Best Des Moines to Fresno Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Des Moines to Fresno Movers

Moving from the heart of the Midwest, Des Moines, to Fresno, the gateway to Yosemite, is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. While you may be leaving behind Des Moines's charming fields and tight-knit community for Fresno's vibrant agricultural hub and breathtaking landscapes, the transition is a journey worth embracing. To ensure a smooth and worry-free move across states, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. With Great Guys Moving, you'll have access to the best movers, carefully ranked through our unbiased algorithm, making your significant life change as seamless as possible.

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Best Des Moines to Fresno Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.11A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
All In A Day Moving Services8.75NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.64A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Pete's Moving Services LLC8.44A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Des Moines guide.

5 Best Des Moines to Fresno Moving Companies

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

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
1
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
2
All In A Day Moving Services Logo
Superb
claimed company icon
8.75/10
based on 914+ data points

About All In A Day Moving Services

All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving company that ser...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Piano moving
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3861667 / 1410881

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Fabulous8.64/10
based on 973+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

739369 / FF-20254 468114

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans23
Registered Drivers26
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo
Fabulous8.44/10
based on 2,685+ data points

About Pete's Moving Services LLC

Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commerci...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3314910 / 1177987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2020)
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.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can be a leap into the unknown, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Fresno, CA . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Fresno that shares the spirit and characteristics of your old Des Moines locale.

Des MoinesFresnoHow They're Similar
East VillageTower DistrictVibrant arts scene, historic architecture
BeaverdaleOld Fig GardenFamily-friendly, tree-lined streets
Waveland ParkSunnysideCharming, with a strong sense of community
Sherman HillWilson IslandHistoric homes, engaged community
DrakeFresno High RoedingDiverse, close to universities
South of GrandVan Ness ExtensionUpscale, large homes with yards
Highland ParkTower DistrictUnique shops, eclectic dining options
Gray's LakeWoodward ParkExpansive park space, outdoor activities
IngersollTower DistrictLively nightlife, local eateries
WaterburyThe BluffsExclusive, with sprawling estates

Imagine strolling down the busy, tree-lined streets of the Tower District in Fresno, where a mix of vintage shops, art galleries, and distinctive eateries echo the vibrant energy you adored in Des Moines' East Village. If you're moving from Beaverdale's quaint and cozy ambiance, Old Fig Garden's family-friendly vibe, punctuated by its unique boutiques and local culinary gems like The Fig Tree Café, will feel like home. For outdoor enthusiasts who cherished Gray's Lake park-centric lifestyle, Woodward Park in Fresno offers a vast landscape of gardens, trails, and recreational areas, ensuring your outdoor adventures continue seamlessly in your new city. Each Fresno neighborhood brings its own flavor and community spirit, promising a smooth transition from the charms of Des Moines to the sunny streets of Fresno.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Fresno

Moving from one city to another always comes with its challenges and rewards. In this guide, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Fresno, CA. Through juxtaposed charts, we'll help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, ensuring you make an informed decision about this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller city
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lower average temperatures
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Larger population
  • More cultural diversity
  • Greater job prospects
  • Warmer climate
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Higher living expenses
  • Less greenery
  • Can feel overcrowded
  • Heavier traffic
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Friendly community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Abundant green spaces
  • More intimate city feel
  • Easy navigation

While Des Moines offers a welcoming community vibe with its friendly residents and abundance of green spaces such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Fresno boasts of its cultural diversity and warmer climate conducive for outdoor activities year-round. In Fresno, you can explore the vibrant Tower District, renowned for its eclectic dining options including the famous Dog House Grill, and the rich cultural experiences found at the Fresno Art Museum. Although Fresno suffers from higher living expenses and less greenery, neighborhoods like Woodward Park offer beautiful open spaces, making the transition smoother for those who enjoy being outdoors. This contrast between the cities underscores the importance of prioritizing what matters most to you in your next chapter of life.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Fresno, exploring the important role food plays in the local culture and everyday living. Understand the food scene in your future home to make your transition smoother.

Des MoinesFresno
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichTri-tip Steak
Most popular meat dishCorn-fed Beef SteakChicken Tacos
Most popular street food itemTater Tots on a StickTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegetarian Burritos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Al's Deli
  • Centro
  • Pismo's Coastal Grill
  • The Annex Kitchen
  • Fresno Breakfast House
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

If you're making the move from Des Moines to Fresno, you're in for a delightful shift in local cuisine. In Fresno, the food scene thrives on the rich agricultural surroundings, providing a bounty of fresh ingredients. You'll find chicken tacos and vegetarian burritos lining the streets, with food trucks seemingly around every corner, particularly in vibrant neighborhoods like the Tower District. Local specialties such as the tri-tip steak are a must-try, a testament to Fresno's love for barbecue and grilling. The Annex Kitchen, among other iconic restaurants, showcases the city's Italian influence with a Californian twist. Whether you're vegan, a meat-lover, or somewhere in between, Fresno's diverse culinary landscape is welcoming and expansive, ready to cater to your every craving.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new place feel like home. This Des Moines to Fresno restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries, easing the transition with familiar flavors and dining experiences. Whether you’re craving sophisticated dining or a casual bite, let this guide be your culinary compass.

Des MoinesFresnoWhat You'll Love
Apollo CafePhoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and GrillSimilar cozy Mediterranean vibes and extensive menu.
BubbaThe Tavern at CampagniaOffering a comparable upscale Southern dining experience with a West Coast twist.
CentroAnnex KitchenBoth serve high-quality, Italian-inspired dishes in a stylish, urban setting.
DjangoOvidio Italian RestaurantFor those looking for authentic French and Italian cuisine with a similar ambiance.
Fong's PizzaMe-n-Ed's PizzeriaBoth known for their unique pizza combinations and relaxed atmosphere.
HarbingerCracked Pepper BistroShowcasing creative and locally sourced dishes in a chic, intimate setting.
ProofErna's Elderberry HouseBoth offer a fine dining experience focusing on innovative, chef-driven menus.
Smash ParkDave & Buster'sWhile not a local spot, it’s the closest option for a fun, gaming-oriented eatery with good food.
Waveland CafeIrene's CafeBoth give that quintessential breakfast and brunch spot feeling with a homey ambiance.
801 ChophouseFleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarOffering a similarly luxurious steakhouse experience with an exceptional wine selection.

Fresno, much like Des Moines, boasts a vibrant food scene that caters to a range of tastes and dining experiences. For instance, if you've enjoyed the Mediterranean flair and hearty dishes of Apollo Cafe, you'll find a comforting similarity at Phoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and Grill, where the atmosphere buzzes with warmth. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados who’ve relished the quirky and innovative pies at Fong’s Pizza in Des Moines will appreciate Me-n-Ed's Pizzeria in Fresno - a venue that combines creativity with the wood-fired authenticity of their pizzas, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to find a slice of home. Additionally, those seeking a more upscale dining experience similar to 801 Chophouse will discover Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar not just a match but a continuation of luxury dining, with its meticulously crafted dishes and comprehensive wine list that promises to enhance every celebratory meal.

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Ready to start your move?

Des Moines vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between Des Moines, IA, and Fresno, CA, is crucial. Knowing the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you understand what to expect.

ComparisonDes MoinesFresno
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalSpanish Eclectic
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, Quiet neighborhoodsProximity to parks, Energy efficiency

In comparing the housing markets of Des Moines and Fresno, one notable difference is the median home price and rent, with Fresno being significantly more expensive. However, Fresno compensates with its slightly better urban lifestyle score and higher bikeability, perhaps due to its infrastructure catering more to bikes. The architecture also varies noticeably, from the Colonial Revival styles prevalent in Des Moines to the Spanish Eclectic found in Fresno, reflecting the different cultural influences of each region. Furthermore, real estate listings in Fresno often highlight the proximity to parks and energy efficiency, pointing towards a community valuing outdoor activities and sustainability.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the weather in Des Moines, IA compares with Fresno, CA is essential for preparing for your new environment. This comparison will provide insights into what to expect and how to best prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
85/65

Des Moines, IA

97/70

Fresno, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
33/17

Des Moines, IA

55/38

Fresno, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

11.5

Fresno, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
30

Des Moines, IA

0

Fresno, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDes MoinesFresno
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodingWildfires, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Des Moines to Fresno, you'll experience a significant shift in weather patterns. Fresno boasts nearly 270 days of sunshine annually, offering much more consistent sun compared to Des Moines. However, this comes with higher average summer temperatures which can peak in the high 90s. Additionally, the stark difference in annual rainfall and snowfall highlights Fresno's much drier climate. Understanding these changes will help you adjust your activities and lifestyle to comfortably accommodate your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, it's pivotal to understand how the cost of living and economic landscape will shift. This comparison between Des Moines, IA and Fresno, CA aims to provide insight into each city's financial environment, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonDes MoinesFresno
Avg. Household Income$60,693$61,250
Cost of Living Index90.9117.3
State Income Tax0.33 to 8.531 to 13.3
Avg. Property Tax1.560.77
Avg. Sales Tax78.23
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, ManufacturingAgriculture, Health Care, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessModerateSignificant

The disparity in average household incomes between Des Moines and Fresno highlights a significant economic difference, with Des Moines residents on average faring better. This is juxtaposed against Fresno's higher cost of living index, suggesting that your dollar might not stretch as far in Fresno despite the higher average sales and state income taxes in California. These financial indicators are crucial to consider, especially in light of Fresno's diverse yet challenged economic landscape, marked by its prominent agriculture and health care industries but also higher rates of poverty and homelessness. Moving from Des Moines to Fresno, you'd encounter a very different economic climate, one where understanding local industries and tax implications becomes pivotal to financial stability.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. With this guide, we aim to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Fresno, helping you understand the community you're moving into.

Des MoinesFresno
Political Make-upLean DemocraticModerately Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on social issuesFocus on agricultural and water rights issues
ReligionChristianity dominant, with a growing number of non-religious residentsChristianity dominant, diverse religious communities including a significant Sikh population

While both Des Moines and Fresno lean Democratic, their local political landscapes reflect the unique challenges and interests of their populations. Des Moines tends to be more progressive on social issues, a reflection of its urban and diverse demographic. In contrast, Fresno focuses more on agricultural and water rights issues, vital to its economy and way of life. Religiously, both cities are predominantly Christian, but Fresno boasts a more diverse religious community, including a notable Sikh population, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural and religious events throughout the city.

Des Moines vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving to a new city involves adapting to its unique commuting patterns. This guide aims to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, and transportation options between Des Moines & Fresno, ensuring you can navigate your new home with ease.

ComparisonDes MoinesFresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2122
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingChallenging

In both Des Moines and Fresno, average commute times are quite similar, indicating relatively brief daily journeys. However, traffic congestion is slightly less in Des Moines, potentially for its smaller urban sprawl compared to Fresno. When it comes to public transit, both cities are somewhat comparable, though Des Moines edges out slightly, possibly due to its DART system which provides a variety of options for residents. Nonetheless, in both cities, relying solely on public transit might be difficult without some planning. Having a car could greatly enhance your mobility, though each city's public transit systems are making strides to offer more comprehensive services.

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