Best Des Moines to Virginia Beach Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling heart of Des Moines, IA to the coastal breezes of Virginia Beach, VA, signifies not just a change of scenery but a thrilling leap into a new chapter of life. You're trading the "Hart of the Midwest" for the "Resort City," leaving behind cornfields for sandy beaches. Given the distance and the life-changing nature of this move, it's crucial to have trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this journey, and our unbiased ranking algorithm is designed to ensure you're paired with the best movers for your adventure.
Best Des Moines to Virginia Beach Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Marathon Moving Services | 9.27 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.23 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Prime Movers USA | 9.07 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia Beach to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Virginia Beach 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
This listing has been claimed by Marathon Moving ServicesAbout Marathon Moving Services
Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing & Delivery
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 Prime Movers USA
Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves (within 50 miles)
- Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
- Packing/unpacking services
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. Virginia Beach Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've conducted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Virginia Beach, VA. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Virginia Beach that feels like home, by comparing it to the top neighborhoods in Des Moines.
| Des Moines | Virginia Beach | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Town Center | Vibrant urban living |
| Beaverdale | Great Neck | Family-friendly with a sense of community |
| Waveland Park | Bay Colony | Quiet, affluent area with recreational options |
| Waterbury | Alanton | Established, with spacious lots and mature trees |
| Gray's Lake | Shore Drive | Waterfront activities and natural beauty |
| Sherman Hill | Ghent | Historic charm with modern conveniences |
| Drake | Thalia | Diverse, near educational institutions |
| Highland Park | Pungo | Rural atmosphere, local produce |
| Ingersoll Park | North End | Upscale, relaxed residential vibe |
| Southwestern Hills | Ocean Lakes | Family-oriented, with leisure amenities |
If you're drawn to the urban chic and lively atmosphere of Des Moines' East Village, you'll find Virginia Beach's Town Center an exciting equivalent, offering a bustling mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. For those who appreciate the historic charm and community feel of Sherman Hill, Ghent in Virginia Beach presents a similar allure with its blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences, including boutique shops and trendy restaurants like Coastal Virginia Magazine's top-rated eateries. And for outdoor enthusiasts who love the tranquility and natural beauty around Gray's Lake, the Shore Drive area in Virginia Beach offers stunning waterfront views, access to state parks like First Landing State Park, and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it an ideal locale for nature lovers and active families alike.
Things to Do in Virginia Beach
Stroll along Virginia Beach Boardwalk- Explore Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- Enjoy hikes at First Landing State Park
- Visit Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
- Take a dolphin watching tour
- Surf at Sandbridge Beach
- Experience Neptune Festival events
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Virginia Beach
Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make the best decision for you and your family. This guide aims to aid in that process by providing an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Virginia Beach, VA. The purpose of the charts is to outline the benefits and drawbacks clearly, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Colder winters
- Lesser job opportunities
- Fewer entertainment options
- Landlocked
Virginia Beach, VA- Larger urban area
- Milder winters
- Greater job market
- More entertainment options
- Beach access
Virginia Beach, VA- Higher cost of living
- Larger population
- Higher crime rates
- More traffic
- Fewer parks per capita
Des Moines, IA- Affordable housing
- Close-knit community
- Lower crime rates
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Abundant green spaces
Moving to Virginia Beach offers access to beautiful beachfronts and a vibrant urban scene, including popular areas like the Oceanfront and Town Center. The milder winters and extensive entertainment options, from the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to live music venues like Elevation 27, enhance the quality of life. Although the cost of living might be higher, the job market is more robust, catering to a wide range of industries. For those who appreciate outdoor activities, the First Landing State Park offers beautiful trails and a glimpse into Virginia's natural beauty. Despite these advantages, it's important to be mindful of the higher crime rates and increased traffic compared to Des Moines's quieter, more affordable setting.
Des Moines vs. Virginia Beach Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Virginia Beach will help you grasp the flavors and dining scenes of your current and future homes. Food deeply reflects the cultural vibe of a place, and understanding what’s on offer can enrich your moving experience.
| Des Moines | Virginia Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Seafood - particularly crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chops | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Roasted Corn | Vegan Crab Cakes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Des Moines is famed for its rich agricultural heritage, offering farm-fresh produce that complements its iconic dishes like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. You'll find a vibrant food scene in neighborhoods like the East Village. On the other hand, Virginia Beach’s food scene thrives on its coastal location, making seafood a staple in local cuisine. Restaurants like Tautog's and Waterman's Surfside Grille highlight the city's love for ocean fare, catering to various palettes, including those seeking vegan options. Both cities offer unique, cultural culinary experiences, but Virginia Beach stands out for its seafood and health-conscious options.
Des Moines vs. Virginia Beach Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite dining spots can anchor your sense of belonging in a new city. This restaurant comparison of Des Moines, IA, and Virginia Beach, VA, is tailored to help you transition by using familiar tastes as a compass. Whether you're moving for work, family, or adventure, discovering places where you love to eat is a crucial part of feeling at home.
| Des Moines | Virginia Beach | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Terrapin Restaurant | Both offer upscale dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Repeal Bourbons and Burgers | Celebrated for unique burger creations and a vast selection of drinks. |
| Fong's Pizza | Wasserhund Brewing Company | Known for inventive pizzas and a great selection of beer. |
| A Dong Restaurant | Pho 79 | Both are beloved for their authentic and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine. |
| 801 Chophouse | Steinhilber's Restaurant | Iconic for their steak selections and sophisticated dining experience. |
| La Mie Bakery | Lamia's Crepes | Offers a charming European café vibe with exceptional baked goods and crepes. |
| El Bait Shop | The Bier Garden | Renowned for an extensive beer list and hearty, comforting dishes. |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Commonwealth Brewing Company | Both combine craft beer with tasty, elevated pub fare. |
| Django | Le Yaca French Restaurant | Each provides a refined French culinary experience in a cozy setting. |
| Smash Park | Topgolf | Great spots for fun-filled evenings with food, games, and entertainment. |
For those who appreciate unique dining experiences, Fong's Pizza in Des Moines and Wasserhund Brewing Company in Virginia Beach offer an intriguing departure from the ordinary, focusing on creative pizza toppings, from traditional to the unexpected, alongside a commitment to craft beer. Similarly, if you're drawn to fine dining with a focus on farm-to-table freshness, Centro and Terrapin Restaurant stand out in their respective cities for their seasonal menus and elegant atmospheres. Both establishments serve up dishes that are as visually impressive as they are delicious, making any dinner a special occasion. For a more casual but equally memorable dining experience, Zombie Burger + Drink Lab and Repeal Bourbons and Burgers ensure a fun and flavorful meal with their inventive burgers and extensive drink selections, reflecting the eclectic tastes of their locales.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Virginia Beach Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate market dynamics in your current and future home cities is crucial. This comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Virginia Beach, VA, aims to shed light on significant housing aspects to consider.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Virginia Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Colonial and Beachfront |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large backyards, quiet neighborhoods | Ocean views, proximity to beaches |
When moving from Des Moines to Virginia Beach, you'll observe a significant shift not only in housing costs but also in lifestyle and city amenities. Homes in Virginia Beach are generally more expensive, whether you're looking to buy or rent. However, the jump in price comes with perks such as improved walkability and bikeability, access to ocean views, and a slightly more vibrant urban lifestyle. Architecture styles also differ, with Virginia Beach offering a mix of Colonial and beachfront designs, reflecting its coastal setting. These factors are essential to consider as they contribute greatly to daily life and personal fulfillment in your new city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA
1. ViBe Creative District: Known for its artistic vibe, the ViBe Creative District hosts numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, making it a perfect neighborhood for you and your furry friend to explore together.
2. Great Neck: With spacious parks like Great Neck Park, this area offers ample green space for your pets to play in, along with pet-friendly walking trails.
3. Shore Drive: This neighborhood is renowned for its close proximity to First Landing State Park, providing you and your pet miles of beaches and nature trails to enjoy year-round.
Des Moines vs. Virginia Beach Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, comparing the weather you'll experience is key to preparing for your new home. This comparison will specifically highlight the weather differences between Des Moines, IA, and Virginia Beach, VA, giving you a clear idea of what to expect in terms of climate changes.
Des Moines, IA
Virginia Beach, VA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Virginia Beach, VA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Virginia Beach, VA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Virginia Beach, VA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Virginia Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Virginia Beach, VA, you'll experience milder winters and slightly warmer summers. The winters in Virginia Beach are notably milder, with average lows above freezing, compared to the often harsh winters of Des Moines. Despite both locations having a fairly similar annual number of days with sunshine, Virginia Beach enjoys a higher annual UV index, indicating stronger sunlight. The difference in natural disaster threats—primarily tornadoes and blizzards in Des Moines, compared to hurricanes and flooding in Virginia Beach—is also significant, affecting preparedness and insurance considerations. Additionally, while both cities battle with pollen and mold allergies, Virginia Beach's higher humidity and rainfall could potentially exacerbate these issues.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Virginia Beach
When planning a move, it's critical to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Des Moines and Virginia Beach will impact your wallet. This comparison sheds light on various financial factors that could influence your decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Virginia Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $81,634 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 to 8.53 | 2.0 to 5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 0.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 5.3 |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Finance, Manufacturing | Military, Tourism, Agribusiness |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | Very Low |
Understanding the financial contrasts between Des Moines and Virginia Beach is crucial for your relocation decision. While the average household income is slightly higher in Virginia Beach, the cost of living index is also higher, reflecting a more expensive lifestyle. Virginia's lower property tax rate might be appealing if you're considering purchasing a home. Moreover, each city's leading industries hint at potential employment opportunities that align with your career path. Des Moines' strong insurance and finance sectors contrast with Virginia Beach's emphasis on military, tourism, and agribusiness, indicating varied job markets. These insights can help you weigh the financial pros and cons of each location more effectively.
Des Moines vs. Virginia Beach Political & Religious Comparison
In considering your move from Des Moines, Iowa, to Virginia Beach, Virginia, it's helpful to explore the societal landscapes you'll encounter. This comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Virginia Beach will offer a quick glance at the political and religious makeup, ultimately aiding in your transition.
| Des Moines | Virginia Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with a focus on local issues and community-friendly policies | Moderate to conservative, with military and coastal issues playing a significant role |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities | Christianity predominant, presence of military chapels and diverse religious groups |
When moving from Des Moines to Virginia Beach, you'll find that the shift in political leanings—from predominantly Democratic to more Republican territories—might present a change in the local societal atmosphere. Local politics in Virginia Beach heavily incorporate military and coastal preservation concerns, reflecting the city's status as a significant naval base and coastal community. On the religious front, both cities boast a predominance of Christian beliefs, with Virginia Beach hosting a notable variety of military chapels and diverse religious communities, reflecting its varied population. This societal landscape outlines a vibrant community with a range of perspectives and priorities.
Des Moines vs. Virginia Beach Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Virginia Beach, VA, presents a significant change in your daily commuting experience. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Virginia Beach is designed to help you better understand what to expect in terms of daily commute times, traffic congestion, and the availability of public transportation.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Virginia Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.8 | 24.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Very challenging |
In Des Moines, you might find navigating the city slightly more straightforward with a lower average commute time of 20.8 minutes and relatively less traffic congestion. Public transportation options, scored at 5 out of 10, are somewhat accessible, making it possible, albeit challenging, to get by without a car. In contrast, Virginia Beach offers a marginally longer average commute time of 24.4 minutes, alongside higher traffic congestion. The city's public transit scores lower, at 3 out of 10, indicating fewer options available. This makes relying solely on public transportation very challenging in Virginia Beach. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your decision-making regarding transportation in your new home city.
Popular Des Moines, IA to Virginia Moving Routes
