Best Des Moines to Jacksonville Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Midwest charm of Des Moines, IA to the sun-soaked shores of Jacksonville, FL, can mark the beginning of an adventurous and enriching chapter in your life. You're transitioning from the "Hawkeye State," known for its hearty food and friendly folks, to the "River City," where sandy beaches and a bustling real estate scene await. Embracing such a life-altering move underscores the need to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best, using an unbiased algorithm to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free.
Best Des Moines to Jacksonville Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Skinner Moving & Storage | 9.21 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| MoveBright Van Lines | 9.17 | A | Authorized For HHG | 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 Jacksonville to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Jacksonville Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 Skinner Moving & Storage
Skinner Moving & Storage is a family-owned and operated moving company based in the First Coast area. Their service offers include resid...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
About MoveBright Van Lines
MoveBright Van Lines provides exceptional service to First Coast residents, delivering on-demand moves at the best prices in town. Located i...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial 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. Jacksonville Neighborhood Comparison
Discovering a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with its neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a unique guide that performs a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Jacksonville, FL . This comparison is aimed at helping you find areas in Jacksonville that share the same vibe and community spirit as your favorite Des Moines locales. Whether you're looking for a bustling city center vibe or a tranquil suburban feel, this guide will help you navigate your way around your new city with greater confidence.
| Des Moines | Jacksonville | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | San Marco | Trendy shops, dining |
| Beaverdale | Avondale | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| Drake | Riverside | Eclectic, youthful energy |
| Waveland Park | Murray Hill | Quaint, family-friendly |
| Sherman Hill | Springfield | Architectural charm, community-centric |
| Highland Park | Ortega | Waterfront views, serene |
| South of Grand | San Jose | Affluent, spacious homes |
| Ingersoll Park | Mandarin | Scenic, well-established |
| Gray's Lake | Atlantic Beach | Outdoor activities, beachside |
| Waterbury | Deerwood | Upscale, gated community |
For those who cherish the hip and vibrant atmosphere of East Village in Des Moines, with its local eateries like Zombie Burger and unique boutiques, Jacksonville's San Marco district will feel like home with its eclectic mix of trendy shops and upscale dining options like Taverna. Similarly, if you adore the historic and artistic essence of Beaverdale, you'll be drawn to Avondale's charming streets lined with historic homes and a thriving arts scene, enhanced by spots like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. For those seeking a youthful and eclectic vibe akin to Drake, Jacksonville's Riverside area, with its diverse dining scenes, such as the modern American restaurant Black Sheep, and a variety of indie shops and markets, mirrors a similar energetic pulse.
Things to Do in Jacksonville
Stroll through Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.- Enjoy the beaches at Jacksonville Beach.
- Discover art at Cummer Museum.
- Paddleboard on the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Attend a Jaguars game at TIAA Bank Field.
- Explore Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve.
- Savor meals in San Marco District.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Jacksonville
Moving brings a tide of change, and the shift from Des Moines, IA, to Jacksonville, FL, is no exception. This guide aims to present a balanced view of this relocation, from the heart of the Midwest to the sunny Florida coast . By comparing the pros and cons, we hope to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this move.
Des Moines, IA- Colder winters
- Less diverse cuisine
- Smaller population
- Less beach access
- More conservative culture
Jacksonville, FL- Warmer climate
- Seafood and diverse eats
- Larger city feel
- Beaches everywhere
- More liberal atmosphere
Jacksonville, FL- Can feel overcrowded
- Higher expenses
- More congestion
- Fewer intimate gatherings
- Humid summers
Des Moines, IA- Tighter-knit community
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Quaint local events
- Easier winters
When you move from Des Moines to Jacksonville, the transition is not just about weather and population. You'll swap the traditional Midwest cuisine for Jacksonville's thriving culinary scene, including famous seafood spots like Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant. You might miss Des Moines' Snowshoeing at Water Works Park, but Jacksonville offers picturesque beaches like Neptune Beach for you to explore. The cultural shift to a more liberal atmosphere in Jacksonville can be refreshing, yet, it's the tight-knit community and quaint local events back in Des Moines that might tug at your heartstrings. Each city offers its own charm, whether it's through the Lantern Festival at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens or the quieter, more intimate gatherings back in Iowa.
Des Moines vs. Jacksonville Food Guide
Food is a vital aspect of local culture and gives a glimpse into what life is like in an area. For those planning on moving, we have prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Jacksonville , so you can know what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Des Moines | Jacksonville | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chops | Mayport Shrimp |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Kale Caesar Salad | Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you arrive in Jacksonville, you'll find a vibrant food scene eager to welcome you. The city's coast provides fresh seafood, a staple in many local dishes such as the revered Mayport Shrimp, best enjoyed at establishments like Safe Harbor Seafood. The thriving food truck culture means you'll have diverse street food options, including local favorite, Fish Tacos, available in bustling areas like Riverside and the Beaches. For those seeking plant-based options, Jacksonville's rising vegan-friendly score is evidenced by eateries like Southern Roots serving creative vegan dishes. Whether it’s seafood, vegan cuisine, or food truck fare, your taste buds will be in for a delightful journey in your new city.
Des Moines vs. Jacksonville Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding great places to eat is crucial for feeling at home. This comparison will assist in discovering new favorite eateries in Jacksonville by using familiar Des Moines restaurants as a guide. Discover your next favorite restaurant from Des Moines, IA to Jacksonville, FL.
| Des Moines | Jacksonville | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Akebono 515 | DOMU | Japanese-inspired ambiance and innovative ramen dishes |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Hoptinger | Creative burgers and a vast beer selection |
| Centro | Taverna | Modern Italian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere |
| Fong's Pizza | V Pizza | Unique pizza offerings with a lively environment |
| Harbinger | Orsay | Farm-to-table French cuisine with elegant decor |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Intuition Ale Works | Craft beers and pub fare in an industrial setting |
| Alba | Matthew's Restaurant | Fine dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
| Machine Shed Restaurant | Maple Street Biscuit Company | Comfort food with a Southern twist |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Green Room Brewing | Local brewery with a relaxed vibe and quality beers |
| The Cheese Shop of Des Moines | Grassroots Natural Market | Offering artisan cheeses and gourmet groceries |
For those who adore unique culinary experiences, transitioning from Des Moines' beloved Akebono 515 to Jacksonville's DOMU will be delightfully seamless, both offering an innovative twist on traditional dishes. When the craving for an imaginative burger hits, Hoptinger in Jacksonville serves up creations that can compete with the playful and varied menu found at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. Italian cuisine aficionados will find Taverna in Jacksonville a worthy successor to Centro's modern Italian offerings, ensuring the tradition of enjoying high-quality pasta and wine continues even after the move. Moreover, the cozy and inviting atmosphere of both places makes them perfect for family dinners or celebrations.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Jacksonville Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate dynamics between Des Moines, IA, and Jacksonville, FL, is crucial. It's vital to compare housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, and urban lifestyle to make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, proximity to schools | Waterfront views, large garages |
While both Des Moines and Jacksonville offer a variety of housing options, there are notable differences to consider. Des Moines leans towards a more classical Colonial Revival architecture, commonly featuring spacious backyards and a community-oriented atmosphere beneficial for families. On the other hand, Jacksonville showcases beautiful Spanish Colonial styles with an emphasis on waterfront properties and considerable garage space, catering to those seeking a blend of urban and seaside living. Furthermore, Jacksonville edges slightly ahead in terms of bikeability and urban lifestyle, possibly due to its expansive coastal geography and higher density of urban development. These distinctions play a pivotal role in identifying which city best aligns with your lifestyle preferences and needs.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, FL
1. Riverside: Riverside is known for its picturesque Memorial Park, a favorite among local dog owners for walks and playdates, and you'll also find many pet-friendly cafes and shops along King Street.
2. San Marco: With picturesque, walkable streets and the dog-friendly San Marco Square at its heart, your pet will love the outdoor dining options and the welcoming atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.
3. Jacksonville Beach: The sandy shores and the pet-friendly Adventure Landing park make Jacksonville Beach ideal for pets who love to swim or need plenty of outdoor activities to burn off energy.
Des Moines vs. Jacksonville Weather Considerations
When planning to relocate, understanding the weather differences between your current city and your new home is crucial. Here we compare the climates of Des Moines, IA , and Jacksonville, FL , to help you prepare for what awaits in terms of temperature, humidity, and general weather conditions.
Des Moines, IA
Jacksonville, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Jacksonville, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Jacksonville, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Jacksonville, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornados, Blizzards | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to Jacksonville introduces you to a warmer climate, where winters are mild and summers are hot and more humid. Jacksonville sees more days of sunshine, which can be great for outdoor activities but also means higher UV exposure, making sunscreen a new essential. Transitioning from snowy winters to hurricane seasons will require adjustments in how you prepare your home. While both cities deal with pollen as a primary allergen, the higher humidity in Jacksonville may affect your experience with allergies and overall comfort.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Jacksonville
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications of your new location. By comparing the cost of living, tax rates, and income levels between Des Moines and Jacksonville, you'll be better equipped to manage your finances post-relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $58,621 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 92.9 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 0.94% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Financial services, Healthcare | Logistics, Banking, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderately Low |
While Des Moines boasts a higher average household income and a lower cost of living index compared to Jacksonville, Florida's zero state income tax presents an intriguing financial advantage for residents. However, this benefit is somewhat offset by Jacksonville's slightly higher sales tax and living costs. Notably, both cities support significant healthcare industries, though they diverge in other key sectors—insurance and financial services in Des Moines versus logistics and banking in Jacksonville. This diversity underscores the importance of aligning your career path with the dominant industries of your new city.
Des Moines vs. Jacksonville Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the community you’re joining is crucial. This includes getting a glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents, as we compare Des Moines & Jacksonville . Here's a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to aid in your transition.
| Des Moines | Jacksonville | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal leaning | Conservative leaning |
| Local Politics | Democratic leadership | Republican leadership |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Diverse with a strong Christian presence |
As you plan your move from Des Moines to Jacksonville, understanding the political and religious landscape is key to integrating smoothly. Des Moines, with its liberal-leaning populace, contrasts with Jacksonville’s more conservative tilt. This difference is also mirrored in local governance—Des Moines typically supports Democratic leaders, whereas Jacksonville often has Republican leadership. Despite these political differences, both cities boast a diverse religious landscape. However, you'll find that Jacksonville has a notably strong Christian presence, reflective in local establishments and communities. This juxtaposition between your new and old home offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in varying cultural and ideological environments.
Des Moines vs. Jacksonville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Jacksonville, FL, it's important to understand the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Jacksonville will help you get a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Jacksonville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.4 | 25.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Very Challenging |
In Des Moines, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is generally less severe than in Jacksonville. However, both cities face challenges in terms of public transportation, with Des Moines scoring a bit lower in availability, making car ownership almost essential for daily commutes. The difference in traffic congestion levels suggests you'll need to plan for longer travel times in Jacksonville. This could impact your choices on where to live and work in relation to the key locations you'd visit daily.
Popular Des Moines, IA to Florida Moving Routes
