Best Iowa to Virginia Movers and Practical 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

Best Iowa to Virginia Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
ARS Movers9.63A+Authorized For HHGContact
A Change of Place Movers9.58NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.23A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.10A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia to Iowa guide.

6 Best IA to VA Moving Companies

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

ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,704+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving (Residential Moving)
  • Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
  • Office Moving (Commercial Moving)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3260258 / 1027666

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved3 (2022)
View Full Review
1
A
Exceptional9.58/10
based on 925+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1293943 / 503371

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved290,815 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.53/10
based on 956+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,268+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.23/10
based on 520+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional9.10/10
based on 621+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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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.

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.

Iowa vs. Virginia Food Guide

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 itemPork Tenderloin SandwichVirginia Ham
Most popular meat dishCorn-fed BeefChesapeake Bay Blue Crab
Most popular street food itemState Fair Corn DogSoft Shell Crab Sandwich
Most popular vegan foodGrilled 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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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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Iowa vs. Virginia Real Estate & Living Facts

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.

ComparisonIowaVirginia
Typical Architecture StyleRanch-styleColonial-style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet streetsProximity to historical sites, modern amenities

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.

Iowa vs. Virginia Weather Considerations

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)

ComparisonIowaVirginia
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsHurricanes, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

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.

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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.

ComparisonIowaVirginia
Avg. Household Income$69,588$85,873
Cost of Living Index95.996.6
State Income Tax0.33 to 8.532 to 5.75
Avg. Property Tax1.530.80
Avg. Sales Tax6.825.65
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Agriculture, FinanceTechnology, Military, Agriculture
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyLowerComparable
HomelessnessLowerComparable

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.

Iowa vs. Virginia Political & Religious Comparison

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-upBattleground state, tends to swing in national electionsLeans Democratic in recent national elections
Local PoliticsMix of conservative and liberal local governmentsDiverse political landscape, with liberal areas around Northern Virginia and conservative regions in rural areas
ReligionChristianity 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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