Best Washington to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling political heart of the nation in Washington, D.C., to the tranquil, community-focused vibes of Des Moines, IA, marks a thrilling leap into a new chapter of your life. You’re transitioning from the ever-engaging Capital City, with its monuments and museums, to the Hawkeye State's cultural hub, known for its rich art scene and welcoming neighborhoods. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance journey, we emphasize the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your possessions safely make the trek from one distinctive lifestyle to the other.
Best Washington to Des Moines Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Washington guide.
5 Best Washington to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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
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.
Washington vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of Washington DC's top neighborhoods with the closest equivalent in Des Moines, IA. This is a comparison of local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Des Moines, IA to help you find a new area that feels like home.
| Washington | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | East Village | Vibrant nightlife and diversity |
| Georgetown | Beaverdale | Historic homes and strong community vibe |
| Capitol Hill | Sherman Hill | Historic architecture and close to downtown |
| Adams Morgan | Drake Neighborhood | Eclectic with a strong local culture |
| Logan Circle | Roosevelt | Cultural hotspots and trendy shops |
| Columbia Heights | Highland Park | Diverse and family-friendly |
| Navy Yard | Gray's Lake | Modern amenities and outdoor spaces |
| Shaw | Valley Junction | Historical with a creative scene |
| U Street Corridor | Ingersoll Avenue | Entertainment and dining |
| Foggy Bottom | Waveland Park | Quiet yet central, with access to green spaces |
If you're captivated by Georgetown's historic charm and community-focused atmosphere, you'll find Beaverdale in Des Moines shares similar vibes, featuring tree-lined streets and brick Tudor homes. Those who enjoy the eclectic and vibrant spirit of Adams Morgan might appreciate the Drake Neighborhood, where local events and indie businesses thrive, encapsulated by treasures like the Drake University cultural attractions. Meanwhile, Dupont Circle's lively nightlife and cosmopolitan aura find parallels in Des Moines' East Village, home to unique shops, bars, and the well-loved East Village Spa. Whether you're drawn to historic districts with a modern twist or neighborhoods bustling with cultural diversity and entertainment, this comparison serves as your guide to finding a slice of Washington, DC, right in the heart of Des Moines, IA.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington to Des Moines
Moving from Washington DC, DC to Des Moines, IA presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. The comparison ahead aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you to weigh pros and cons thoughtfully.
Washington, DC- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Crowded
- Political intensity
Des Moines, IA- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- More spacious
- Relaxed atmosphere
Des Moines, IA- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer historic sites
- Car-dependent
- Fewer job options
Washington, DC- Vibrant culture
- Historic landmarks
- Public Transit
- Numerous job opportunities
Despite the shift from the bustling, politically charged environment of Washington DC to the more laid-back, spacious living of Des Moines, one will notice certain trade-offs. Washington DC’s Smithsonian museums and abundant historic sites contrast with Des Moines’ quieter, but growing downtown area, which includes attractions like the Des Moines Art Center. While you may miss the extensive public transportation network of DC, Des Moines offers a chance to embrace more affordable living and open spaces, such as the scenic Gray's Lake Park. The transition might require adjusting to a reliance on cars but promises a community-oriented lifestyle with a significant reduction in daily stress factors.
Washington vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the essence of a place you're moving to. By examining the food scene, we gain insights into the local culture and lifestyle. In this regard, we're going to undertake a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Des Moines , enabling you to better grasp what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| Washington | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-smoke | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Wings | Smoked Pork Chops |
| Most popular street food item | Jumbo Slice Pizza | Taco Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Ethiopian Cuisine | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Washington DC, the food scene is as diverse as its population. Neighborhoods like Shaw and Capitol Hill are hotspots for food enthusiasts, where you can enjoy iconic dishes such as Half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl or indulge in world-class dining at Michelin-starred Rose's Luxury. Moving to Des Moines, you'll find a tight-knit food community that prides itself on hearty Midwestern classics. The East Village area, in particular, is home to unique culinary experiences, like the fusion flavors found at Fong's Pizza or the legendary Pork Tenderloin Sandwich that is a must-try locally. Both cities offer a rich tapestry of flavors, but each with its distinct local flair and traditions.
Washington vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding your next favorite eatery is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This chart will ease the transition by comparing top restaurants in Washington DC to their counterparts in Des Moines , helping you discover local flavors that resonate with your tastes.
| Washington | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Rasika | Ajna Bistro | Features innovative Indian cuisine, capturing Rasika's essence. |
| Le Diplomate | Bistro Montage | Offers a French-inspired menu, mirroring Le Diplomate's Parisian vibes. |
| Zaytinya | Splash Seafood Bar & Grill | Though focusing on seafood, it delivers a medley of Mediterranean flavors akin to Zaytinya. |
| 2Amys | Gusto Pizza Co. | Serves creative and artisanal pizzas, echoing 2Amys' dedication to quality. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Offers a unique take on American classics, capturing Ben's iconic status in a different light. |
| Fiola Mare | Harbinger | Focuses on intricate dishes with local ingredients, paralleling Fiola Mare's upscale seafood experience. |
| Bad Saint | KRUNKWICH Ramen House | While centered around ramen, reflects Bad Saint's adventurous and bold flavors. |
| Little Serow | Fong's Pizza | Fong’s innovative Asian-inspired pizzas and tiki drinks offer a fun twist similar to Little Serow's approach. |
| Jose Andres’ minibar | Alba | Alba's inventive and meticulously crafted dishes channel minibar's experimental spirit. |
| The Dabney | Table 128 Bistro + Bar | Both are committed to local sourcing and sophisticated, yet cozy atmospheres. |
When exploring Des Moines' dining scene, the transition from Washington DC's diverse and culinary excellence is smoothed out with local gems like Alba and Bistro Montage. Alba, akin to Jose Andres’ minibar, captures the inventive spirit with dishes that are as visually arresting as they are delectable, making it a must-visit for the adventurous foodie. Meanwhile, Bistro Montage, channeling the Parisian flair of Le Diplomate, serves up a slice of France with its meticulously prepared French cuisine. Whether you're craving the bold and globally inspired flavors of Rasika or the comforting charm of Ben's Chili Bowl, you'll find that Des Moines offers an array of dining experiences that echo the quality and character of Washington DC's celebrated restaurants.
Ready to start your move?
Washington vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, diving deep into the real estate landscape of your potential new city is crucial. Comparing Washington DC and Des Moines, IA can give you a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. Let's explore how these two cities stack up against each other in key living aspects.
| Comparison | Washington | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Federal | Ranch and Craftsmen |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Accessibility, Luxury Amenities | Spacious Yards, Family-friendly |
While Washington DC boasts handsome Victorian and Federal townhouses, commanding higher property and rental prices due to its urban density and historic charm, Des Moines offers a more suburban feel with Ranch and Craftsman-style homes that are much more affordable. The high walkability and bikeability scores in DC reflect its compact, well-connected infrastructure, contrasting with Des Moines which prioritizes spaciousness and a slower pace of life. Despite these differences, each city caters to its own unique lifestyle preferences, whether you're seeking the hustle and bustle of urban living or desiring a quiet, family-oriented community. It's also interesting to note the emphasis on luxury amenities and accessibility in DC's real estate listings, versus the Des Moines focus on spacious yards and a family-friendly environment.
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.
Washington vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
If you're making the move from Washington DC to Des Moines, understanding how the weather compares in these two locations is essential. From sunshine days to seasonal allergies, knowing what to expect can help you prepare for your new home.
Washington, DC
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington, DC
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Tornados, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Washington DC to Des Moines will bring you slightly cooler summer highs and significantly colder winter lows. With both cities enjoying a similar number of sunny days, Des Moines edges ahead in terms of air quality which may be a relief for those sensitive to pollution. However, be prepared for nearly double the amount of annual snowfall in Des Moines, making winter activities and preparation a more prominent part of life. Both cities experience a similar humidity level throughout the year, but the winter in Des Moines will feel more biting due to the lower temperatures and higher snowfall.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to Des Moines
When you're moving from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of how your expenses, taxation, and overall economic environment will change when moving from Washington DC to Des Moines.
| Comparison | Washington | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 - 8.95 | 0.33 - 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.00 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Higher | Lower |
While the average household income is higher in Washington DC, the cost of living index significantly contrasts between the two cities, with Des Moines being substantially more affordable. This difference will likely impact your budget positively, should you choose to move. However, it's essential to consider the state income tax and property tax rates, as they can influence your financial situation. For example, although the state income tax range is slightly broader in Des Moines, the average property tax rate is considerably higher than in Washington DC. Understanding these variations can help you make a more informed decision regarding your relocation.
Washington vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
In moving from Washington DC to Des Moines, IA, it's enlightening to explore the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Des Moines . This quick guide provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, highlighting their differences and similarities for those transitioning between these two distinctive locales.
| Washington | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Highly politically engaged | Active in local governance |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Christianity predominantly, with active Catholic and Presbyterian communities |
While both cities lean Democratic, Washington DC presents an overwhelmingly Democratic stance, often at the forefront of national political issues, reflecting its status as the nation's capital. In contrast, Des Moines, while still leaning Democratic, exhibits a more balanced political landscape. Additionally, the engagement in local politics is noteworthy in both cities, though the subjects and scale of the governance issues can significantly differ. Des Moines showcases a predominantly Christian religious makeup, with particularly active Catholic and Presbyterian communities, illustrating a contrast to Washington's more religiously diverse population. Navigating these dynamics can enrich your understanding of community engagement and interaction as you make your move.
Washington vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Des Moines offers a distinct change in your daily commute and traffic experience. This comparison between Washington DC & Des Moines aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in each city.
| Comparison | Washington | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 20.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
When you move from Washington DC to Des Moines, you'll notice a significant difference in your daily commutes primarily due to the lesser traffic congestion in Des Moines, which results in shorter average commute times. While Washington DC prides itself on a highly efficient public transit system, which includes the Metro, buses, and bike-share programs, allowing residents to easily navigate the city without a car, Des Moines has a more limited public transit system, making a personal vehicle almost a necessity for daily commutes. This distinct difference emphasizes the need to adjust your transportation plans and preferences when relocating.
Popular Washington, DC to Iowa Moving Routes
