Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Des Moines to Honolulu Movers

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI is an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life, filled with unique possibilities and adventures. Departing from the heart of the Midwest, known for its serene landscapes and community spirit, you're venturing to an island paradise renowned for its aloha spirit, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural tapestry. Ensuring a seamless transition requires entrusting your journey to professional movers who understand the nuances of long-distance relocations, making it crucial to choose trusted and reliable experts to navigate this grand voyage.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Honolulu to Des Moines guide.

5 Best Des Moines to Honolulu Movers

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

#1
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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top 10 ranked movers in iowa city 2023 best move inc image
top 10 ranked movers in iowa city 2022 best move inc image
#2
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 9/11/2024)

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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top 10 ranked movers in ames 2023 hemmen moving inc image
top 3 ranked movers in ames 2022 hemmen moving inc image
#3
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Fabulous

based on 973+ data points

Urbandale, IA
Local Moving, Junk Removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 739369 Verify

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 >>

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top ranked movers in des moines 2023 two men and a truck image
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#4
Ewa Moving Co. Logo
Very Good

based on 209+ data points

Ewa Beach, HI
Residential moving services in Oahu, Local moving services in Oahu, Hourly rate moving services in Oahu See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3786678 Verify

About Ewa Moving Co.

Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial mo...Read More >>

#5
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo
Good

based on 73+ data points

Honolulu, HI
Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Office Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3396143 Verify

About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all Ha...Read More >>

Relocating from Des Moines to Honolulu Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This guide is designed to help you make that transition smoother by comparing Des Moines, IA & Honolulu, HI neighborhoods to find the best fit for you, based on what you love about your current location.

Des MoinesHonolulu
East VillageKaka'ako

Vibrant arts scene and boutique shopping

BeaverdaleManoa

Family-friendly with a sense of community

DrakeMoiliili

Young and dynamic, near university

WaterburyKahala

Upscale, with stately homes

Sherman HillMakiki

Historic homes and tight-knit vibe

Highland ParkPālolo

Diverse, with a mix of cultures

Ingersoll ParkAla Moana

Beach proximity, shopping, and dining

Southwestern HillsNiu Valley

Quiet, family-oriented with great views

Waveland ParkKaimuki

Cozy, with a strong local food scene

Gray's LakeWaikīkī

Iconic beaches, parks, and activities

If you cherish the lively, artistic environment and boutique shopping of East Village in Des Moines, you will enjoy the similar vibrancy and cultural scene in Kaka'ako in Honolulu, highlighted by its street art and unique local shops. For those from Beaverdale seeking a tight-knit community feel, Manoa offers a similar atmosphere, set against the backdrop of lush greenery with family-friendly parks like Manoa Valley District Park. Residents moving from Waterbury, accustomed to upscale living and stately homes, will find Kahala's luxurious properties and serene beaches appealing. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts moving from Waveland Park will appreciate the bustling local food scene in Kaimuki, where a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Hawaiian cuisine at Helena's Hawaiian Food to contemporary eateries, cater to all taste buds.

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Things to Do in Honolulu

  • Explore Diamond Head State Monument
  • Swim at Waikiki Beach
  • Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial
  • Shop at Ala Moana Center
  • Enjoy Honolulu Night Market
  • Discover Bishop Museum

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu

Moving from one place to another always comes with its share of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI . It's important to weigh both sides to make the best decision for your situation.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Colder Winters
  • Lesser Diversity
  • Smaller Job Market
  • Minimal Beaches
  • Narrower Cuisine
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Year-round warmth
  • Rich Cultural Diversity
  • Larger Tourism Sector
  • Abundant Beaches
  • Wide Cuisine Variety
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Heavier Traffic
  • More Crowded Spaces
  • Urban Bustle
  • Expensive Groceries
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Affordable Housing
  • Lower Traffic
  • Spacious Natural Parks
  • Quiet Suburban Areas
  • Cost-effective Living

Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu introduces you to a vibrant mix of cultures and cuisines. In Honolulu, you'll be spoilt for choice with restaurants offering a broad spectrum of foods from traditional Hawaiian dishes at Helena's Hawaiian Food to authentic Japanese fare at Marukame Udon. You'll also exchange the spacious, tranquil parks of Des Moines for Honolulu's bustling beaches like Waikiki, where outdoor activities never end. While Des Moines may offer a more affordable and quieter lifestyle, Honolulu's rich cultural diversity and dynamic urban life present an exciting new chapter with unique opportunities and experiences.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu

Food is a pivotal part of any locale's culture and living experience. To help you get acquainted with what to expect in your new area, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Honolulu. This will give you a taste of what culinary delights await you, from iconic dishes to the vibrancy of each city's food scene.

Des MoinesHonolulu

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichPoke

Most popular meat dish

Beef BrisketKalua Pig

Most popular street food item

TacosSpam Musubi

Most popular vegan food

Grain BowlAçaí Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Fong's Pizza
  • Zombie Burger
  • Centro
  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice
  • Leonard's Bakery

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

79

In Des Moines, the pork tenderloin sandwich reigns supreme as a must-try for any newcomer. You'll find an abundance of local favorites such as Fong's Pizza, known for its unique Asian-inspired pizzas, and the quirky Zombie Burger with its inventive burger creations. Moving over to Honolulu, the food scene shifts dramatically with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Poke, a raw fish salad, represents the quintessential Hawaiian dish, celebrated across the city. Spam Musubi, a fusion of Japanese and American influences, is a common snack found in many convenience stores. Helena's Hawaiian Food offers a traditional experience with dishes like kalua pig, while Matsumoto Shave Ice provides a refreshing treat. Both cities offer a vibrant foodie scene, but Honolulu stands out for its health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, largely influenced by its island location and abundant sea and farm produce.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu

Choosing a new favorite dining spot is an essential part of settling into a new city. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Honolulu aims to ease the transition, guiding you to establishments that feel familiar yet offer a taste of island life. Let's find your next go-to eatery, making your move an exciting culinary adventure.

A Splash SeafoodNico's Pier 38

Fresh, local seafood with a harbor-side view

Zombie Burger + Drink LabChubbies Burgers

Unique burgers and a fun, casual vibe

CentroTown

Farm-to-table dining with a menu that changes seasonally

AlbaSenia

Creative American cuisine in a chic setting

Fong's PizzaPieology Pizzeria

Customizable pizzas with eclectic toppings

Gateway Market CafeARVO

A cozy café known for its coffee, sandwiches, and pastries

Sam & Gabe'sHy's Steak House

High-end steaks in an elegant atmosphere

La Mie BakeryBreadshop

Artisanal breads and pastries baked fresh

801 ChophouseSteak Shack

Beachside steaks with a stunning view

Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.Waikiki Brewing Company

Craft beers and hearty meals

Among these pairings, the transition from Des Moines's Centro to Honolulu's Town stands out for patrons who admire seasonal dishes that spotlight local ingredients. Similarly, the innovative burger experience shifts from Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines to Honolulu's Chubbies Burgers, where the inventive menu and lively atmosphere are sure to remind you of your favorite haunts back home. These recommendations ensure that the flavors of Des Moines can be rediscovered with a Hawaiian twist, making your culinary journey in Honolulu as comforting as it is exciting.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu

Real estate plays a critical role when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects like costs and lifestyle in Des Moines, IA compare to Honolulu, HI can help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the specifics.

When comparing Des Moines to Honolulu, the contrast in the median home price and monthly rent is striking. In Honolulu, you're not just paying for a home but for the luxury of living in a tropical paradise, which is reflected in the real estate prices. The architecture in Honolulu leans towards modern with plantation influences, embracing indoor-outdoor living, contrasting with the more traditional styles found in Des Moines. Additionally, Honolulu offers a slightly more walkable and bikeable environment, thanks mainly to its compact urban layout and favorable climate, making the outdoor lifestyle more accessible and enjoyable year-round.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Honolulu, HI

1. Kaka'ako: This vibrant neighborhood boasts numerous pet-friendly parks like Mother Waldron Park, along with several pet care options including Petco for your furry friend's needs.

2. Waikiki: Known for its world-famous beaches, Waikiki welcomes pets with open paws, offering dog-friendly areas along the beach and pet-friendly dining options like Barefoot Beach Cafe.

3. Manoa: This lush and serene neighborhood is a paradise for pets, featuring ample green spaces and walking trails such as those found at Manoa Valley District Park, perfect for the active pet and owner alike.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu

When contemplating a move from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI, understanding the weather differences between these locations is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how your daily life and activities might be influenced by the new climate you'll be experiencing. Des Moines vs Honolulu weather will significantly impact your adaptation to your new home.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Des Moines, IA

88°F / 75°F

Honolulu, HI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
34°F / 18°F

Des Moines, IA

80°F / 65°F

Honolulu, HI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

17

Honolulu, HI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

0

Honolulu, HI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from Des Moines to Honolulu will introduce you to a warmer, more stable climate year-round. Notably, Honolulu enjoys more days of sunshine and significantly milder winters, making outdoor activities feasible throughout the year. However, be prepared for higher humidity levels and intense UV exposure in Honolulu, necessitating daily sunscreen use. The absence of snow, combined with higher average temperatures, can be a delightful change but requires adjusting to the tropical climate without the distinct seasons experienced in Des Moines.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial and economic differences you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight key financial aspects between Des Moines, IA, and Honolulu, HI, giving you a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of living costs and financial environment.

Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu will introduce you to a dramatically different cost of living, with Honolulu being significantly more expensive. This is reflected starkly in the cost of living index, where Honolulu scores nearly 2.5 times higher than Des Moines. Despite the higher average household income in Honolulu, the steep living costs may offset perceived financial gains. However, the lower average property tax rate in Honolulu offers a slight relief. The industries dominating each city's economy indicate varying job opportunities, which can influence income levels and career paths. Understanding these financial landscapes will help you better prepare for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Des Moines, IA and Honolulu, HI

When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI, it's insightful to quickly understand the political and religious makeup of the places you're transitioning between. This comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Honolulu provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the typical makeup of the population in these two vibrant cities, delving into their political affiliations, local politics, and religious landscapes.

Des MoinesHonolulu

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive on local issuesFocus on sustainability and cultural preservation

Religion

Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faithsUnique blend of Eastern, Western, and Pacific Islander religious practices

Des Moines and Honolulu both lean Democratic, though Honolulu shows a stronger inclination towards Democratic policies, reflecting Hawaii's overall political landscape. Local politics in Des Moines take a progressive stance on issues, mirroring the city's diverse demographic. In contrast, Honolulu's politics place a significant emphasis on sustainability and cultural preservation, crucial given its unique ecological and cultural context. Religion in Des Moines is predominantly Christian, accompanied by a diverse presence of other faiths. Honolulu reveals a fascinating mix of Eastern, Western, and indigenous Pacific Islander religious practices, illustrating its rich multicultural heritage. This dynamic interplay of cultures, politics, and religious beliefs between your current and future home offers a refreshing perspective as you plan your move.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Honolulu

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Honolulu, HI offers a distinct change in lifestyle, particularly when it comes to the daily commute and traffic. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Des Moines & Honolulu, highlighting the differences in driving and transiting in each city.

Des MoinesHonolulu
1927

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

48

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

67

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, with effort

Can you get by without car?

The commute in Des Moines and Honolulu varies significantly, not just in average time, but also in the experience. In Des Moines, with a lower traffic congestion score, you might find driving more comfortable than in Honolulu, where traffic can be quite demanding, especially during peak hours. Honolulu, however, has a slightly better public transit system, making it feasible, although challenging, to get by without a car. In contrast, Des Moines' public transit is less robust, making a car almost a necessity for navigating the city efficiently. This difference reflects the contrasting urban layouts and available transportation infrastructure of the two cities.

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