Best Chicago to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling Windy City to the charming city of Des Moines is an adventure filled with promise and new beginnings. You're trading Chicago’s towering skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza for the inviting neighborhoods, flourishing food scene, and friendly faces of Des Moines. To ensure this long-distance move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it’s crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers, ensuring your transition is in the safest hands.
Best Chicago to Des Moines Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
This listing has been claimed by H2H Movers IncAbout H2H Movers Inc
Are you looking to move places but are worried about the cost? Then, H2H Movers might be the best choice for you. This moving company provid...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
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.
Chicago vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA can seem daunting. To ease the transition, we'll compare popular neighborhoods from each city. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using Chicago, IL & Des Moines, IA local neighborhoods as a point of reference. Find your Chicago favorite and see its Des Moines counterpart!
| Chicago | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Sherman Hill | Historic charm, vibrant community |
| Wicker Park | East Village | Eclectic shopping, arts scene |
| Loop | Downtown Des Moines | Urban center, dynamic nightlife |
| Gold Coast | South of Grand | Exclusive homes, quiet sophistication |
| Andersonville | Beaverdale | Diverse culture, strong sense of community |
| Hyde Park | Drake Neighborhood | Educational hub, rich history |
| Logan Square | Highland Park | Creative vibe, community-focused |
| River North | Western Gateway | Artistic spaces, contemporary living |
| Old Town | Roosevelt | Cultural landmarks, local shopping & dining |
| Streeterville | Gray's Lake | Waterfront recreation, scenic views |
For instance, if you've enjoyed the eclectic and vibrant lifestyle of Wicker Park, with its bustling boutiques, renowned restaurants like Big Star and plethora of art galleries, you'll find a similar spirit in Des Moines' East Village. This neighborhood boasts unique shops, such as RAYGUN, and cultural attractions like the Des Moines Social Club. Fans of the peaceful, yet upscale environment of Gold Coast, characterized by its vintage high-rises and proximity to Lake Michigan, will appreciate South of Grand's elegance and its stately homes nestled along tree-lined streets. Each Des Moines neighborhood mirrors its Chicago counterpart not just in atmosphere, but in the community and experiences it offers, allowing for a smoother transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Des Moines
Moving from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA involves weighing contrasting aspects of each location. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, through a visual comparison. The purpose of these charts is to illustrate potential lifestyle changes and adaptations needed when moving from a bustling metropolis to a more laid-back, yet vibrant, mid-sized city.
Chicago, IL- Higher crime rate
- Expensive housing
- Heavy traffic
- Colder winters
- Bustling environment
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rate
- More affordable living
- Less congestion
- Milder winters
- Quieter, laid-back vibe
Des Moines, IA- Smaller diverse options
- Less nightlife variety
- Limited public transit
- Fewer cultural institutions
- Smaller job market
Chicago, IL- Diverse culture
- Vibrant nightlife
- Extensive public transit
- Rich in arts
- Larger job market
While Des Moines may offer a respite from Chicago's notorious winters and congestion, moving to Iowa's capital does not mean sacrificing quality of life. Des Moines' neighborhood parks like Gray’s Lake offer serene landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s vibrant East Village is a hub for innovative restaurants such as Zombie Burger and cultural sights like the Des Moines Performing Arts. Although the nightlife might not match the sheer variety of Chicago, places like Noce offer a sophisticated jazz scene. Ultimately, Des Moines blends a quieter, laid-back lifestyle with pockets of artistic vibrancy and culinary innovation, making it an appealing destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Chicago.
Chicago vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Food is a vital part of experiencing local culture and lifestyle. As you prepare to move, this guide offers a unique insight into what culinary delights await you. By examining the local cuisine between Chicago & Des Moines , you'll be better informed about the food scene in your new home.
| Chicago | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish Pizza | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Iowa Pork Chop |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog (Chicago style) | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, neighborhoods like the Loop and River North are hotspots for food lovers, home to iconic dishes such as deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. Meanwhile, Des Moines boasts a surprisingly vibrant food scene, with neighborhoods like the East Village offering unique takes on local favorites like the pork tenderloin sandwich at Fong's Pizza. Des Moines also prides itself on a growing number of food trucks and a burgeoning vegan scene, reflecting its increasing health consciousness.
Chicago vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new go-to eatery in a new city can make all the difference in feeling at home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition by matching top restaurants in Chicago with similar spots in Des Moines, IA . Whether you're in the mood for an upscale evening out or a casual meal, this guide will help you discover your next favorite diner.
| Chicago | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | 801 Chophouse | High-end dining and sophisticated plates |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Creative takes on American classics |
| Girl & The Goat | Centro | Eclectic urban Italian kitchen vibes |
| Giordano's | Gusto Pizza Co. | Deep-dish options that rival Chicago's best |
| The Purple Pig | Table 128 Bistro + Bar | Shareable plates with a twist |
| RL Restaurant | Bubba | Southern comforts with a posh atmosphere |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Waterfront Seafood Market, Restaurant & Sushi Bar | Prime seafood options in the heartland |
| Frontera Grill | El Mariachi | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a creative touch |
| The Berghoff Restaurant | Hessen Haus | German fare and beer in a themed setting |
| Big Star | Tacopocalypse | A modern twist on Mexican street food |
For those missing the Chicago dining scene, Des Moines offers some delightful alternatives that are sure to satisfy. For example, 801 Chophouse in Des Moines mirrors the high-end dining experience of Alinea with its sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable service. Similarly, if you're yearning for the deep-dish pizzas that define Chicago, Gusto Pizza Co. presents an excellent Des Moines counterpart, offering a variety of gourmet pizzas that can contend with those from Giordano's. Whether you're seeking out a cozy place for Italian or a spot for American classics with a twist, this comparison guides you through the culinary treasures of Des Moines, ensuring you don't miss out on the flavors you loved back in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect to consider when planning a move. Knowing how the housing market, including cost and lifestyle, compares between your current city and your future home is essential. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of housing aspects between Chicago, IL, and Des Moines, IA , focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Greystone | Colonial and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transit | Quiet neighborhoods, spacious backyards |
In comparing Chicago to Des Moines, there's a marked difference in median home prices and monthly rent, reflecting Des Moines' more affordable real estate market. While Chicago offers a range of modern and historic architectures like the iconic Greystones, Des Moines boasts charming Colonial and Ranch style homes, fitting for those seeking a more traditional aesthetic. Despite Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicative of its dense urban environment, Des Moines provides a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle with more emphasis on spacious backyards and quiet neighborhoods. Both cities cater to different tastes and lifestyles, making your choice dependent on what you value more in a living environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA
1. Beaverdale: Known for its charming brick homes and a strong sense of community, Beaverdale offers numerous parks and pet-friendly events making it an ideal place for you and your furry friend.
2. East Village: This eclectic area is not only rich in culture and shopping but also boasts several pet-friendly restaurants and shops, including East Village Pet Hospital for your pet's health needs.
3. Gray's Lake Park area: While not a neighborhood per se, the area around Gray's Lake Park is highly popular among pet owners for its spacious park, perfect for long walks, and the nearby residential areas offer a welcoming community for pet owners.
Chicago vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, understanding the differences in weather can significantly impact your preparation. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variances between Chicago, IL, and Des Moines, IA , offering insights into what you might expect as you transition.
Chicago, IL
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Floods | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chicago to Des Moines, you'll find the summers are slightly warmer in Des Moines, with an increment in both high and low temperatures, though the difference is minimal. Des Moines enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which could mean more outdoor activities and vitamin D for you. Worth noting are the local natural disaster risks; while both cities face the threat of floods, Des Moines is more prone to tornadoes. This warrants extra consideration for emergency planning and house insurance. Additionally, despite having a similar annual rainfall, Des Moines boasts better air quality than Chicago, which could be a significant factor if you're sensitive to pollution or have respiratory issues.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Des Moines
When planning a move, it’s crucial to understand how your finances might shift. This comparison provides insights for anyone considering transitioning from Chicago, IL, to Des Moines, IA. By examining elements like income, living costs, and taxes, you can better prepare for your financial future in a new city. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and average income between Chicago and Des Moines can help smooth your transition.
| Comparison | Chicago | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 4.14 to 8.53 (progressive) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.16 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing | Finance, Insurance, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Relative affluence |
| Poverty | Visible | Less visible |
| Homelessness | Challenging | Less prevalent |
Moving from Chicago to Des Moines could mean a significant transition in your financial life. Despite the higher state income tax rates that can reach up to 8.53% in Des Moines, the overall cost of living is considerably lower than in Chicago. The reduction in cost of living and sales tax, along with a generally higher average household income in Des Moines, may lead to a more comfortable lifestyle. Moreover, while both cities boast strong financial sectors, Des Moines also offers opportunities in insurance and agriculture, potentially widening your career prospects.
Chicago vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
As you prepare for your move from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA , it's useful to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison will help you understand the community you're about to join.
| Chicago | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive urban policies | Moderate with a focus on community |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant populations | Primarily Protestant with growing diversity |
When you move from Chicago to Des Moines, you'll find that both cities share a Democratic leaning, though Des Moines tends to exhibit a more moderate political viewpoint. This difference may be reflected in local politics, where Chicago's focus on progressive urban policies contrasts with Des Moines' emphasis on community-focused initiatives. Regarding religious makeup, Chicago boasts a diverse spectrum of faith communities, including a significant number of Catholics and Protestants. Des Moines, while primarily Protestant, is experiencing growing religious diversity. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new community.
Chicago vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA, presents a chance to better understand the daily commute and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Des Moines will help you gauge what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Chicago | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, easily | It's challenging |
When comparing the commute between Chicago and Des Moines, you'll find significant differences. Chicago boasts an extensive public transit system, allowing residents to easily navigate the city without a car. However, this comes with a higher average commute time and more traffic congestion. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a simpler commute experience with much less congestion. The city's smaller size and lighter traffic mean getting around is quicker, but reliance on a car is much higher due to the limited public transit options. This highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of each city's transportation infrastructure and planning accordingly for your new lifestyle.
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