Best Des Moines to Phoenix Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Heartland City of Des Moines to the Sun-Soaked Phoenix represents an exciting pivot in your life's journey, embracing new adventures and opportunities. You're trading the tranquil, Midwestern charm of Iowa's capital, known for its welcoming communities and lush green spaces, for the dynamic, desert beauty of "The Valley of the Sun," a city renowned for its vibrant culture, bustling real estate, and diverse cuisine. In such a significant transition, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Our team at Great Guys Moving leverages an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers, helping you settle into your new Phoenix life with ease.
Best Des Moines to Phoenix Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 8.64 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Phoenix Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCAbout Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
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 Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a longstanding moving company with locations in almost every state. In Iowa, this company has been performing residen...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 739369 / FF-20254
468114 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 23 |
| Registered Drivers | 26 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
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.
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to a city you're not familiar with. To ease your transition, we're comparing popular neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA, & Phoenix, AZ . By understanding the similarities between neighborhoods, you can better visualize your new community and find a place that feels like home.
| Des Moines | Phoenix | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Arcadia | Historic homes, family-friendly vibe |
| East Village | Roosevelt Row | Artistic community, vibrant nightlife |
| Waveland Park | North Central Phoenix | Green spaces, family-oriented |
| Waterbury | Encanto | Close-knit community, diverse architecture |
| Sherman Hill | Willo | Historic preservation, active neighborhood association |
| Drake | Coronado | Eclectic, young professionals |
| Highland Park | Alhambra | Diverse community, affordable living |
| Ingersoll Park | Camelback East | Chic, with a mix of urban and suburban |
| South of Grand | Biltmore Area | Upscale living, luxurious homes |
| Gray's Lake | South Mountain | Outdoor activities, close to nature |
In both Des Moines and Phoenix, neighborhood parks play a central role in community life. For instance, the lush, expansive spaces of Waveland Park, which foster a family-oriented vibe, find a counterpart in North Central Phoenix's similarly green and serene neighborhoods. Foodies moving from the East Village's eclectic dining scene will delight in Roosevelt Row's array of innovative restaurants and bars, such as The Larder + The Delta, known for its Southern-inspired dishes. Meanwhile, history buffs enamored with Sherman Hill's architectural treasures might find the Willo district's well-preserved historic homes equally charming, showcasing Phoenix's commitment to keeping its history alive. By identifying these parallels, you'll not only locate a neighborhood aligned with your lifestyle but also discover new favorite spots to create lasting memories.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Phoenix
Moving from one place to another requires a thoughtful comparison of the positives and negatives. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Phoenix, AZ. By closely examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about this significant change.
Des Moines, IA- Colder Winters
- Smaller City
- Less Diversity
- Fewer Job Opportunities
- Less Nightlife
Phoenix, AZ- Sunny Weather
- Larger City
- More Diversity
- Greater Job Market
- Vibrant Nightlife
Phoenix, AZ- More Crowded
- Higher Cost of Living
- Less Greenery
- Heavier Traffic
- Different Culture
Des Moines, IA- Cozy Community
- Lower Cost of Living
- Abundant Green Spaces
- Traffic Is Lighter
- Rich Cultural Scene
When considering the move from Des Moines, IA to Phoenix, AZ, it's important to weigh the vibrant opportunities against the potential downsides. Phoenix's sunny weather is a major draw, offering over 300 days of sunshine per year which is perfect for exploring the city's numerous parks and outdoor activities. The city boasts a bustling job market compared to Des Moines, particularly in sectors like technology and healthcare. The nightlife in Phoenix is also notably vibrant, with areas like Roosevelt Row offering trendy bars and restaurants. However, this comes with the trade-off of a higher cost of living and heavier traffic. Particularly worth mentioning is the cultural shift; while Des Moines offers a cozy community feel with plenty of green spaces like Gray’s Lake Park, Phoenix provides a different vibe with its desert landscape and vast, sprawling urban areas.
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Food Guide
Food is a significant facet of local culture, offering a taste of what living in an area might be like. Through this guide, we aim to compare the local cuisines of two vibrant cities. This comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Phoenix will help you become more familiar with the food scene in your new home.
| Des Moines | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork tenderloin sandwich | Sonoran hot dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef brisket | Carne asada |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet corn | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Grain bowls | Jackfruit tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Upon relocating from Des Moines to Phoenix, you'll notice a shift towards a more vibrant, diverse culinary scene underscored by a robust street food culture, primarily dominated by Mexican cuisine. Phoenix's rich array of tacos, including the innovative jackfruit tacos for vegans, fills the streets, particularly in neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row and Calle 16. Here, food trucks are more abundant, and the health-conscious and vegan-friendly options are notably higher. Meanwhile, Des Moines presents a hearty Midwestern fare with favorites like the pork tenderloin sandwich and beef brisket, celebrated in local gems like Aria Steakhouse and Centro. However, Phoenix edges out with a higher foodie score, owing to its eclectic blend of traditional and modern cuisines, showcased in iconic spots like Pizzeria Bianco and Virtù Honest Craft.
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot can significantly help in making a new city feel like home. This comparative guide between Des Moines and Phoenix restaurants is designed to ease your transition by linking your current culinary favorites to new exciting discoveries in your future hometown.
| Des Moines | Phoenix | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Lux Central | Gourmet burgers with a unique twist and quality coffee. |
| Fong's Pizza | Pizzeria Bianco | Nationally acclaimed, artisanal pizzas crafted with attention to detail. |
| Centro | Cibo | Similar commitment to fresh, high-quality Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. |
| Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop | Little Miss BBQ | Though focused on BBQ, offers the same dedication to traditional flavors and local favorite status. |
| La Mie Bakery | Essence Bakery Café | Both offer exquisite pastries and a charming atmosphere for a brunch or coffee. |
| 801 Chophouse | Durant’s | Classic steakhouse experience with high-end offerings and sophisticated ambiance. |
| Alba | The Henry | Both excel in delivering an upscale dining experience with innovative American cuisine. |
| A Dong Restaurant | Pho Thanh | Celebrated for their authentic Vietnamese dishes, akin to A Dong’s beloved menu. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. | Both brew pubs put a local twist on their beers and menu, embracing local flavors. |
| Tasty Tacos | La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop | Known for their unique gourmet tacos and extensive salsa bar, reminiscent of Tasty Tacos' approach to fast but quality meals. |
For those familiar with the iconic Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines, Lux Central in Phoenix offers a creative take on burgers and a dynamic cafe environment that should feel both novel and comfortably familiar. Meanwhile, fans of Fong's Pizza might find a new love in Pizzeria Bianco, where the focus on quality ingredients and artisanal pizza crafting processes mirror the quirky and innovative approach of Fong's. And if you're missing the comfort of Alba's inventive American cuisine, The Henry in Phoenix stands ready to fill that void with its own flair for creativity and high-quality dining experiences. Each Phoenix counterpart not only offers a similar vibe and commitment to culinary excellence but also adds its unique charm and flavors, assuring you won't miss out on memorable dining experiences while discovering your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial component of any move, significantly impacting your daily life. Understanding how the housing markets of Des Moines and Phoenix compare will help you make well-informed decisions for your relocation. This comparative analysis will highlight key aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle, facilitating a smoother transition for you and your family.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Craftsman | Spanish Colonial, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Swimming pools, outdoor living |
When comparing Des Moines and Phoenix, it becomes evident that the median home price and rent in Phoenix are significantly higher, indicating a more expensive real estate market. This reflects the city's growing demand and its popularity as a residential location. Phoenix's architecture often features elements conducive to its hotter climate, such as swimming pools and outdoor living spaces, which are less common in Des Moines listings. Additionally, while both cities are adapting to more urban lifestyles, Phoenix offers slightly better bikeability, reflecting its larger investments in infrastructure conducive to cycling and outdoor activities. Considering these factors will help you choose the city that best matches your lifestyle preferences and financial situation.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ
1. Midtown Phoenix: Known for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly patios, your furry friends will love the welcoming atmosphere and Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub for a bite where pets are happily seen on the patio.
2. Arcadia: This neighborhood is a paradise for pets with spacious backyards and close proximity to Camelback Mountain for adventurous walks and hikes, making it perfect for active dogs.
3. Roosevelt Row: This artsy district not only welcomes pets in many galleries and cafes but also hosts pet-centric events like the annual Phoestivus market, making it an incredibly fun and engaging community for pet lovers.
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Des Moines, IA, to Phoenix, AZ, understanding the climatic differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights how the weather varies between Des Moines and Phoenix, offering insights into what to expect in your new city. This knowledge is essential for preparing your wardrobe, home, and lifestyle for the changes ahead.
Des Moines, IA
Phoenix, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Phoenix, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Winter storms, Tornadoes | Heatwaves, Dust storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to Phoenix, you'll experience a significant shift in climate. Phoenix enjoys almost 100 more days of sunshine annually and has much higher summer temperatures, which could require adjustments to your living conditions and activities to stay cool and hydrated. While Des Moines has a substantial humidity level that influences the feel of its temperatures, Phoenix's low humidity makes even its higher temperatures bearable but demands attention to hydration. The adjustment to a drier climate may also affect your skin and health, underscoring the importance of a gradual adaptation. Additionally, the difference in natural disasters, like the presence of dust storms in Phoenix rather than the winter storms and tornadoes of Des Moines, highlights the need for different emergency preparedness strategies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Phoenix
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. When relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Phoenix, AZ, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes will compare to your current situation, ensuring a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $68,435 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 100.7 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 4.50% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.62% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 8.6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Real Estate, Manufacturing, Health Care |
| Affluence | Comfortable | Varied |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When moving from Des Moines to Phoenix, you'll encounter different financial and economic environments. The average household income in Des Moines is higher than in Phoenix, allowing a relatively comfortable lifestyle, despite a higher state income tax rate. However, Phoenix offers a lower property tax, which could be beneficial for homeowners. It's important to note that while Phoenix has a higher cost of living index, it also exhibits a more varied affluence level and higher rates of poverty and homelessness compared to Des Moines. These factors are crucial to consider for a balanced lifestyle and financial planning in your new city.
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can bring a host of changes, not least among them the cultural and ideological makeup of your new neighbors. This guide offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Des Moines & Phoenix, providing a quick glimpse into the societal landscapes you'll be moving from and to.
| Des Moines | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Moderate, with a mix of conservative and liberal views |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a diverse range of other religious practices | Christian majority, significant Catholic presence, and growing non-religious segment |
While both Des Moines and Phoenix lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, the local political climates exhibit some differences. Des Moines typically showcases progressive attitudes towards social issues, a reflection of its community and leadership. Phoenix, on the other hand, represents a broader spectrum of political views, balancing liberal and conservative perspectives. Religion in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Phoenix has a notably larger Catholic community alongside a growing number of residents who identify as non-religious. This mosaic of beliefs and political tendencies contributes to the unique cultural tapestry of each city, enriching your experience as you make the transition.
Des Moines vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Phoenix, AZ, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic will change. This comparison between Des Moines & Phoenix will help you better grasp what to expect when navigating through the cities, whether by car or public transit.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.4 | 25.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult, especially in summer |
Considering the table data, it's clear that average commute times are longer in Phoenix, reflecting its wider metropolitan area and heavier traffic congestion. Public transit in Phoenix, characterized by Valley Metro, offers slightly more accessibility than Des Moines, with extensive bus routes and the development of light rail systems. However, both cities present challenges for those attempting to get by without a car, due to the sprawling nature of Phoenix and the less developed transit system of Des Moines. In Phoenix, the intense summer heat further complicates pedestrian and non-automotive transport.
