Best Iowa to Idaho Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IA to ID Moving Specialists

Moving from Iowa, the heartland of America, to the rugged beauty of Idaho represents not just a change of scenery but an exciting chapter in your life. You're leaving behind the Corn State's endless fields and friendly faces for Idaho's majestic mountains, vast wilderness, and the famous Gem State allure. Understanding the monumental shift, it's crucial to ensure your journey is smooth by choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, to navigate this long-distance move efficiently.

Iowa iconArrow iconIdaho icon

Best Iowa to Idaho Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
208 Moving Company9.49A+Authorized For HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Valley Custom Moving9.40A+Authorized For HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.23A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.10A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Idaho to Iowa guide.

6 Best IA to ID Moving Companies

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

Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.53/10
based on 956+ data points

About Adamantine Spine Moving

With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
1
208 Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,382+ data points

About 208 Moving Company

With over 5,000 satisfied customers and close to 9,000 boxes moved, 208 Moving Company provides you with the confidence you need when planni...Read More >>

Services

  • Local movers in Boise, ID
  • Long-distance moves throughout the continental United States
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2522386 / 875791

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,268+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Valley Custom Moving Logo
Exceptional9.40/10
based on 1,163+ data points

About Valley Custom Moving

Valley Custom Moving is a full-service moving company headquartered in Treasure Valley, Idaho that provides all types of moves, from large a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3254761 / 1025000

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved700,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.23/10
based on 520+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional9.10/10
based on 621+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Idaho

Moving can be a complex decision, full of nuances that might not be immediately obvious. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the Iowa to Idaho transition, highlighting both the challenges and benefits of such a move. Through comparative charts, we seek to unpack the dynamic nature of relocating, showcasing the good and the bad attributes of this particular change.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Harsher winters
  • Fewer mountains
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Less outdoor activities
Idaho iconIdaho
  • Milder winters
  • Mountain landscapes
  • Larger tech scene
  • More outdoor options
Idaho iconIdaho
  • Rockier soil
  • More spread out
  • Higher cost of living
  • More progressive
Iowa iconIowa
  • Richer soil
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lower cost of living
  • More traditional

When considering a move from Iowa to Idaho, you'll find yourself trading Iowa's harsher winters for Idaho's milder, yet snowy conditions, which are great for winter sports lovers. Cities in Idaho like Boise offer burgeoning tech opportunities, which might be a significant upgrade if you're in the tech field. The outdoor lifestyle in Idaho is also more pronounced, with access to stunning landscapes, such as the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, and outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking. Idaho's higher cost of living, particularly in popular areas such as Boise and Coeur d'Alene, can be a cons, especially compared to the relatively affordable living in Iowa cities like Des Moines. However, the quality of life, including dining at restaurants like Juniper on 8th in Boise and exploring unique sights like Craters of the Moon National Monument, could justify the expenses for many.

Iowa vs. Idaho Food Guide

When planning a move, it's not just the scenery that changes; the local culture and cuisine do too. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and gives you a taste of what life in a new area could be like. To help you adjust and get excited about your upcoming move, we'll offer a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Idaho so you can be better informed about the food scene in your new home.

IowaIdaho
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichIdaho Potatoes
Most popular meat dishIowa Chop (Pork Chop)Boise Brisket
Most popular street food itemSweet CornFinger Steaks
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegan Huckleberry Muffins
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • The Machine Shed Restaurant
  • Amana Colonies
  • Chandlers Steakhouse
  • Westside Drive-In
  • The Basque Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Iowa, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich stands as a testament to the state's rich agricultural heritage, best enjoyed at local gatherings like the Iowa State Fair. Meanwhile, Idaho's fame for its potatoes goes beyond the cliché, with innovative dishes that spotlight the versatility of the state's premier crop. Idaho's food scene is notably vibrant, with Boise, in particular, offering a plethora of food trucks and vegan options that reflect a growing foodie culture. Whether you're indulging in the smoky flavors of a Boise Brisket or exploring vegan delights in downtown Boise’s eclectic restaurants, Idaho provides a rich tapestry of tastes that cater to a wide array of palates.

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Ready to start your move?

Iowa vs. Idaho Real Estate & Living Facts

Deciding on a new place to call home requires a deep dive into real estate comparisons between Iowa and Idaho. Understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and livability will help you make an informed decision about your next big move.

ComparisonIowaIdaho
Typical Architecture StylePrairie School, RanchCraftsman, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, Proximity to schoolsViews of nature, Access to outdoor activities

While the median home price in Idaho is significantly higher than in Iowa, the investment might be justified by Idaho's access to natural landscapes and outdoor activities, aligning well with those prioritizing an active lifestyle. Idaho's higher bikeability score reflects its scenic bike paths and trails. However, for those valuing urban lifestyle and amenities, Iowa offers a more affordable option without compromising on space, as seen in its commonality of spacious backyards and proximity to educational institutions in real estate listings.

Iowa vs. Idaho Weather Considerations

When preparing for a move from Iowa to Idaho, it's crucial to understand how the weather differences will impact your daily life. This comparison aims to dissect key climatic variations you should expect, making the transition as smooth as possible. By highlighting significant factors such as average temperatures, sunshine days, and natural disasters relevant to each state, you'll be better prepared for your new environment.

Summer icon
86/64

Iowa

85/54

Idaho

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/14

Iowa

34/19

Idaho

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Iowa

18

Idaho

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
35

Iowa

60

Idaho

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaIdaho
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsWildfires, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Transitioning from Iowa's humid continental climate to Idaho's semi-arid and mountainous weather involves notable changes. Idaho offers more annual sunshine days and a wider temperature range, from hot summers to cold winters, compared to Iowa's milder yet more humid conditions. While both states share a vulnerability to certain natural disasters, your personal adjustment might involve getting used to Idaho's lower annual rainfall but significantly higher snowfall. Additionally, understanding local air quality issues and allergen profiles in Idaho will be key in maintaining your health and comfort after the move.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one location to another significantly impacts your financial wellbeing, so understanding the differences in the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Iowa and Idaho is crucial. This comparison chart aims to highlight key financial aspects that will shape your experience in transitioning between these states.

ComparisonIowaIdaho
Avg. Household Income$69,588$72,785
Cost of Living Index95.991.5
State Income Tax0.33 to 8.531.0 to 6.5
Avg. Property Tax1.290.75
Avg. Sales Tax6.826.03
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Agriculture, Health ServicesScience & Technology, Agriculture, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateModest
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessLowIncreasing

The cost of living is a crucial factor for anyone considering a move between Iowa and Idaho. With Iowa having a lower cost of living index compared to Idaho, your money might go further in Iowa for everyday expenses. However, the average property tax rate in Idaho is significantly lower, which could be financially beneficial for homeowners in the long term. The disparity in state income tax rates, with Iowa reaching a higher max rate, implies that your income may be taxed more in Iowa depending on your earnings bracket. Additionally, the leading industries in both states suggest differences in job opportunities that could sway your decision based on your career path.

Iowa vs. Idaho Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Iowa to Idaho, understanding the comparison of the politics between Iowa & Idaho alongside their religious landscapes offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot that can greatly impact your adaptation to your new home. Both states have unique profiles in terms of political alignment, local governance, and religious composition, which contribute to their distinct cultural environments.

IowaIdaho
Political Make-upBattleground, with both parties representedHeavily Republican
Local PoliticsVaries widely across the stateDominantly conservative, especially in rural areas
ReligionProtestant, with a significant Catholic minorityMajority Protestant, with a large LDS (Mormon) community

In both Iowa and Idaho, the local political and religious landscapes significantly influence daily life and community involvement. While Iowa's political scene is a competitive battleground that sees influence from both major parties, Idaho leans heavily Republican, particularly in its vast rural areas. This translates into distinct local governance styles and policies that you will encounter. Religious practices also differ notably, with Iowa having a blend of Protestant and Catholic communities, while Idaho has a significant presence of the LDS Church, especially in the southeastern regions. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate and connect with your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Idaho

Moving from one state to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding the right schools for your children. Our comparison chart is designed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and Idaho. By examining key education metrics, you can make an informed decision for your family's educational future.

IowaIdaho

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
Boise State University
University of Idaho
Idaho State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Grant Ragan Elementary (Waukee)
Brookview Elementary (West Des Moines)
Longfellow Elementary (Boise)
Washington Elementary (Boise)
Roosevelt Elementary (Boise)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Waukee Middle School (Waukee)
Les Bois Junior High (Boise)
West Junior High (Boise)
East Junior High (Boise)

Top 3 High School Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Waukee High School (Waukee)
Boise High School (Boise)
Timberline High School (Boise)
Borah High School (Boise)

Top 3 private high schools

Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Regina High School (Iowa City)
Bishop Kelly High School (Boise)
The Ambrose School (Meridian)
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy (Coeur d'Alene)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)
The Ambrose School (Meridian)
Riverstone International School (Boise)
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy (Coeur d'Alene)

Top 3 School Districts

Waukee Community School District
Iowa City Community School District
West Des Moines Community School District
Boise School District
Blaine County School District
Coeur d'Alene School District

When comparing schools from Iowa to Idaho, the focus often shifts to the environment and the opportunities each state offers. For example, University of Iowa and Boise State University are both highly regarded institutions but offer different campus cultures and areas of study emphasis, catering to the diverse interests of their students. Elementary schools like Wickham in Coralville and Longfellow in Boise highlight the strong educational foundations both states provide. Moreover, unique to Iowa is the presence of several high-ranking private K-12 options such as the Maharishi School in Fairfield, indicating an array of choices for personalized education paths not as prevalent in Idaho. On the other hand, Idaho boasts a concentrated excellence in its public schools, especially within the Boise School District, known for its comprehensive curriculum and extracurricular activities that nurture well-rounded individuals.

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