Best Des Moines to Memphis Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the heartland city of Des Moines, IA, to the soulful rhythms of Memphis, TN, is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting explorations. Leaving behind the "Hawkeye State" for the rich cultural tapestry and historical melodies of "Bluff City" invites a thrilling shift in scenery and lifestyle. It's crucial to ensure this long-distance move is smooth and stress-free by trusting your journey to professional movers who have been rigorously evaluated by us, guaranteeing reliability and top-notch service every step of the way.
Best Des Moines to Memphis Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.23 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Garrett's Hauling | 8.79 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. | 8.60 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Memphis to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Memphis Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
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
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
About Garrett's Hauling
Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Ger...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.
Country Club Moving and Packing Inc. is a family-owned moving company that has been providing high-quality, low-price moves since 1994 in Me...Read More >>
Services
- Local and Long Distance Moving
- Whole House Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
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.
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. Memphis Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help you find your footing, we've created a comparison guide. This guide will use Des Moines, IA & Memphis, TN neighborhoods as a baseline to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing the characteristics of popular neighborhoods in Des Moines with those in Memphis. Whether you're looking for a vibrant community, quiet streets, or something in between, this guide aims to make your transition smoother.
| Des Moines | Memphis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Cooper-Young | Vibrant cultural scene |
| Beaverdale | Central Gardens | Historic with tight-knit community feel |
| Drake | University District | College atmosphere with youthful energy |
| Waveland Park | Overton Park | Lush greenery and family-friendly |
| Waterbury | Midtown | Blend of historic and eclectic charm |
| South of Grand | Harbortown | Upscale, scenic riverfront views |
| Highland Park | Binghampton | Community-focused with a revitalizing spirit |
| Sherman Hill | Annesdale Snowden | Architectural beauty with a sense of history |
| Gray's Lake | Harbor Town | Active outdoor lifestyle and scenic beauty |
| Ingersoll Park | Chickasaw Gardens | Picturesque and upscale with a serene ambiance |
If you're captivated by the historic charm and community-oriented nature of Beaverdale in Des Moines, you'll feel right at home in Central Gardens in Memphis. This neighborhood is known for its well-preserved homes, lush landscapes, and an annual home and garden tour that showcases the area's pride and tight-knit community feel. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the vibrant, cultural scene of Des Moines' East Village, Cooper-Young in Memphis offers a similar atmosphere with an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and dining options like Young Avenue Deli. It's recognized for hosting one of the city's most anticipated annual festivals, celebrating the spirit and diversity of the neighborhood. Memphis offers a rich tapestry of neighborhoods mirroring the charm and distinct characteristics found in Des Moines, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
Things to Do in Memphis
Explore the Pink Palace Museum- Visit the Memphis Zoo
- Stroll along Beale Street
- Bike in Shelby Farms Park
- Tour the National Civil Rights Museum
- Enjoy BBQ on South Main
- Watch a Grizzlies game at FedExForum
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Memphis
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when considering all factors involved in relocating from one city to another. This guide is crafted to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN, ensuring that you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. By comparing the pros and cons, you'll gain a balanced view of what awaits in your potential new home.
Des Moines, IA- Colder Winters
- Smaller City
- Less Diverse Cuisine
- Fewer Music Venues
- Lower Job Growth
Memphis, TN- Milder Winters
- Larger City
- Rich Food Scene
- Vibrant Music Scene
- Higher Job Growth
Memphis, TN- More Traffic
- Higher Crime Rate
- Higher Housing Costs
- Larger Population
- Fewer Farms
Des Moines, IA- Less Traffic
- Lower Crime Rate
- More Affordable Housing
- Close-knit Community
- Rich Agricultural Scene
When you move from Des Moines to Memphis, you're transitioning from a city with a quiet charm to one buzzing with cultural vibrancy. Memphis is renowned for its rich musical heritage, being the home of the Blues and the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, with landmarks like Beale Street and Graceland offering unforgettable experiences. The city also prides itself on a dynamic food scene, from classic barbecue at Central BBQ to innovative dining experiences downtown. While Des Moines offers a serene and community-focused lifestyle, Memphis opens up a world of urban exploration, from the bustling Downtown area to the scenic parks along the Mississippi River. Despite facing a higher cost of living and crime rates, the cultural and economic vibrancy of Memphis provides a compelling case for those seeking growth and diversity.
Des Moines vs. Memphis Food Guide
Food is a crucial aspect of local culture and the lifestyle in an area. This comparison aims to help you better understand the food scene you're moving into by scrutinizing the local cuisine between Des Moines & Memphis . By comparing these aspects, you can anticipate the culinary adventures that await in your new city.
| Des Moines | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Barbecue Ribs |
| Most popular meat dish | Breaded Pork Cutlets | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Smoked Sausages |
| Most popular vegan food | Veggie Burgers | BBQ Tofu |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich epitomizes Iowa's love for pork, served in various local eateries. Yet, it's Memphis's Barbecue Ribs that steal the limelight, a testament to the city's rich barbecue culture. Ivy's Vegan Kitchen and Central BBQ in Memphis, despite their contrasting menus, showcase the city's diverse and inclusive food scene. Memphis's Beale Street is particularly renowned for its food trucks and street food, offering everything from smoked sausages to BBQ Tofu, making it a must-visit for food lovers. Meanwhile, Des Moines's East Village boasts a vibrant foodie scene, with establishments like Zombie Burger and Fong’s Pizza, marrying innovative culinary concepts with the town's laid-back vibes.
Des Moines vs. Memphis Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, discovering the local dining scene is key to making it feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN by identifying culinary parallels between the two locales. Let it guide you to your next favorite dining spots, using your current favorites as waypoints.
| Des Moines | Memphis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| 801 Chophouse | Folk's Folly Prime Steak House | High-quality steak and upscale dining experience |
| A Dong | Pho Binh | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a cozy atmosphere |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Huey's | Iconic spot for inventive burgers and a fun atmosphere |
| Fong's Pizza | Aldo's Pizza Pies | Creative pizza offerings in a lively setting |
| Centro | Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen | High-end Italian dining with a modern twist |
| Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop | Elwood’s Shack | Exceptional sandwiches and a local favorite for casual dining |
| Lucca | Catherine & Mary's | Farm-to-table Italian offerings inspired by grandmother's recipes |
| Harbinger | Beauty Shop | Unique blend of innovative dishes in a chic setting |
| Django | Bari Ristorante | Authentic, regional Italian cuisine with an extensive wine list |
| La Mie Bakery | Bluff City Coffee & Bakery | Cozy spot for pastries, coffee, and light lunch options |
In your culinary exploration of Memphis, you'll find that places like Folk's Folly Prime Steak House offer a memorable dining experience that rivals Des Moines's 801 Chophouse, showcasing the care and quality that goes into each dish, from prime cuts of steak to elegantly prepared sides. On a more casual note, Huey's stands in for Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, providing a similarly inventive take on classic American fare in an energetic setting. Meanwhile, lovers of Vietnamese cuisine transitioning from A Dong will find comfort and authenticity at Pho Binh, where traditional flavors and warm hospitality make it a go-to spot. Each of these eateries not only reflects the quality and diversity of their originals in Des Moines but also introduces you to the rich tapestry of Memphis's dining scene, proving that a move doesn’t have to mean leaving your favorite flavors behind.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Memphis Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing options and lifestyle between Des Moines, IA and Memphis, TN , focusing on aspects like cost, architecture, and urban living. Whether you're buying or renting, this guide will assist you in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman and Ranch | Victorian and Neoclassical |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Quiet neighborhoods, family-friendly | Historic homes, close to nightlife |
In the heart of Midwest, Des Moines boasts a mix of Craftsman and Ranch-style homes, creating a unique suburban vibe that's excellent for families seeking quiet neighborhoods. On the other hand, Memphis, with its rich history, offers Victorian and Neoclassical architecture that appeals to those drawn to historic homes and proximity to vibrant nightlife. While Des Moines provides a slightly higher walkability score, indicating moderately convenient access to amenities by foot, Memphis edges out with better bikeability, catering to those who prefer cycling as their mode of transportation. These distinctions underscore the differences in lifestyle and housing preferences between the two cities, allowing you to weigh what matters most in your new home.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Memphis, TN
1. Cooper-Young: This neighborhood is renowned for its pet-friendly restaurants and bars, where you can dine alongside your furry friend at places like Young Avenue Deli.
2. Midtown: Midtown offers plenty of green spaces and dog parks, such as Overton Park, making it perfect for pet owners who love outdoor activities with their pets.
3. Harbor Town: With its scenic walking trails along the Mississippi River and the dog-friendly Mud Island River Park, Harbor Town is ideal for pet owners who enjoy waterside walks.
Des Moines vs. Memphis Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, one crucial aspect to consider is how the climate and weather will change. This comparison aims to help you understand how Des Moines weather differs from Memphis weather, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new environment.
Des Moines, IA
Memphis, TN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Memphis, TN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Memphis, TN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Memphis, TN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Des Moines and Memphis enjoy a considerable number of sunny days annually, you'll find Memphis to be slightly warmer, especially during the summer. The warmer climate in Memphis contributes to its higher average annual humidity and UV Index, making sunscreen a daily necessity. Notably, Des Moines experiences a significant amount of snowfall in comparison to Memphis, which sees very little. This contrast in weather conditions means that preparing for winters in Memphis won’t require as heavy-duty a wardrobe as in Des Moines. Also, individuals with allergies might find the need to adjust their management strategies due to the different predominant allergens in each location.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Memphis
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to study the differences in cost of living and financial outlooks. This guide compares key financial aspects when relocating from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN, helping you align your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $44,317 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 88.2 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | 0% (Tennessee has no income tax) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56% | 1.49% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 9.3% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Transportation, Entertainment, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to Low |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Low | Medium |
While Des Moines and Memphis have their unique economic landscapes, understanding these differences can play a crucial role in your move. Des Moines presents a higher average household income, which corresponds with its moderately higher cost of living index. Interestingly, moving to Memphis could significantly reduce your state income tax burden to 0%, though it comes with a lower average household income. Such dynamics are vital to consider, helping you adjust your budget and lifestyle to your new home city's economic environment.
Des Moines vs. Memphis Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison strives to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the contrast in political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Memphis . Discover how the political leanings and religious beliefs may differ in the city you're leaving to the city you're heading to.
| Des Moines | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on urban issues | Focus on social justice and equity |
| Religion | Moderately religious, Christian majority | Highly religious, strong Christian presence, particularly Baptist |
While both cities lean Democratic, Memphis has a stronger affiliation with the party, driven by a profound focus on social justice and equity at a local level. You'll find Des Moines embraces progressive stances on urban issues, reflecting its evolving demographics and economic landscape. Religion plays a significant role in both communities, with Christianity being predominant. However, Memphis showcases a higher religious engagement, predominantly within the Baptist denomination, influencing its community and social activities. Understanding these aspects will help ease your transition, fostering connections in your new home.
Des Moines vs. Memphis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is essential when moving, which is why this guide offers a detailed comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Memphis. It's designed to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
In Des Moines, you might find your daily commute slightly easier, with an average commute time of around 20 minutes and lower traffic congestion compared to Memphis. While both cities offer public transit, Des Moines scores slightly higher in availability. However, owning a car is advisable in both cities for convenience and broader accessibility. Memphis, with its slightly higher traffic congestion, might demand a bit more patience during rush hours. Transitioning between these cities, you'll notice these differences in daily travel, impacting your choice of neighborhood, work, and leisure activities.
