Best Iowa to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from one state to another marks the beginning of an adventurous and positive chapter in your life. Leaving behind the Corn Belt's charm in Iowa for Washington's Evergreen splendor, you're transitioning from expansive fields to towering forests and bustling tech hubs. Understanding the magnitude of this journey, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we, at Great Guys Moving, utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best service for your long-distance move.
Best Iowa to Washington Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Moves & More | 9.55 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.42 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | 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 |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Iowa guide.
6 Best IA to WA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
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
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
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential 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
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Washington
Moving from Iowa to Washington offers a unique perspective by balancing the scales of advantages and disadvantages. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision. Experience the contrast between Iowa and Washington through our detailed charts below.
Iowa- Harsh winters
- Less diversity
- Fewer job opportunities
- Lower cultural scenes
Washington- Milder climate
- More diversity
- More job opportunities
- Rich cultural scenes
Washington- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- More impersonal
- Less open space
Iowa- Affordable living
- Lower traffic
- Community feel
- Wide open spaces
When considering the move from Iowa to Washington, you'll find the landscapes and cultures of the two states offer stark contrasts. Washington's milder climate, for example, is more conducive to year-round outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking in the Mount Rainier National Park or strolling through the bustling Pike Place Market in Seattle, enriched with diverse cultural experiences and cuisine. In contrast, Iowa’s community-oriented towns, such as Ames and Iowa City, often host local events that bring tight-knit communities together but don’t match the vast, diverse job opportunities found in Washington cities like Seattle and Bellevue. Washington’s vibrant arts scene, exemplified by institutions like the Seattle Art Museum, offers richer cultural experiences than you might find in Iowa. However, this transition comes with a significant increase in living costs and traffic, especially in popular areas like Capitol Hill in Seattle and Bellevue downtown. Balancing these aspects is key to making the most out of your relocation.
Iowa vs. Washington Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Washington is meant to give you a taste of the unique food scenes across these diverse states. Knowing about the food is a critical aspect of understanding local culture and what life there may hold for you.
| Iowa | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Pork Chops | Cedar Plank Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Walking Taco | Taco Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Phở Chay |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Iowa, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is more than just food; it's a tradition, particularly savored at The Iowa State Fair. If you find yourself in Des Moines, Zombie Burger offers an innovative twist on American classics. On the flip side, Washington's food scene is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with Salmon being a staple in many households and restaurants. The vegan and food truck scenes are particularly vibrant in Seattle, with Capitol Hill and Ballard neighborhoods leading the charge in culinary innovation and variety. Pike Place Market in Seattle is a must-visit for any food enthusiast, offering an array of fresh, local seafood and gourmet options.
Ready to start your move?
Iowa vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a pivotal role in a move, making it essential to understand how Iowa and Washington stack up in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle . This comparison will illuminate key differences and similarities to guide your decision.
| Comparison | Iowa | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Farmhouse, Ranch | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to tech hubs |
While analyzing the Iowa versus Washington housing market, it's evident that the cost of living in Washington is considerably higher, reflected in the median home prices and rent. However, the higher costs in Washington are often compensated by its rich urban lifestyle, scoring significantly higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle. This is indicative of Washington's commitment to sustainable living, with many homes featuring eco-friendly amenities. In contrast, Iowa's housing market is characterized by its affordability and larger properties, often highlighting features like large yards and quiet neighborhoods, appealing for those seeking a more laid-back and spacious living environment.
Iowa vs. Washington Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Iowa to Washington, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison offers insights into how your daily life and activities might be affected by the weather in these states. Let's dive into the specifics to help you prepare for your new home.
Iowa
Washington
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Washington
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Iowa
Washington
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Iowa
Washington
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Iowa | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Iowa and Washington offer distinct seasons, Washington's milder summers and winters may appeal to those seeking a less extreme climate. The average number of sunshine days is notably higher in Iowa, which could affect your outdoor activities if you enjoy the sun. However, Washington's higher humidity and frequent rainfall contribute to its lush green landscapes. Considering air quality and natural disaster risks, Washington experiences moderate air quality levels and is prone to geological events like earthquakes, unlike Iowa's challenges with tornadoes. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for the transition and adapt to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Washington
When considering moving, understanding the financial implications of your new location compared to your current one is crucial. This comparison chart provides a clear look at Iowa versus Washington in terms of money and finance, helping you gauge what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic climate.
| Comparison | Iowa | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,588 | $91,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.9 | 104.1 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53% | 1.08% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.82% | 9.17% |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Health Services | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
In comparing Iowa and Washington, the financial landscape reveals several key differences. Washington enjoys a higher average household income but also comes with a higher cost of living, reflecting its robust economy driven by sectors like technology and aerospace. Meanwhile, Iowa's economy is bolstered by agriculture and manufacturing, maintaining a moderate cost of living but presenting lower average incomes. Notably, Washington has a 0% state income tax, though this is balanced by higher sales and property taxes. These contrasts highlight the importance of understanding regional economic climates, especially when considering significant moves. Such insights not only prepare you for financial adjustments but also illuminate the broader economic fabric of your potential new home.
Iowa vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Iowa to Washington, it’s helpful to understand the demographic landscape you’re transitioning into. This brief comparison aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political, and religious makeup between Iowa & Washington , offering insights into what you can expect in your new environment.
| Iowa | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Swing State, leans slightly conservative | Leans liberal, especially in urban areas |
| Local Politics | Mix of conservative and liberal leadership depending on the area | Liberal leadership prevalent, especially in Seattle and surrounding areas |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, various denominations | More religiously diverse, with a notable number of people identifying as non-religious |
Moving from Iowa to Washington, you’ll find yourself transitioning from a state with a varied political landscape to one with a more consistently liberal outlook, especially in urban centers like Seattle. The religious composition also shifts, with Washington being more diverse in terms of faith and having a larger percentage of residents identifying as non-religious. This diversity extends to local politics, where you'll notice strong liberal leadership in many areas, contrasting with the mix you might be used to. Embracing this change can enrich your understanding and appreciation of the different communities and viewpoints you will encounter in Washington.
Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Washington
Moving from Iowa to Washington ? It's important to compare what each state offers in terms of educational opportunities for you or your family. This comparison aims to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in these two states. Whether you're looking for public schools, private institutions, or specific school districts, this guide will help you weigh your options wisely.
| Iowa | Washington |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern IowaUniversity of Washington Washington State University Western Washington University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Lakeview Elementary (Solon) Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah) Northshore Christian Academy (Everett) Sammamish Hills Lutheran School (Sammamish) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools North Central Junior High (North Liberty) South East Junior High (Iowa City) Ames Middle School (Ames)International Community School (Kirkland) Pacific Cascade Middle School (Issaquah) Environmental & Adventure School (Redmond) | |
Top 3 High School Schools West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Decorah High School (Decorah)International School (Bellevue) Bellevue High School (Bellevue) Newport High School (Bellevue) | |
Top 3 private high schools Maharishi School (Fairfield) Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) St. Albert Catholic Schools (Council Bluffs)The Overlake School (Overlake) The Bear Creek School (Redmond) Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Maharishi School (Fairfield) Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)The Overlake School (Overlake) The Bear Creek School (Redmond) Seattle Waldorf School (Seattle) | |
Top 3 School Districts Iowa City Community School District Ames Community School District Decorah Community SchoolsLake Washington School District Bellevue School District Mercer Island School District | |
In diving deeper into the educational landscapes of Iowa and Washington, one can see distinct advantages in each. For example, Iowa's top colleges showcase strong local loyalty, with the University of Iowa and Iowa State University drawing in a significant portion of the state's high school graduates. Meanwhile, in Washington, the University of Washington stands out as a top-tier research institution, attracting a broad range of students nationally. When it comes to K-12, Washington's emphasis on innovative learning environments is evident in schools like the International Community School and the Environmental & Adventure School, where alternative educational models and advanced curriculums thrive. In contrast, Iowa boasts strong traditional educational systems with consistently high-performing public schools such as West High School and Ames High School. Regardless of your preference, both states offer exceptional educational opportunities that cater to a diverse array of needs and aspirations.
