Best Kentucky to Iowa Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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KY to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the beginning of an exhilarating chapter in your life, bringing with it a blend of anticipation and adventure. Transitioning from Kentucky's Bluegrass horizons and spirited horse races to Iowa's vibrant fields of gold and friendly heartland communities symbolizes not just a change in scenery, but a profound shift in lifestyle. Recognizing the magnitude of this long-distance journey, we emphasize the critical importance of entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Kentucky iconArrow iconIowa icon

Best Kentucky to Iowa Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Keep On Moving Company9.19A+Authorized For HHGContact
From Here to There9.15NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
BG Home Movers8.98NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
UNITS of Kentucky8.95NRActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Kentucky guide.

6 Best KY to IA Moving Companies

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

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 10/18/2024)

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
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
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 5/24/2024)

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
2
Keep On Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.19/10
based on 833+ data points

About Keep On Moving Company

Keep On Moving Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Cincinnati and the Greater Tri-State area of KY, OH, and IN. It is de...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Delivery Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3468627 / 1134607

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2019)
View Full Review
3
From Here to There Logo
Exceptional9.15/10
based on 715+ data points

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive exp...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
  • Commercial/Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
4
BG Home Movers Logo
Superb8.98/10
based on 275+ data points

About BG Home Movers

BG Home Movers is a full-service moving company in Bowling Green, KY, offering flexible service options to meet your needs. Backed by over 3...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3967219 / 1481382

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
UNITS of Kentucky Logo
Superb8.95/10
based on 186+ data points

About UNITS of Kentucky

UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Storage
  • Moving
  • Moving & Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

439414 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
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 Kentucky to Iowa

Moving across state lines comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This guide compares the drawbacks and advantages of relocating from Kentucky to Iowa to offer an honest reflection of moving from Kentucky to Iowa . By contrasting the cons with the pros and then inversely, you'll gain a balanced perspective to help make your decision.

CONs
PROs
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Higher humidity
  • Less snowfall
  • Fewer public parks
  • Narrower job sectors
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower humidity
  • More snow activities
  • More public parks
  • Broad job opportunities
Iowa iconIowa
  • Less horse-related events
  • Colder winters
  • Fewer historical sites
  • No Bourbon Trail
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Rich horse culture
  • Warmer winters
  • Historical landmarks
  • Bourbon Trail

As you consider the move from Kentucky to Iowa, think beyond just the climate or job opportunities. Kentucky, known for its Kentucky Horse Park and the famous Bourbon Trail, offers unique cultural and recreational activities that are deeply embedded in the state's identity. On the other hand, Iowa's appeal lies in its abundance of public parks like Dubuque Water Trail and thriving job market with opportunities across various sectors, from technology to agriculture. Although Iowa might have colder winters, it opens up a plethora of winter sports and activities for you to enjoy. Furthermore, cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids are burgeoning with new restaurants, cultural sights, and neighborhoods that boast a high quality of life. Weighing these aspects against each other will help you make a well-informed decision about your move.

Kentucky vs. Iowa Food Guide

When you're moving, understanding the local culture is crucial, and food plays a significant role in that. To help you get acclimated, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Kentucky & Iowa . This will give you a taste of what to expect from the food scene in your new home.

KentuckyIowa
Most iconic local food itemFried ChickenCorn on the Cob
Most popular meat dishBurgooPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular street food itemHot Brown SandwichTaco Pizza
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegan Corn Dogs
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Castle Post
  • Ramsi's Cafe on the World
  • Grayson's Tavern
  • American Grill
  • The Filling Station
  • Centro
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Kentucky, the legendary fried chicken has been a staple long before it gained international fame, served best in local diners and family-run restaurants throughout the state. A visit to Ramsi's Cafe on the World in Louisville can offer a wide variety of vegan options, showcasing the versatility in Kentucky's food scene. Across the border, Iowa's claim to fame lies in its rich agricultural heritage with corn playing a central role, not just on the cob but in dishes across the spectrum. The state's beloved pork tenderloin sandwich, a mammoth creation, can be found in eateries like the classic Centro in Des Moines. Both states have vibrant culinary scenes that reflect their history and agricultural roots, promising delicious adventures for newcomers.

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Kentucky vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move, and understanding how Kentucky and Iowa compare in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle can significantly influence your decision. This comparison aims to provide a snapshot of what to expect in your potential new home state.

ComparisonKentuckyIowa
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanFarmhouse, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, privacyEnergy efficiency, community

When comparing Kentucky and Iowa in terms of housing, a notable difference is in the median home prices and architectural styles that dominate the landscape. Homes in Kentucky often exhibit colonial and craftsman designs, reflecting a rich historical culture, while Iowa’s preference leans towards practical farmhouse and ranch styles, catering to its agricultural roots. Additionally, Iowa slightly edges out Kentucky in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle scores, suggesting that Iowa may offer a more conducive environment for those seeking a balance between city living and accessibility. The emphasis on energy efficiency and community in Iowa's real estate listings indicates a state-wide commitment to sustainability and social cohesion.

Kentucky vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between Kentucky and Iowa clarifies the differences in climate and weather you'll experience. Understanding these variations can help you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
87/66

Kentucky

85/63

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41/24

Kentucky

31/14

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
48

Kentucky

36

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
12

Kentucky

35

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonKentuckyIowa
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Kentucky to Iowa, you'll notice some key differences in climate. Iowa tends to have colder winters, with lower average highs and lows, and more snowfall compared to Kentucky. However, Iowa benefits from slightly more days of sunshine annually. Both states share similar risks for natural disasters like tornadoes, though Iowa also experiences blizzards due to its colder climate. Understanding these variations, especially regarding winter weather and natural disaster preparedness, will be crucial in adapting to your new home.

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

Moving from one location to another brings significant financial changes. Understanding how the cost of living and income levels in Kentucky and Iowa compare is essential to anticipate your new financial landscape. This comparison will guide you through key economic factors, ensuring you make an informed decision.

ComparisonKentuckyIowa
Avg. Household Income$59,341$69,588
Cost of Living Index87.895.9
State Income Tax5.000.33 to 8.53
Avg. Property Tax0.861.29
Avg. Sales Tax66.82
Top 3 IndustriesAerospace, Automotive, HealthcareFinance, Manufacturing, Technology
AffluenceModestModerate
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessNoticeableLess noticeable

Comparatively, you'll find that Iowa has a slightly higher average household income than Kentucky, which is mirrored by its marginally higher cost of living index. However, this slight increase in living costs in Iowa is complemented by a broader state income tax range, which could affect you differently depending on your income. Property taxes are notably higher in Iowa, which could be a consideration if you're planning to buy a home. The top industries in each state also hint at the job market you're stepping into, with Kentucky focusing more on manufacturing sectors like Aerospace and Automotive, whereas Iowa is stronger in Finance and Technology fields. Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for your financial transition.

Kentucky vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup between Kentucky & Iowa to help you understand what to expect in terms of the local communities and beliefs. Whether you're curious about the political leaning of your new neighborhood or the prevalent religious groups, this comparison will provide a straightforward overview.

KentuckyIowa
Political Make-upLeans RepublicanSwing State
Local PoliticsConservative in rural areasMixture of conservative and liberal
ReligionChristianity predominantChristianity predominant

In Kentucky, you'll find that rural areas tend to lean strongly Republican with a conservative outlook on local politics. The religious scene is predominantly Christian, similar to Iowa. However, Iowa's political landscape is more nuanced as a swing state, with a balance of conservative and liberal views depending on where you are. Urban areas in Iowa like Des Moines tend to be more liberal, reflecting a diverse political environment compared to Kentucky. Religion remains primarily Christian in both states, but Iowa's larger cities might offer a wider variety of religious communities.

Education Guide When Moving from Kentucky to Iowa

Moving from Kentucky to Iowa brings about many significant changes, especially in the area of education. In order to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Kentucky and Iowa, we have curated a comparison chart that focuses on key educational aspects. This comparison aims to provide insights and help you make an informed decision for your family's educational needs.

KentuckyIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
Western Kentucky University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Rosa Parks Elementary (Lexington)
Stopher Elementary (Louisville)
Brandeis Elementary (Louisville)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Barret Traditional Middle School (Louisville)
Beaumont Middle School (Lexington)
North Oldham Middle School (Goshen)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)

Top 3 High School Schools

DuPont Manual High (Louisville)
Highlands High (Fort Thomas)
Gatton Academy (Bowling Green)
West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)

Top 3 private high schools

Sacred Heart Academy (Louisville)
Lexington Catholic High (Lexington)
Trinity High School (Louisville)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Regina High School (Iowa City)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Christian Academy of Louisville
Lexington Christian Academy
Kentucky Country Day School (Louisville)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)

Top 3 School Districts

Oldham County Schools
Fayette County Public Schools
Fort Thomas Independent Schools
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Pleasant Valley Community School District

When making the transition from Kentucky to Iowa, you'll notice key differences in the educational landscape. For instance, schools like Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines are highly recognized in Iowa for their comprehensive educational programs. Iowa is also noted for its strong public school districts, such as Iowa City Community School District, which offers a diverse range of programs. On the other hand, Kentucky boasts specialized schools such as Gatton Academy in Bowling Green, a school that integrates high school and college curriculum for gifted students. Both states offer unique opportunities, whether your preference leans towards public education, private institutions, or specialized schools. Comparing these options side by side provides a clearer understanding of what each state has to offer, ensuring you make the best decision for your family's educational needs.

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