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Kansas to Iowa Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from Kansas to Iowa marks not just a change of scenery, but a significant step in the adventure that is your life. From the Sunflower State's wide-open plains to the welcoming communities and rich farmlands of the Hawkeye State, you're not just leaving a place behind; you're embarking on a journey to something new and exciting. Understanding the importance of this transition, we cannot stress enough the value of entrusting your move to reliable, professional movers, ensuring your belongings are handled with care on this significant journey.

6 Best Movers for Moving from Kansas to Iowa

#1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,268+ data points

Iowa City, IA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Apartment/Condo Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1471037 Verify

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 >>

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#2
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional

based on 520+ data points

Burlington, IA
Material Packing, Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 749231 Verify

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 >>

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#3
American Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,901+ data points

Wichita, KS
Full-service pack and move, Help with large or treasured items, Residential and Commercial Storage Units See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1698749 Verify

About American Movers

American Movers has been in business since 2003 and has earned an A+ rating over the decades. The company is proud to serve the city of Wich...Read More >>

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#4
It's Your Move Logo
Fabulous

based on 139+ data points

Parsons, KS
Local Moves, Long-Distance Moves, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/20/2024)

USDOT: 3084348 Verify

About It's Your Move

It’s Your Move is one of the most honest and trustworthy moving companies in Parsons, KS. It has been helping people for over five years, mo...Read More >>

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#5
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Logo
Fabulous

based on 1,623+ data points

Overland Park, KS
Full-service moving company, Junk Removal & Trash Pickup, Hourly moving & packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3286258 Verify

About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

Since 2005, College H.U.N.K.S. (which stands for Honest, Uniformed, Nice, Knowledgeable, Service) has provided moving, junk hauling, and end...Read More >>

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#6
Titan Moving Logo
Fabulous

based on 1,458+ data points

Wichita, KS
Local and Long Distance Moving Services , Competitive Pricing , Free Estimates See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2727872 Verify

About Titan Moving

Titan Moving is the premier Wichita moving company offering full-service moves. Locally owned and operated, Titan Moving offers affordable r...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas to Iowa

Moving from one state to another can be a significant decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Kansas to Iowa. By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Kansas iconKansas
  • Lesser urban areas
  • Flat landscape
  • Hot summers
  • Scarce public transportation
Iowa iconIowa
  • More urban opportunities
  • Varied topography
  • Cooler summers
  • Better public transport
Iowa iconIowa
  • Less sports emphasis
  • More crowded
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less BBQ variety
Kansas iconKansas
  • Strong sports culture
  • Wide open spaces
  • Affordable living
  • Vibrant BBQ scene

While both Kansas and Iowa offer unique living experiences, they each have their own attractions and drawbacks. For instance, if you enjoy exploring different urban environments, Iowa's varied cities such as Des Moines with its dynamic downtown area and the cultural hub of Iowa City might be more appealing than the flatter and more sprawling landscapes of Kansas. On the other hand, Kansas's strong sports culture, particularly around college basketball, and its vibrant BBQ scene, epitomized by establishments like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, are truly special. You might find the transition challenging if these are aspects of life you particularly cherish. Moving from Kansas to Iowa means adjusting to a state with cooler summers, potentially higher costs of living, but also access to a more varied topography and enhanced urban opportunities. Making a decision will depend on which of these factors you prioritize for your lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Kansas to Iowa

This comparison of the local cuisine between Kansas & Iowa will explore the culinary delights that enrich the cultural tapestry of each state. Understanding the food scene is crucial for anyone looking to relocate, ensuring you know exactly what tasty offerings await you.

KansasIowa

Most iconic local food item

BBQ RibsCorn on the Cob

Most popular meat dish

Smoked BrisketPork Tenderloin Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Beef SlidersFried Candy Bars

Most popular vegan food

Kale SaladGrain Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
  • YaYa’s Euro Bistro
  • The Mockingbird Lounge
  • The High Life Lounge
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Albatroz Brazilian Steakhouse

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

78

Vegan Friendly

57

Delving deeper into the culinary scene, it's clear both Kansas and Iowa have unique offerings. Kansas prides itself on its BBQ mastery, especially the smoked brisket that's a must-try for any meat lover. Foodies can revel in a BBQ tour starting at the famous Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. On the other hand, Iowa's love for corn is showcased during the annual summer fairs, with corn on the cob being a staple. The state is also known for its inventive fried foods, including fried candy bars that are a hit at the Iowa State Fair. For those seeking vegan options, Iowa presents a slightly more varied selection, with locales like Albatroz Brazilian Steakhouse surprisingly offering grain bowls that cater to plant-based diets.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Kansas to Iowa

Real estate is among the most crucial aspects to consider when planning a move. Understanding how Kansas and Iowa compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle is essential to making an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.

While both Kansas and Iowa offer affordable housing options, there are distinct differences worth noting. For instance, Iowa's median home price is notably lower than Kansas's, making it a potentially more budget-friendly option for homebuyers. Architecture styles also vary, with Kansas favoring ranch-style homes, which typically feature a single-story layout with a long, low roofline, whereas Iowa leans towards Craftsman-style homes, known for their handcrafted aesthetics and use of natural materials. The lifestyle in these states also presents a contrast; Iowa scores slightly higher in walkability and bikeability, indicating a slightly more community-oriented, active lifestyle. Additionally, real estate listings in Iowa frequently highlight features like energy efficiency and open concept designs, suggesting a possible trend towards more modern, sustainable living options compared to Kansas's preference for large yards and basements.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Kansas to Iowa

When relocating from Kansas to Iowa, it's crucial to grasp how the weather elements compare between these states. Understanding these differences helps you prepare for the seasonal adjustments and climate changes you'll encounter in your new home.

Summer icon
89°F / 68°F

Kansas

85°F / 63°F

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
42°F / 20°F

Kansas

31°F / 14°F

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
28.9

Kansas

34.0

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
16.5

Kansas

33.3

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Kansas to Iowa, you'll notice colder winters and a higher annual snowfall which might necessitate a wardrobe adjustment and an adaptation in your daily routine during winter months. The higher humidity in Iowa could also have an impact on outdoor activities, potentially requiring acclimatization for comfort and health. With both states experiencing their share of natural disasters, understanding local emergency preparedness is crucial. Finally, paying attention to the differences in air quality and seasonal allergies will help in managing any sensitivities or health concerns you or your family members might have.

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

When contemplating a move from one state to another, it's critical to assess the financial implications of your transition. This comparison aims to clarify the financial landscape you're entering, focusing on average household income, cost of living, and state taxes in Kansas and Iowa. Understanding these differences will prepare you for the economic environment awaiting in your new home.

While the average household incomes in Kansas and Iowa are strikingly similar, subtle nuances in taxes and cost of living can impact your financial wellbeing after the move. Iowa has a broader range of state income tax rates, which can significantly affect your take-home salary depending on your income bracket. Additionally, Iowa’s slightly higher property tax rate can influence the long-term affordability of homeownership. Yet, the cost of living indices for both states are below the national average, making them relatively affordable places to live. Understanding these fiscal dynamics is key to ensuring a smooth transition to your new state.

Political & Religious Comparison between Kansas and Iowa

As you plan your move from Kansas to Iowa, it's helpful to have a broader understanding of who your neighbors will be. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between Kansas & Iowa, offering insights into the community you're moving into.

KansasIowa

Political Make-up

Traditionally leans RepublicanMixed; swing state

Local Politics

Strong local political engagementHigh participation in local caucuses

Religion

Primarily Christian, variety of denominationsPrimarily Christian, with a mix of Protestant and Catholic majorities

While both Kansas and Iowa share a predominantly Christian faith, the local political climates and overall political leanings distinguish the two states. In Kansas, there's a traditional leaning towards the Republican party, whereas Iowa's political makeup is more mixed, making it known as a swing state with high participation in local caucuses. This reflects not just on the national election outcomes, but also impacts local policies and community initiatives significantly. Understanding these dynamics can help you integrate more smoothly into your new home's local culture and community activities.

Education Guide When Moving from Kansas to Iowa

Moving from Kansas to Iowa or vice versa brings big changes, especially when it comes to education for you or your family. This guide aims to help you better understand the differences between school options in Kansas and Iowa, providing a clear comparison to make an informed decision.

KansasIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Kansas
Kansas State University
Wichita State University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Sunflower Elementary (Lenexa)
Briarwood Elementary (Overland Park)
Corinth Elementary (Prairie Village)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Pella)
Hoover Elementary (West Branch)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Leawood Middle (Leawood)
Lakewood Middle (Overland Park)
Harmony Middle (Overland Park)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)
Ames Middle (Ames)

Top 3 High Schools

Blue Valley North High (Overland Park)
Shawnee Mission East High (Prairie Village)
Olathe North High (Olathe)
West High (Iowa City)
Ames High (Ames)
Roosevelt High (Des Moines)

Top 3 private high schools

The Pembroke Hill School (Kansas City)
Bishop Miege High School (Roeland Park)
St. Thomas Aquinas High School (Overland Park)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Regina High School (Iowa City)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Independent School (Wichita)
Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (Overland Park)
Cair Paravel Latin School (Topeka)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)

Top 3 School Districts

Blue Valley School District
Olathe Public Schools
Shawnee Mission School District
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools

In comparing the two states, it's notable that while both offer a rich array of educational opportunities from elementary through high school, there are distinct choices in terms of top-ranking schools and districts. For example, Kansas is home to The Pembroke Hill School and The Independent School, prestigious private institutions that offer rigorous academic programs. On the other hand, Iowa’s Maharishi School and Scattergood Friends School provide unique educational experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Moreover, Iowa City Community School District is recognized for its strong academic programs and is an enticing option for families prioritizing education in their relocation. Whether you're leaning towards private or public schooling, evaluating these differences can help you find the right fit for your family's educational needs in either Kansas or Iowa.

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