Best Oakland to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Oakland to Des Moines Movers

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.

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Best Oakland to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.11A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Rock 'n Roll Moving9.03NRActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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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)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 304+ data points

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Packing and unpacking service
  • Dismantling and reassembling service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277673 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
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.

Relocating from Oakland to Des Moines Neighborhood Guide

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.

OaklandDes Moines
RockridgeBeaverdale

Lush with quaint charm

MontclairWaterbury

Historic and upscale

Piedmont AvenueEast Village

Eclectic shopping & dining

TemescalDrake

Hip with a young vibe

Grand LakeSherman Hill

Classic with community focus

Jack London SquareDowntown

Urban and waterfront proximity

Dimond DistrictHighland Park

Cozy and historical

GlenviewWaveland Park

Quiet with local cafes

LaurelIngersoll Park

Family-friendly and diverse

West OaklandRiver 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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Dense population
  • Urban pollution
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • More affordable housing
  • Less congestion
  • More open space
  • Cleaner environment
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less culinary variety
  • Fewer job sectors
  • Harsher winters
Oakland, CA iconOakland, 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.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oakland to Des Moines

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.

OaklandDes 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

    • Wood Tavern
    • ShakeWell
    • Nyum Bai
    • Fong’s Pizza
    • Jethro’s BBQ
    • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
6

Abundance of Food Trucks

9
5

Foodie Scene

9
7

Vegan Friendly

9
6

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.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Oakland to Des Moines

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.

CommisAlba

Seasonal, chef-driven dishes with an inventive edge

Brown Sugar KitchenSouthern Spice

Soulful Southern cuisine with a modern twist

ShakewellCentro

Urban eatery offering Italian-inspired dishes

Chop BarCourt Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.

Cozy spot for hearty meals & house brews

DuendeMalobar

Tapas and inventive Spanish cuisine with a cosy atmosphere

HomeroomMac Shack

Quintessential mac 'n' cheese with a creative flair

Grand Lake KitchenSt. Kilda Cafe & Bakery

Casual eatery with an elegant touch for all-day brunch

Nyum BaiArome

Authentic dishes that bring a taste of Cambodia to the heart of Des Moines

XoloTacos Mariana’s

Authentic Mexican street food with a homely vibe

PizzaioloGusto 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.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Oakland to Des Moines

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.

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 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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Des Moines

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.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

86°F / 66°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

31°F / 14°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23

Oakland, CA

36

Des Moines, IA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Oakland, CA

36

Des Moines, IA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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.

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.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oakland, CA and Des Moines, IA

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.

OaklandDes Moines

Political Make-up

Primarily DemocraticMixed, leans Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive policiesCentrist with progressive leanings

Religion

DiverseChristian 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.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Des Moines

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.

OaklandDes Moines
29.220.4

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

73

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

74

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with effortChallenging

Can you get by without car?

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.

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