Best Miami to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Miami to Des Moines Movers

Moving from the vibrant life of Miami, FL to the heart of the Midwest, Des Moines, IA, marks an exciting journey and a significant life change. You're trading the bustling beaches and neon lights of "The Magic City" for the wholesome charm and sprawling fields of "The Hawkeye State." Given the vast distance and difference in lifestyle, it's critical to ensure your belongings are in safe hands. That's why we emphasize the necessity of entrusting your move to professional movers who are not only trusted but ranked among the best based on an unbiased algorithm, ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible.

Florida iconArrow iconIowa icon

Best Miami to Des Moines Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Easy Florida Moving LLC9.55A+Authorized For HHGContact
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
Dixie Movers9.53A+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 Miami guide.

5 Best Miami to Des Moines Moving Companies

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

Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.55/10
based on 1,244+ data points

About Easy Florida Moving LLC

Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company provi...Read More >>

Services

  • Long Distance Relocation
  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving (in State)

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3064335 / 57089

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional9.54/10
based on 2,112+ data points

About Our Family Moving and Storage LLC

Based in Hollywood, FL, Our Family Moving and Storage is a local and family-owned moving business specializing in local and long-distance mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3374772 / 1082468

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Dixie Movers Logo
Exceptional9.53/10
based on 3,045+ data points

About Dixie Movers

When it was founded in 2015, Dixie Movers handpicked all of the good things about the moving industry and left out all of the bad. It runs i...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long distance moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3080327 / 66319

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
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.

Miami vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from Miami, FL to Des Moines, IA, familiarizing yourself with new surroundings can be daunting. To ease this transition, we've aligned neighborhoods from each city, offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Miami, FL & Des Moines, IA to find your perfect match.

MiamiDes MoinesHow They're Similar
BrickellDowntown Des MoinesVibrant nightlife, business hub
Coconut GroveBeaverdaleLush surroundings, community-minded
WynwoodEast VillageArtsy vibe, boutique shops
South BeachHistoric East VillageDynamic social scene, historic charm
Coral GablesSouth of GrandAffluent, historic estates
Little HavanaSherman HillDiverse, rich in history
Miami Design DistrictWest Des MoinesUpscale shopping, modern amenities
Key BiscayneWaterburyExclusive, serene community
Miami ShoresWaveland ParkQuiet, family-friendly atmosphere
AventuraJohnstonModern suburban living, ample greenery

In Miami's Wynwood, locals and tourists flock to the Wynwood Walls for its iconic street art and vibrant nightlife, much like visitors in Des Moines enjoy the eclectic mix of local boutiques and eateries in the East Village. South Beach's lively atmosphere, with places like Lincoln Road Mall, aligns with the Historic East Village's dynamic social scene and historic charm where landmarks and modern establishments like Up-Down arcade bar coexist. Meanwhile, the lush surroundings and community-focused vibe of Coconut Grove are reminiscent of Des Moines’ Beaverdale neighborhood, known for its Beaverdale Fall Festival and quaint, brick homes lining idyllic streets.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Miami to Des Moines

Moving is always an adventure, filled with opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on relocating from Miami, FL to Des Moines, IA, highlighting the ups and downs you might experience during this significant transition. By examining both the pros and cons, you'll be better prepared for what lies ahead in your new home.

CONs
PROs
Miami, FL iconMiami, FL
  • High humidity
  • Expensive living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Noisy urban life
  • Frequent hurricanes
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Seasonal weather
  • Affordable housing
  • Lower traffic
  • Quiet neighborhoods
  • Safer climate
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • No beaches
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less diversity
  • Cold winters
  • Seasonal changes
Miami, FL iconMiami, FL
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse culture
  • Warm winters
  • Tropical lifestyle

While Des Moines might not have the beaches and year-round tropical climate of Miami, it offers its own unique charm. In Des Moines, you can enjoy a serene walk through the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a hub for arts and relaxation in the city. Des Moines' affordable housing means you have more options to live comfortably without breaking the bank. Plus, the city's quieter nightlife, centered around areas like East Village, still offers plenty of entertainment and dining options like the popular Zombie Burger, where unique takes on American classics meet fun atmosphere. Despite the colder winters, Des Moines carries a beauty of its own, with seasons bringing about different activities and sights to enjoy, from autumn leaves in the city parks to winter sports in nearby facilities.

Miami vs. Des Moines Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Miami & Des Moines will help you get a taste of what to expect as you embark on your new journey. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and living, and understanding the culinary scene is essential in feeling right at home in your new city.

MiamiDes Moines
Most iconic local food itemCuban SandwichPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dishRopa ViejaSmoked Pork
Most popular street food itemEmpanadasTaco Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodPlantain DishesVegan Corn Dogs
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Joe's Stone Crab
  • Versailles Restaurant
  • Mandolin Aegean Bistro
  • Fong's Pizza
  • 801 Chophouse
  • Zombie Burger
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Miami, the Cuban Sandwich and Ropa Vieja reflect the city's strong Cuban influence, with eateries in Little Havana boasting some of the best. Joe's Stone Crab, a century-old establishment, is an embodiment of Miami's seafood tradition. Des Moines, meanwhile, offers a different taste experience. The pork tenderloin sandwich, a state fair classic, dominates local menus, with Smokey D's BBQ providing a quintessential smoked pork experience. Des Moines' food scene is eclectic, highlighted by Fong's Pizza, known for its fusion cuisine, and Zombie Burger's creative take on American classics.

Miami vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison

Moving cities is more than just finding a new house; it's about discovering where you'll create new memories, especially around dining tables. This restaurant comparison chart will be your guide in transitioning from Miami to Des Moines, aiming to transform the unknown into the familiar. Let's find your next favorite eatery!

MiamiDes MoinesWhat You'll Love
Joe's Stone CrabWaterfront Seafood MarketIconic seafood with fresh catch dishes and a cozy vibe
Yardbird Southern Table & BarSouthern SpiceAuthentic southern cuisine with a homey atmosphere
La Mar by Gastón AcurioLimon Peruvian CuisineTraditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist
Mandolin Aegean BistroOpen SesameOffers a plethora of Mediterranean flavors that evoke the essence of Mandolin
Zuma MiamiAkebono 515Fine dining with a Japanese twist, comparable to Zuma's sophistication
Versailles RestaurantCuban DelightsAuthentic Cuban cuisine that mirrors the iconic Versailles experience
Michael's Genuine Food & DrinkTable 128 Bistro + BarFarm-to-table dining that echoes Michael’s commitment to fresh, genuine dishes
KyūHarbingerInnovative and seasonal dishes with a similar commitment to unique flavors and techniques
Niu KitchenCafe Baratta'sA cozy spot for contemporary eats, capturing Niu Kitchen’s intimate and innovative vibe
El Palacio de los JugosLa Mie BakeryA vibrant local bakery and café, offering fresh and flavorful dishes reminiscent of El Palacio's zest

When exploring the dining scene in Des Moines, it's thrilling to find places like Akebono 515, where the meticulous preparation and presentation of each dish mirror the celebrated experiences at Miami's renowned Zuma. Similarly, stepping into Southern Spice will immediately remind you of Yardbird's comforting and richly flavored southern meals. These Des Moines restaurants not only promise to fulfill your culinary cravings but also provide a sense of continuity and comfort through their familiar flavors and warm hospitality, paving the way for new memorable moments in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Miami vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect to consider when planning a move. It's vital to understand how Miami and Des Moines stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle. This comparison aims to shed light on these elements so you can make an informed decision.

ComparisonMiamiDes Moines
Typical Architecture StyleArt Deco, ModernCraftsman, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean view, Luxury amenitiesSpacious yards, Family-friendly

When comparing the housing markets of Miami and Des Moines, the contrast in median home prices and monthly rents are significant, reflecting the broader cost of living differences. Miami's vibrant Art Deco architecture and ocean views cater to those seeking a luxury urban lifestyle, reflected in its higher urban lifestyle score. Conversely, Des Moines appeals to families or individuals seeking a more spacious and quiet living environment, with its popular listings featuring spacious yards and Craftsman or Ranch-style homes. This distinction highlights the divergent lifestyles the two cities offer, from Miami's bustling urbanity to Des Moines's quieter, family-oriented communities.

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.

Miami vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Miami to Des Moines, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison helps prepare for a transition from Florida's warmth to Iowa's varied climate. Miami's warm, sunny days contrast with Des Moines' cooler, more variable weather, emphasizing the importance of this aspect in your relocation planning.

Summer icon
88°F / 77°F

Miami, FL

86°F / 65°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
76°F / 60°F

Miami, FL

33°F / 17°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
61

Miami, FL

36

Des Moines, IA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Miami, FL

36

Des Moines, IA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMiamiDes Moines
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanesTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Miami and Des Moines enjoy warm summers, the winter months present a stark contrast, with Miami maintaining mild temperatures and Des Moines experiencing cold, snowy conditions. The significant difference in annual snowfall—none in Miami compared to an average of 36 inches in Des Moines—means you'll need to prepare for winter driving and snow removal. Additionally, while Miami faces hurricanes, in Des Moines, you'll need to stay vigilant for tornadoes and blizzards. Despite these differences, both cities offer unique advantages, whether it's Miami's year-round sunshine or Des Moines' picturesque snowy winters.

Ready to start your move?

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

When deciding to move, it’s crucial to contrast the financial landscapes of your current and future homes. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Miami compare to Des Moines will better prepare you for your financial future.

ComparisonMiamiDes Moines
Avg. Household Income$48,789$60,693
Cost of Living Index10690.9
State Income Tax0Up to 8.53
Avg. Property Tax1.021.56
Avg. Sales Tax76
Top 3 IndustriesTourism, Finance, International TradeInsurance, Financial Services, Government
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessNoticeableMinimal

The transition from Miami to Des Moines might surprise you financially. Despite a higher state income tax rate in Iowa, Des Moines offers a lower cost of living index compared to Miami. This could mean that your day-to-day expenses, like groceries and utilities, could be significantly lower. Additionally, the average household income in Des Moines is higher. This, paired with the city's lower poverty and homelessness rates, suggests a generally higher standard of living. The primary industries also shift from tourism and international trade in Miami to insurance and financial services in Des Moines, indicating potential vocational opportunities in these sectors.

Miami vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Miami, FL to Des Moines, IA, it's useful to understand how the cities compare in terms of their social landscape. This quick guide aims to provide a snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Miami & Des Moines and the religious makeup of each city’s residents to help you get a feel for the communities you’ll be joining.

MiamiDes Moines
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsDiverse with international influenceCommunity-oriented with a focus on local issues
ReligionCatholicism, JudaismProtestantism, Catholicism

In Miami, you’re nestled within a melting pot of cultures that significantly influences its political and religious landscape, making it lean Democratic but with a vibrant mix of international perspectives. Local politics are as diverse as its people, reflecting global issues alongside domestic concerns. In contrast, Des Moines, while also leaning Democratic, places a stronger emphasis on community and local issues, fostering a more homogenous political environment. The predominant religions in Miami are Catholicism and Judaism, reflective of its substantial Hispanic and Jewish populations. Meanwhile, Des Moines sees a higher presence of Protestant and Catholic adherents, aligning with the broader religious demographic of Iowa. Both cities, despite their differences, offer welcoming communities for those of varied political beliefs and religious backgrounds.

Miami vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can dramatically change your commute. This quick guide aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Miami & Des Moines, highlighting the main differences in driving and transiting options. Whether you're used to the bustling streets of Miami or the more laid-back pace of Des Moines, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.

ComparisonMiamiDes Moines
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2919
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultVery difficult

In Miami, you'll likely face heavier traffic with an average commute time of 29 minutes and congestion scoring 8 out of 10. Public transit is more available, rated at 6 out of 10, though living without a car can still be challenging. In contrast, Des Moines offers a more relaxed pace, with an average commute time of just 19 minutes and lower traffic congestion. However, this comes at the cost of less accessible public transportation, making it very difficult to get by without a car. This stark difference underlines the importance of considering your commuting preferences and lifestyle when making the move.

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