Best Iowa to North Dakota Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IA to ND Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another is an exhilarating journey, packed with the promise of new experiences and opportunities. Transitioning from the 'Hawkeye State' of Iowa, known for its vast cornfields and warm communities, to the rugged beauty and oil-rich lands of North Dakota, the 'Peace Garden State', symbolizes not just a change of scenery but a fresh chapter in life. It's crucial to ensure this adventure begins on the right foot, which is why hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we've meticulously ranked at Great Guys Moving, becomes invaluable for a seamless long-distance transition.

Iowa iconArrow iconNorth Dakota icon

Best Iowa to North Dakota Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck9.30A+Authorized For HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.11A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Quality Pack & Load9.07A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from North Dakota to Iowa guide.

6 Best IA to ND 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 12/2/2024)

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 12/5/2024)

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
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Exceptional9.30/10
based on 810+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

With more than 30 years of experience in the industry of moving families and businesses, Two Men and a Truck is a globally recognized moving...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3220190 / 1007626

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
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 5/24/2024)

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
4
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional9.11/10
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 12/5/2024)

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
5
Quality Pack & Load Logo
Exceptional9.07/10
based on 362+ data points

About Quality Pack & Load

Quality Pack & Load is a professional moving company established in 2009. It's a family-owned and operated business with a reputation fo...Read More >>

Services

  • Full-service moving services
  • Full-service packing services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3092102 / 72533

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved17,514 (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 North Dakota

Moving between states is a significant decision that involves weighing both positive and negative aspects carefully. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on relocating from Iowa to North Dakota , outlining both the challenges and advantages, to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lesser job opportunities
  • Higher taxes
  • Denser population
  • Milder winters
North Dakota iconNorth Dakota
  • Booming job market
  • Lower taxes
  • More open space
  • Harsher, snowy winters
North Dakota iconNorth Dakota
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • More rugged terrain
  • Less agricultural diversity
  • Cooler summers
Iowa iconIowa
  • Cultural venues
  • Lush landscapes
  • Robust agriculture
  • Warm summers

Moving from Iowa to North Dakota offers a unique set of considerations, from job markets to climate differences. In North Dakota, cities like Fargo are experiencing a booming job market in tech and health sectors, contrasting with Iowa's established agricultural and manufacturing base. While Iowa boasts lush landscapes and vibrant cultural venues, such as Des Moines’ Performing Arts Center, North Dakota offers an expansive open space with a rugged beauty all its own, including the breathtaking views at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Climate-wise, prepare for colder, longer winters in North Dakota, which provide a winter wonderland perfect for enthusiasts of snow sports. Despite the challenges, the move can be an enriching experience, opening up new opportunities and adventures in North Dakota.

Iowa vs. North Dakota Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & North Dakota is crucial for those moving, as food greatly shapes the cultural and living experience of a region. This will help you understand the culinary scene of your new home.

IowaNorth Dakota
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichHotdish
Most popular meat dishGrilled Pork ChopsBison Steak
Most popular street food itemSweet CornKnoephla Soup
Most popular vegan foodRoasted VegetablesLentil Dish
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Zombie Burger
  • The Sumatran
  • Centro
  • Kroll's Diner
  • Mezzaluna
  • HoDo Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to North Dakota, you'll quickly discover the charm of local eateries and the state's affection for dishes like Hotdish, a comforting, casserole-style meal that is widely enjoyed. Food lovers will appreciate the distinct Bison Steaks at rustic steakhouses, a testament to the local cuisine's emphasis on regional meat. For vegan residents, cozy cafes and eateries in cities like Fargo offer inventive lentil dishes and other plant-based options. The food scene in North Dakota is anchored by iconic restaurants like Kroll's Diner in Bismarck, famous for its diner-style comfort food, and Mezzaluna in Fargo, known for its refined American cuisine. Whether it's exploring the variety of food trucks or dining out, you'll find the local cuisine both inviting and diverse.

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Iowa vs. North Dakota Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a significant role when considering a move. Understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and livability between Iowa and North Dakota informs your decision-making process. This comparison sheds light on these crucial aspects.

ComparisonIowaNorth Dakota
Typical Architecture StyleRanchSplit-level
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, hardwood floorsEnergy efficiency, open concept layouts

While the Median Home Prices and the Median Monthly Rent reveal that overall, housing in North Dakota is more expensive than in Iowa, there's more to consider. Iowa's typical architecture style leans towards ranch-style homes, often associated with more spacious yards as highlighted in real estate listings; this could be a charm for those prioritizing outdoor space. North Dakota, with its preference for split-level homes and emphasis on energy efficiency and open layouts, might appeal to someone looking for modern conveniences and sustainable living. The walkability and bikeability scores suggest that Iowa offers slightly better conditions for those who prefer to get around on foot or bike. Understanding these nuanced differences can help tailor your relocation to suit your lifestyle preferences.

Iowa vs. North Dakota Weather Considerations

Moving between states means adapting to new climates. Understanding how the weather contrasts between Iowa and North Dakota is crucial for your relocation plans. Knowing what to expect allows you to prepare accordingly, ensuring a smoother transition to your new environment.

Summer icon
85/63

Iowa

82/57

North Dakota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/14

Iowa

24/6

North Dakota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Iowa

18

North Dakota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
35

Iowa

50

North Dakota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaNorth Dakota
Air QualityGoodVery Good
Natural DisastersTornadoes, floodsBlizzards, floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Iowa and North Dakota enjoy four distinct seasons, North Dakota experiences more extreme weather conditions. Winters in North Dakota are notably harsher, with average low temperatures dropping significantly lower than in Iowa. This is reflected in the higher average annual snowfall. Additionally, while both states have a similar amount of sunshine days, the drier climate of North Dakota results in less annual rainfall but can lead to a more severe allergy season given the similar top allergens. Air quality is slightly better in North Dakota, potentially due to the lower population density and fewer urban areas.

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

When considering a move from one region to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to elucidate the financial differences and similarities between Iowa and North Dakota, focusing on areas that will impact your wallet. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in both states compare to what you're accustomed to will help in making an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonIowaNorth Dakota
Avg. Household Income$69,588$71,970
Cost of Living Index95.995.3
State Income Tax0.33 - 8.531.10 - 2.90
Avg. Property Tax1.531.42
Avg. Sales Tax6.946.86
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, AgricultureOil Extraction, Agriculture, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateModerate to High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessLow to ModerateLow

While both Iowa and North Dakota offer a quality of life that is above average, there are subtle differences worth noting. North Dakota, with its booming oil extraction industry, shows a slightly higher average household income compared to Iowa. This, paired with a marginally lower cost of living index, can make North Dakota an appealing option for individuals seeking financial growth or stability. State and sales taxes are generally lower in North Dakota as well, providing a slight economic advantage. However, the choice between the two states should also account for factors such as preferred industries and personal lifestyle preferences, as each state boasts unique employment opportunities and cultural offerings.

Iowa vs. North Dakota Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Iowa & North Dakota aims to give you a quick insight into the composition of residents you will encounter, helping you understand the cultural and societal ethos of your new home.

IowaNorth Dakota
Political Make-upSwing State, leans slightly Republican recentlyStrongly Republican
Local PoliticsModerate, with a focus on agricultural policiesConservative, energy and job growth prioritized
ReligionChristian majority, diverse religious communitiesChristian majority, less religious diversity

In moving from Iowa to North Dakota, you'll enter a state with a more homogenously Christian and stronger Republican political landscape. This reflects in local politics; while Iowa may balance between agricultural concerns and progressive ideals, North Dakota's local governance tends to lean more towards conservative policies with an emphasis on energy independence and job creation in such sectors. This political and religious makeup could influence your experience in community engagement, local governance, and the overall societal atmosphere. Understanding these differences can help you navigate your new surroundings more effectively.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to North Dakota

Moving to a new state involves numerous considerations, and for families, education tops the list. This comparison is created to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and North Dakota . Knowing the differences in educational opportunities can significantly influence your decision-making process.

IowaNorth Dakota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
North Dakota State University
University of North Dakota
Minot State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary - Coralville
Roosevelt Elementary - Ames
Lincoln Elementary - Pella
Freedom Elementary - West Fargo
Longfellow Elementary - Fargo
Lincoln Elementary - Dickinson

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School - Ames
North Central Junior High - Coralville
Northwest Junior High - Coralville
Ben Franklin Middle School - Fargo
Horizon Middle School - Bismarck
Cheney Middle School - West Fargo

Top 3 High Schools

West High School - Iowa City
Ames High School - Ames
Johnston High School - Johnston
Fargo North High - Fargo
Century High School - Bismarck
Red River High School - Grand Forks

Top 3 private high schools

Xavier High School - Cedar Rapids
Dowling Catholic High School - West Des Moines
Wahlert Catholic High School - Dubuque
Shanley High School - Fargo
St. Mary's Central High School - Bismarck
Oak Grove Lutheran School - Fargo

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School - Fairfield
Scattergood Friends School - West Branch
Rivermont Collegiate - Bettendorf
Oak Grove Lutheran School - Fargo
Shiloh Christian School - Bismarck
Trinity Christian School - Williston

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools
Ames Community School District
Fargo Public Schools
Bismarck Public Schools
West Fargo Public Schools

Choosing the right school for your child is a critical decision. In Iowa, the Iowa City Community School District boasts high academic standards and innovative programs, making it a top choice for many families. Similarly, West Des Moines Community Schools are well-regarded for their excellent curriculum and strong teacher-student relationships. North Dakota offers equally impressive options; Fargo Public Schools, for instance, are celebrated for their comprehensive educational programs and commitment to student success. Additionally, private education in both states provides unique opportunities: In Iowa, Xavier High School stands out for its combination of rigorous academics and faith-based education, while North Dakota's Oak Grove Lutheran School is noted for its close-knit community and well-rounded approach to learning. This comparison underscores the array of quality educational options available as you consider your move.

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