Best Iowa to West Virginia Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IA to WV Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the fields of Iowa, the 'Hawkeye State', for the rugged mountains of West Virginia, the 'Mountain State', signifies not just a change of scenery but a transformation in lifestyle and opportunities. To ensure this transition is as smooth as possible, it’s crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, who are ranked based on an unbiased algorithm to help you find the very best for your long distance move.

Iowa iconArrow iconWest Virginia icon

Best Iowa to West Virginia Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Country Roads Moving LLC9.26NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.23A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.10A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Abates Moving Services LLC8.53NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from West Virginia to Iowa guide.

6 Best IA to WV Moving Companies

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

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
1
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
2
Country Roads Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 714+ data points

About Country Roads Moving LLC

Country Roads Moving is a Morgantown-based moving company that serves the greater North Central West Virginia area. It is licensed, insured,...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3094022 / 73556

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved210,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
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
4
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
5
A
Fabulous8.53/10
based on 347+ data points

About Abates Moving Services LLC

With Abates Moving Services LLC, you can expect your relocation to be stress-free and quick without feeling hurried at all. This local Morga...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Packing and unpacking services
  • Short-term and long-term storage options

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3679007 / 1278788

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (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 West Virginia

Moving from one state to another is always a significant change. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Iowa to West Virginia. Through comparing the cons of Iowa with the pros of West Virginia and vice versa, we'll help you weigh your options clearly.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Colder winters
  • Less mountainous
  • Fewer state parks
  • Smaller tech sector
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Milder winters
  • More scenic views
  • More outdoor activities
  • Growing tech hub
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Smaller agriculture
  • Hilly terrain
  • Less industry diversity
  • Mountainous roads
Iowa iconIowa
  • Larger agricultural sector
  • Flat terrain
  • More biotech industries
  • Easier to navigate

Moving from Iowa to West Virginia will introduce you to a blend of new experiences, particularly with West Virginia's more diverse landscape. The scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains offer an incredible backdrop for both living and outdoor activities. In West Virginia, you'll find yourself exploring the New River Gorge Bridge and enjoying adventures in places like Coopers Rock State Forest. Yet, the change in terrain brings with it hilly and sometimes challenging roads, unlike the flat, easily navigable landscapes you're used to in Iowa. On the bright side, West Virginia's growing tech hub, including emerging businesses in cities like Morgantown, offers new professional opportunities not as prevalent back in Iowa. While you might miss the extensive agriculture and biotech sectors of Iowa, the charm and warmth of local West Virginia communities, such as those in Charleston and Harpers Ferry, along with the state's rich history and culture, will no doubt make you feel right at home.

Iowa vs. West Virginia Food Guide

Understanding the local food culture is a key aspect of acclimatizing to a new location. That's why this guide includes a section dedicated to comparing the local cuisine between Iowa and West Virginia . Knowing about the food scene in these states will help you feel more at home and might even spark some culinary adventures.

IowaWest Virginia
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichPepperoni Roll
Most popular meat dishGrilled Pork ChopsCountry Ham
Most popular street food itemCorn DogsHot Dogs with Sauce
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegetable Pasties
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Augusta Restaurant
  • Fong's Pizza
  • High Life Lounge
  • Custard Stand
  • Hillbilly Hot Dogs
  • Pies & Pints
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In both Iowa and West Virginia, the local cuisine is a reflection of the state's culture and history. In Iowa, for instance, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is a must-try, celebrated at many local diners and state fairs. This state's agricultural roots are deeply interwoven with its food scene, especially evident in cities like Des Moines where places like Fong's Pizza merge local ingredients with innovative recipes. Whereas in West Virginia, the Pepperoni Roll, a simple yet profound representation of the state’s culinary tradition, holds a special place in the hearts of its people. Dining at iconic spots like Hillbilly Hot Dogs in Lesage can give you a wholesome taste of the state's rich foodie culture.

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Iowa vs. West Virginia Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation journey. Understanding how Iowa and West Virginia's housing markets compare can inform your decision-making, encompassing cost, style, and lifestyle opportunities.

ComparisonIowaWest Virginia
Typical Architecture StyleColonial Revival, RanchColonial Revival, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, proximity to schoolsMountain views, private landscapes

When diving deeper, Iowa's slightly higher median home price reflects its more urbanized living spaces and better bikeability, catering to those looking for a balance between city life and nature. Homes in Iowa often feature spacious yards and are praised for being close to educational institutions. In contrast, West Virginia, with its lower median home and rent prices, focuses more on the beauty of its natural landscapes. Houses here typically offer stunning mountain views and more private, secluded environments, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts or those seeking tranquility away from urban hustle. Despite lower walkability and bikeability scores, the state's charm lies in its commitment to preserving its natural beauty and slower pace of life.

Iowa vs. West Virginia Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Iowa to West Virginia, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. The purpose of these charts is to compare the weather conditions you're accustomed to in Iowa with what you can expect in West Virginia, highlighting elements like temperature, sunshine, and more.

Summer icon
85°F / 63°F

Iowa

80°F / 60°F

West Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 14°F

Iowa

41°F / 26°F

West Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Iowa

44"

West Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33"

Iowa

33"

West Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaWest Virginia
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, Severe StormsFloods, Landslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Iowa and West Virginia experience four distinct seasons, you’ll find West Virginia to be milder in the winter and cooler in the summer. This could influence your choice of activities and the type of clothing you'll need. Furthermore, West Virginia has fewer days of sunshine annually, which might affect your outdoor plans. It's also worth noting that each state experiences different types of natural disasters, with Iowa facing tornadoes and severe storms, while West Virginia is more prone to floods and landslides. Understanding these differences will help you prepare better for your new environment.

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

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, state income tax, and average household income in Iowa compare to those in West Virginia. This comparison will help you gauge how your financial situation may change and what to expect in terms of expenses and income opportunities.

ComparisonIowaWest Virginia
Avg. Household Income$69,588$54,329
Cost of Living Index95.995
State Income Tax0.33 - 8.533.00 - 6.50
Avg. Property Tax1.530.59
Avg. Sales Tax6.826.38
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Agriculture, Financial ServicesEnergy, Manufacturing, Tourism
AffluenceModerateLower
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerHigher

While both Iowa and West Virginia offer unique opportunities, there are notable differences in their financial landscapes. Iowa generally boasts a higher average household income and a slightly higher cost of living compared to West Virginia. However, West Virginia's lower property and sales tax rates may offset some of the lower income levels found in the state. The top industries between the two states differ significantly, indicating potential differences in job opportunities. Understanding these dynamics can help you make an informed decision about your move, taking into account not just the cost of living but also the broader economic environment, job prospects, and the tax implications of your new home state.

Iowa vs. West Virginia Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from one state to another, understanding the local climate is key—not just the weather, but also the cultural and social atmosphere. This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents between Iowa & West Virginia , providing insights into what you might expect in your new home.

IowaWest Virginia
Political Make-upSwing StateLean Republican
Local PoliticsMixed urban and rural influenceRural and industrial influence
ReligionProtestant, CatholicProtestant

In terms of religion, both Iowa and West Virginia have strong Protestant communities. However, Iowa presents a more diverse religious landscape, including a significant Catholic population. Political leanings show Iowa as a swing state reflecting a balanced urban and rural voter base, creating a dynamic and often unpredictable political climate. In contrast, West Virginia leans more consistently Republican, influenced by its rural and industrial character. Such differences highlight the importance of understanding local nuances, which can significantly impact your social and communal interactions.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to West Virginia

Moving from Iowa to West Virginia requires analyzing various aspects, one being the education system. This comparison will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Iowa and West Virginia. It will assist in making an informed decision for your family’s educational needs.

IowaWest Virginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
West Virginia University
Marshall University
West Virginia State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Waukee Elementary (Waukee)
Wilkins Elementary (Marion)
Grant Ragan Elementary (Waukee)
Eastwood Elementary (Morgantown)
Steenrod Elementary (Wheeling)
Woodsdale Elementary (Wheeling)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
North Central Junior High (Coralville)
Suncrest Middle School (Morgantown)
Mountaineer Middle School (Clarksburg)
Bridgeport Middle School (Bridgeport)

Top 3 High School Schools

West Senior High (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Waukee High School (Waukee)
George Washington High School (Charleston)
Bridgeport High School (Bridgeport)
Morgantown High School (Morgantown)

Top 3 private high schools

Des Moines Christian School (Urbandale)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)
Parkersburg Catholic High School (Parkersburg)
Notre Dame High School (Clarksburg)
Charleston Catholic High School (Charleston)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)
Trinity Christian School (Morgantown)
Wheeling Country Day School (Wheeling)
St. Joseph Central Catholic High School (Huntington)

Top 3 School Districts

Waukee Community School District
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Monongalia County Schools
Ohio County Schools
Kanawha County Schools

While both Iowa and West Virginia boast quality educational institutions, there are some notable differences. In Iowa, schools like Waukee Elementary and Ames High School show the state’s commitment to high-quality public education. West Virginia’s Monongalia County Schools and top-ranked Bridgeport High School highlight the state’s own standards of excellence. Particularly, private education options differ significantly, with Iowa focusing on specialized and religion-based education, while West Virginia offers a mix of traditional and innovative private school education. These differences underscore the importance of evaluating local schools based on your family’s unique educational needs and preferences.

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