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Des Moines to Omaha Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from Des Moines, the Heartland's hidden gem, to Omaha, the Gateway to the West, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're not just changing zip codes; you're leaving behind Des Moines's cozy cafe corners for Omaha's vibrant Old Market and booming culinary scene. Understanding this, the importance of entrusting your journey to reliable professional movers can't be overstated, ensuring your adventure to Omaha is seamless and stress-free.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Des Moines to Omaha

#1
King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,527+ data points

Omaha, NE
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Residential moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 960979 Verify

About King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha

Whether you're relocating within the city or have a long-distance move, Omaha, NE movers have you covered. One such company is King's Moving...Read More >>

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#2
King's Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,178+ data points

Omaha, NE
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Residential moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 960979 Verify

About King's Moving

King’s Moving is a five-star rated business established in 2012. Widely regarded as Omaha’s top local moving company, King’s Moving has a te...Read More >>

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#3
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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#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 5/23/2024)

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
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 5/23/2024)

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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Relocating from Des Moines to Omaha Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the new city you're going to call home. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison of local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Omaha, NE . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Omaha that matches the vibe of your current Des Moines community, making the move a little less overwhelming.

Des MoinesOmaha
East VillageOld Market

Historic, artsy vibe

BeaverdaleBenson

Family-friendly, local shops

Waveland ParkDundee-Happy Hollow

Historic homes, community feel

Sherman HillField Club

Historic architecture, tight-knit community

South of GrandFairacres

Upscale, tree-lined streets

Drake NeighborhoodAksarben Village

Vibrant, young professional atmosphere

WaterburyRegency

Exclusive, well-manicured

Highland ParkElmwood Park

Diverse, community-centric

Ingersoll ParkMidtown Crossing

Modern, lively urban area

Gray's LakeZorinsky Lake Area

Recreational, scenic views

If you're moving from the East Village in Des Moines with its eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Omaha's Old Market, where historic buildings house unique shops and local eateries like Mangelson's. For those accustomed to the historic charm and communal vibe of Beaverdale, Benson's lively cultural scene and community events will make you feel right at home. It hosts distinct local businesses and venues such as the Benson Theatre. And if the serene, upscale feel of South of Grand is what you're leaving behind, the elegant Fairacres neighborhood in Omaha offers lavish homes and beautifully maintained streets that are sure to appeal to your high standards for a refined living environment.

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Things to Do in Omaha

  • Explore Lauritzen Gardens' botanical beauty
  • Discover Omaha's history at The Durham Museum
  • Enjoy a day at Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
  • Catch a show at Orpheum Theater
  • Stroll through Omaha's Old Market district
  • Attend a UNO Mavericks game
  • Sample craft beers at local breweries

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Omaha

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the good against the bad, and a relocation from Des Moines, IA to Omaha, NE is no exception. To help you make an informed decision, we present a comparative analysis that showcases the cons of staying put against the pros of making a move, as well as highlighting the benefits you currently enjoy against the drawbacks you might face in your new city. Let this serve as an honest reflection of the changes you can expect.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Longer winters
  • Less diverse dining
Omaha, NE iconOmaha, NE
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural venues
  • Milder winters
  • More diverse dining
Omaha, NE iconOmaha, NE
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Longer commutes
  • More impersonal
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quiet neighborhoods
  • Easier commutes
  • Strong community vibe

While making a move from Des Moines, IA to Omaha, NE, you'll find yourself transitioning from the comfortable familiarity of cozy, quiet neighborhoods to embracing the vibrant buzz of a city with a larger job market and more cultural venues. Omaha is home to the renowned Durham Museum and the bustling Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, places where family outings can turn into memorable explorations. Foodies will appreciate the leap from a less diverse dining scene to savoring flavors from around the world at Omaha's Old Market district, which brims with unique eateries and boutiques. Though you may miss the lower cost of living and the strong community vibe of Des Moines, the cultural richness and employment opportunities Omaha offers present an enticing new chapter for those willing to embrace the change.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Des Moines to Omaha

Understanding the food scene is crucial when moving, as food is a vital piece of local culture and lifestyle. Here, we'll delve into the comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Omaha , helping you grasp what culinary delights await you in your new home.

Des MoinesOmaha

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichReuben Sandwich

Most popular meat dish

Smoked Pork RibsOmaha Steak

Most popular street food item

Taco TrucksCheeseburger Sliders

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladBlack Bean Burger

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Fong’s Pizza
  • Zombie Burger
  • Centro
  • The Drover
  • Boiler Room
  • Block 16

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

67

Exploring the Des Moines and Omaha food scenes reveals a delightful blend of traditional and modern culinary artistry. Des Moines is celebrated for its Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a must-try at local favorite, Fong’s Pizza. Meanwhile, Omaha takes pride in its legendary Omaha Steaks, best experienced at The Drover. Street food lovers will rejoice in Des Moines's vibrant taco truck scene, while Omaha's cheeseburger sliders stand out as a go-to street food. Whether you're indulging in Omaha's higher-rated foodie scene or exploring Des Moines's array of food trucks, each city offers unique flavors and experiences for all food enthusiasts, including those looking for vegan options or health-conscious choices.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Des Moines to Omaha

Finding a new favorite spot to dine can make all the difference when moving to a new city. Through this restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Omaha, you'll discover similar eateries that offer familiar flavors and atmospheres, helping you feel right at home. Let's dive into the culinary scene to ease your transition.

CentroAvoli Osteria

Traditional Italian, focusing on Northern Italian dishes

AlbaDante Ristorante Pizzeria

Farm to table approach with a focus on Neapolitan pizza

Fong's PizzaVirtuoso Pizzeria

Unique pizza offerings with an eclectic twist

Zombie Burger+Drink LabBlock 16

Farm-to-table burgers, creative sandwiches, and vegan options

801 ChophouseMonarch Prime & Bar

High-end steakhouse with a focus on dry-aged meats

Tasty TacosCalifornia Tacos & More

Known for their unique "Omaha-style" taco

A Dong RestaurantSalween Thai

Authentic Thai cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients

El Bait ShopBeercade

Large selection of craft beers and vintage arcade games

HarbingerThe Grey Plume

Seasonal, locally sourced dishes with artistic presentation

Smash ParkInner Rail Food Hall

Variety of food options in a communal space, great for socializing

For those who relish the dining experience as much as the cuisine itself, transitioning from Des Moines to Omaha brings a plethora of exciting comparable options. Whether it's the Italian flair of Centro that you crave or the creative burgers from Zombie Burger+Drink Lab, Omaha offers alternatives like Avoli Osteria and Block 16 that promise a similar culinary delight. If you're someone who enjoys a night out at venues like El Bait Shop, where the beer flows as freely as the conversations, you'll find comfort in Omaha's Beercade, which combines a superb beer selection with the nostalgia of vintage arcade games. It's these carefully selected counterparts that make Omaha not just a new city, but a new home, with flavors and spaces that resonate deeply with your Des Moines favorites.

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Ready to start your move?

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

When it comes to moving, evaluating real estate is crucial. It's essential to understand how Des Moines, IA and Omaha, NE compare in housing facets, such as cost, style, and livability, to make an informed decision. This guide aims to underline those differences and similarities.

Both Des Moines and Omaha offer a blend of affordability and lifestyle, but they cater to different tastes and needs. Des Moines's slightly higher median home prices reflect its cosmopolitan blend with spacious yards being a common perk, making it perfect for families seeking room to grow. Meanwhile, Omaha's real estate scene is slightly more affordable with a keen interest in modern upgrades within historical neighborhoods, making it a hotspot for those who appreciate a link to the past alongside modern conveniences. The slight differences in walkability and bikeability between the cities also indicate the uniqueness of each city's urban planning and accessibility features. Whether it's the Craftsman and Ranch styles of Des Moines or the Tudor influences in Omaha, both cities present compelling reasons for potential movers to consider them as their next home base.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Omaha, NE

1. Benson: Known for its vibrant arts scene and inclusivity, Benson boasts pet-friendly restaurants and bars, plus several grooming spas and parks like Benson Park where your furry friends can roam freely.

2. Dundee: This historic neighborhood offers a welcoming community for pet owners, with numerous pet-friendly cafes and a close-knit, walkable environment leading to Memorial Park, ideal for afternoon walks.

3. Aksarben Village: A modern and lively area with green spaces like Stinson Park, Aksarben Village is perfect for pet lovers, featuring several pet stores, dog-friendly events, and a strong sense of community.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Omaha

When planning to move, knowing how weather compares between Des Moines and Omaha helps anticipate changes you might experience. This guide offers insight into what to expect outside your window in your new home.

Summer icon
86/65

Des Moines, IA

87/66

Omaha, NE

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
33/17

Des Moines, IA

32/13

Omaha, NE

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

30

Omaha, NE

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

Des Moines, IA

28

Omaha, NE

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Both Des Moines and Omaha boast a continental climate, offering all four seasons with varying temperatures and weather events. The slightly higher sunshine days in Omaha might make your winters feel a bit brighter. However, winters in Omaha can be slightly cooler, especially in terms of low temperatures, which could impact your early morning and late-night activities. Despite this, the overall climate, including humidity levels and the top allergens, are quite similar, ensuring a relatively smooth transition for you, particularly if you're accustomed to the Midwest's seasonal changes.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Des Moines to Omaha , it’s crucial to consider the differences in financial climates. Analyzing the cost of living , taxation , and income levels can help you prepare for the monetary aspect of your relocation.

The transition from Des Moines to Omaha highlights a notable shift in financial landscapes. Despite Omaha having a slightly higher cost of living index, it compensates with a lower state income tax range. This variation means your net income could be more favorably affected in Omaha, depending on your earnings. The top industries in both cities imply diverse job opportunities, though the prominence of agriculture and transportation in Omaha contrasts with Des Moines's finance and healthcare sectors. Understanding these nuances ensures you’re not just moving locations but moving forward with your financial well-being in mind.

Political & Religious Comparison between Des Moines, IA and Omaha, NE

Considering a move from Des Moines, IA, to Omaha, NE? This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Omaha . Understanding the community's values you're moving into can help ease the transition and give you a better sense of belonging from day one.

Des MoinesOmaha

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticLean Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive tendencies in city policiesModerate, with a balance of conservative and progressive influences

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Christian community. Local ChurchesDiverse, with a strong presence of Christianity and growing other faith communities. Faith Centers

In both Des Moines and Omaha, you'll find a leaning towards Democratic political orientations, though Omaha presents a more balanced mix of conservative and progressive influences within its local politics. This could reflect in the city's initiatives and public projects that cater to a wider spectrum of residents' needs. Religiously, both cities boast a diverse fabric, though with Christianity being predominant. In Des Moines, a progressive approach is seen in city policies, which might contrast with Omaha's blend of values. This diversity in both cities could ensure you find a community that resonates with your beliefs and preferences.

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

Comparing the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Omaha is essential for those planning a move. This comparison will help you better understand what to expect in your daily commute and overall traffic experience in these cities.

Des MoinesOmaha
20.420.1

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

44.5

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingChallenging

Can you get by without car?

In Des Moines and Omaha, the average commute times are remarkably similar, both hovering around the 20-minute mark. This indicates that no matter which city you choose, your daily drive to work might not be drastically different in duration. However, the slight difference in traffic congestion—with Omaha being marginally higher—could be attributed to specific busy areas or the layout of the city roads. Public transit options are relatively better in Des Moines, making it a tad easier for those relying on such services. Nonetheless, in both cities, living without a car could present challenges, implying that while public transportation exists, it might not cover all areas comprehensively or run as frequently as needed for convenient mobility.

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