Best Des Moines to St. Petersburg Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Des Moines, the heart of the Midwest, to St. Petersburg, the Sunshine City, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind the quiet charm and open spaces of Des Moines for St. Petersburg's vibrant arts scene and picturesque waterfront is a change that promises a blend of urban excitement and serene beach life. Remember, ensuring a smooth transition for such a significant life change necessitates hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, and we take pride in connecting you with the best in the business to make your move as seamless as possible.
Best Des Moines to St. Petersburg Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 123 Moving Florida LLC | 9.14 | A+ | Authorized For Broker Property | Contact |
| Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 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 St. Petersburg to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to St. Petersburg 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 123 Moving Florida LLC
123 Moving Florida LLC is a moving company based in Florida, providing a range of moving services at various prices. They offer 1 mover wit...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving
- Hourly moving
- Small moving
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
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. St. Petersburg Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the neighborhoods. This comparison will help you settle into St. Petersburg, FL, by using the familiarity of neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA, as a baseline to make your transition smoother and more comfortable.
| Des Moines | St. Petersburg | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | Downtown | Vibrant business and entertainment hub |
| East Village | Grand Central District | Trendy, artistic area |
| Beaverdale | Old Northeast | Historic charm with a close-knit community |
| Drake | Historic Kenwood | Artsy vibe and historic homes |
| South of Grand | Snell Isle | Upscale, luxurious residences |
| Sherman Hill | Historic Uptown | Classical architecture and rich history |
| Greenwood/King-Irving | Harbordale | Diverse, up-and-coming neighborhood |
| Gray's Lake | Vinoy Park | Scenic with outdoor activities |
| Ingersoll Park | Jungle Prada | Residential area with local flavors |
| Salisbury Oaks | Venetian Isles | Beautiful waterfront homes |
If you're fond of the vibrant atmosphere of East Village with its trendy cafes and art galleries, you'll feel right at home in St. Petersburg's Grand Central District, known for its creative spirit and unique eateries. Enjoy the historic charm and strong community of Beaverdale? The Old Northeast offers beautiful brick-paved streets and lush parks like North Shore Park. For those who love the upscale, luxurious feel of South of Grand, Snell Isle provides breathtaking views, high-end homes, and quick access to golf clubs and waterfront activities.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to St. Petersburg
Moving between cities always involves weighing the good against the bad. This comparison is designed to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of moving from Des Moines, IA to St. Petersburg, FL . Through concise charts, you'll see at a glance what you're leaving behind and what awaits in your new city, helping you to make a well-informed decision.
Des Moines, IA- Colder winters
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer beach options
- Smaller city vibe
- More limited nightlife
St. Petersburg, FL- Warmer climate
- More cultural diversity
- Beach access
- Larger urban feel
- Vibrant nightlife
St. Petersburg, FL- Higher cost of living
- Less personal space
- Louder city life
- More anonymous lifestyle
- More traffic congestion
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- More personal space
- Quieter environment
- Smaller community feel
- Less traffic congestion
Choosing between Des Moines and St. Petersburg comes down to what you value in your daily life. In St. Petersburg, the vibrant St. Pete Beach and the bustling downtown area, including venues like The Mahaffey Theater, offer a stark contrast to Des Moines' quieter, more laid-back setting. The Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market and the close-knit community feel might be missed, but for those craving sunnier skies and a rich cultural tapestry, St. Petersburg's numerous museums, like the famous Dali Museum, and its culinary scene, boasting both traditional and innovative cuisine, present an appealing new chapter. However, transitioning to Florida's bustling environment means navigating a higher cost of living and adapting to busier, more crowded surroundings, a notable shift from the spaciousness and serenity found in Iowa's landscapes.
Des Moines vs. St. Petersburg Food Guide
Food is a significant aspect of local culture and what living in an area feels like. To help you get a feel for the culinary scenes in both cities, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & St. Petersburg . This overview will ensure you're well-informed about the delicious options awaiting you in your new home.
| Des Moines | St. Petersburg | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Grouper Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | Cuban Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Empanadas |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegan Cuban Sandwich |
| 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, a local favorite, can often be found at state fairs and local joints, while the Iowa Chop showcases the state's rich agricultural heritage. If you're looking for something unique, head to Fong's Pizza for an unexpected fusion experience. On the other hand, St. Petersburg's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with the Grouper Sandwich being a must-try for seafood lovers. The city's Cuban influence is palpable, especially in its selection of a Cuban Sandwich. For those exploring the vibrant downtown area, The Mill offers an eclectic menu that highlights local ingredients. Both cities offer a range of options that cater to health-conscious and vegan diners, with St. Petersburg slightly edging out in terms of vegan offerings.
Des Moines vs. St. Petersburg Restaurant Comparison
Discovering the culinary landscape of a new city can make all the difference in feeling at home. This restaurant comparison, from Des Moines to St. Petersburg, is designed to help you find new favorites by matching them with places you already love. Let this guide serve as your culinary compass in transitioning your palate and food experiences.
| Des Moines | St. Petersburg | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | BellaBrava | Offers a similar innovative Italian menu in a chic setting |
| Fong's Pizza | Joey Brooklyn's Famous Pizza Kitchen | Known for its creative pizza toppings and vibrant atmosphere |
| Django | Brick & Mortar | Rustic and innovative dishes that mirror Django's French-inspired menu |
| 801 Chophouse | Bern's Steak House | An iconic steak experience with an extensive wine list, akin to 801 Chophouse |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | The Burg Bar & Grill | Offers inventive burgers and a casual, eclectic vibe similar to Zombie Burger |
| A Dong | Buya Ramen | A unique space offering exceptional pan-Asian dishes and a cozy atmosphere |
| Alba | Il Ritorno | Modern Italian dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients, reflecting Alba's culinary philosophy |
| Flying Mango | Urban Brew and BBQ | Smoked meats and Southern sides that channel Flying Mango's BBQ spirit |
| Tasty Tacos | Casita Taqueria | A spot for authentic and inventive tacos that capture the essence of Tasty Tacos |
| Proof | Lolita Tartine | Creative dishes and a cozy, modern aesthetic that align with Proof's approach |
When exploring your new dining scene in St. Petersburg, you'll find an array of establishments that evoke the cherished memories of Des Moines' top eats. For instance, BellaBrava and Centro are prime examples of how Italian cuisine can transcend geographical boundaries, each offering innovative menus in stylish settings. Meanwhile, the shift from Fong's Pizza to Joey Brooklyn's showcases how unique and creative pies can find a home away from home. The confluence of ambiance, quality, and innovation at places like Brick & Mortar and Il Ritorno not only mirrors the culinary philosophy of Django and Alba but also introduces you to the local flair of St. Petersburg. This guide aims not just to ease your transition but to enrich your dining experiences, turning new meals into new memories.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. St. Petersburg Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will highlight the housing differences between Des Moines, IA, and St. Petersburg, FL, covering key factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these distinctions can guide you toward making an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and budget.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Ranch | Mediterranean, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to beaches, Vibrant arts scene |
Embarking on a move from Des Moines to St. Petersburg introduces you to a landscape where the sun almost always shines and the ocean breeze can be felt through the vibrant streets. With higher median home prices and monthly rent, St. Petersburg reflects its popularity and desirability, especially for those captivated by its Mediterranean and Bungalow-style homes. Notably, St. Petersburg scores higher in walkability and offers a more pronounced urban lifestyle, buoyed by its proximity to beaches and a thriving arts scene. Whether you're pedaling through St. Petersburg's bike-friendly avenues or enjoying a leisurely stroll, you'll quickly appreciate the city's dynamic atmosphere—an inviting contrast to Des Moines' quieter, spacious neighborhoods and Craftsman-style homes.
Des Moines vs. St. Petersburg Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another often means adapting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Des Moines, IA compares with St. Petersburg, FL is crucial for planning your relocation and wardrobe. This comparison lays out the key differences in climate you should expect.
Des Moines, IA
St. Petersburg, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
St. Petersburg, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
St. Petersburg, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
St. Petersburg, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Des Moines to St. Petersburg, you'll notice a significant shift in climate. The near year-round sunshine and warmer temperatures in St. Petersburg make it an ideal location for those looking to escape the cold, snowy winters of Des Moines. However, the trade-off includes adapting to higher humidity and the potential for hurricanes, something rarely encountered in Iowa. Also, the marked increase in UV exposure due to the abundant sunshine in St. Petersburg means you'll need to be more vigilant about sun protection. On the flip side, the lack of snow means no more shoveling, but it also means adjusting to a much wetter climate with higher annual rainfall.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to St. Petersburg
Moving from Des Moines, IA to St. Petersburg, FL, it's essential to grasp how financial aspects like cost of living, taxes, and income will shift. Comparing these can provide a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $64,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 97.8 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | None |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 0.98% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Financial Services, Manufacturing | Tourism, Healthcare, Marine Sciences |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varied |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Concerning |
In comparing Des Moines to St. Petersburg, noteworthy points include the distinct difference in average household income, with Des Moines residents typically earning more. However, the lack of state income tax in Florida can offset this income discrepancy somewhat. While St. Petersburg enjoys a lower average property tax rate, its cost of living index is higher than Des Moines, potentially increasing expenses in areas such as housing, utilities, and groceries. Furthermore, the top industries reveal significant economic diversities between these cities, suggesting potential career shifts for movers. Evaluating these aspects carefully will help in making a smooth transition.
Des Moines vs. St. Petersburg Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick glance at the political and religious landscape between Des Moines & St. Petersburg . Understanding these aspects will help you get a feel for the community vibes in each city, making your transition smoother.
| Des Moines | St. Petersburg | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderately engaged | Highly engaged |
| Religion | Christian majority, diverse religious communities | Christian majority, significant non-religious population |
In Des Moines, you'll find a politically moderate climate that leans Democratic, with a variety of religious communities including a strong Christian majority. Community engagement in politics is moderate. On moving to St. Petersburg, you'll enter a more robustly Democratic environment. Local politics see higher engagement, reflecting the city's passion for social and environmental issues. Additionally, while still having a Christian majority, St. Petersburg boasts a significant non-religious or secular population, reflecting a broader spectrum of beliefs and values. This vibrant mix makes St. Petersburg a unique place to call home.
Des Moines vs. St. Petersburg Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Before you make the big move from Des Moines, IA to St. Petersburg, FL, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & St. Petersburg is key to navigating your daily commute efficiently. This comparison gives you a good idea of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.4 | 23.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Manageable |
In Des Moines, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in St. Petersburg, indicating you might spend less time on the road. However, Des Moines also ranks lower in terms of public transit availability, making it more challenging to get around without a car. On the other hand, St. Petersburg has a more developed public transportation system, which can be a significant advantage if you prefer not to rely on a personal vehicle. Traffic congestion in St. Petersburg rates higher, suggesting more crowded roads during peak times. This is something to consider when planning your travels within the city.
Popular Des Moines, IA to Florida Moving Routes
