Best Iowa to Alaska Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from one state to another is an enthralling chapter in your life, packed with opportunities for growth and new experiences. Imagine transitioning from the corn-filled vistas of Iowa, often fondly referred to as the Hawkeye State, to the vast wilderness of Alaska, the Last Frontier, trading endless fields for untamed nature and northern lights. Given the daunting distance and logistical challenges of such a long move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this journey and are committed to connecting you with the best movers to ensure a smooth transition to your Alaskan adventure.
Best Iowa to Alaska Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.42 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| The Moving Man | 7.82 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. | 6.97 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to Iowa guide.
6 Best IA to AK Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 Adamantine Spine Moving
Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transp...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 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
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
About Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.
Having been in the vehicle transportation business since 1951, Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. is a pioneer in the industry in Alaska. With te...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Alaska
Moving homes is always a monumental decision, especially when it involves relocating from the plains of Iowa to the majestic landscapes of Alaska. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa.
Iowa- Milder summers
- Fewer outdoor adventures
- Smaller wildlife diversity
- Less remote living
Alaska- Stunning landscapes
- Outdoor paradise
- Rich wildlife
- Secluded lifestyle
Alaska- Higher cost of living
- Shopping challenges
- Geographical isolation
- Harsh winters
Iowa- Lower cost of living
- Accessible amenities
- Community feeling
- Gentle winter
While Iowa offers the charm of a close-knit community and a more predictable climate with gentle winters, making jaunts to neighborhood parks and local eateries easy, Alaska suggests adventure with its vast wilderness and opportunity for secluded living. Imagine trading your visits to popular areas like the East Village in Des Moines, where you can dine at top-rated restaurants like Alba, for expeditions in Denali National Park or catching the Northern Lights from your backyard. The challenge of Alaska's harsh winters and remote living also comes with the unparalleled reward of stunning landscapes and a rich diversity of wildlife, unlike anything Iowa can offer. This relocation might mean embracing a higher cost of living and adapting to shopping challenges, but for those who dream of wide-open spaces and an outdoor lifestyle, Alaska is a boundless playground.
Iowa vs. Alaska Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene significantly contributes to grasping the essence of a place's culture and lifestyle. Food is a vibrant expression of local heritage, and in this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Alaska. This will equip you with insights into your new culinary surroundings, allowing for an easier transition and richer experience in your new home.
| Iowa | Alaska | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Corn on the Cob | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | King Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Breakfast Burrito | Reindeer Sausage |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Veggie Skewers | Kelp Pickles |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Iowa to Alaska, you'll notice a remarkable shift in the food scene. In Iowa, the pork tenderloin sandwich reigns supreme, a testament to the state's rich agricultural heritage. On street corners and markets, breakfast burritos offer a hearty start to the day. Alternatively, Alaska introduces a seafood-rich diet, with salmon and king crab dominating menus, and reindeer sausage presenting an exotic street food option. For vegans, Alaska's use of local sea vegetables, like kelp pickles, showcases innovative plant-based eating. In both states, iconic restaurants such as The American Diner in Iowa and The Salmon Bake in Alaska offer unique dining experiences that embody each state's culinary spirit.
Ready to start your move?
Iowa vs. Alaska Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience. Understanding how the housing market varies between Iowa and Alaska can make all the difference. This comparison focuses on cost, architecture, walkability, and more, offering a clear picture of what to expect in your new home state.
| Comparison | Iowa | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Log Cabin and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Backyards, Hardwood Floors | Scenic Views, Proximity to Nature |
When comparing Iowa to Alaska, it's clear that housing costs are overall higher in Alaska due to its remote location and logistical challenges. However, Alaska offers unique living experiences, with many homes boasting stunning scenic views and close proximity to nature. On the other hand, Iowa's real estate focuses on spacious backyards and practicality in architectural styles. Both states have their own appeal depending on what you prioritize: Iowa is great for those looking for affordability and space, while Alaska offers unparalleled access to the great outdoors.
Iowa vs. Alaska Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Iowa to Alaska, understanding the weather comparison between these states is vital to adjust expectations and prepare accordingly. Knowing what weather changes to expect can greatly impact your comfort and lifestyle adjustments.
Iowa
Alaska
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Alaska
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Alaska
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Iowa
Alaska
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Iowa | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Avalanches |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing Iowa to Alaska, it's evident the weather can vary significantly, affecting daily life in both minor and major ways. Iowa experiences warmer summers and has more days of sunshine compared to Alaska, making it crucial for you to prepare for colder, darker winters upon moving. Alaska's significantly higher average snowfall and the presence of unique natural disasters such as earthquakes and avalanches demand both mental and physical preparation. Additionally, if you have allergies, it's worth noting the top seasonal allergies you might encounter in each state. This move invites a substantial shift in how you may prepare for outdoor activities, commuting, and even your dressing habits, underscoring the necessity of understanding these weather differences.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Alaska
When planning a move from one location to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison is designed to highlight how moving from Iowa to Alaska might affect your wallet in terms of income, taxes, and cost of living. Important economic indicators and tax rates are included to offer a clear financial picture between these two states.
| Comparison | Iowa | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,588 | $88,121 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.9 | 132.6 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | None |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53% | 1.19% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.94% | None |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Agriculture, Financial Services | Oil and Gas, Fishing, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Low | Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Moving from Iowa to Alaska can significantly impact your financial situation. While the average household income in Alaska is notably higher, this comes with a higher cost of living index, largely due to the geographic isolation and higher costs of goods and services. However, the absence of state income and sales tax in Alaska presents a considerable financial advantage, offsetting some of the higher living costs. The economic landscape is also quite different, with Alaska's wealth largely stemming from oil and gas, along with burgeoning fishing and tourism sectors, contrasted with Iowa's strong manufacturing, agriculture, and financial services basis. These factors together shape the economic experiences for residents in both states.
Iowa vs. Alaska Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Iowa to Alaska, understanding the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Iowa & Alaska provides a quick snapshot of what to expect. This comparison aims to give you an at-a-glance view of the political leanings, local political dynamics, and religious landscapes in both states.
| Iowa | Alaska | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Republican/Democratic | Republican lean |
| Local Politics | Focus on agriculture, education | Emphasis on oil, fishing industries |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities | Christianity predominant, notable indigenous spiritual practices |
Moving from Iowa to Alaska, you'll notice differences not just in the climate but also in the local political and religious atmosphere. Iowa, with its balanced political leanings, focuses significantly on agriculture and education in its local politics. On the other hand, Alaska, which leans more towards the Republican side, has local politics that are deeply influenced by the oil and fishing industries, key components of the state's economy. Religion in both states is predominantly Christianity; however, Alaska offers a unique insight into indigenous spiritual practices, enriching its cultural landscape. These differences set the stage for a diverse experience in interactions, community involvement, and local governance as you make Alaska your new home.
Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Alaska
Moving from Iowa to Alaska brings a range of differences, including in education. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and Alaska, this guide offers a detailed look.
| Iowa | Alaska |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern IowaUniversity of Alaska Anchorage University of Alaska Fairbanks Alaska Pacific University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon) Willowwind School (Iowa City)Rogers Park Elementary (Anchorage) Northern Lights ABC K-8 School (Anchorage) Pearl Creek Elementary (Fairbanks) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools North Central Junior High (North Liberty) Southeast Junior High (Iowa City) Ames Middle School (Ames)Mears Middle School (Anchorage) Romig Middle School (Anchorage) Randy Smith Middle School (Fairbanks) | |
Top 3 High School Schools West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Decorah High School (Decorah)West Anchorage High School (Anchorage) South Anchorage High School (Anchorage) Dimond High School (Anchorage) | |
Top 3 private high schools Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids) Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines) Regina High School (Iowa City)Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage) Lumen Christi High School (Anchorage) Grace Christian School (Anchorage) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)Pacific Northern Academy (Anchorage) Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage) Birchwood Christian School (Chugiak) | |
Top 3 School Districts Iowa City Community School District Ames Community School District Des Moines Independent Community School DistrictAnchorage School District Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District Fairbanks North Star Borough School District | |
While both Iowa and Alaska offer unique educational opportunities, the style and focus might vary significantly between the two states. For instance, Iowa boasts highly ranked elementary and high schools with a focus on innovation and academic excellence, as seen in institutions like Wickham Elementary in Coralville and West High School in Iowa City. In contrast, Alaska's schools such as West Anchorage High School and Rogers Park Elementary focus on blending traditional learning with the unique cultural and environmental aspects of the state. Choosing between Iowa's Iowa City Community School District and Alaska's Anchorage School District may come down to personal preference for a more traditional versus an adventurous educational ambiance reflecting the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Alaska.
