Best Oakland to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from bustling Oakland, the sunny side of the Bay, to Des Moines, the heart of the Midwest, represents an exciting venture into new beginnings. You're transitioning from California's urban sprawl, known for its iconic Golden Gate and vibrant, diverse culture, to the inviting, community-focused atmosphere of Des Moines, celebrated for its rich arts scene and welcoming neighborhoods. For such a significant journey, it’s crucial to rely on trusted and professional movers to ensure your possessions make the trek safely— that's where we, at Great Guys Moving, step in, committed to connecting you with the best moving experience possible.
Best Oakland to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.23 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Upline Moving | 8.60 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Oakland guide.
5 Best Oakland to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
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 Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized mo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
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.
Oakland vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison guide, focusing on local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Des Moines, IA. This side-by-side look at top neighborhoods and their closest equivalents will help you find a new home that feels familiar.
| Oakland | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Beaverdale | Lush with quaint charm |
| Montclair | Waterbury | Historic and upscale |
| Piedmont Avenue | East Village | Eclectic shopping & dining |
| Temescal | Drake | Hip with a young vibe |
| Grand Lake | Sherman Hill | Classic with community focus |
| Jack London Square | Downtown | Urban and waterfront proximity |
| Dimond District | Highland Park | Cozy and historical |
| Glenview | Waveland Park | Quiet with local cafes |
| Laurel | Ingersoll Park | Family-friendly and diverse |
| West Oakland | River Bend | Trendy with artsy flair |
For those drawn to the eclectic mix of shops and dining experiences offered by Oakland's Piedmont Avenue, Des Moines' East Village will feel like home with its unique blend of local boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Similarly, if you appreciate the lush, quaint charm of Rockridge, Beaverdale's well-established neighborhoods and strong community vibe offer a comparable sense of belonging. Not to overlook, nature lovers who relish the scenic walks in Montclair will find a similar vibe in Waterbury's historic and upscale backdrop in Des Moines. These transitions not only bring the comfort of familiar lifestyles but also invite the exciting opportunity to explore new local favorites, from Beaverdale Books in Des Moines to East Village Spa.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Des Moines
Moving can be a big step, full of excitement and anxiety. This comparison aims to give you a balanced view, highlighting both the challenging and the rewarding aspects of relocating. By contrasting the cons of living in Oakland, CA with the pros of settling in Des Moines, IA , and vice versa, we hope to offer an honest reflection of what awaits you in your new home.
Oakland, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
- Urban pollution
Des Moines, IA- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- More open space
- Cleaner environment
Des Moines, IA- Smaller cultural scene
- Less culinary variety
- Fewer job sectors
- Harsher winters
Oakland, CA- Vibrant culture
- Diverse restaurants
- Better job opportunities
- Mild winters
Deciding to move from Oakland to Des Moines involves weighing a host of factors. Despite the high cost of living, heavy traffic, and urban pollution in Oakland, its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene draw people from all over. Oakland boasts of landmarks such as Lake Merritt and the historic Oakland Museum of California, offering rich cultural and natural beauty. In contrast, Des Moines, with its more affordable housing, less congested roads, and cleaner environment, promises a quality of life that's hard to beat. Although it may have a smaller cultural scene, places like the Gray’s Lake Park and the bustling Downtown Farmers' Market offer a vibrant community life. The transition might present challenges, including adjusting to the harsher winters and finding the same breadth of job opportunities, but Des Moines opens up new horizons for growth and adventure.
Oakland vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local food is vital for grasping what life is like in a new area. This guide presents a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Des Moines to give you a clearer picture of the culinary landscape you’re moving into. Whether you’re a food aficionado or simply love trying local dishes, this comparison will help you navigate your new culinary scene with ease.
| Oakland | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Brisket | Corn-fed Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Walking Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the food scene is as diverse as its population. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their thriving street food scene, where tacos from food trucks are a popular treat among locals and visitors alike. Meanwhile, iconic restaurants like Wood Tavern offer a taste of the local cuisine that's hard to find elsewhere. Oakland's embrace of plant-based diets is evident with options like jackfruit tacos readily available for those seeking vegan alternatives. On the other hand, Des Moines showcases its agricultural roots with dishes like the pork tenderloin sandwich and corn-fed steak taking center stage. Local haunts like Fong's Pizza offer a unique twist on classic dishes, symbolizing the city's growing foodie culture. Whether you're indulging in the hearty flavors of Des Moines or exploring the eclectic tastes of Oakland, both cities offer a culinary journey that reflects their unique cultural landscapes.
Oakland vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home starts with discovering local flavors that excite your palate. This comparison endeavors to transform your moving experience by guiding you to find your next favorite eateries in Des Moines, drawing parallels from Oakland's dining scene . Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide aims to ease your culinary transition.
| Oakland | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Alba | Seasonal, chef-driven dishes with an inventive edge |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Southern Spice | Soulful Southern cuisine with a modern twist |
| Shakewell | Centro | Urban eatery offering Italian-inspired dishes |
| Chop Bar | Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Cozy spot for hearty meals & house brews |
| Duende | Malobar | Tapas and inventive Spanish cuisine with a cosy atmosphere |
| Homeroom | Mac Shack | Quintessential mac 'n' cheese with a creative flair |
| Grand Lake Kitchen | St. Kilda Cafe & Bakery | Casual eatery with an elegant touch for all-day brunch |
| Nyum Bai | Arome | Authentic dishes that bring a taste of Cambodia to the heart of Des Moines |
| Xolo | Tacos Mariana’s | Authentic Mexican street food with a homely vibe |
| Pizzaiolo | Gusto Pizza Co. | Gourmet pizzas with unique toppings and a creative spin |
Exploring Des Moines's dining scene reveals culinary gems that reflect the diversity and flavors of Oakland's iconic eateries. At Alba, you'll find the sophistication and seasonal creativity that fans of Commis adore, set in an inviting, contemporary space. For lovers of Homeroom's gourmet mac 'n' cheese, Mac Shack offers a Des Moines twist on this comfort food classic, with inventive concoctions that are sure to satisfy. And if Nyum Bai's authentic Cambodian flavors have left you longing, Arome in Des Moines promises an equally enchanting experience with dishes that are rich in tradition and taste. Each restaurant has been carefully chosen to offer a seamless transition of culinary favorites, ensuring you'll never be too far from a taste of home, even as you explore new flavors.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Des Moines, IA and Oakland, CA is crucial. Understanding differences in housing costs, styles, and the lifestyle each city offers can help you make an informed decision on where to call home.
| Comparison | Oakland | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Victorian | Ranch, Split-level |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Proximity to Bay Area | Family-friendly, Large Yards |
Moving from Oakland to Des Moines offers a stark contrast, especially in housing costs. The median home price in Oakland is significantly higher, reflecting the Bay Area's competitive real estate market. Homes in Oakland often feature unique Craftsman and Victorian styles, whereas Des Moines tends to have more Ranch and Split-level homes, indicating a different architectural preference. Des Moines offers a more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere with its larger yards and lower urban lifestyle score. However, Oakland's high walkability and bikeability scores, along with its vibrant urban lifestyle, might be more appealing to those seeking a dynamic living environment. This difference exemplifies the distinct lifestyle each city offers, influenced heavily by their real estate characteristics.
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.
Oakland vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Oakland to Des Moines, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison highlights what you're accustomed to and what to expect in your new home.
Oakland, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Oakland to Des Moines, you'll move from a milder, more temperate climate to experiencing four distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold, snowy winters. This change affects not just what you'll wear but how you live, from preparing your home for winter to seasonal activities. The significant difference in annual snowfall—none in Oakland to an average of 36 inches in Des Moines—will introduce you to snow removal tasks. Adjusting to more extreme weather conditions, including higher summer temperatures and severe winter weather, will be part of your new life in Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Des Moines
When moving from one location to another, understanding how the cost of living and financial climate between Oakland and Des Moines compares can prepare you for the financial adjustments required. This comparison aims to highlight the key monetary differences to expect.
| Comparison | Oakland | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.30 | 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 7.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Finance, Insurance, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varied |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Lower |
The financial comparison between Oakland and Des Moines highlights a significant contrast, especially in terms of the cost of living and taxation. With Oakland's cost of living index notably higher than that of Des Moines, you might find your dollar stretches further in Iowa. However, Oakland's larger average household income may balance this difference somewhat. The state income tax and average sales tax rates are also considerably higher in California, impacting disposable income. Housing costs, indicated by average property taxes, suggest Des Moines is more affordable in the long-term, which is a critical factor for potential homeowners. Understanding these differences can help you plan your move and manage expectations regarding affordability and lifestyle in your new city.
Oakland vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can bring about significant changes, especially in the socio-political and religious landscape. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Oakland & Des Moines, providing insights into what you might expect in your new home.
| Oakland | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Mixed, leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Centrist with progressive leanings |
| Religion | Diverse | Christian majority, diverse overall |
Oakland's political landscape is decidedly more progressive, a reflection of California's overall political leaning, whereas Des Moines presents a more centrist stance with progressive leanings, reflecting Iowa's mixed political climate. Religious diversity is present in both cities, with Oakland showcasing an array of faiths and practices reflecting its multicultural population. Des Moines, while having a Christian majority, is also home to various religious communities, providing a spectrum of religious institutions and cultural festivals that you might find comforting and enriching as you settle into your new home.
Oakland vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Oakland, CA, to Des Moines, IA, brings significant lifestyle changes, including how you'll commute daily. To compare the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Des Moines , we've compiled data to help you understand what to expect in terms of daily commutes and navigating around each city.
| Comparison | Oakland | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29.2 | 20.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with effort | Challenging |
When moving from Oakland to Des Moines, you'll notice a substantial difference in your daily commute. Oakland's higher traffic congestion reflects its urban environment and proximity to other major cities like San Francisco, whereas Des Moines offers a more relaxed commute with significantly lower congestion. Public transit in Oakland, including services like BART and buses, makes it feasible, though sometimes cumbersome, to get around without a car. In contrast, Des Moines, with its lower public transit score, suggests a greater dependence on personal vehicles for efficient transportation. Adjusting to these differences will be key to a smooth transition between these two cities.
Popular Oakland, CA to Iowa Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
