Best Des Moines to Oklahoma City Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Des Moines to Oklahoma City Movers

Moving from the vibrant, corn-fed heart of Des Moines, IA, to the bustling, cowboy culture of Oklahoma City, OK, signifies an adventure filled with new beginnings and opportunities. You are leaving behind Des Moines' charming Iowa State Fair thrills for Oklahoma City’s famed horse shows and bustling Bricktown entertainment district. Given the distance and the sheer volume of changes awaiting you, getting your belongings there safely hinges on trusting your move to professional movers with a proven track record, like our team at Great Guys Moving, where reliability and efficiency light the way to your next chapter.

Iowa iconArrow iconOklahoma icon

Best Des Moines to Oklahoma City Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.23A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Serenity Moving Services9.11A+Authorized For HHGContact
Hemmen Moving9.10A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Sneedworks9.04NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Des Moines to Oklahoma City 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
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
2
Serenity Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.11/10
based on 907+ data points

About Serenity Moving Services

Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahom...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Service Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking
  • Piano Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2439364 / 988784

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Sneedworks Logo
Exceptional9.04/10
based on 199+ data points

About Sneedworks

Sneedworks is a locally owned and operated moving company specializing in commercial and residential moving and storage services. Their team...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3556816 / 1535559

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into the unknown, but familiarizing yourself with your future home is key to a smooth transition. By comparing Des Moines, IA & Oklahoma City, OK neighborhoods , we aim to make this process easier, helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.

Des MoinesOklahoma CityHow They're Similar
BeaverdaleQuail CreekFamily-friendly, strong community vibe
East VillagePlaza DistrictVibrant arts scene and unique shops
Waveland ParkCrown HeightsHistoric area with charming homes
Sherman HillHeritage HillsHistoric preservation, close to downtown
DrakePaseo Arts DistrictEclectic and vibrant with artistic community
Ingersoll ParkLincoln TerraceRich in history, near medical/educational institutions
WaterburyNichols HillsUpscale, with spacious parks and boutiques
Highland ParkCapitol HillDiverse, with a strong sense of community
DowntownBricktownEnergetic nightlife and entertainment options
South of GrandEdgemere ParkBeautiful, with a mix of historic and modern homes

Preferences in neighborhoods reflect one's lifestyle and personality. If you enjoy the artistic and bohemian atmosphere of Des Moines's East Village, you'll feel right at home in Oklahoma City's Plaza District. The Plaza District is renowned for its lively arts scene, hosting monthly art walks that showcase local talent. For those who appreciate historic preservation alongside modern conveniences, Sherman Hill in Des Moines and Heritage Hills in Oklahoma City share a kinship, with Heritage Hills boasting beautifully maintained early-20th-century homes a stone's throw from the bustling downtown area. Meanwhile, Waterbury's emphasis on upscale living with access to boutique shops and spacious parks mirrors that of Nichols Hills, where high-end shopping and manicured parks offer a refined lifestyle. Through these comparisons, transitioning from Des Moines to Oklahoma City can be less about leaving behind what you love and more about discovering new places to call home.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Oklahoma City

  • Explore Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden.
  • Stroll around Myriad Botanical Gardens.
  • Attend a Thunder basketball game.
  • Catch a film at OKC Museum of Art.
  • Learn history at OKC National Memorial & Museum.
  • Sample food at Paseo Arts District.
  • Enjoy Frontier City Theme Park rides.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City

Moving from one city to another always comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma City, OK. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, we hope to offer a balanced perspective to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Lesser job opportunities
  • Colder winters
  • Lesser entertainment options
Oklahoma City, OK iconOklahoma City, OK
  • Larger metro area
  • More diverse job market
  • Milder winters
  • Rich cultural scene
Oklahoma City, OK iconOklahoma City, OK
  • Less personal
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Larger, more spread out
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Community feel
  • Lower cost of living
  • Easy to navigate
  • Close-knit neighborhoods

While moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City, you'll find that the change in weather from colder winters to milder ones can make a significant difference in your daily activities and how you plan your year-round events. Oklahoma City's larger metro area, compared to the smaller city vibe of Des Moines, opens up a variety of cultural and entertainment options. For instance, Bricktown in Oklahoma City is a bustling entertainment district filled with restaurants, canal-side attractions, and even the Bricktown Water Taxi. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a unique blend of community feel with its local businesses like Raygun, a popular store known for its quirky Midwestern-themed merchandise. These distinct experiences contribute to the diverse lifestyle you’ll encounter moving from Des Moines to Oklahoma City.

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Food Guide

When considering a move, the local food scene provides a deep insight into the culture and lifestyle of an area. In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & Oklahoma City, OK so you can anticipate the culinary adventures that await in your new home.

Des MoinesOklahoma City
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichChicken Fried Steak
Most popular meat dishSmoked PorkBarbecue Brisket
Most popular street food itemTaco TrucksLoaded Nachos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Zombie Burger
  • Centro
  • Cattlemen's Steakhouse
  • Nic's Grill
  • The Jones Assembly
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Des Moines, you'll find a thriving food scene that balances traditional Midwestern fare with innovative culinary trends. The city's love for the pork tenderloin sandwich can be seen in countless local eateries, but for an unexpected twist on pizza, Fong’s Pizza combines quirky flavors with Asian influences. Oklahoma City, on the other hand, offers a deep-rooted barbecue culture with its signature chicken fried steak and barbecue brisket. For those exploring the vegan scene, Oklahoma City’s BBQ Jackfruit is a must-try. The Jones Assembly stands out as a multi-purpose venue offering great food and entertainment, embodying the city's vibrant and evolving foodie scene. Both cities boast an impressive number of food trucks and vegan options, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Restaurant Comparison

Finding the right food spots can turn a new city into home. This comparison aims to ease your transition from Des Moines, IA, to Oklahoma City, OK, by matching your old favorites with new ones. By using Des Moines' top restaurants as a guide, you'll discover Oklahoma City's culinary equals, helping you find your next go-to eateries.

Des MoinesOklahoma CityWhat You'll Love
CentroNonesuchSmall plate dining focusing on local, seasonal ingredients, mirroring Centro’s dedication to quality and taste.
Zombie Burger + Drink LabThe Garage Burgers and BeerOffering creative burgers in a casual atmosphere that's similar to Zombie Burger.
Fong's PizzaEmpire Slice HouseKnown for eclectic and innovative pizza options much like Fong's.
HarbingerThe PritchardA wine bar and restaurant with inventive plates that parallel Harbinger’s approach to dining.
La Mie BakeryBelle KitchenBoth highly praised for their freshly baked goods and cozy, inviting atmospheres.
801 ChophouseMahogany Prime SteakhouseOffers a sophisticated steakhouse experience comparable to 801 Chophouse.
Exile Brewing Co.Prairie Artisan Ales TaproomBoth have a unique selection of locally brewed beers and a friendly environment.
Aroy-DeeThai HouseDelicious and authentic Thai cuisine that rivals the experience at Aroy-Dee.
Tursi's Latin KingGusto Pizza Co.While Gusto leans more towards Italian-American offerings, its quality and vibe are reminiscent of Latin King’s legacy.
AlbaLudivineBoth are known for their inventive and locally-sourced menus, offering a high-end dining experience.

Whether you're reminiscing over Centro's innovative cuisine or longing for Zombie Burger's creative comfort food, Oklahoma City's dining scene is ready to fill the void. Nonesuch's intimate setting and focus on local ingredients will appeal to Centro's fans, offering an exceptional dining adventure reminiscent of your Des Moines favorite. On a more casual note, Empire Slice House's expansive and creative pizza menu will inevitably remind you of Fong's Pizza, ensuring your cravings for originality in pizzas are well catered to. For those special occasions, Mahogany Prime Steakhouse stands as Oklahoma City's parallel to 801 Chophouse, offering an equally sophisticated and high-quality steakhouse experience. Embrace the culinary journey in Oklahoma City, where every bite brings you closer to feeling right at home.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role when planning a move; understanding the differences between your starting point and destination is key. In comparing Des Moines, IA , and Oklahoma City, OK , this guide focuses on housing characteristics to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonDes MoinesOklahoma City
Typical Architecture StylePrairie, RanchRanch, Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingClose to schools, Quiet neighborhoodsSpacious backyards, Near parks

While both Des Moines and Oklahoma City offer affordable housing options, differences in median home prices and rents can influence your decision. Des Moines homes typically reflect Prairie and Ranch styles, resonating with its Midwestern roots, whereas Oklahoma City features a mix of Ranch and Bungalow architectures, giving it a distinct character. Walkability and bikeability scores indicate that Des Moines might offer a slightly more active urban lifestyle compared to Oklahoma City. Additionally, real estate listings in Des Moines often highlight proximity to schools and quiet neighborhoods, while listings in Oklahoma City frequently boast spacious backyards and closeness to parks, catering to those who value outdoor recreational space.

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma City, OK, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Des Moines compares to Oklahoma City. This comparison will help you adjust to the climate differences and plan accordingly for your new life in a different city.

Summer icon
85/65

Des Moines, IA

94/73

Oklahoma City, OK

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/14

Des Moines, IA

50/29

Oklahoma City, OK

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

36

Oklahoma City, OK

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

6

Oklahoma City, OK

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDes MoinesOklahoma City
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, TornadosTornados, Hailstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Oklahoma City enjoys more sunshine and warmer temperatures, especially during summer, compared to Des Moines. The higher average UV index in Oklahoma City suggests a greater need for sun protection. While both cities face the risk of tornadoes, Oklahoma City's more frequent tornadoes and hailstorms highlight the importance of preparedness for these natural disasters. Additionally, the difference in annual snowfall is noteworthy, with Des Moines experiencing significantly more snow. This contrast in weather conditions may require adjustments in your outdoor activities and wardrobe.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're contemplating a move, grasping the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. Compare the cost of living and financial statistics between Des Moines, IA, and Oklahoma City, OK to grasp how your finances might shift.

ComparisonDes MoinesOklahoma City
Avg. Household Income$60,693$59,214
Cost of Living Index90.991.7
State Income TaxUp to 8.53%Up to 5%
Avg. Property Tax1.5%0.9%
Avg. Sales Tax7%8.5%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, HealthcareEnergy, Aerospace, Health Services
AffluenceModerateComparable
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessLowLow

When dissecting financial indicators between Des Moines, IA, and Oklahoma City, OK, it's evident that while the average household income is slightly higher in Des Moines, Oklahoma City presents a marginally higher cost of living index. However, the lower state income tax and property tax rates in Oklahoma may offset some of these costs, offering a potentially more favorable scenario for property owners. Despite these variances, both cities showcase a strong commitment to key industries that drive their economies, indicating healthy employment prospects. Understanding these financial nuances can greatly assist in making an informed decision about your relocation.

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents comparing Des Moines & Oklahoma City, helping you understand the community you're moving into.

Des MoinesOklahoma City
Political Make-upModerately DemocraticLean Conservative
Local PoliticsProgressive on social issuesTraditional, with conservative leadership
ReligionChristianity predominant, diverse religious presenceStrongly Christian, with a significant evangelical presence

In Des Moines, you might find a more moderate political climate, with residents generally leaning Democratic, especially on social issues. This aligns with the city's progressive stance on various matters. Contrastingly, in Oklahoma City, the community inclines more conservative, reflecting the traditional values upheld by its residents. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, with Christianity being predominant. However, Oklahoma City has a noticeably stronger evangelical presence. Such differences underscore the distinct communal fabrics of Des Moines and Oklahoma City, each fostering a unique environment shaped by its political and religious landscape.

Des Moines vs. Oklahoma City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Oklahoma City, OK, isn't just about a new home; it's also a transition in the traffic and transportation options these cities offer. Understanding the daily commute and traffic can help you better prepare for life in Oklahoma City.

ComparisonDes MoinesOklahoma City
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2022
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingDifficult

Although both Des Moines and Oklahoma City offer relatively short average commute times, slight differences exist which could impact your daily routine. Des Moines exhibits slightly less traffic congestion compared to Oklahoma City, which might be due to its smaller population or road infrastructure. Public transit availability is mildly better in Des Moines, making it somewhat easier to navigate without a car, though it still presents challenges. In Oklahoma City, the reliance on a car becomes more pronounced, given the slightly higher traffic congestion and lower public transit availability. Adapting to these conditions will be key in easing your transition and planning your daily commutes after moving.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Des Moines to Oklahoma City Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Des Moines, IA to Oklahoma Moving Routes