences and interactions waiting for you.

Irvine vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Des Moines is crucial for adjusting to daily life after a move. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect in your daily commute and traffic conditions in both cities.

ComparisonIrvineDes Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2519
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but difficult

When moving from Irvine to Des Moines, you will find a significant difference in traffic conditions and public transit options. Irvine's average commute time is longer due to higher traffic congestion, rated 7 out of 10, reflecting the city's busy nature. The availability of public transit is slightly better in Irvine than in Des Moines, but residents in both cities find it challenging to get by without a car. Despite this, the lower traffic congestion in Des Moines, at a rate of 3 out of 10, makes the city's overall driving experience less stressful compared to Irvine.

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