Moving from Iowa to Virginia?

6 Best IA to VA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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IA to VA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is an adventure that marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Imagine exchanging the expansive cornfields and friendly communities of the Hawkeye State for the rich history and vibrant seasons of the Old Dominion. Given the distance and complexity of transitioning from Iowa to Virginia, it's crucial you entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your adventure starts on the right note.

Iowa iconArrow iconVirginia icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia to Iowa guide.

6 Best Iowa to Virginia Movers

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

#1
ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA
Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3260258 Verify

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in leesburg 2023 ars movers image
#2
A
Exceptional

based on 925+ data points

Hopewell, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 1293943 Verify

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...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 Virginia

Moving from one state to another is a significant life change that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection on the benefits and drawbacks of relocating from Iowa to Virginia , helping you to weigh both sides carefully before making your decision.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Harsh winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Flat landscape
  • Smaller cities
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Milder winters
  • Greater diversity
  • Varied geography
  • Larger urban areas
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Higher cost of living
  • More transient populations
  • More traffic congestion
  • Faster pace of life
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower cost of living
  • Strong community feel
  • Accessible nature
  • Simple lifestyle

While considering the move from Iowa to Virginia, it's important to delve into the specifics of what each state offers. Virginia's varied geography includes both the beachfront beauty of places like Virginia Beach and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, appealing to both beach lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike. The state's rich historical sites, such as Colonial Williamsburg and Monticello, offer educational and cultural outings that are enriching for those of all ages. On the other hand, Iowa's appeal lies in its serene landscapes and close-knit communities, such as those found in Des Moines' neighborhood parks or the bustling markets in Cedar Rapids. Embracing Virginia’s faster pace might be a challenge initially, but cities like Richmond and Arlington offer vibrant restaurant scenes and diverse cultural sights that are sure to win over your heart. Whether it’s exploring the historic cobblestone streets of Alexandria or enjoying the outdoor dining in Charlottesville, Virginia presents a compelling mix of the modern and the historic that is hard to resist.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Iowa to Virginia

Food is a highlight of local culture and reflects the living experience in any area. Understanding this, we delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Virginia to better acquaint you with the culinary scene of your new home.

IowaVirginia

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichVirginia Ham

Most popular meat dish

Corn-fed BeefChesapeake Bay Blue Crab

Most popular street food item

State Fair Corn DogSoft Shell Crab Sandwich

Most popular vegan food

Grilled Sweet CornBlack-eyed Peas and Greens

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • The High Life Lounge
  • Zombie Burger
  • The Machine Shed

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

68

Vegan Friendly

57

Exploring the culinary landscapes of Iowa and Virginia reveals significant contrasts and delights. In Iowa, the legendary Pork Tenderloin Sandwich captures the essence of the state's food scene, best enjoyed at local favorites like The High Life Lounge. Conversely, Virginia takes pride in its historical and sophisticated approach to cuisine, with establishments like The Inn at Little Washington offering a refined dining experience that includes local specialties like Virginia Ham. Each state presents a unique foodie scene, with Virginia boasting a higher health conscientiousness reflected in its more abundant vegan options and food trucks. Whether you're meandering through the bustling streets of Richmond's food truck hubs or enjoying the pastoral charm of an Iowa State Fair, the move from Iowa to Virginia promises a rich tapestry of culinary experiences.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Iowa to Virginia

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape of Iowa vs. Virginia is crucial to making an informed decision. From the cost of living to the style of homes and the ease of getting around, this comparison will illuminate the nuances of each state's housing market, guiding your next big move.

The shift from Iowa's more affordable and spacious ranch-style living to Virginia's pricier, history-rich Colonial styles is significant. In Virginia, proximity to historical landmarks and modern amenities in real estate listings highlight the state's unique blend of old and new, catered towards a more urban lifestyle. Conversely, Iowa's real estate market emphasizes the value of space and peace with its spacious yards and quiet neighborhoods, prioritizing a slower-paced, more accessible living environment. Both states offer unique lifestyles through their architecture, amenities, and community vibes, significantly impacting your experience based on your personal preferences and priorities.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Virginia

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Iowa and Virginia will compare. This knowledge can help you prepare for the changes and adapt more easily to your new environment.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Iowa

87°F / 67°F

Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 14°F

Iowa

48°F / 29°F

Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Iowa

44"

Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
35"

Iowa

20"

Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Iowa to Virginia, you'll notice a milder winter and slightly hotter summers. The minimal difference in days of sunshine means you'll enjoy similar amounts of sunny days, but Virginia's higher average humidity can make the warmer temperatures feel more intense. It's also worthwhile to prepare for Virginia's hurricane season, a marked difference from Iowa's weather challenges, which include tornadoes. Adjusting to the local climate will be an important part of your transition, particularly in terms of wardrobe and home maintenance.

Ready to start your move?

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

When preparing to move, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be impacted. This comparison aims to shed light on the financial differences you’ll encounter when moving from Iowa to Virginia . Whether you're concerned about income, taxes, or the cost of living, knowing these details in advance can help you better plan your move.

Upon moving from Iowa to Virginia, you'll notice certain financial shifts. For example, the average household income is higher in Virginia, possibly reflecting the higher cost of living and affluence in the state. However, Virginia has a lower property tax rate, which can be appealing for homeowners. Despite a higher cost of living index, Virginia's sales tax is lower, which may balance out day-to-day expenses somewhat. It's these contrasts in income, taxation, and living costs that underline the importance of preparing financially for such a move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Iowa and Virginia

If you're considering a move from Iowa to Virginia, understanding the comparison of the politics between Iowa & Virginia, along with religious composition, can offer a quick glimpse into the communities you'll be joining. This side-by-side look aims to provide a foundational understanding of the similarities and differences you might encounter.

IowaVirginia

Political Make-up

Battleground state, tends to swing in national electionsLeans Democratic in recent national elections

Local Politics

Mix of conservative and liberal local governmentsDiverse political landscape, with liberal areas around Northern Virginia and conservative regions in rural areas

Religion

Christianity dominates, with a significant evangelical presenceReligious diversity, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and others, especially in urban areas

When relocating from Iowa to Virginia, you'll notice significant political contrasts. Iowa's status as a battleground state means your vote can sway major national decisions, reflecting a fairly even division in political beliefs. Virginia, however, has trended more predictably Democratic in recent elections, particularly due to the influence of densely populated and diverse areas like Northern Virginia. Religious practices in both states are predominantly Christian, but Virginia offers a broader religious landscape in its cities, with thriving Muslim, Hindu, and other faith communities. This diversity is a reflection of Virginia’s wider array of cultural backgrounds, influenced by its proximity to the nation's capital and historical significance.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Virginia

Moving across the country presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to education for you or your children. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options when moving from Iowa to Virginia.

IowaVirginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
William & Mary

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Vanderveer Elementary (Des Moines)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)
Nuckols Farm Elementary (Henrico)
Arlington Science Focus School (Arlington)
Westbriar Elementary School (Vienna)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (Coralville)
Bettendorf Middle School (Bettendorf)
Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Frost Middle School (Fairfax)
Henley Middle School (Crozet)

Top 3 High Schools

Ames High School (Ames)
West Senior High (Iowa City)
Decorah High School (Decorah)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High School (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)

Top 3 private high schools

Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Des Moines Christian School (Urbandale)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
The Madeira School (McLean)
St. Christopher's School (Richmond)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Iowa Christian Academy (West Des Moines)
Flint Hill School (Oakton)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Norfolk Academy (Norfolk)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Decorah Community School District
Falls Church City Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools

In making a monumental move from Iowa to Virginia, taking a closer look at some of the top educational institutions can provide deeper insight into your decision. For instance, Iowa prides itself with strong public university systems that grasp the attention of its seniors, including the University of Iowa and Iowa State University, noted for their research and community engagement. In contrast, Virginia boasts elite universities such as the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech, along with the prestigious College of William & Mary. Virginia's Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, highlighted for its specialized science and technology focus, contrasts with Iowa's well-rounded high school offerings like Ames High School. Moreover, Virginia's private educational sector, including the renowned Flint Hill School and The Potomac School, offers distinctive K-12 education experiences not found in Iowa, capturing a spectrum of advanced academic and extracurricular opportunities to cater to diverse student needs.

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