Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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New Orleans to Des Moines Movers

Embarking on a move from one city to another isn't just a change of address; it's the beginning of an exciting adventure in your life. You’re leaving behind the vibrant culture and historic ambiance of The Big Easy for the welcoming community and bustling opportunities in the Heart of America. Given the distance and logistical challenges of such a move, the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstressed, and that's where our unbiased ranking system at Great Guys Moving ensures you're matched with the best for a seamless transition.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to New Orleans guide.

5 Best New Orleans to Des Moines Movers

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

#1
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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top 10 ranked movers in iowa city 2023 best move inc image
top 10 ranked movers in iowa city 2022 best move inc image
#2
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 621+ data points

Ames, IA
Local moving, Long distance moving, Small moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 608245 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in ames 2023 hemmen moving inc image
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#3
Bart's Office Inc. Logo
Below Average

based on 47+ data points

New Orleans, LA
Full service commercial relocation, Installation/reconfiguration of cubical office space, Restaurant & Apartment appliance installation See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2118069 Verify

About Bart's Office Inc.

Bart's Office, founded in 1978, stands out in the New Orleans, Louisiana, area as a moving company that specializes in commercial moves. Per...Read More >>

#4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Below Average

based on 1,663+ data points

New Orleans, LA
Local Moving, Junk Removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2147737 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

In just over 35 years of operation, Two Men and A Truck has come from humble beginnings to becoming one of the leading movers across the Uni...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in new orleans 2022 two men and a truck image
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#5
S
Below Average

based on 168+ data points

Slidell, LA
Local Residential Movers, Long Distance Residential Movers, Local Office Movers See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/24/2024)

USDOT: 1296346 Verify

About Slidell Moving

Slidell Moving & Storage is a professional moving company with over 40 years of experience in the industry. Based in Slidell, Louisiana,...Read More >>

Relocating from New Orleans to Des Moines Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when moving to a city unfamiliar to you. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between New Orleans, LA & Des Moines, IA , focusing on mapping out similar areas in each city. By leveraging the neighborhoods you know and love as a baseline, this guide aims to help you find a new home that feels just right.

New OrleansDes Moines
Garden DistrictSouth of Grand

Stately homes, lush settings

French QuarterEast Village

Vibrant nightlife, historic charm

UptownWaterbury

Leafy streets, classic homes

MarignySherman Hill

Eclectic and historic atmosphere

BywaterBeaverdale

Bohemian vibes, artistic community

TremeDrake Neighborhood

Rich history, cultural diversity

Warehouse DistrictWestern Gateway

Urban living, contemporary art

Mid-CityHighland Park

Community-centric, diverse eateries

LakeviewWaveland Park

Family-friendly, near parks

AudubonGreenwood Historic

Quiet, spacious parks

For newcomers from New Orleans exploring Des Moines, you'll delight in finding neighborhoods that not only mirror the charm of your old home but also offer unique Midwestern qualities. Picture the eclectic vibes of the Bywater, known for its bohemian lifestyle and artistic flair; you'll find a similar spirit in Beaverdale, with its community-centered atmosphere and local art scene. Those missing the lush, stately settings of the Garden District might find solace in South of Grand's beautiful historical homes set against verdant landscapes. If the vibrant nightlife and historic vistas of the French Quarter are what you're yearning for, East Village in Des Moines offers an enticing mix of entertainment options amidst buildings with rich history. Each Des Moines neighborhood, with its unique qualities, ensures you don't have to leave behind what you loved most about your New Orleans community.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

Moving from New Orleans, LA to Des Moines, IA is a significant life decision. This comparison aims to lay out an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation . Through contrasting charts, you’ll get a clear picture of what each city offers and lacks, enabling you to weigh your options effectively.

CONs
PROs
New Orleans, LA iconNew Orleans, LA
  • Higher humidity
  • Frequent storms
  • Higher crime rates
  • Limited job diversity
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Lower humidity
  • Stable climate
  • Lower crime rates
  • Job diversity
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Quieter cultural scene
  • Fewer festivals
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Cold winters
New Orleans, LA iconNew Orleans, LA
  • Vibrant culture
  • Iconic festivals
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Warm winters

While New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, reflected in iconic festivals like Mardi Gras, and diverse cuisine found in establishments like Café du Monde, Des Moines offers a different array of benefits. In Des Moines, you'll find a stable climate with a significantly lower humidity level, enhancing daily comfort. The city also boasts lower crime rates, providing a safer environment for its residents. Job seekers may find more diversity in career opportunities, notably in sectors like tech and renewable energy. Although Des Moines has a quieter cultural scene compared to New Orleans, it offers its own attractions, such as the Des Moines Art Center and the annual Des Moines Arts Festival, which showcases the city's growing artistic community. Despite the colder winters, the city's numerous parks, such as Gray’s Lake Park, provide year-round outdoor activities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

Food is a vital element of local culture and gives you a glimpse into what life is like in a new place. In this guide, we'll explore the differences in the culinary scenes of New Orleans, LA & Des Moines, IA to help you get a taste of what awaits in your new city.

New OrleansDes Moines

Most iconic local food item

GumboPork Tenderloin Sandwich

Most popular meat dish

JambalayaSmoked Brisket

Most popular street food item

BeignetsTaco Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Creole TomatoesGrilled Veggie Skewers

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Commander's Palace
  • Antoine's Restaurant
  • Café du Monde
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Centro

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

67

Abundance of Food Trucks

86

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

76

When moving from New Orleans to Des Moines, you'll discover a shift from the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun and Creole dishes to a hearty, comfort food-driven culinary scene. In New Orleans, staples like gumbo and beignets from iconic spots like Café du Monde offer a taste of the city's rich history and French influence. Transitioning to Des Moines, you'll find a different kind of comfort food, with iconic dishes such as the pork tenderloin sandwich. Des Moines' food scene, including places like Fong's Pizza, offers an eclectic mix of traditional and innovative cuisine, reflecting the city's growing diversity in palates and culinary experiences. While both cities offer a range of vegan options, New Orleans' Creole tomatoes and Des Moines' grilled veggie skewers highlight the fresh, local produce available.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

When moving to a new city, finding that go-to spot for your food cravings is crucial. This restaurant comparison chart between New Orleans and Des Moines aims to ease your transition by pinpointing where you can find flavors reminiscent of home. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide will help you explore Des Moines with a taste of New Orleans in mind.

Commander's PalaceAposto

High-end dining with a seasonal menu

Galatoire's801 Chophouse

Classic steakhouse experience

Willie Mae's Scotch HouseBubba

Southern comforts and fried chicken

CoquetteTable 128

Contemporary bistro with innovative dishes

Pêche Seafood GrillHarbinger

Focus on vegetable-forward plates

HerbsaintCentro

Italian influences with a modern American twist

Bacchanal WineDjango

Casual European dining with an excellent wine selection

Cafe du MondeLa Mie Bakery

Iconic for breakfast and pastries

BayonaProof

Seasonal menus with global inspiration

Domilise's Po-Boy & BarZombie Burger + Drink Lab

Creative takes on American classics

When embarking on your culinary journey in Des Moines, spaces like Aposto will remind you of Commander's Palace with its high-end, seasonal offerings. For a taste of the South, Bubba brings comfort food that channels the spirit of Willie Mae's Scotch House. Des Moines also boasts vibrant spots like Harbinger, where the focus on plant-based dishes echoes the innovation at Pêche Seafood Grill. And for those mornings when you miss the bustling atmosphere and beignets of Cafe du Monde, La Mie Bakery will welcome you with open arms and delicious pastries, crafting an experience that's both familiar and new.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

When planning your move, it's crucial to consider how real estate aspects stack up between your current city and your future home. This guide aims to compare New Orleans, LA, and Des Moines, IA, focusing on housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, among other factors, to give you a comprehensive overview.

The contrasting characteristics of New Orleans and Des Moines provide various elements to consider during your move. New Orleans boasts a rich historical tapestry reflected in its architecture, notably in the Creole and Colonial styles prevalent in areas like the French Quarter. This lends the city a unique aesthetic and cultural vibrancy. In comparison, Des Moines offers Mid-Century Modern and Ranch-style homes that cater to modern tastes and family-friendly living. Walkability and bikeability scores reveal slight differences, with New Orleans edging out in walkability, attributed to its dense urban core, while Des Moines offers slightly better bikeability, perfect for those seeking a less congested, active lifestyle. This juxtaposition highlights the distinctive urban lifestyles, with New Orleans leaning more towards a vibrant, historical urban center and Des Moines presenting a balanced, family-geared environment.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares between New Orleans, LA and Des Moines, IA is key to preparing for your new environment. This comparison will illuminate the fundamental differences in climate, helping you adjust more smoothly to your new home.

Summer icon
91°F / 75°F

New Orleans, LA

86°F / 65°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62°F / 47°F

New Orleans, LA

31°F / 14°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
62.7"

New Orleans, LA

36"

Des Moines, IA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

New Orleans, LA

36"

Des Moines, IA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines will introduce you to starkly different winter conditions. New Orleans' mild winters will give way to Des Moines' chilly temperatures and snowfall, requiring a wardrobe adjustment and possibly learning how to drive in snow. The summer heat is intense in both cities, though New Orleans typically experiences higher humidity levels, making it feel hotter. Adjusting to Des Moines might also mean preparing for new seasonal allergies, as different plants and temperatures can influence pollen and mold counts. Becoming acquainted with these weather changes will help ease your transition.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

When relocating, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living in New Orleans compares with Des Moines, especially in terms of money and finance. This comparison will highlight the differences and similarities between the two cities, aiding in your financial planning for the move.

Understanding the financial nuances between New Orleans and Des Moines can significantly influence your decision-making process for the move. For instance, the average household income is markedly higher in Des Moines, coupled with a substantially lower cost of living index, suggesting your dollar might stretch further in Iowa's capital. However, it's important to consider Des Moines' higher property tax rates, which could offset some savings for homeowners. The dominant industries also differ greatly, with New Orleans championing tourism and music, while Des Moines stands out in insurance and finance sectors, potentially influencing job opportunities. Ultimately, considering these factors will be critical in preparing for a smooth financial transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between New Orleans, LA and Des Moines, IA

When considering a move from New Orleans, LA to Des Moines, IA, understanding the local landscape is crucial. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences between the two cities to help you adjust seamlessly to your new surroundings.

New OrleansDes Moines

Political Make-up

Liberal / DemocraticModerate, with a mix of Republican and Democratic

Local Politics

Focus on social issues, urban developmentEmphasizes community services, education

Religion

Catholicism predominateMixed Protestant and Catholic, diverse religious communities

In New Orleans, you're likely familiar with a more liberal political atmosphere, where urban development and social issues are at the forefront of local politics. The city's vibrancy is also deeply rooted in its Catholic traditions, influencing many aspects of daily life. In contrast, moving to Des Moines introduces you to a political landscape that balances moderate Republican and Democratic views. Local politics focus more on community services and education, reflecting the city's commitment to inclusivity and quality of life. Additionally, Des Moines boasts a diversity of religious perspectives, offering a mosaic of faith communities that mirror the city's multifaceted identity. This transition may present new opportunities to engage with differing viewpoints and cultures, enriching your experience in your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from New Orleans to Des Moines

Moving from New Orleans, LA to Des Moines, IA requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between New Orleans & Des Moines will help you better gauge what to expect in your new city.

New OrleansDes Moines
2419

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

63

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

54

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingDifficult

Can you get by without car?

In New Orleans, while facing moderate traffic congestion, you have reasonable access to public transit options like buses and streetcars, which could make it feasible to get around without a car, albeit with some planning. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a more comfortable driving experience with lighter traffic congestion but relies more heavily on car ownership due to less robust public transit options. Understanding these dynamics can better prepare you for what to expect in your daily commute, whether it's adjusting to potentially longer travel times or planning for a car purchase if you didn't need one before.

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