Best Des Moines to Irvine Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Irvine, CA, signifies an exhilarating adventure and a major life transition. You might be swapping the Heartland's laid-back vibes and wide-open spaces for Irvine's sunny skies, innovative spirit, and the allure of Orange County living. Given the distance and the life change ahead, it’s crucial to entrust your move to reliable professional movers who truly understand the journey's demands. With our carefully curated list of top-tier movers, we ensure your belongings are in the best hands, making the transition as smooth as possible.
Best Des Moines to Irvine Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Moving | 9.64 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Terry Moving & Storage | 9.37 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | 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 Irvine to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Irvine Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
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. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into the unknown, but comparing neighborhoods can help bridge that gap. This is a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Irvine, CA, designed to make you feel more at home by drawing parallels with familiar territories. By understanding the similarities between neighborhoods, you can better anticipate your new surroundings and community vibe.
| Des Moines | Irvine | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Woodbridge | Vibrant community living |
| Beaverdale | Turtle Rock | Family-friendly and scenic |
| Waveland Park | University Park | Lush parks and local activities |
| Sherman Hill | Quail Hill | Historic charm with modern amenities |
| Drake | Westpark | Young, energetic vibe |
| Highland Park | Northwood | Small-town feel within the city |
| Ingersoll Park | Woodbury | Thriving business and retail |
| South of Grand | Shady Canyon | Exclusive, upscale living |
| Waterbury | Turtle Ridge | Secluded, luxury communities |
| Gray's Lake | Portola Springs | Nature reserves and outdoor activities |
For those charmed by the vintage appeal and community-centric living of Sherman Hill in Des Moines, Irvine's Quail Hill offers a similar blend of historic appeal with the conveniences of modern life, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Southern California. While the vibrant and youthful atmosphere of Drake neighborhood is akin to Westpark's energetic environment, complete with dining and entertainment options that cater to a young demographic. If your weekends in Des Moines were spent enjoying the natural charm and outdoors at Gray's Lake, you'll find a new haven in Portola Springs, where nature reserves and trails offer countless outdoor activities. It's all about finding the right neighborhood ambiance to make your transition as smooth as possible, with local parks, restaurants, and sights that align with your lifestyle.
Things to Do in Irvine
Hike at Irvine Regional Park- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Irvine
Moving across the country can stir a mix of emotions and logistical considerations. This guide aims to weigh those emotions by laying bare the pros and cons of relocating from Des Moines, IA, to Irvine, CA . Through honest reflection, these charts seek to illuminate the unique attributes—both favorable and challenging—of such a move, ultimately helping you make a well-informed decision.
Des Moines, IA- Harsher winters
- Smaller city
- Less entertainment
- Relatively lower salaries
Irvine, CA- Warm year-round
- Greater diversity
- More cultural events
- Higher salary potential
Irvine, CA- High living costs
- More crowded
- Longer commutes
- Smaller living spaces
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Community feel
- Easier commutes
- Spacious homes
While both Des Moines and Irvine offer unique advantages, it's the distinct life rhythm and opportunities in Irvine that often appeal to newcomers. Despite the higher cost of living, Irvine's salary potential and vibrant cultural scene, including events at the Irvine Barclay Theatre and outdoor activities across numerous parks like the Orange County Great Park, contribute to its allure. Moreover, the city's dedication to multiculturalism shines through its diverse dining options, from Korean BBQ at Gen Korean BBQ to Mexican cuisine at Taco Rosa. Though the trade-offs include dealing with more traffic and potentially smaller living quarters, many find the move to Irvine enriches their lifestyle with its temperate weather and wealth of opportunities.
Des Moines vs. Irvine Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & Irvine, CA, highlighting the unique culinary offerings each city brings to the table. Understanding local food culture is a delicious part of getting to know your new home, and we're here to help you navigate these flavorful landscapes.
| Des Moines | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Pho |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Corn Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Corn Dogs | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, the pork tenderloin sandwich represents a beloved local staple, best experienced at classic eateries like Fong's Pizza, which also infuses a unique twist to pizza. Meanwhile, Irvine's culinary scene shines with its diversity, spearheaded by Vietnamese pho and Korean BBQ, found in neighborhoods like Diamond Jamboree. For those leaning towards a plant-based diet, Irvine's variety of vegan options, including the popular acai bowl, reflects its health-conscious ethos. Both cities offer a vibrant food scene, but Irvine particularly stands out for its abundance of food trucks and vegan-friendly restaurants, promising a delightful exploration of flavors for newcomers.
Des Moines vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Des Moines, IA to Irvine, CA, finding your new favorite eateries is essential in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison bridges familiar tastes and atmospheres, guiding you to comparable dining experiences in your new locality.
| Des Moines | Irvine | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fong’s Pizza | Pizza 900 | Authentic wood-fired pizzas evoking Fong’s unique flavors |
| Centro | North Italia | Fresh, handmade pasta echoing Centro’s Italian charm |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | The Counter Irvine | Custom burgers that cater to every craving, similar to Zombie Burger’s innovation |
| Django | Bistango | A hub of French cuisine mirroring Django’s Parisian flair |
| Akebono | Sushi Roku | Offers a sophisticated sushi experience akin to Akebono’s |
| Harbinger | Taco Rosa | Innovative and upscale dining captures Harbinger’s essence |
| Proof | AnQi by House of AN | Gourmet fusion bringing Proof’s creativity to Irvine |
| French Way | La Branche | Artisanal pastries and cozy vibes reminisce of French Way’s charm |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Four Sons Brewing | Craft beer scene with a unique character similar to Exile’s |
| Smash Park | Great Park Neighborhoods | Social atmosphere with fun and food akin to Smash Park’s experience |
Upon arrival in Irvine, you'll discover that Pizza 900 not only satisfies your pizza cravings but does so with an authentic touch reminiscent of Fong’s Pizza’s unique offerings. North Italia is another gem where the fresh, handmade pastas will transport you back to the beloved dishes of Centro, reinforcing the Italian culinary bridge between Des Moines and Irvine. Meanwhile, The Counter Irvine stands out for its creative, customizable burgers, echoing the inventive spirit found at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. These establishments, among others listed, showcase how Irvine welcomes newcomers with diverse and rich flavors akin to those left behind in Des Moines, ensuring a smooth culinary transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how real estate factors into your decision. This comparison offers insights into how Des Moines and Irvine stand in terms of housing cost, style, and livability. Knowing these details is key in finding your next home.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Modern and Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to parks, energy-efficient features |
Housing cost is significantly different between Des Moines and Irvine, with the latter's median home price and rent being considerably higher. This reflects the high demand for living in Irvine, known for its excellent walkability and modern amenities. The typical architecture starkly contrasts, with Des Moines favoring Prairie and Craftsman styles, while Irvine showcases Modern and Mediterranean designs. Irvine's higher scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle indicate a city designed for convenience and accessibility. The popularity of energy-efficient features in Irvine listings points towards a community that values sustainability. Meanwhile, Des Moines' listings often highlight large yards and quiet neighborhoods, suggesting a more traditional, spacious living environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Des Moines vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather varies between locations is essential when moving. This comparison provides insights into how Des Moines, IA and Irvine, CA climates differ, highlighting weather conditions to anticipate and prepare for.
Des Moines, IA
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, floods | Earthquakes, wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In Des Moines, you'll experience distinct seasons including cold winters with substantial snowfall, compared to Irvine’s mild winters and virtually nonexistent snow. Irvine boasts about 280 days of sunshine annually, significantly more than Des Moines’, enhancing outdoor activities year-round. While both areas experience pollen as a top allergy, in Irvine, less rainfall and higher average UV indexes may affect your daily life, requiring adjustments like more frequent hydration and sun protection measures. Understanding these differences will aid in a smoother transition and adaptability to your new home environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Irvine
Moving between cities can have a significant impact on your financial situation. Understanding the differences in the cost of living and financial landscape from Des Moines, IA to Irvine, CA is crucial for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $105,774 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 8.53 (Top Rate) | 13.3 (Top Rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 0.7 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Financial Services, Health Services | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
Moving from Des Moines to Irvine, you'll find a stark contrast in the cost of living, with Irvine being significantly more expensive. However, this is balanced by higher average household incomes in Irvine. State and sales taxes are also higher in California, reflecting on expenses not immediately visible when considering gross income alone. The industry landscape shifts from a focus on insurance and financial services in Des Moines to technology and healthcare in Irvine, aligning with broad economic trends and opportunities in each city. Lastly, despite the higher cost of living, Irvine boasts lower poverty and homelessness rates compared to Des Moines, indicative of its higher affluence.
Des Moines vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Irvine, CA, it's essential to understand how the environment you're moving into compares to what you're used to. This quick guide offers a snapshot focusing on the politics between Des Moines & Irvine and the religious makeup of each city. This comparison should provide a solid foundation for what to expect culturally and socially in your new home.
| Des Moines | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely liberal | Lean towards liberal |
| Local Politics | More moderate representation | Progressive leadership |
| Religion | Christianity emphasis, diverse faiths present | High diversity in belief systems |
In moving from Des Moines to Irvine, you'll find yourself transitioning from an area where political opinions can vary broadly, with a notable lean towards liberal perspectives, to a city known for its progressive stance on many issues. This shift reflects in the local politics as well, with Irvine holding a reputation for forward-thinking leadership. Additionally, while both cities present a spectrum of religious beliefs and communities, Irvine stands out for its particularly high diversity in belief systems, encompassing a wide range of faiths and places of worship. Taking time to understand these dynamics can significantly smooth your adaptation to your new environment.
Des Moines vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Irvine, CA, it's essential to understand how this shift will impact your daily commutes and mobility. This comparison aims to prepare you for the differences in traffic and transportation options, easing your transition and helping you plan your day-to-day travel in your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, with effort |
When relocating from Des Moines to Irvine, you'll notice a significant shift in your commuting experience. While the average commute time in Irvine is slightly longer, the city also experiences more traffic congestion, reflective of its dense urban environment and busy lifestyle. However, Irvine compensates with a better score in terms of the availability of public transit, providing varied options like buses and shuttles that make a car-free lifestyle more feasible than in Des Moines. Adapting to this change, you might find it beneficial to explore the public transportation options available, including the local Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) services, which could significantly alleviate the stresses of daily commuting in your new Californian home.
Popular Des Moines, IA to California Moving Routes
- Des Moines to Los Angeles
- Des Moines to San Diego
- Des Moines to San Jose
- Des Moines to San Francisco
- Des Moines to Fresno
- Des Moines to Sacramento
- Des Moines to Long Beach
- Des Moines to Oakland
- Des Moines to Bakersfield
- Des Moines to Anaheim
- Des Moines to Santa Ana
- Des Moines to Riverside
- Des Moines to Stockton
- Des Moines to Chula Vista
