Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania?

6 Best IA to PA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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IA to PA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is an adventure that signifies a new chapter in your life, whether for work, family, or simply a change of scenery. Leaving behind Iowa's serene fields and embracing Pennsylvania's historic landmarks and bustling cities marks a significant transition. It's crucial to ensure that your belongings are in trusted hands for this long-distance journey, which is why we dedicate ourselves to linking you with reliable and professional movers, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pennsylvania to Iowa guide.

6 Best Iowa to Pennsylvania Movers

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

#1
Pittsburgh Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,264+ data points

Pittsburgh, PA
Local move in Pittsburgh, Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh, Residential move See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3901080 Verify

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...Read More >>

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#2
Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 755+ data points

Harrisburg, PA
Local & long-distance moving, Commercial moving, Labor-only moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3011826 Verify

About Keystone Moving & Junk Removal, LLC

Keystone Moving & Junk Removal is a BBB-accredited moving company in Mechanicsburg that services Harrisburg, Camp Hill, and all surround...Read More >>

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#3
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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#4
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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#5
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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#6
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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Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania

Moving from one state to another can be a significant life event. This guide aims to provide you with a transparent comparison between Iowa and Pennsylvania , offering insights into the adverse and advantageous factors of such a relocation. Understanding these aspects will help you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Flat landscapes
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Smaller population
  • Fewer historical sites
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Varied terrain
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Larger cities
  • More historical sites
Pennsylvania iconPennsylvania
  • Higher cost of living
  • More crowded
  • Less community feel
  • Less farmland
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower cost of living
  • Wide-open spaces
  • Close-knit communities
  • Abundant farmland

While Iowa is known for its sprawling farmlands and tight-knit communities, Pennsylvania offers a richer historical perspective with sites like Independence Hall and the Gettysburg National Military Park. In Pennsylvania, you'll find a variety of terrain, from the Appalachian Mountains to the bustling streets of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, offering vibrant city life mixed with natural beauty. Cultural diversity thrives here, showcased in city events and various ethnic restaurants, like Zahav in Philadelphia for modern Israeli cuisine or Primanti Bros. in Pittsburgh, famous for its unique sandwiches. Pennsylvania's larger cities also provide more opportunities for entertainment, arts, and dining, bringing an array of experiences that Iowa’s more rural setting might not offer.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania

Comparing the local cuisine between Iowa & Pennsylvania is crucial for anyone making the move. Understanding the food culture can greatly enhance your relocation experience by familiarizing you with what culinary delights await you in your new home.

IowaPennsylvania

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichPhilly Cheesesteak

Most popular meat dish

Corn-fed Beef SteakPittsburgh-style Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Walking TacoSoft Pretzel

Most popular vegan food

Grilled CornMushroom Soup

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Restaurant A
  • Restaurant B
  • Restaurant C
  • Restaurant D
  • Restaurant E
  • Restaurant F

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

57

Foodie Scene

69

Vegan Friendly

48

While Iowa is known for its hearty, meat-focused dishes like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Corn-fed Beef Steak, Pennsylvania takes pride in its iconic Philly Cheesesteak and a wide array of traditionally made Soft Pretzels. Notably, Pennsylvania's food scene offers a greater variety for vegan and health-conscious individuals, evident from its higher ratings in vegan-friendliness and health conscientiousness. In particular, neighborhoods in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are bustling epicenters where culinary enthusiasts can explore an assortment of eateries, from the legendary Restaurant D known for its cheesesteaks to Restaurant F, which might offer a modern take on the classic mushroom soup. Whether you're wandering the streets of Des Moines or exploring the historic alleys of Philadelphia, the local cuisine deeply reflects the diverse agricultural and cultural heritage of each state.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania

Real estate is a pivotal factor in deciding where to relocate. Understanding the differences in housing aspects between Iowa and Pennsylvania can significantly impact your decision-making process. This comparison aims to highlight crucial areas such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to guide your move.

When considering a move from Iowa to Pennsylvania, the architecture and lifestyle amenities stand out. Pennsylvania boasts a rich history reflected in its architectural diversity, including stunning Victorian homes, which contrast with Iowa's preference for Colonial and Ranch-style homes. Pennsylvania's higher urban lifestyle rating is indicative of its bustling cities, offering more in terms of culture, entertainment, and dining. Moreover, the slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores in Pennsylvania suggest a more dynamic environment conducive to exploring urban areas on foot or by bike. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Pennsylvania or the spacious, tranquil neighborhoods of Iowa, these states offer distinct living experiences tailored to different preferences.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania

When planning a move from Iowa to Pennsylvania, it's crucial to understand how the weather patterns compare in both states. This knowledge will help you adjust more easily to your new environment and ensure that you're prepared for the different climatic conditions you'll experience.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Iowa

85°F / 62°F

Pennsylvania

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 14°F

Iowa

39°F / 23°F

Pennsylvania

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Iowa

42

Pennsylvania

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Iowa

38

Pennsylvania

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Iowa and Pennsylvania share similar summer temperatures, Pennsylvania experiences milder winters, with slightly higher low temperatures. You'll find fewer sunny days in Pennsylvania, which might affect your outdoor activities. Understanding the average humidity and UV index can help you prepare for comfort and skin protection, respectively. Notably, both states experience different types of natural disasters, with Iowa being more prone to tornadoes and Pennsylvania to storms, which could influence your insurance and preparedness plans. Air quality and allergy considerations are also pivotal, highlighting the need for potential adjustments in your daily life and health management. Awareness of these factors will ease your transition and help you adapt to your new home state.

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

When planning a move from Iowa to Pennsylvania, it's essential to grasp the financial implications. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes compare to your current situation can dramatically affect your budgeting and lifestyle. This comparison aims to shed light on these key areas.

While the average household income in Pennsylvania is slightly higher than in Iowa, the cost of living index indicates that Pennsylvania is also more expensive to live in. Particularly notable is the difference in state income tax structures, with Pennsylvania employing a flat rate, potentially benefiting higher earners. However, the similar property and sales tax rates across both states suggest that day-to-day living and homeownership costs might not differ dramatically. Both states boast a low poverty rate, yet the slightly higher cost of living in Pennsylvania could be a contributing factor to its moderate level of homelessness when compared to Iowa's low level. Understanding these financial nuances is crucial for planning your move and managing expectations.

Political & Religious Comparison between Iowa and Pennsylvania

Relocating from Iowa to Pennsylvania encompasses not just a change in scenery but also immersion into distinct political and religious landscapes. This guide offers a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Iowa & Pennsylvania and the religious makeup of their residents, providing you with a snapshot of the social fabric you’re about to weave into.

IowaPennsylvania

Political Make-up

Swing state with mixed political leaningSwing state with areas of both strong Democratic and Republican support

Local Politics

Community-oriented, with a focus on agricultural policiesIndustrial and urban priorities, with an emphasis on economic development

Religion

Primarily Christian, with a significant Protestant populationDiverse, with a mix of Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities

When moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania, you're transitioning from a state that often plays a pivotal role in national politics due to its swing state status, into another politically complex environment with its own unique blend of urban and rural politics. Whereas Iowa's local politics may be more familiar with agricultural concerns and policies, Pennsylvania's political scene is more varied, with a significant emphasis on industrial development, particularly in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. On the religious front, while both states have a Christian majority, Pennsylvania offers a more diverse religious landscape, reflecting its rich historical tapestry of immigration and cultural plurality. This brief insight into the politics and religious makeup of your new home state aims to smooth your transition and help you appreciate the complex social dynamics at play.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Pennsylvania

The purpose of this chart is to better understand the comparisons between school options from Iowa to Pennsylvania. This comparison aims to ease the transition for those contemplating or planning a move, ensuring families can make informed decisions regarding their children's education.

IowaPennsylvania

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
Pennsylvania State University
University of Pennsylvania
Temple University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Grant Wood Elementary (Bettendorf)
Eisenhower Elementary (Davenport)
Adlai Stevenson Elementary (Pittsburgh)
Penn Wynne Elementary (Wynnewood)
Hillendale Elementary (Chadds Ford)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
Radnor Middle School (Wayne)
Welsh Valley Middle School (Narberth)
Haverford Middle School (Havertown)

Top 3 High School Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School (Philadelphia)
Conestoga High School (Berwyn)
Central High School (Philadelphia)

Top 3 private high schools

The Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
St. Albert Catholic Schools (Council Bluffs)
The Baldwin School (Bryn Mawr)
The Haverford School (Haverford)
Mercersburg Academy (Mercersburg)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)
The Agnes Irwin School (Rosemont)
Germantown Academy (Fort Washington)
Friends' Central School (Wynnewood)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Pleasant Valley Community School District
Ames Community School District
Tredyffrin-Easttown School District
Radnor Township School District
Lower Merion School District

When looking deeper into the educational opportunities in Iowa and Pennsylvania, specific schools and districts stand out for their excellence. For example, Iowa's Pleasant Valley Community School District and Pennsylvania's Tredyffrin-Easttown School District are renowned for their commitment to high-quality education, ensuring students have access to superior resources and instruction. Meanwhile, the University of Pennsylvania, a top choice among Pennsylvania's high school seniors, is an Ivy League institution known for its research and professional programs. This indicates the high aspirations and preparedness of students within the state. Similarly, Iowa prides itself on strong public universities, with the University of Iowa and Iowa State University being popular choices that offer a wide range of programs and opportunities for undergraduates. These educational pillars in each state highlight the rich academic environments that can benefit relocating families.

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