Best Des Moines to Austin Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Heartland's cozy charm in Des Moines to the vibrant, live-music capital of the world in Austin marks an exciting chapter in your life, rich with adventure and new beginnings. You're leaving behind the tranquil fields of Iowa for the bustling streets and warm, welcoming culture of Texas, trading the "Hawkeye State" for the allure of the "Lone Star State." Recognizing the magnitude of such a long-distance move, it's vital to secure the assistance of trusted and reliable professional movers. With our commitment to excellence, we at Great Guys Moving ensure you're matched with only the best, using an unbiased ranking algorithm to navigate the claims and find the true leaders in the moving industry for your journey from Des Moines to Austin.
Best Des Moines to Austin Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MoverTron Moving | 9.45 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 8.64 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Austin Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and StorageAbout Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-qu...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
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 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 >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 739369 / FF-20254
468114 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 23 |
| Registered Drivers | 26 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
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. Austin Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've carefully crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Austin, TX , so you can find a new place that feels like home. Whether you're looking for bustling streets or quiet retreats, this guide will help you navigate the best match for your lifestyle in Austin, based on your favorite parts of Des Moines.
| Des Moines | Austin | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | East Austin | Vibrant, artsy community |
| Beaverdale | Hyde Park | Historical charm, family-friendly |
| Waveland Park | Zilker | Great parks and outdoor activities |
| Sherman Hill | Travis Heights | Eclectic and historic homes |
| Drake | North Loop | Quirky, with a youthful vibe |
| Highland Park | Barton Hills | Lush landscapes, close to nature |
| Waterbury | Tarrytown | Upscale, tranquil streets |
| Ingersoll Park | Clarksville | Historic, with a tight-knit community |
| Gray's Lake | Lady Bird Lake | Waterfront living, outdoor activities |
| South of Grand | Pemberton Heights | Exclusive, with grand homes |
For those moving from Des Moines's East Village, renowned for its arts and culture, to Austin, East Austin will feel like a seamless transition with its vibrant street art, indie music scene, and lively bars. If you adore the historical charm and community-focused living of Beaverdale, Hyde Park in Austin mirrors this with its blend of classic bungalows and community events. Zilker, akin to Waveland Park, is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering vast green spaces such as Zilker Metropolitan Park and Barton Springs Pool that promise both relaxation and adventure. Moreover, transitioning from Waterbury’s upscale, peaceful atmosphere to Tarrytown in Austin means you'll still enjoy tranquil, tree-lined streets alongside access to boutique shopping and high-end restaurants like Jeffrey's. Each Austin neighborhood retains unique traits that cater to all lifestyles, ensuring that you'll find a new place where you feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Austin
Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Austin, TX, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of such a relocation, helping you make an informed decision that considers both the good and bad attributes of moving between these dynamic cities.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller job market
- Less cultural diversity
- Colder winters
- Less vibrant nightlife
- Fewer major events
Austin, TX- Larger job market
- More cultural diversity
- Milder winters
- Vibrant nightlife
- More major events
Austin, TX- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- Less outdoor space
- More transient community
- Poorer air quality
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic congestion
- More outdoor space
- Stronger sense of community
- Better air quality
While Austin, TX, is famed for its vibrant cultural scene, including the renowned SXSW festival and legendary live music venues like Moody Theater, it also comes with certain trade-offs such as a higher cost of living and more traffic congestion compared to Des Moines, IA. Conversely, Des Moines offers a more laid-back lifestyle with plenty of outdoor spaces like Water Works Park for relaxing. However, its smaller job market and less diverse cultural landscape can be a drawback for some. Deciding on this move involves weighing these factors based on your personal priorities and lifestyle preferences.
Des Moines vs. Austin Food Guide
Food is a significant aspect of local culture and what life in a new area feels like. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Austin to help you get a better grasp of the food scene in your new home.
| Des Moines | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Brisket |
| Most popular meat dish | Breaded Pork Cutlets | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Grain Bowls | BBQ Cauliflower Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Des Moines to Austin, you'll notice a transition in the food scene that mirrors the cities' unique cultural backgrounds. In Des Moines, you might have been used to the classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, which can be found at local favorites like Fong's Pizza. Now, heading to Austin, brace yourself for a dive into a deeply passionate BBQ culture with places like Franklin Barbecue setting the standard for brisket excellence. The street food scene in both cities offers a fantastic variety, with tacos being a popular choice; however, Austin takes it up a notch with an abundance of food trucks exploring innovative culinary ideas. This thriving foodie scene is complemented by a highly vegan-friendly atmosphere, particularly in neighborhoods such as East Austin, where vegan BBQ dishes surprise and delight those looking to explore food beyond the traditional.
Des Moines vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison
Relocating often means leaving behind your favorite dining spots, but it doesn't have to mean leaving behind great food experiences. This Des Moines to Austin restaurant comparison will ease your transition by guiding you to your next favorite eateries, making your new city feel like home.
| Des Moines | Austin | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Italic | Italian staples with a twist, evoking Centro's beloved pasta and pizza offerings. |
| Django | Justine's Brasserie | Casual yet chic French cuisine that captures the Django spirit. |
| Akebono 515 | Uchi | Innovative sushi and Japanese cuisine, reflecting Akebono 515's fusion approach. |
| Fong's Pizza | Bufalina | Unique pizza combinations in a laid-back setting, mirroring Fong's Pizza's fusion and creativity. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Hopdoddy Burger Bar | Gourmet burgers and a vibrant atmosphere, akin to the Zombie culture. |
| 801 Chophouse | Perry's Steakhouse & Grille | High-end steaks and an elegant setting parallel 801 Chophouse's luxury dining experience. |
| El Bait Shop | Bangers Sausage House & Beer Garden | Enormous beer selection and hearty food, capturing El Bait Shop's essence. |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | The ABGB | American fare with award-winning craft beer, reflecting Court Avenue's brewpub culture. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Pinthouse Pizza | Craft beer and pizza, a match for Exile's own brewery and kitchen prowess. |
| Harbinger | Olamaie | Southern cuisine with a modern twist, an echo of Harbinger's contemporary approach to food. |
Just because you're moving from Des Moines to Austin doesn't mean you have to leave behind all your favorite food experiences. Places like Italic and Justine's Brasserie offer a slice of what you've grown to love about Des Moines's Centro and Django, combining a familiar cozy atmosphere with outstanding cuisine. Meanwhile, if you're looking for innovative and creative sushi similar to Akebono 515, Uchi provides an upscale dining experience that captures the essence of Japanese fusion cuisine in Austin. Finally, for those who crave unique pizza options akin to Fong's Pizza, Austin's Bufalina offers wood-fired pies with inventive toppings, ensuring your pizza nights continue to be extraordinary.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between Des Moines, IA and Austin, TX is crucial. It’s essential to know how housing options, costs, and lifestyles differ in these cities to make an informed decision. This comparison will unveil key aspects of each city's housing market, providing insights that can guide your move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Ranch | Modern, Texas Hill Country |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, finished basements | Eco-friendly features, outdoor living spaces |
In Des Moines, you'll find more traditional homes, such as Craftsman and Ranch styles, with features like spacious backyards and finished basements, reflecting a preference for space and functionality. Meanwhile, Austin's housing market leans towards the modern and Texas Hill Country architectural styles, complementing its vibrant urban atmosphere. Listings often highlight eco-friendly features and outdoor living spaces, catering to a lifestyle that values sustainability and the outdoors. With Austin scoring higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, it's clear that despite the higher cost of living, the city offers amenities and a lifestyle that could justify the premium for many.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX
1. Zilker: This neighborhood is a paradise for your pets, offering the sprawling Zilker Metropolitan Park and the leash-free Barkin Springs, where your furry friends can play and splash to their heart's content.
2. South Congress: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, South Congress is pet-friendly with numerous cafes and shops like Jo's Coffee that welcome pets, making it the perfect neighborhood for pet owners who love to dine and shop with their furry companions.
3. Travis Heights: With its close proximity to the Stacy Parks and off-leash areas, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a community that values outdoor activities and has access to pet-friendly spaces.
Des Moines vs. Austin Weather Considerations
When relocating from Des Moines, IA to Austin, TX, it’s vital to grasp how the weather situation contrasts between your current and future homes. Understanding the distinctions in climate helps with planning and adjusting to your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.
Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Flooding, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
If you're moving from Des Moines to Austin, you'll be trading snowy winters for milder ones and saying goodbye to heavy coats in favor of lighter jackets. The summer heat in Austin can be intense, with temperatures often hitting the mid-90s. This means air conditioning will become your new best friend. Additionally, with Austin’s higher UV index, sunscreen becomes a daily necessity, not just a seasonal one. Despite the similar annual rainfall, Austin experiences its wet weather in heavy, short bursts, contrasting with Des Moines’ more evenly distributed precipitation. Preparing for the change in climate will help ease the transition, making your move an exciting new adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Austin
When relocating from Des Moines, IA to Austin, TX, it's crucial to grasp how the financial aspects will impact your budget. Understanding the differences in cost of living and economic conditions can help you prepare for the transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $79,542 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 95.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33-8.53 | 0 (Texas has no state income tax) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53 | 1.81 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Health Services | Technology, Education, Health Services |
| Affluence | Modest | Higher |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Noticeable |
The notable contrast in the Cost of Living Index between Des Moines and Austin highlights the financial adjustment you'll need to prepare for. Austin's vibrant economy, driven by technology and education sectors, offers potentially higher income but comes with a steeper cost of living, reflected in its housing and sales taxes. The absence of state income tax in Texas could be a financial alleviation. However, the higher rate of homelessness in Austin compared to Des Moines is a critical social issue that mirrors the city's affordability challenges. Understanding these factors is essential for a smooth financial transition to Austin.
Des Moines vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison
Moving can be a major life change, especially when transitioning between cities as distinct as Des Moines, IA, and Austin, TX. This comparison aims to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Austin, helping you better understand the community you're moving into.
| Des Moines | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Divided but leans Democratic | Strong Democratic Lean |
| Religion | Christian Majority with diverse religious presence | Religiously diverse with a large non-religious population |
While Des Moines displays a more moderate liberal stance, Austin is known for its strongly liberal tendencies, especially at the local governance level. This translates into different social and cultural policies that might affect your day-to-day life, from environmental initiatives to social programs. Religion in Des Moines leans towards a Christian majority, though it houses a spectrum of religious beliefs. Austin, on the other hand, is celebrated for its religious diversity and substantial non-religious community, reflecting its broad spectrum of cultural and social identities. Understanding these dynamics will help you integrate more seamlessly into your new hometown.
Des Moines vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Austin, TX, it's crucial to compare the traffic and transportation options between these two cities to better understand what your daily commute and traffic life will look like. This guide is here to help you navigate through these changes smoothly.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.8 | 26.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Somewhat | Difficult |
In Des Moines, you'll find the average commute time is significantly less than in Austin, which reflects the lower traffic congestion score. However, both cities present challenges regarding public transit, with Austin scoring slightly higher, indicating a broader availability of options such as CapMetro. Although it's somewhat feasible to get by without a car in Des Moines thanks to its compact urban core, in Austin, the sprawling nature of the city coupled with higher congestion makes it more difficult, pushing a greater need for personal vehicles or reliance on rideshare services.
Popular Des Moines, IA to Texas Moving Routes
