Best Maryland to Iowa Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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MD to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is not just a relocation; it's an adventure filled with new opportunities and experiences. As you transition from Maryland's historic landscapes and bustling cities, affectionately known as "America in Miniature," to Iowa's rolling plains and friendly communities, commonly referred to as the "Hawkeye State," the shift in scenery and lifestyle can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. That's why it's crucial to ensure your journey is smooth by partnering with trusted and reliable professional movers, a service we take pride in offering by using an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers tailored to your long-distance move.

Maryland iconArrow iconIowa icon

Best Maryland to Iowa Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
AT Movers9.64A+Authorized For PropertyContact
AJ Moving Services LLC9.57AAuthorized For HHGContact
AB Secure Moving LLC.9.49NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Bulldog Movers9.43NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Maryland guide.

6 Best MD to IA Moving Companies

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

AT Movers Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.64/10
based on 1,252+ data points

About AT Movers

AT Movers is a moving company based in Potomac, with business hours from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. They provide reliab...Read More >>

Services

  • Wrapping, stocking, and relocation
  • Assembling the uplift desks
  • The protection of the valuable frames and pictures

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3455533 / 1126253

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
AJ Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.57/10
based on 549+ data points

About AJ Moving Services LLC

AJ Moving Services LLC, based in Frederick, MD, has been providing a broad range of moving solutions for both residential and commercial cli...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Move
  • Office Move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3866515 / 1414221

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved17,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
AB Secure Moving LLC. Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.49/10
based on 669+ data points

About AB Secure Moving LLC.

AB Secure Moving LLC is a professional moving company with over 10 years of experience in the moving industry. Based in Maryland, they serve...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3900650 / 1436879

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Bulldog Movers Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 587+ data points

About Bulldog Movers

Bulldog Movers, based in Rockville, Maryland, offers moving services to areas such as Germantown, Washington D.C., Gaithersburg, and Virgini...Read More >>

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking
  • Piano Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3482586 / 1143505

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
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
5
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
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 Maryland to Iowa

Moving from one state to another is a significant life event that brings its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Maryland to Iowa . By examining the contrasting aspects of each state, we hope to offer a clearer perspective on what this move entails for you.

CONs
PROs
Maryland iconMaryland
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Humid summers
  • Dense population
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • Milder summers
  • More open space
Iowa iconIowa
  • Fewer direct flights
  • Smaller food scene
  • Less historical sites
  • Less seafood variety
Maryland iconMaryland
  • Proximity to DC
  • Diverse food scene
  • Richer history
  • Seafood cuisine

When considering the move from Maryland to Iowa, it's important to think about what you value in your day-to-day life. Maryland's proximity to Washington, DC, gives you unparalleled access to a vibrant cultural scene, including world-renowned museums like the Smithsonian and historic sites such as the Baltimore Inner Harbor. On the flip side, Iowa offers a serene lifestyle with an emphasis on community and open spaces, making it a haven for those seeking peace away from city bustle. Des Moines, for example, boasts a growing food scene with gems like Centro offering a taste of sophisticated urban dining amidst the state's laid-back vibe. While you may find fewer direct flights to major cities from Iowa's airports, the state's affordability, friendly communities, and beautiful landscapes like those around Ames' Reiman Gardens present a compelling case for making the move.

Maryland vs. Iowa Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Maryland & Iowa is essential for understanding what it’s like to live in these areas. Food is a vital aspect of local culture, and by comparing the two, you'll be better informed about the food scene in your new home.

MarylandIowa
Most iconic local food itemCrab CakesCorn on the Cob
Most popular meat dishPit BeefPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular street food itemSoft Shell Crab SandwichWalking Taco
Most popular vegan foodVegetable Crab SoupGrilled Portobello Mushrooms
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Phillips Seafood
  • Charm City Cakes
  • Bertha's Mussels
  • Zombie Burger
  • Machine Shed Restaurant
  • Hickory Park Restaurant Co.
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Maryland to Iowa, you’ll transition from the seafood-rich menus of the East Coast to the heartland’s comfort foods. Maryland’s pride, the crab cake, can be found in numerous establishments along the Chesapeake Bay, particularly in Baltimore’s seafood markets. In contrast, in Iowa, you're more likely to encounter dishes that revolve around corn and pork, reflecting the state's agricultural roots. These items showcase how each state uses its local resources to create meals that resonate with the locals and visitors alike. For a taste of tradition in Iowa, you might want to visit the Machine Shed Restaurant in Des Moines, well-known for its interpretation of classic Midwestern dishes.

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Maryland vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscape between Maryland and Iowa is crucial. This comparison gives insight into housing affordability, architectural styles, and the daily lifestyle you can expect in these states.

ComparisonMarylandIowa
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodRanch, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront properties, proximity to amenitiesSafety, community, spacious yards

The stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rents between Maryland and Iowa highlights the significant cost of living difference, with Iowa being the more affordable option. Maryland's popular Colonial and Cape Cod architectural styles reflect its rich history, compared to Iowa's preference for practical Ranch and Craftsman homes, emphasizing simplicity and craftsmanship. Maryland scores higher in urban lifestyle due to its proximity to major cities like Baltimore and Washington D.C., offering more diverse amenities and job opportunities. Yet, Iowa's real estate listings frequently boast about community safety and spacious yards, catering to those prioritizing a serene and spacious living environment.

Maryland vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Maryland to Iowa, it’s essential to understand how the weather conditions in these states will affect you. Knowing the differences in climate can help you prepare for the new environmental conditions you'll encounter. This comparison will give you an insight into what to expect in terms of temperature variations, sunshine, humidity, and more.

Summer icon
87°F / 66°F

Maryland

85°F / 63°F

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
42°F / 29°F

Maryland

31°F / 14°F

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44.5"

Maryland

36"

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
20.6"

Maryland

36"

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMarylandIowa
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Maryland to Iowa, you'll notice several key climatic differences. Iowa experiences colder winters, with average lows dropping significantly below those of Maryland, paired with higher annual snowfall. This may require adjustments in your winter clothing and driving habits. Both states share a similar threat from natural disasters such as floods, but tornadoes are more prevalent in Iowa, emphasizing the importance of understanding local emergency procedures. On the brighter side, Iowa generally offers better air quality, which can be a significant advantage for individuals sensitive to pollution or with respiratory conditions.

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

When contemplating a move from one location to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Maryland stack up against those in Iowa, making it easier for you to plan your relocation.

ComparisonMarylandIowa
Avg. Household Income$94,991$69,588
Cost of Living Index124.9595.9
State Income Tax2.0 - 5.750.33 - 8.53
Avg. Property Tax1.091.29
Avg. Sales Tax66.82
Top 3 IndustriesLife Sciences, Cybersecurity, AerospaceAgriculture, Manufacturing, Financial services
AffluenceWealthierComfortable
PovertyLowerComparable
HomelessnessModerateLower

In transitioning from Maryland to Iowa, you'll find significant financial adjustments. Maryland's average household income is higher, reflecting its wealthier status, but this comes with a higher cost of living index (120.1) compared to Iowa's more modest 89.5. Iowa offers a pleasant surprise with its lower cost of living, which could mean more financial flexibility for you despite the generally lower income levels. Additionally, the diversity in top industries between the two states highlights potential career opportunities or changes. Whether your focus is on income, taxes, or the general economic environment, understanding these aspects will be pivotal in your relocation decision.

Maryland vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Maryland to Iowa introduces a shift in the everyday environment, most notably in the political and religious makeup of Maryland & Iowa . This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the general attitudes and beliefs of the residents in both states.

MarylandIowa
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticSwing state
Local PoliticsLiberal urban areasConservative rural areas
ReligionCatholic, ProtestantProtestant, Catholic

When you move from Maryland to Iowa, you'll notice differences not only in the political landscape but also in religious affiliations. Maryland, with its densely populated urban areas, leans more Democratic and holds a mix of Catholic and Protestant faiths with a strong Catholic presence, especially in cities like Baltimore. Iowa, on the other hand, presents a more nuanced political scene; its status as a swing state reflects a balance between conservative rural areas and liberal cities. The religious makeup is somewhat similar, heavily Protestant with a significant Catholic community. Understanding these differences can help in easing the transition and integrating into your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Maryland to Iowa

When considering a move from Maryland to Iowa, it's crucial to understand how the educational opportunities compare. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Maryland and Iowa , we've compiled a comprehensive chart outlining key aspects of each state's education system. This guide will assist in making an informed decision for your family’s educational needs.

MarylandIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Towson University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Fulton Elementary School (Fulton)
Bannockburn Elementary School (Bethesda)
Cold Spring Elementary School (Potomac)
Wickham Elementary School (Coralville)
Roosevelt Elementary (Ames)
Brookview Elementary School (West Des Moines)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Eastern Middle School (Silver Spring)
Thomas W. Pyle Middle School (Bethesda)
Herbert Hoover Middle School (Potomac)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
Summit Middle School (Johnston)

Top 3 High School Schools

Walt Whitman High School (Bethesda)
Winston Churchill High School (Potomac)
Thomas S. Wootton High School (Rockville)
West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)

Top 3 private high schools

Gilman School (Baltimore)
Holton-Arms School (Bethesda)
McDonogh School (Owings Mills)
Phillips Academy (Sioux City)
The Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
St. Albert Catholic Schools (Council Bluffs)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Sandy Spring Friends School (Sandy Spring)
The Park School of Baltimore (Baltimore)
Georgetown Preparatory School (North Bethesda)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)

Top 3 School Districts

Montgomery County Public Schools
Howard County Public School System
Anne Arundel County Public Schools
West Des Moines Community Schools
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District

Maryland and Iowa both offer robust educational environments, but each with its unique strengths. Maryland boasts highly ranked universities like University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University, indicating a strong higher education system that aligns with its top-performing high schools, such as Walt Whitman and Winston Churchill. In contrast, Iowa stands out with its impressive public K-12 school systems, including West Des Moines Community Schools, and notable universities like the University of Iowa. Additionally, Iowa's private schools like Maharishi School and Rivermont Collegiate offer unique educational philosophies, providing diverse options that cater to every student's needs. This comparison highlights the importance of considering your family's educational priorities when planning your move.

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