Moving from Iowa to Maine?

6 Best IA to ME Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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IA to ME Moving Specialists

Moving from Iowa, the Hawkeye State, to Maine, affectionately known as the Pine Tree State, marks not just a change of scenery but an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading wide open fields and warm-hearted folks for rocky shores, dense forests, and a maritime vibe that's as refreshing as the Atlantic breeze. To ensure this transition is as smooth as possible, it’s crucial to entrust your journey to professional movers whose reliability and expertise are unmatched, and at Great Guys Moving, we prioritize connecting you with the best of the best.

Iowa iconArrow iconMaine icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Maine to Iowa guide.

6 Best Iowa to Maine Movers

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

#1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,268+ data points

Iowa City, IA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Apartment/Condo Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1471037 Verify

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 >>

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#2
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
#3
SC Moving Services Logo
Exceptional

based on 644+ data points

South Portland, ME
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT: 2324405 Verify

About SC Moving Services

SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern Maine, G...Read More >>

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#4
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 9/5/2024)

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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#5
White Glove Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 848+ data points

Marion, IA
Local Moving Services, Residential Moving Services, Commercial & Freight Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2991947 Verify

About White Glove Movers

White Glove Movers is a residential and commercial moving company serving its local community of Marion, the nearby areas of Cedar Rapids, I...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in cedar rapids 2023 white glove movers image
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#6
Vacationland Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 288+ data points

Poland, ME
Local & Long Distance Moving, Residential & Commercial Moving, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3540196 Verify

About Vacationland Moving

Vacationland Moving is a relocation specialist company based in Portland, Maine. Their services, which are considered some of the finest mov...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Maine

Moving from one state to another can be daunting, as it involves weighing the trade-offs between familiar comforts and new opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Iowa to Maine , helping to paint a clearer picture of what to expect before making such a significant decision.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Flatter landscapes
  • Less seafood variety
  • Lower cost of living
  • Fewer historical sites
Maine iconMaine
  • More diverse terrain
  • Fresher seafood options
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Abundant historical sites
Maine iconMaine
  • Higher cost of living
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Less urban areas
Iowa iconIowa
  • Friendly communities
  • More job opportunities
  • Affordable housing
  • Easy navigating cities

When considering moving from Iowa to Maine, you'll find that Maine offers a significant shift in lifestyle and scenery. For example, seafood enthusiasts will rejoice in locales like Portland Lobster Company, where the catch is always fresh and local. History buffs will find their paradise exploring Maine's rugged coast dotted with historic lighthouses and sites, such as the iconic Acadia National Park. Although Maine might introduce a higher cost of living and colder winters, the state's rich cultural experiences and scenic beauty, from the hustle and bustle of Portland to the serene landscapes of Bar Harbor, create a compelling argument for the move. Additionally, the abundance of neighborhood parks, unique restaurants, and picturesque sights provides an enriching environment that could easily outweigh the cons for many.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Iowa to Maine

Understanding local food culture is crucial when relocating, as it greatly influences the living experience. We've prepared a comparison to give you a glimpse into what awaits your palate. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Maine, aimed at helping you grasp the culinary contrasts and delights of your new home.

IowaMaine

Most iconic local food item

CornLobster

Most popular meat dish

Pork TenderloinLobster Roll

Most popular street food item

Taco PizzaWhoopie Pie

Most popular vegan food

Vegetarian ChiliBlueberry Smoothie

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Fong's Pizza
  • The Machine Shed Restaurant
  • Eventide Oyster Co.
  • Fore Street
  • The Lost Kitchen

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

68

When moving to Maine, you'll find that the state prides itself on its fresh, locally-sourced seafood, with lobster being a central part of its culinary identity. Neighborhoods in Portland, for example, offer a vast array of dining experiences where you can try iconic dishes like the lobster roll at Eventide Oyster Co. or delve into innovative, farm-to-table offerings at The Lost Kitchen in Freedom, showcasing the state's commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, the foodie scene in Maine is vibrant, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and vegan options, making it a welcoming place for all dietary preferences.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Iowa to Maine

When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Whether you're heading from Iowa to Maine or vice versa, knowing what to expect in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly ease your transition. This comparison aims to highlight these essential aspects.

In comparing the housing aspects from Iowa to Maine, certain trends emerge that could influence your decision-making. Iowa's real estate market offers more affordability, with the median home price and rent substantially lower than Maine's. However, Maine compensates with its higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, reflecting its dense, vibrant communities and closeness to natural landscapes that appeal to many. Furthermore, Maine's architecture, with a prevalence of Colonial and Cape Cod styles, offers a unique aesthetic that differs from the Craftsman and Ranch styles more common in Iowa. These differences highlight the varied lifestyles and preferences catered to in each state, suggesting that your choice might hinge not just on financial considerations but also on the kind of community and home style you envision for yourself.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Maine

Moving from one location to another requires a deep understanding of how your life will change, especially when it comes to adapting to new weather conditions. Comparing the weather between Iowa and Maine is crucial for anticipating what to expect and how to prepare adequately for your new environment.

Summer icon
85/64

Iowa

70/55

Maine

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/14

Iowa

31/13

Maine

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Iowa

45

Maine

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

Iowa

75

Maine

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Iowa and Maine experience cold winters with similar highs and lows, Maine's significantly higher snowfall reflects its coastal and northern geographic location. Maine also benefits from very good air quality and a slightly higher average annual rainfall, promoting lush landscapes but potentially contributing to mold-related allergies not as prevalent in Iowa. The difference in summer temperatures suggests a milder climate in Maine, providing a respite from the more extreme heat Iowa can experience. Understanding these distinctions can help you plan for seasonal activities and prepare your wardrobe and home for your new climate.

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

When considering a move from one area to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Iowa and Maine focuses on key money and finance topics that will influence your decision and adaptation to your new home. From income levels to the cost of living, see how your financial landscape might change.

The difference in the Cost of Living Index is one of the most striking contrasts between Iowa and Maine, with Maine being significantly higher. This could impact your budget, particularly in housing and utilities. Despite this, average household incomes in both states are relatively close, though slightly higher in Iowa. This means while you might enjoy a larger income in Iowa, your dollar could stretch further due to Iowa's lower cost of living. Understanding the state’s predominant industries is also crucial for job seekers; while Iowa thrives on agriculture and manufacturing, Maine's economy leans heavily on healthcare, retail, and tourism. With moderate affluence and similarly low levels of poverty and homelessness, both states offer a stable financial environment, albeit within very different economic landscapes.

Political & Religious Comparison between Iowa and Maine

Moving from Iowa to Maine introduces you to new communities with their unique characteristics. This comparison intends to offer a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Iowa & Maine, providing insights into what you can expect from your new neighbors.

IowaMaine

Political Make-up

Swing state with a mix of both partiesLargely leans Democratic, especially in urban areas

Local Politics

Varies widely across the stateProgressive policies more common

Religion

Christianity predominant, diverse religious communitiesChristianity predominant, but with a higher rate of unaffiliated individuals

The political landscape you'll encounter in Maine is considerably more tilted towards the Democratic Party, particularly in urban areas compared to Iowa's swing state status where political leanings can vary greatly from one county to another. In terms of local politics, Maine tends to favor progressive policies more so than Iowa. This could reflect in everyday life, from social issues to environmental policies. Religious makeup in both states is predominantly Christian, but Maine stands out with a higher percentage of residents identifying as unaffiliated with any religion. This could influence the community culture and local events you'll experience in Maine compared to Iowa.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Maine

Moving between states can be a daunting task, especially when considering educational options for your family. To assist in this transition, we've compiled a comparison chart to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and Maine . This guide aims to highlight key differences in educational offerings, helping you make informed decisions for your children’s schooling.

IowaMaine

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Maine
Bowdoin College
Colby College

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Grant Wood Elementary (Bettendorf)
Roosevelt Elementary (Mason City)
Yarmouth Elementary (Yarmouth)
Falmouth Elementary (Falmouth)
Cape Elizabeth School (Cape Elizabeth)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
Yarmouth Middle School (Yarmouth)
Falmouth Middle School (Falmouth)
Brunswick Jr. High School (Brunswick)

Top 3 High School Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)
Yarmouth High School (Yarmouth)
Falmouth High School (Falmouth)
Cape Elizabeth High School (Cape Elizabeth)

Top 3 private high schools

Phillips Academy (Exeter)
Choate Rosemary Hall (Wallingford)
The Hotchkiss School (Lakeville)
Waynflete (Portland)
George Stevens Academy (Blue Hill)
John Bapst Memorial High School (Bangor)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Iowa Mennonite School (Kalona)
North Yarmouth Academy (Yarmouth)
Waynflete School (Portland)
The Bay School (Blue Hill)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Pleasant Valley Community School District
Falmouth School Department
Yarmouth Schools
Cape Elizabeth School Department

Moving to either Iowa or Maine presents varied and rich educational opportunities. In Iowa, University of Iowa and Iowa State University stand out for higher education, reflecting the state’s strong emphasis on academics at the university level. Maine, on the other hand, is renowned for its prestigious liberal arts colleges like Bowdoin College and Colby College, offering intimate learning environments. Additionally, both states boast top-rated K-12 institutions, with Iowa's Iowa City Community School District and Maine's Falmouth School Department leading their respective regions, emphasizing quality education from elementary through high school. Such diversities in educational offerings underscore the importance of assessing each state’s educational landscape closely to find the best fit for your family's needs.

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