Moving from Des Moines to Columbus?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Des Moines to Columbus Movers

Moving from the vibrant, heartland city of Des Moines to Columbus, Ohio, is nothing short of an exciting life adventure. Leaving behind the "Hartford of the West" for "The Discovery City," you're transitioning from one rich cultural hub to another, each with its own unique flavor of food, neighborhoods, and community vibe. Understanding the pivotal role of trusted and reliable professional movers in such a long-distance move is crucial, and that's where we step in, ensuring you're matched with the best, as ranked by our unbiased algorithm at Great Guys Moving.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Des Moines guide.

5 Best Des Moines to Columbus Movers

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

#1
Blue Men Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,226+ data points

Pickerington, OH
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3544037 Verify

About Blue Men Moving LLC

With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior moving experience...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in columbus 2023 blue men moving llc image
top 10 ranked movers in columbus 2022 blue men moving llc image
#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
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo
Exceptional

based on 452+ data points

Trenton, OH
Local Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 3050908 Verify

About Manifest Shipping Llc

Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and s...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in new middletown 2023 manifest shipping llc image
#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 9/11/2024)

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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top 10 ranked movers in ames 2023 hemmen moving inc image
top 3 ranked movers in ames 2022 hemmen moving inc image
#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 9/10/2024)

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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top ranked movers in des moines 2023 two men and a truck image
top ranked movers in des moines 2022 two men and a truck image

Relocating from Des Moines to Columbus Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings through the lens of your old neighborhood can ease the transition. In this guide, we provide a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Columbus, OH , to help you find a new home that feels familiar. Whether you’re looking for vibrant social scenes, serene parks, or historic charm, this comparison will guide you through the best neighbourhood matches.

Des MoinesColumbus
East VillageShort North

Diverse, artsy community with vibrant nightlife

BeaverdaleClintonville

Family-friendly, with charming homes and local shops

DrakeUniversity District

Young, energetic, near higher education

Sherman HillGerman Village

Historic homes, cobblestone streets

Waveland ParkGrandview Heights

Mix of residential and commercial, community feel

Highland ParkMerion Village

Affordable, close-knit community with parks

South of GrandBexley

Upscale, spacious homes with green spaces

Gray's LakeScioto Mile

Waterfront views, outdoor activities

WaterburyItalian Village

Quaint, with a mix of modern and historic homes

Ingersoll AvenueBrewery District

Lively, historic, with craft breweries and dining options

If you're moving from the artsy and bustling East Village of Des Moines to Columbus, you'll feel right at home in the Short North, where art galleries, boutiques, and trendy eateries line the streets much like they do on Des Moines' East Locust Street. Similarly, those accustomed to the historic charm and tight-knit community of Sherman Hill might find a new love for German Village, Columbus, known for its picturesque brick roads and an array of local cafes like Pistacia Vera. For outdoor enthusiasts used to the recreational activities around Gray's Lake, the Scioto Mile in Columbus offers abundant green spaces and riverfront trails perfect for jogging and biking, complemented by the COSI Science Museum for weekend outings. These neighborhoods in Columbus not only mirror the community vibe and amenities found in Des Moines but also provide unique local flavors and experiences to their residents.

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Things to Do in Columbus

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Columbus

Moving across states brings its unique set of challenges and delights. This guide aims to unveil the reality of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, providing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. The purpose of the following charts is to compare the cons to the pros and vice versa, aiding in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse cuisine options
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lower cultural happenings
  • Less public transportation
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Larger metropolitan area
  • Broader culinary scene
  • Greater job market
  • Richer cultural experiences
  • More public transport options
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • More anonymity
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Complex city landscape
  • Fewer green spaces
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Close-knit community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Easy city navigation
  • More green spaces

While Des Moines offers a smaller, more intimate community atmosphere with less traffic and an easy-to-navigate city layout, Columbus opens doors to a richer cultural experience and a broader job market. Columbus boasts a vibrant culinary scene with restaurants like Lindey's and a wealth of cultural institutions like the Columbus Museum of Art. Furthermore, while Des Moines’s green spaces like The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden provide serene escapes, Columbus counters with bustling public spaces such as The Scioto Mile, offering both recreational activities and scenic beauty. Despite Columbus having a higher cost of living and more traffic, the move promises greater opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Des Moines to Columbus

Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new city, as food is an important part of local culture and living experience. This guide will help you explore what each city has to offer by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Columbus , so you can get a taste of your new home before you even arrive.

Des MoinesColumbus

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichBuckeye Candy

Most popular meat dish

Iowa ChopColumbus-style Pizza

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Truck Gyros

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    • Zombie Burger
    • Centro
    • Fong's Pizza
    • Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
    • Thurman Cafe
    • North Market

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

68

In Des Moines, local delicacies like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich can be savored in the historic East Village, where eateries reflect the city's rich agricultural heritage. In contrast, Columbus offers a diverse culinary scene, highlighted by innovative establishments like North Market, where you can explore a variety of cuisines from all over the world. The city is also well-known for its health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, with neighborhoods like Short North boasting restaurants that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you're exploring the vibrant food truck scene or indulging in local specialties like Buckeye Candy, moving to Columbus will satisfy your culinary curiosity.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Des Moines to Columbus

When settling into a new city, discovering local dining spots can significantly help in calling a place home. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Columbus is designed to guide newcomers in finding their next favorite eateries, ensuring a smoother transition. Let's make your move tasteful!

CentroMarcella's

A vibrant, bustling atmosphere with Italian classics

Zombie Burger + Drink LabThurman Cafe

Known for creative burgers and a funky vibe

Fong's PizzaHarvest Pizzeria

Innovative pizzas with a focus on local ingredients

A DongIndochine Cafe

Authentic Southeast Asian cuisine with a cozy ambience

801 ChophouseMitchell's Steakhouse

Upscale dining with prime cuts and elegant setting

Exile Brewing Co.Wolf's Ridge Brewing

Craft brewery with a strong focus on gastronomy

DjangoBrassica

Casual yet chic, offering a modern take on Mediterranean

La Mie BakeryPistacia Vera

High-quality bakery with a wide selection of pastries

Smokey D's BBQRay Ray's Hog Pit

Authentic barbecue experience with a passionate following

Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.Seventh Son Brewing

Renowned for its beers and vibrant social scene

Discovering places that remind you of home can make the transition to a new city like Columbus much smoother. For example, if you’re a fan of the unique and innovative pies at Fong's Pizza in Des Moines, you'll find a kindred spirit in Harvest Pizzeria in Columbus, which also embraces creativity with its use of local ingredients. Similarly, lovers of craft beer and hearty dishes will appreciate both Exile Brewing Co. and Wolf's Ridge Brewing for their commitment to quality and ambiance. And for those special nights out, 801 Chophouse and Mitchell's Steakhouse offer that perfect mix of fine dining and high-quality meat cuts, ensuring that no matter where you are, you can find a spot that feels like home.

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

When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between your current city and your potential new home is crucial for making an informed decision. For those moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyles can significantly impact your choice and transition.

Digging deeper into the comparison, you'll notice that while Columbus has a higher median home price and rent, it compensates with larger urban lifestyle offerings including a variety of local establishments and parks. The architectural styles reflect the historical growth of both cities, with Des Moines featuring more Craftsman and Ranch homes ideal for those looking for a classic American feel. Columbus, on the other hand, offers Colonial Revival and Cape Cod styles which might appeal to those seeking a touch of historical elegance. Moreover, Columbus scores higher in walkability and bikeability, making it a potentially better fit for those who prioritize an active, urban lifestyle.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Columbus, OH

1. German Village: Recognized for its picturesque brick streets and cozy atmosphere, German Village is incredibly pet-friendly with Schiller Park being a central spot for dog walking and socializing.

2. Short North: Known as the art and soul of Columbus, Short North is bustling with pet-friendly patios, boutiques like One Line Coffee that welcome furry friends, and several pet shops ensuring your pet's needs are always met.

3. Clintonville: Offering a more laid-back vibe, Clintonville is full of green spaces and parks such as the Whetstone Park of Roses, making it an ideal neighborhood for leisurely walks and outings with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Columbus

Moving between cities requires understanding how the weather might change. This comparison offers insights into the weather differences you can expect when moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, focusing on climate conditions, air quality, and potential seasonal allergies. Knowing these can help you prepare for your new home.

Summer icon
86/65

Des Moines, IA

85/64

Columbus, OH

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
33/17

Des Moines, IA

39/24

Columbus, OH

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

39

Columbus, OH

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
34

Des Moines, IA

22

Columbus, OH

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Des Moines and Columbus enjoy similar summer temperatures, winters in Columbus are slightly milder, reducing the heaviness of snowfall to around 22 inches compared to Des Moines' 34 inches. Sunshine is more plentiful in Des Moines, potentially affecting mood and Vitamin D intake. Regarding air quality and allergies, Columbus' air quality is considered moderate, which might be a consideration for those sensitive to atmospheric conditions. Lastly, both cities face the risk of tornadoes and storms, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for natural disasters in these areas.

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

Understanding the financial implications of relocating is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in money and finance between Des Moines, IA, and Columbus, OH, assisting you in making an informed decision about your move.

When considering a move from Des Moines to Columbus, it's essential to note the subtle yet significant financial differences. While the average household income is slightly higher in Des Moines, Columbus presents a marginally higher cost of living. State income tax is more favorable in Columbus, possibly offsetting some expenses despite the city's higher sales tax rate. Both cities boast moderate levels of affluence, but Columbus tends to have higher rates of poverty and homelessness, which may reflect broader socio-economic dynamics. Understanding these financial nuances can help you better prepare for your relocation.

Political & Religious Comparison between Des Moines, IA and Columbus, OH

This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Columbus. It's designed to help you grasp the communal atmosphere you're moving into, highlighting key differences and similarities.

Des MoinesColumbus

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

City of Des MoinesCity of Columbus

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Christian populationDiverse, with a significant Christian population

While both Des Moines and Columbus lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, the nuances in local politics could offer a new palette for civic engagement opportunities. Websites like the City of Des Moines and City of Columbus provide avenues for you to understand specific local issues and how you can participate. The religious landscape in both cities is predominantly Christian, reflecting a fair degree of religious diversity. This diversity underscores the inclusive communities you're likely to encounter, fostering a space for varied cultural and religious expressions.

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

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH can significantly impact your daily routine, especially when it comes to the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Columbus. This comparison aims to provide a better understanding of what you might expect in your daily commute and traffic encounters in these two cities.

Des MoinesColumbus
2023

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

57

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

DifficultModerately Easy

Can you get by without car?

In Des Moines, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is reported to be less intense compared to Columbus. However, Columbus offers a more robust public transit system, making it easier for residents to get around the city without a car. This is significant if you're moving from Des Moines and are used to driving everywhere. Columbus's higher score in public transit availability indicates that you might find using buses or other local transit options more convenient for your daily commute or exploring the city. While both cities pose some challenges for those looking to rely solely on public transit, Columbus offers a somewhat more accessible experience.

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