Moving from Minnesota to Iowa?

6 Best MN to IA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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MN to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, to Iowa, the Heart of the Midwest, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Embarking on this journey, you're leaving behind Minnesota's serene landscapes and embracing Iowa's rich farmlands and vibrant communities. Recognizing the importance of this significant life change, we stress the need for trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition, letting you focus on the excitement ahead.

Minnesota iconArrow iconIowa icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to Minnesota guide.

6 Best Minnesota to Iowa Movers

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

#1
Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,008+ data points

Location DotHopkins, MN
GearResidential Moving, Business Moving, Long Distance Residential Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/12/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3742268 Verify

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

top 3 minneapolis 2024 metro movers image
top 10 ranked movers in fertile 2023 metro movers image
#2
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,268+ data points

Location DotIowa City, IA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Apartment/Condo Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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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top ranked movers in cedar rapids 2023 adamantine spine moving image
top ranked movers in cedar rapids 2022 adamantine spine moving image
#3
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 528+ data points

Location DotMinneapolis, MN
GearCheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2846187 Verify

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in blaine 2023 general expert moving service llc image
top 10 ranked movers in bloomington 2022 general expert moving service llc image
#4
Goal Line Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 664+ data points

Location DotPlymouth, MN
GearLocal Moving, Commercial Moving, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2926126 Verify

About Goal Line Moving

Located in Ham Lake, MN, Goal Line Moving is a family-owned and operated company with four years in the business and over 3,000 local moves....Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in st paul 2023 goal line moving image
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#5
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional

based on 520+ data points

Location DotBurlington, IA
GearMaterial Packing, Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
#6
Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 331+ data points

Location DotMinneapolis, MN
GearExercise Equipment Moving, Exercise Equipment Disassembly, Exercise Equipment Assembly See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 3/14/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3914686 Verify

About Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI

Exercise Equipment Installation (EEI) has been providing quality service since 1995, specializing in professional and reliable disassembly, ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in madelia 2023 exercise equipment installation eei image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Minnesota to Iowa

Moving from one state to another can be a massive undertaking, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Minnesota to Iowa. By comparing the cons of living in Minnesota with the pros of moving to Iowa, and vice versa, we hope to provide a comprehensive perspective to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Minnesota iconMinnesota
  • Colder Winters
  • Higher Taxes
  • Less Agricultural Focus
  • Fewer State Fairs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Milder Winters
  • Lower Taxes
  • Rich Farmland
  • Famous State Fair
Iowa iconIowa
  • Smaller Cities
  • Fewer Lakes
  • Lesser Arts Scene
  • More Traditional Cuisine
Minnesota iconMinnesota
  • Vibrant Cities
  • More Lakes
  • Rich Arts Scene
  • Diverse Cuisine

Moving from the vibrant, culture-rich atmosphere of Minneapolis or St. Paul in Minnesota to the more laid-back, agriculturally focused lifestyle in Iowa can be a significant change. While you might miss the vast number of lakes like the beloved Lake Minnetonka and the rich arts scene found at venues such as the Walker Art Center, Iowa offers its own charm with a strong sense of community and a promise of tranquility. In Iowa, you’ll get to experience the Iowa State Fair, one of the largest state fairs in the country, renowned for its food, music, and agricultural exhibitions. Cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, though smaller, boast beautiful parks such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the engaging Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. Furthermore, the lower cost of living and taxes in Iowa can make day-to-day life more comfortable, allowing you more freedom to explore local restaurants and sights like the Amana Colonies or the scenic Loess Hills.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Minnesota to Iowa

This comparison of the local cuisine between Minnesota & Iowa is essential for those planning a move. Understanding the food scene is key to experiencing local culture and lifestyle. Let's dive into how these two fascinating states compare.

MinnesotaIowa

Most iconic local food item

Hotdish
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Most popular meat dish

Walleye
Corn-fed Beef

Most popular street food item

Juicy Lucy
Walking Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Wild Rice Soup
Quinoa Salad

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Matt's Bar
  • Spoon and Stable
  • Cafe Alma
  • Zombie Burger
  • The Machine Shed
  • Aria

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
6

Abundance of Food Trucks

8
7

Foodie Scene

8
7

Vegan Friendly

7
6

In Minnesota, the Juicy Lucy burger, a mouthwatering creation where cheese is melted inside the burger patty, can particularly be found in Minneapolis at local favorites like Matt's Bar. In contrast, Iowa's Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reflects the state's rich agricultural heritage. This breaded and fried pork cutlet sandwich, monstrous in size and flavor, is a staple at the Iowa State Fair and local diners. Moreover, both states offer a variety of vegan options. While Minnesota's wild rice soup offers warmth during cold months, Iowa's fresh farm produce is showcased in dishes like quinoa salad, often found in Des Moines' vibrant food scene.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Minnesota to Iowa

When planning a move, understanding the differences in real estate between Minnesota and Iowa is crucial. This comparison helps you grasp what to expect regarding housing costs, architecture, and the lifestyle each state offers, ensuring you make an informed decision.

While Minnesota boasts a wealth of lakeside properties, contributing to higher median home prices, Iowa offers more affordable housing with a focus on energy-efficient homes. The typical architecture reflects the distinct character of each state—Minnesota with its Prairie and Cape Cod styles amidst a backdrop of natural beauty, and Iowa's practical yet charming Ranch and Craftsman homes. Despite Minnesota's slightly higher scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, both states offer spacious yards as a common highlight in real estate listings, illustrating a shared value in generous outdoor space.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Minnesota to Iowa

Moving from one location to another requires adapting to new weather conditions. By comparing the climate characteristics of Minnesota and Iowa, you can better prepare for the change in temperature, humidity, and overall weather patterns you will experience. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences and similarities between these two states.

Summer icon
83℉ / 63℉

Minnesota

85℉ / 65℉

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
24℉ / 7℉

Minnesota

31℉ / 14℉

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
30

Minnesota

34

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
54

Minnesota

35

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Minnesota and Iowa experience four distinct seasons, there are subtle differences that might affect your daily life. For example, Iowa generally has slightly milder winters, with higher average temperatures and less snowfall than Minnesota. This could mean fewer challenges when it comes to winter commuting and outdoor activities. Additionally, Iowa sees a few more days of sunshine annually, but both states have comparable levels of humidity and UV exposure. Understanding these nuances can help you adjust to your new environment more smoothly and plan for seasonal activities and wardrobe changes accordingly.

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

When considering a move from Minnesota to Iowa, it's vital to understand how the cost of living and financial factors stack up against each other. This comparison aims to shed light on the differences in income, taxes, and economic conditions you'll face. A glance at Minnesota vs. Iowa's financial landscape provides insight into what your wallet might experience during the transition.

Moving from Minnesota to Iowa, you'll note significant differences in the average household income and cost of living indices, with Iowa presenting a more affordable living situation on average. However, this comes with a slightly higher average property tax rate in Iowa. The variation in state income tax brackets might also impact your finances depending on your income level. Industries driving the local economies vary between the two states, offering different job market dynamics. Despite these financial contrasts, both states maintain relatively low levels of poverty and homelessness, hinting at economic stability and healthy job markets in the Midwest.

Political & Religious Comparison between Minnesota and Iowa

This guide includes a quick comparison to give you an at-a-glance understanding of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Minnesota & Iowa. It's designed to help you grasp the potential cultural shifts you might experience as you move from one state to another.

MinnesotaIowa

Political Make-up

Mixed, leans DemocraticMixed, with a slight Republican lean

Local Politics

Progressive urban centersConservative rural areas

Religion

Mainly Christian, with diverse religious communitiesPredominantly Christian, less religious diversity

In both Minnesota and Iowa, the political landscape is mixed, featuring diverse viewpoints anchored by the geography of each state. Minnesota's urban centers, such as Minneapolis, are known for their progressive leanings, which contrasts with Iowa's more conservative rural stance. However, both states present a cooperative political environment where local politics often reflect the immediate needs and values of their communities. In terms of religion, while Christianity predominates in both states, Minnesota offers a bit more diversity in religious communities, reflecting its broader cultural diversity. This variety encompasses a range of faiths, providing a mosaic of religious expressions and establishments across the state.

Education Guide When Moving from Minnesota to Iowa

When considering a move, it's crucial to understand the educational landscape of your potential new home. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in educational opportunities between Minnesota and Iowa. By reviewing this chart, you will better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Minnesota and Iowa, empowering you to make an informed decision about your family’s educational future.

MinnesotaIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Minnesota
Minnesota State University
University of St. Thomas
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Scenic Heights Elementary (Minnetonka)
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Lower (Stillwater)
Creek Valley Elementary (Edina)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Brookview Elementary (West Des Moines)
Grant Ragan Elementary (Waukee)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Minnetonka Middle School East (Minnetonka)
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Middle (Stillwater)
Wayzata Central Middle School (Plymouth)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Waukee Middle School (Waukee)

Top 3 High School Schools

Minnetonka High School (Minnetonka)
Edina High School (Edina)
Wayzata High School (Plymouth)
West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Johnston High School (Johnston)

Top 3 private high schools

Breck School (Minneapolis)
The Blake School (Minneapolis)
St. Paul Academy (Saint Paul)
Phillips Academy (Exeter)
The Madeira School (McLean)
Choate Rosemary Hall (Wallingford)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Blake School (Minneapolis)
Breck School (Minneapolis)
Minnehaha Academy (Minneapolis)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)

Top 3 School Districts

Wayzata Public Schools
Minnetonka Public School District
Eden Prairie Schools
Waukee Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools
Iowa City Community School District

Choosing the right educational institution for your children can significantly impact their future prospects and overall happiness. Minnesota and Iowa both offer exceptional educational options, but there are differences in the environments they provide. For instance, the University of Minnesota and the University of Iowa are large research universities, influencing the collegiate atmosphere in their respective states. The quality of K-12 education also varies, with Minnesota schools like Scenic Heights Elementary and Minnetonka High School ranking highly for their academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. Meanwhile, Iowa's school districts, such as Waukee Community School District and Iowa City Community School District, are known for their comprehensive curriculums and innovative practices. When making your decision, consider visiting the schools and districts that interest you to get a firsthand feel for the environments they offer.

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