Best Des Moines to San Antonio Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Heartland to the historic charm of San Antonio is not just a relocation; it's an exciting journey into a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind Des Moines's quiet streets and welcoming community for San Antonio's vibrant culture, Tex-Mex cuisine, and the iconic River Walk is a significant transition. Understanding the vast differences and preparing for such a move highlights the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your treasures arrive safely in your new Texan home. At Great Guys Moving, we take pride in connecting you with the best movers, rigorously evaluated through our unbiased ranking algorithm to ease your journey from city to city.
Best Des Moines to San Antonio Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC | 9.56 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Little Guys Movers | 9.26 | NR | 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 San Antonio to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to San Antonio Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC
New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC was established in 2014, after its founder and owner had acquired over 15 years of experience in the indus...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Business Relocation
About Little Guys Movers
Little Guys Movers is a franchised nationwide moving company operating in eight states, including Texas. It has a location in San Marcos, on...Read More >>
Services
- LONG DISTANCE MOVING
- LOCAL MOVING
- COMMERCIAL 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 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. San Antonio Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that leverages your knowledge of Des Moines, IA neighborhoods to help you find comparable neighborhoods in San Antonio, TX. This comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & San Antonio, TX is crafted to simplify your search for a new home by drawing parallels between the two cities.
| Des Moines | San Antonio | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Alamo Heights | Historic, family-friendly vibe |
| East Village | Southtown | Artsy, with boutique shops |
| Waveland Park | Olmos Park | Lush landscapes, affluent |
| Sherman Hill | King William | Historic homes, cultural richness |
| Drake | Tobin Hill | Vibrant nightlife, near colleges |
| Highland Park | Dignowity Hill | Historic, revitalizing community |
| Roosevelt | Monte Vista | Diverse architectural styles, historic |
| Windsor Heights | Stone Oak | Family-oriented, with amenities |
| Ingersoll Avenue | The Pearl | Trendy eateries, upscale living |
| Gray's Lake | Brackenridge Park | Natural beauty, outdoor activities |
If the bustling, artsy atmosphere of East Village is what you love about Des Moines, then Southtown's array of boutique shops and local art galleries, such as the Blue Star Contemporary Art Museum, will surely capture your heart in San Antonio. For those who appreciate the historic charm and family-friendly nature of Beaverdale, Alamo Heights offers a similar vibe with its well-preserved homes and local spots like the McNay Art Museum. Olmos Park, paralleling Waveland Park, not only revels in its lush landscapes but also boasts high-end homes and proximity to the San Antonio Country Club, offering a serene and affluent environment. Lastly, if you’re moving from Grey's Lake and enjoy being surrounded by nature and engaging in outdoor activities, Brackenridge Park in San Antonio provides a natural escape within the city limits, with attractions like the San Antonio Zoo and Japanese Tea Garden.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to San Antonio
Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to San Antonio, TX . By contrasting the pros and cons, you can better understand what awaits you in your new city and what you'll be leaving behind.
Des Moines, IA- Colder Winters
- Smaller Population
- Lesser cultural events
- Less diverse cuisine
San Antonio, TX- Warmer climate
- Larger city vibes
- Rich cultural scene
- Varied dining options
San Antonio, TX- More crowded
- Heavier traffic
- Noisier city life
- Higher cost of living
Des Moines, IA- Close-knit community
- Low traffic levels
- Quieter living environment
- Affordable housing
While San Antonio, TX boasts a warmer climate, ideal for those weary of cold winters, it’s much more than just its weather. This city is alive with vibrant cultural activities, such as the annual Fiesta San Antonio, and offers a rich dining scene that includes everything from Tex-Mex favorites to fine dining. San Antonio's River Walk area, a verdant urban sanctuary lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, provides both locals and visitors a unique place to unwind. However, moving from Des Moines, with its close-knit community feel and quieter living environment, means adjusting to a busier, more crowded urban setting. It's a trade-off between the comfortable familiarity of a smaller city and the exciting possibilities of a larger, more diverse urban landscape.
Des Moines vs. San Antonio Food Guide
When considering a move, the flavors of a city can play a huge part in the local culture and your daily life. In this guide, we'll dive into the comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & San Antonio to give you a taste of what each city offers, helping you feel more at home in your new locale.
| Des Moines | San Antonio | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Tacos Al Pastor |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop | Barbacoa |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Buddha Bowl | Tex-Mex Veggie Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Delving deeper into the food scenes of these cities, Des Moines is celebrated for its Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches, a staple found in many local diners and eateries around the city. In contrast, San Antonio shines with its Tex-Mex cuisine, particularly tacos al pastor found in the vibrant Market Square and along the bustling streets of the Pearl District. San Antonio's food truck scene greatly surpasses that of Des Moines, offering a wide array of street foods that reflect the city's diverse cultural influences. For vegans relocating to San Antonio, the city’s Tex-Mex Veggie Bowls among other vegan options are prevalent, showcasing the city's increasing accommodation for various dietary preferences. Whether it's dining at landmark establishments like Mi Tierra Café y Panadería in San Antonio or exploring the burgeoning foodie scene in Des Moines, both cities offer unique culinary experiences that cater to a wide range of palates.
Des Moines vs. San Antonio Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the importance of cuisine in making somewhere feel like home is crucial when moving. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and San Antonio will guide you in finding new favorite eateries that reflect the familiar tastes of your current hometown.
| Des Moines | San Antonio | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Cheesy Jane's | Both offer unique, creative burger options in a fun, casual setting. |
| A Dong Restaurant | Pho Kim Long | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. |
| Fong's Pizza | Dough Pizzeria Napoletana | Known for their innovative pizzas and commitment to quality ingredients, just like Fong's. |
| Centro | Il Sogno Osteria | Both are well-loved for their upscale Italian dishes and sophisticated dining atmosphere. |
| La Mie Bakery | La Panadería | Emphasizes artisanal breads and pastries, focusing on quality and craftsmanship. |
| Smitty's Tenderloin Shop | Chris Madrid's | Both are iconic to their cities, offering legendary comfort foods with a loyal following. |
| Harbinger | Bliss | Both restaurants are recognized for their innovative, chef-driven menus that focus on seasonal and local ingredients. |
| El Bait Shop | The Friendly Spot | Offering a wide selection of craft beers and a lively outdoor seating area, perfect for casual gatherings. |
| Le Jardin | Botika | Both offer a unique fusion menu in an upscale, yet relaxed atmosphere. |
| Alba | Rebelle | Provides a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on innovative and beautifully presented dishes. |
When craving a burger with a twist, San Antonians head to Cheesy Jane's, much like Des Moines locals do at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. Meanwhile, fans of artisanal pizza will appreciate Dough Pizzeria Napoletana in San Antonio for its commitment to Neapolitan authenticity and ingredient quality, drawing a nice parallel to the innovative pies at Fong's Pizza. Additionally, the culinary artistry and seasonal menus that define fine dining at Harbinger in Des Moines are mirrored by Bliss in San Antonio, making it a must-visit for those who cherish a meal that's both a feast for the palate and the eyes.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. San Antonio Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, evaluating the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. Understanding how housing in Des Moines, IA, and San Antonio, TX compare in terms of cost, style, and lifestyle amenities will help you make an informed decision. This comparison sheds light on vital living aspects to consider.
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Ranch | Spanish and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, hardwood floors | Outdoor living spaces, energy efficiency |
While both Des Moines and San Antonio offer distinct charms, they vary significantly in their housing markets. Des Moines boasts more affordable living with a median home price at $240,000 and a slightly more economical rental market. The city's prairie and ranch-style homes typically offer spacious yards, ideal for those seeking a blend of urban and rural lifestyles. Conversely, San Antonio's architecture leans towards Spanish influences with a higher emphasis on outdoor living spaces, reflecting its warmer climate. The city slightly edges out in urban lifestyle ratings, suggesting a denser, more vibrant city life. These differences highlight the unique appeal of each location, providing valuable insights for your moving decision.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Antonio, TX
1. Alamo Heights: This upscale neighborhood boasts the Alamo Heights Dog Park, offering a spacious area for your pets to play and socialize.
2. Southtown: Known for its vibrant arts scene, Southtown features pet-friendly dining options and the scenic San Antonio River Walk, perfect for long walks with your furry friend.
3. Stone Oak: With its numerous parks and walking trails, such as Stone Oak Park, this neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking an active lifestyle in a suburban setting.
Des Moines vs. San Antonio Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the climate conditions is essential. Understanding how the weather varies between Des Moines, IA and San Antonio, TX will prepare you for what to expect and how it may differ from what you're used to. Whether you're a fan of sunny skies or looking to escape the snow, this overview will help you adapt to your new home's weather.
Des Moines, IA
San Antonio, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
San Antonio, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
San Antonio, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
San Antonio, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Severe Storms | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to San Antonio will bring you more sunny days and warmer temperatures throughout the year, which might be a pleasant change or a significant adjustment, depending on your preferences. The higher UV index in San Antonio calls for more vigorous sun protection routines. Additionally, leaving behind the snowy winters of Des Moines might relieve you from shoveling, but preparing for the different natural disaster risks in San Antonio, such as hurricanes and floods, is crucial. Awareness of the local allergens will also help you manage seasonal allergies more effectively in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to San Antonio
When planning a move, comparing the financial aspects of your current city to your future one is crucial. This chart highlights the difference in the cost of living, taxation, and economic environment between Des Moines and San Antonio , providing a clear picture of what to expect. Understanding these differences will ensure you're financially prepared for your relocation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $54,923 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 95.7 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | None |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 2.3% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 8.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Healthcare, Tourism, Military |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
Moving from Des Moines to San Antonio, you'll notice a lower average household income but also a different tax structure, notably the absence of state income tax in Texas. However, higher property and sales taxes in San Antonio might offset this advantage. The cost of living index is higher in San Antonio, indicating that you may need more income to maintain your lifestyle. The economic environment changes as well, from a focus on finance and manufacturing in Des Moines to healthcare, tourism, and military in San Antonio. Despite these challenges, understanding these financial differences prepares you for a smooth transition.
Des Moines vs. San Antonio Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Des Moines & San Antonio, aimed to provide a quick snapshot for those considering a move. Understanding these aspects can help you gauge the social and cultural environment you're moving into.
| Des Moines | San Antonio | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse city leadership | Historically Democratic |
| Religion | Mix of Protestant and Catholic | Primarily Catholic |
When moving from Des Moines to San Antonio, you'll find yourself transitioning from a moderately liberal city to one that is more distinctly liberal, particularly in terms of its political makeup and local governance. Des Moines offers a diverse city leadership which reflects a broad spectrum of views and priorities. In contrast, San Antonio's historical Democratic dominance in local politics underscores a more liberal-leaning population, with significant activism and community engagement. Religious composition also shifts, with Des Moines presenting a balanced mix of Protestant and Catholic believers, whereas in San Antonio, Catholicism plays a more dominant role in community activities and local traditions. Understanding these differences can help you smoothly transition and integrate into your new community.
Des Moines vs. San Antonio Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Des Moines and San Antonio is crucial for planning your daily commute. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.1 | 24.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
The average commute time in Des Moines is marginally shorter than in San Antonio, reflecting less traffic congestion overall. However, San Antonio scores higher in terms of public transit availability, suggesting a slightly better infrastructure for those looking to avoid driving. While having a car in Des Moines is almost a necessity due to limited public transit options, San Antonio offers a bit more flexibility. It might be possible to rely on public transportation in San Antonio, though it's still somewhat limited and might not serve all areas comprehensively.
Popular Des Moines, IA to Texas Moving Routes
