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Iowa to Florida Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from state to state is not just a change of address; it's an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. You're trading Iowa's expansive fields and warm-hearted communities for Florida's sun-drenched beaches and vibrant cities, leaving behind the "Hawkeye State" for the allure of the "Sunshine State." Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, we emphasize the importance of entrusting your journey to reliable and trusted professional movers, ensuring a smooth transition into your exciting new life phase.

6 Best Movers for Moving from Iowa to Florida

#1
Sebastian Moving and More Logo
Exceptional

based on 5,993+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full Service Moves in Orlando, Air-Conditioned Storage, Packing and Unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1575104 Verify

About Sebastian Moving and More

Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloadi...Read More >>

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#2
Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,064+ data points

Hallandale Beach, FL
Long Distance Relocation, Local Moving, Long Distance Moving (in State) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3064335 Verify

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 >>

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#3
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,268+ data points

Iowa City, IA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Apartment/Condo Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1471037 Verify

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 >>

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#4
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional

based on 520+ data points

Burlington, IA
Material Packing, Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 749231 Verify

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 >>

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#5
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 621+ data points

Ames, IA
Local moving, Long distance moving, Small moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 608245 Verify

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 >>

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#6
White Glove Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 848+ data points

Marion, IA
Local Moving Services, Residential Moving Services, Commercial & Freight Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT: 2991947 Verify

About White Glove Movers

White Glove Movers is a residential and commercial moving company serving its local community of Marion, the nearby areas of Cedar Rapids, I...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Florida

Moving presents a unique blend of challenges and rewards, especially when considering relocating from Iowa to Florida. This guide aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation , specifically focusing on moving from Iowa to Florida . Through comprehensive charts, we'll compare the cons to the pros and vice versa, providing a balanced view to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Cold winters
  • Smaller population
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer beaches
  • Limited nightlife
Florida iconFlorida
  • Warm climate
  • Larger communities
  • Greater diversity
  • Many beaches
  • Vibrant nightlife
Florida iconFlorida
  • Higher cost of living
  • Noisier environments
  • Less tight-knit communities
  • More urbanized
  • Longer commutes
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quiet living
  • Strong community
  • Abundant nature
  • Easier commutes

Relocating from Iowa to Florida offers a vivid change of scenery and lifestyle. In Florida, you'll find yourself trading the serene, spacious parks like Des Moines' Gray’s Lake Park for the bustling, vibrant environments of places like Miami's South Beach, famed for its nightlife and beachfront beauty. Say goodbye to Iowa's quaint, tight-knit communities and embrace Florida's diverse, energetic crowds found in locales like Orlando and Tampa Bay. While you might miss the crisp Iowa autumns, Florida's year-round sunshine allows for endless outdoor activities, from exploring the Everglades to enjoying the numerous theme parks. The transition might mean adjusting to busier streets and higher living costs, but it also opens the door to a rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines showcased in restaurants like Miami’s Versailles, and an overall more dynamic way of life.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Iowa to Florida

Comparing the local cuisine between Iowa and Florida uncovers a fascinating aspect of the cultural journey you're about to embark on. Food is an integral part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. We'll compare the two locations so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.

IowaFlorida

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichKey Lime Pie

Most popular meat dish

Iowa ChopsCuban Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Sweet CornArepa

Most popular vegan food

Tofu ScrambleBlack Bean Burger

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Jethro's BBQ
  • Zombie Burger
  • The Summit

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

68

Vegan Friendly

68

Iowa's love for its pork tenderloin sandwich speaks volumes about its culinary traditions, while Florida's Key Lime Pie is a testament to its rich culinary heritage influenced by its proximity to the sea and its diverse population. In Iowa, places like Jethro's BBQ and Zombie Burger offer a taste of the state's hearty and comforting food scene. Meanwhile, Florida boasts an eclectic array of flavors from all over the world, with restaurants such as Bern's Steak House in Tampa and Joe's Stone Crab in Miami Beach offering culinary experiences that draw from the state's rich cultural tapestry and abundant local seafood. As you settle into your new home, exploring these culinary scenes will provide not just sustenance, but a deeper connection to your new community.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Iowa to Florida

Real estate plays a crucial role when planning a move, and understanding how the housing markets compare in Iowa and Florida is essential. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities in housing costs , architecture , walkability , and more between these two diverse states.

Moving from Iowa to Florida introduces a significant shift in housing dynamics. With Florida's median home price nearly double that of Iowa's, the financial aspect of housing takes center stage. Florida's allure often lies in its tropical landscaping and waterfront properties, which are highly sought after and prominently featured in real estate listings. This contrasts with Iowa's spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods. Moreover, Florida generally offers a more urban lifestyle with better walkability and bikeability scores, suitable for those desiring a more active and outdoor-centric lifestyle. Another aspect to consider is the architectural style—Florida's vibrant Mediterranean and modern homes provide a refreshing change from Iowa's more traditional colonial and ranch-style dwellings.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Florida

Moving from one place to another requires acclimatization, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding the weather differences between Iowa and Florida will help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of what to expect in terms of temperature, humidity, and other weather-related factors.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Iowa

91°F / 75°F

Florida

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 14°F

Iowa

70°F / 49°F

Florida

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Iowa

50"

Florida

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
35"

Iowa

0"

Florida

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Iowa and Florida experience high humidity levels, Florida's higher average temperatures and significant humidity can make the air feel much stickier than what you're used to in Iowa. Furthermore, the winter climates are vastly different, with Florida offering mild winters that are favorable for outdoor activities year-round. However, Florida's higher average UV index indicates a stronger sun, needing precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion. Additionally, the types of natural disasters differ, with Iowa experiencing tornadoes and blizzards, while Florida is more prone to hurricanes and flooding. Understanding these differences will help you adapt and thrive in your new Florida home.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Florida

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding how your financial landscape will change is crucial. This comparison will help you see how your budget may adjust when moving from Iowa to Florida, focusing on money and finance-related topics.

While both Iowa and Florida offer unique advantages for residents, there are key differences to consider. Florida's lack of state income tax can be financially attractive, but this benefit may be offset by its higher cost of living and sales tax. The average household income is slightly lower in Florida, yet this is somewhat balanced by its diverse and tourism-driven economy. Interesting contrasts also emerge in terms of property taxes, suggesting that homeowners may find Iowa more favorable in this regard. These financial aspects are critical to consider as you prepare for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Iowa and Florida

Welcome to a quick, at-a-glance snapshot designed to outline the comparison of the politics between Iowa & Florida alongside their religious landscape. This comparison aims to provide individuals moving from Iowa to Florida with an understanding of the typical makeup of the population they're moving into.

IowaFlorida

Political Make-up

Leans Republican, with competitive swing state status in national electionsSwing state, recently leaning Republican in federal elections

Local Politics

State Legislature tends toward conservative policiesState Government has a mix of conservative and liberal local policies

Religion

Christianity dominates, with a Protestant majorityDiverse religious landscape, with a significant Catholic population

Iowa and Florida offer unique political and religious landscapes that could impact your daily life post-move. Iowa's lean towards Republican ideologies in both local and national politics contrasts with Florida's fluctuating swing state status, having shown tendencies to swing both Republican and Democrat in recent elections. The religious makeup also contrasts, as Iowa has a prominent Protestant majority reflecting a more homogeneous religious demographic, while Florida showcases a more diverse religious community, including a significant Catholic presence. Understanding these aspects can help you better integrate and participate in your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Florida

When contemplating a move from Iowa to Florida, understanding the educational landscape is vital for families. This comparison is aimed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and Florida, providing a clear insight into where your child could potentially thrive the most.

IowaFlorida

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Florida
Florida State University
University of Central Florida

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)
Brookview Elementary (West Des Moines)
Pine View School (Osprey)
Doral Academy of Technology (Doral)
Somerset Academy Miramar (Miramar)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
Bak Middle School of the Arts (West Palm Beach)
Archimedean Middle Conservatory (Miami)
Doral Academy Charter Middle School (Doral)

Top 3 High School Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Roosevelt High School (Des Moines)
Design and Architecture Senior High (Miami)
Stanton College Preparatory (Jacksonville)
Pine View School (Osprey)

Top 3 private high schools

Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
St. Albert Catholic Schools (Council Bluffs)
Ransom Everglades School (Coconut Grove)
Pine Crest School (Fort Lauderdale)
The Bolles School (Jacksonville)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Des Moines Christian School (Urbandale)
Pine View School (Osprey)
North Broward Preparatory School (Coconut Creek)
American Heritage School (Plantation)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools
Sarasota County Schools
St. Johns County School District
Okaloosa County Schools

Comparing the educational opportunities between Iowa and Florida reveals significant diversity and strength on both sides. For instance, Iowa's universities such as the University of Iowa are well-regarded for their research and academic programs, while Florida's University of Florida is noted for its large, vibrant campus and strong program offerings. In the realm of K-12 education, both states boast highly rated schools, but Florida's climate and larger urban centers offer unique extracurricular opportunities for students. Furthermore, the top private high schools in Florida, such as Ransom Everglades School, are known for their rigorous academics and extensive resources. Deciding on the right school will depend on your child's academic and social needs, as well as the family's preference for the type of community and lifestyle.

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