Best Iowa to Kentucky Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IA to KY Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state isn't just a change of address; it's embarking on an exciting chapter in your life. You're leaving behind Iowa's tranquil fields and community spirit for Kentucky's legendary horse races and spirited bourbon culture. In this grand adventure, the importance of having a trusted and reliable professional mover cannot be overstated, ensuring your journey from the Hawkeye State to the Bluegrass State is as smooth as can be. That's why we at Great Guys Moving use an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers, making your decision clear and straightforward.

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Best Iowa to Kentucky Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.23A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Keep On Moving Company9.17A+Authorized For HHGContact
From Here to There9.14NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
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 Kentucky to Iowa guide.

6 Best IA to KY 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
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
2
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
3
Keep On Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.17/10
based on 833+ data points

About Keep On Moving Company

Keep On Moving Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Cincinnati and the Greater Tri-State area of KY, OH, and IN. It is de...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Delivery Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3468627 / 1134607

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2019)
View Full Review
4
From Here to There Logo
Exceptional9.14/10
based on 715+ data points

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive exp...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
  • Commercial/Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (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 Kentucky

Moving from one state to another is a significant decision that requires considering various factors. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Iowa to Kentucky , highlighting both the challenges and benefits of this relocation. By examining the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller cities
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less diverse cuisine
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Milder winters
  • Larger cities
  • More job opportunities
  • Richer food culture
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Adjustment period
  • Higher cost in cities
  • Fewer parks in urban areas
  • Varying education quality
Iowa iconIowa
  • Strong community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Quality education

Moving from Iowa, you'll miss the tightly-knit communities and the abundance of accessible green spaces, like those found in Des Moines' Gray's Lake Park or Iowa City's Hickory Hill Park. However, Kentucky offers its own set of advantages, such as a richer food culture, which includes Louisville's thriving restaurant scene with establishments like 610 Magnolia and Lexington's Blue Heron Steakhouse. Additionally, Kentucky's milder winters and greater job market diversity in cities like Louisville and Lexington provide new opportunities for personal and professional growth. While the cost of living may be higher in Kentucky's metro areas compared to Iowa's more budget-friendly towns, the move brings with it the excitement of exploring vibrant new neighborhoods and the possibility of engaging with a broader, more diverse community.

Iowa vs. Kentucky Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture and what living in an area truly feels like. With this in mind, we've crafted a guide to help you understand the culinary scene in your new home. This guide includes a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Kentucky , so you can get a taste for what your new state has to offer and better acclimate to your surroundings.

IowaKentucky
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichFried Chicken
Most popular meat dishCorn-fed Beef SteakBBQ Mutton
Most popular street food itemSweet CornHot Brown Sandwich
Most popular vegan foodBlack Bean BurgerBean Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Machine Shed
  • Jethro’s BBQ
  • Amana Colonies Restaurants
  • Jack Fry's
  • Mammy's Kitchen
  • Ramsey's Diner
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Iowa to Kentucky, you'll transition from the cornfields and pork tenderloin sandwiches to a world where fried chicken reigns supreme. In Louisville, specifically, restaurants like Jack Fry's and Mammy's Kitchen highlight the deep roots of Kentucky's cuisine. The iconic Hot Brown Sandwich, a Louisville invention, deftly combines turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, capturing the essence of Kentucky's rich culinary tradition. Beyond classic dishes, Kentucky's increased abundance of food trucks and its burgeoning vegan scene in cities like Lexington offer newcomers a diverse palate of flavors to explore and enjoy.

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Iowa vs. Kentucky Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most crucial considerations when planning a move. Understanding how the housing market, lifestyle, and costs compare between Iowa and Kentucky will help you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to shine a light on the varied aspects of housing such as costs, architecture, and the overall lifestyle in both states.

ComparisonIowaKentucky
Typical Architecture StylePrairie School, CraftsmanColonial, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, quiet neighborhoodsHistoric homes, proximity to parks

When comparing Iowa and Kentucky, it's noteworthy that while the median home price is slightly higher in Kentucky, the differences in monthly rent are more pronounced. One significant aspect unique to each state is the common architectural styles; Iowa is known for its Prairie School and Craftsman designs, reflecting its rich architectural heritage rooted in the Midwest. In contrast, Kentucky tends to feature more Colonial and Craftsman styles, highlighting its historical significance and varied cultural landscape. The lifestyle metrics, including walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, slightly favor Iowa, suggesting it might offer a more accessible and possibly a more vibrant urban experience than Kentucky. However, Kentucky is distinguished by the charm of its historic homes and the abundant green spaces, indicating a strong appeal for those who value history and outdoor activities. Both states showcase different aspects that cater to varied preferences, making them unique in their right.

Iowa vs. Kentucky Weather Considerations

When relocating from Iowa to Kentucky, it’s crucial to understand how the weather will compare, to prepare for changes in climate and seasonal conditions . This comparison will help you adjust from the Iowa climate to the Kentucky climate .

Summer icon
83°F/63°F

Iowa

87°F/67°F

Kentucky

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F/14°F

Iowa

44°F/28°F

Kentucky

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Iowa

50"

Kentucky

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
32"

Iowa

22"

Kentucky

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaKentucky
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, BlizzardsTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In transitioning from Iowa to Kentucky, you’ll find that winters are milder and summers are warmer in Kentucky, potentially offering a more comfortable climate for those not fond of Iowa’s harsh winters. However, with Kentucky receiving more annual rainfall, you might experience a notable increase in wet days, which contributes to its lush landscapes. Additionally, while both states experience similar top seasonal allergies, the slightly higher average annual humidity in Iowa could mean that those moving to Kentucky might find some relief during peak allergy seasons. Considering these factors will ensure a smoother adjustment to your new home.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. Comparing Iowa and Kentucky's financial environment helps reveal potential budget adjustments. Iowa vs. Kentucky financial comparison is essential for understanding cost of living, taxes, and overall economic climate .

ComparisonIowaKentucky
Avg. Household Income$69,588$59,341
Cost of Living Index95.987.8
State Income Tax0.33 - 8.535 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax1.530.83
Avg. Sales Tax66
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Manufacturing, FinanceAuto Manufacturing, Aerospace, Healthcare
AffluenceModerately affluentLess affluent
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessMinimalModerate

When diving deeper, it's evident that while Iowa and Kentucky share similar sales tax rates, significant differences in household income, property tax, and state income tax can impact your budget. Iowa's average household income is higher, contributing to a slightly more affluent population, though it comes with a higher property tax rate. Kentucky, offering a flat state income tax rate, may appear financially advantageous for higher earners despite its lower average household income. Additionally, the primary industries driving each state's economy could influence job opportunities based on your career path. Understanding these nuances ensures a smoother transition when moving from Iowa to Kentucky.

Iowa vs. Kentucky Political & Religious Comparison

This quick overview aims to provide you with a glimpse into the politics between Iowa & Kentucky , allowing you to understand the political and religious landscape of where you're moving from and to. By comparing these aspects, you can get a better sense of the community you’ll soon be a part of.

IowaKentucky
Political Make-upSwing StateLeans Republican
Local PoliticsModerate, with urban areas leaning DemocraticMostly Conservative, except for some urban areas
ReligionChristianity predominates, with a mix of Protestant and CatholicPrimarily Christian, with a significant Baptist presence

When moving from Iowa to Kentucky, you'll notice shifts in political and religious climates. Iowa's position as a swing state often puts it in the spotlight during national elections, reflecting a diverse political landscape. In contrast, Kentucky leans more reliably Republican, though, like Iowa, urban areas may offer pockets of more liberal perspectives. The religious makeup in both states is predominantly Christian, but Kentucky has a noteworthy Baptist community. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new surroundings with greater ease.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Kentucky

Moving from Iowa to Kentucky presents unique considerations, especially when it comes to education. Through this comparison, we'll help you understand the differences between Iowa and Kentucky school options, ranging from public schools to higher education institutions. This guide aims to make your transition smoother by aligning your family's educational needs with the best available options.

IowaKentucky

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
Western Kentucky University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Pella)
Grant Ragan Elementary (Waukee)
Rosa Parks Elementary (Lexington)
Stopher Elementary (Louisville)
Beaumont Elementary (Lexington)

Top 3 Middle Schools

North Central Junior High (Coralville)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
Barret Traditional Middle School (Louisville)
Beaumont Middle School (Lexington)
Highlands Middle School (Fort Thomas)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)
DuPont Manual High School (Louisville)
Highlands High School (Fort Thomas)
Beechwood High School (Fort Mitchell)

Top 3 private high schools

Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Wahlert Catholic High School (Dubuque)
Sacred Heart Academy (Louisville)
St. Xavier High School (Louisville)
Trinity High School (Louisville)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)
The Lexington School (Lexington)
Sayre School (Lexington)
Louisville Collegiate School (Louisville)

Top 3 School Districts

Waukee Community School District
Ames Community School District
Iowa City Community School District
Fayette County Public Schools
Jefferson County Public Schools
Fort Thomas Independent Schools

This chart highlights key education comparisons between Iowa and Kentucky, from primary to higher education. For instance, both states offer a blend of prestigious public and private schools, but they each have unique leading institutions. In Iowa, the University of Iowa and Ames High School stand out for their academic excellence, while in Kentucky, the University of Kentucky and DuPont Manual High School are notable. If you're considering private education for your children, Iowa's Scattergood Friends School and Kentucky's The Lexington School offer exemplary K-12 education. Whereas decisions on higher education may lean towards in-state preferences, these comparisons give a broad view, accommodating diverse educational aspirations.

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