Moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. In transitioning from the vibrant City of Fountains, with its rich jazz heritage and mouthwatering barbecue, to Des Moines, the Heart of the Heartland, renowned for its welcoming community and flourishing arts scene, you're embarking on a journey of discovery. It's essential to ensure this venture is as smooth as possible by entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers; that's where our expertise at Great Guys Moving comes into play, guiding you to the best moving services tailored to your long-distance needs.
Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines?
5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Kansas City guide.
5 Best Kansas City to Des Moines Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
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 >>
Kansas City, MO | |
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 7/17/2024) | |
USDOT: 2417601 Verify |
About God's Movers, LLC
God’s Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has served Greater Kansas City, MO for more than 20 years. It provides compl...Read More >>
North Kansas City, MO | |
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Interstate Moving See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) | |
USDOT: 3420954 Verify |
About Golden Rule Relocation
Golden Rule Relocation is a premier residential and commercial moving and storage company based in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves the ent...Read More >>
Kansas City, MO | |
Cheap Moving Services, Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/11/2024) | |
USDOT: 3241776 Verify |
About Courtesy Movers LLC
Courtesy Movers LLC is a client-oriented, Kansas City-based company that provides quality moving services at an affordable price. Its priori...Read More >>
Relocating from Kansas City to Des Moines Neighborhood Guide
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new neighborhood. To help ease this transition, we've created a comparison of Kansas City, MO & Des Moines, IA local neighborhoods . This guide aims to match you with a Des Moines neighborhood that mirrors the vibe and lifestyle of your Kansas City haunt, making your move as seamless as possible.
Kansas City | Des Moines |
---|---|
BrooksideBeaverdale Family-friendly with a strong sense of community | |
WestportEast Village Vibrant nightlife and unique shops | |
Country Club PlazaHistoric East Village Upscale shopping and dining experiences | |
WaldoDrake Neighborhood Cozy, with a mix of local eateries and bars | |
River MarketSherman Hill Historic homes and a tight-knit community | |
Crossroads Arts DistrictIngersoll Avenue Artistic community with galleries and theaters | |
Quality HillGray's Lake Great outdoor activities and scenic views | |
Power & Light DistrictWestern Gateway Park Urban hub for entertainment and culture | |
The NorthlandMerle Hay Quiet, suburban feel with convenient amenities | |
Union HillSouth of Grand Historic homes with lush landscapes |
In Kansas City, neighborhoods like Westport and Country Club Plaza are known for their bustling nightlife and upscale shopping, respectively. Similarly, East Village in Des Moines offers a lively atmosphere with unique shops and bars, while Historic East Village is renowned for its fine dining and sophisticated boutiques. For those enchanted by Kansas City's Brookside’s family-friendly vibe, Beaverdale in Des Moines mirrors this with its own close-knit community feel. Meanwhile, art lovers moving from the Crossroads Arts District will find a new haven in Des Moines's Ingersoll Avenue, celebrated for its vibrant art scene and cultural events. Each neighborhood, whether in Kansas City or Des Moines, holds its unique charm, offering parks like Quality Hill’s nearby Penn Valley Park or Gray's Lake in Des Moines, alongside popular eateries such as Waldo Pizza in Waldo or Drake Diner in the Drake Neighborhood.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Making a move from Kansas City, MO, to Des Moines, IA, involves weighing both sides. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of this relocation , highlighting how life will change. Let’s explore the advantages and challenges of making such a move through detailed charts.
- Higher crime rates
- More traffic
- Hot summers
- Lower crime rates
- Less traffic
- More temperate summers
- Smaller arts scene
- Fewer restaurant options
- Less emphasis on sports
- Vibrant arts scene
- More restaurant options
- Better sports culture
When considering the move from Kansas City to Des Moines, it's important to weigh factors such as the difference in crime rates and traffic congestion. Des Moines offers a quieter, more relaxed pace of life with its lower crime rates and less traffic, making it a potentially safer and more peaceful place to live. However, Kansas City boasts a vibrant arts scene with destinations like The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and a wide array of dining options including famous barbecue joints like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. It's also known for its passionate sports culture, supported by teams such as the Kansas City Chiefs. On the other hand, Des Moines offers its own charms with a more temperate summer climate, appealing to those who prefer milder weather, and although it may have a smaller arts scene, it still provides unique cultural experiences like those found at the Des Moines Performing Arts centers. As with any relocation, it's about finding the right balance that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Understanding local food culture is crucial to feeling at home in a new city. This guide compares the local cuisine between Kansas City & Des Moines so you can delve into the culinary scene awaiting you. From iconic dishes to the vibrancy of the foodie scene, we’ve got you covered.
Kansas City | Des Moines |
---|---|
Most iconic local food item Barbecue RibsPork Tenderloin Sandwich | |
Most popular meat dish Burnt EndsSmoked Pork Chop | |
Most popular street food item Barbecue Brisket SandwichTacos | |
Most popular vegan food Jackfruit TacosSeitan Wings | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 78 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 86 | |
Foodie Scene 98 | |
Vegan Friendly 78 |
When you arrive in Des Moines, you'll discover a burgeoning food scene that marries traditional Midwestern comfort with inventive culinary twists. The Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a local favorite and a must-try, can be found at diners and pubs across the city. For those interested in vegan options, places like Centro offer creative takes on classic dishes. And if you're craving something unique, Fong’s Pizza fuses Asian flavors with traditional pizza for an unforgettable experience. This melding of diverse culinary styles showcases Des Moines’ gastronomic diversity, ensuring you'll always find something to satisfy your palate.
Restaurant Guide for Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Finding a city's culinary gems is a key part of making it feel like home. This comparison helps you discover your next go-to eateries in Des Moines, using Kansas City's top restaurants as your guide. Whether you adore high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic flavors, this guide will help bridge the culinary gap between Kansas City, MO, and Des Moines, IA.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-QueSmokey D's BBQ Signature smoked meats with a local twist |
BluestemHarbinger Creative, farm-to-table dishes with a modern interpretation |
Jack Stack BarbecueJethro’s BBQ A wide selection of barbecue favorites in a laid-back atmosphere |
The RiegerCentro Italian classics with a contemporary flair |
GrunauerHessen Haus Authentic German cuisine and a vast beer selection |
Fox and PearlProof New American cuisine with innovative and globally influenced dishes |
Port FondaMalo Modern takes on traditional Mexican dishes with a vibrant atmosphere |
Lidia's Kansas CityAposto Italian fine dining that focuses on seasonal and high-quality ingredients |
Gates Bar-B-QWoody's Smoke Shack Classic barbecue dishes that emphasize flavor and tradition |
Garozzo's RistoranteBaratta's Italian American favorites in a cozy, family-friendly setting |
Amongst these curated matches, a few stand out for their ability to deliver a taste of home with a new twist. For those missing the iconic Kansas City barbecue, Smokey D's BBQ in Des Moines serves up a storm with its signature smoked meats that can easily rival the best of KC. Similarly, Harbinger transcends your typical dining experience, offering creative, seasonal dishes that echo Bluestem’s commitment to quality and innovation. If the eclectic and global influences of Fox and Pearl captivated you in Kansas City, then Proof in Des Moines will not disappoint, with its fresh ingredients and inventive dishes sure to satisfy your adventurous palate. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary parallels between the two cities but also promise exciting new food journeys amidst the familiar.
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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Real estate is a critical factor to consider when moving. Understanding how Kansas City's and Des Moines' housing markets compare can significantly impact your relocation decisions. From the cost and type of available properties to the lifestyle each city offers, this comparison aims to deliver essential insights.
When considering a move from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA, it's important to note the differences in housing costs and lifestyles. Des Moines offers more affordable median home prices, which may be attractive for homebuyers. However, renters might find Kansas City more economical. Architecture enthusiasts will find varied styles, with Kansas City leaning towards Colonial Revival and Tudor while Des Moines favors Ranch and Craftsman. Urban living scores are slightly higher in Kansas City, reflecting its larger population and denser infrastructure. However, Des Moines is gaining traction for its modern updates and emphasis on energy efficiency in housing, displaying a blend of traditional charm and contemporary living.
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 Kansas City to Des Moines
Whether you're moving for a job, family, or just a change of scenery, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're used to is crucial. This comparison between Kansas City and Des Moines will highlight key differences and similarities in weather patterns to help you prepare for your move.
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Kansas City, MO
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Kansas City and Des Moines experience the richness of four distinct seasons, you'll notice some notable differences, especially in winter temperatures and snowfall. Des Moines tends to be slightly cooler with more snow, doubling Kansas City's average annual snowfall. This could impact your daily life, from commuting to choosing your home's location. Both cities share a risk of tornadoes, but Des Moines also faces severe winter storms, making emergency preparedness for different types of natural disasters essential. Additionally, while the air quality in Des Moines is generally good, Kansas City falls under the moderate category, which might be a consideration for those with respiratory issues.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation could be affected. This comparison focuses on moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA , examining cost of living , income , taxes , and other factors that directly impact your wallet. It's a valuable resource for making an informed decision about your relocation.
A closer look at the financial aspects reveals that while the average household income is higher in Des Moines, this is balanced by its cost of living index being marginally lower than Kansas City. This suggests that your dollar might stretch a bit further in Des Moines, giving you a slightly better living standard for the same income level. Of particular note is the state income tax in Des Moines, which can be higher; however, that might be offset by the higher average household income and the lower sales tax. Considering the top industries, moving to Des Moines might be particularly advantageous if you're in the finance or insurance sectors. Lastly, the rates of poverty and homelessness are indicative of broader socioeconomic trends that could influence your community engagement and lifestyle in your new city.
Political & Religious Comparison between Kansas City, MO and Des Moines, IA
Welcome! Moving between cities can be a monumental change, and understanding the community you're entering is crucial. This section offers a quick look into the comparison of the politics between Kansas City & Des Moines to give you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these vibrant cities.
Kansas City | Des Moines |
---|---|
Political Make-up Leans DemocraticLeans Democratic | |
Local Politics Active in social issuesCommunity-driven initiatives | |
Religion Diverse, with a notable Christian presence. Local ChurchesVaried, predominantly Christian. Local Congregations |
Both Kansas City and Des Moines lean Democratic in their political makeup, highlighting a shared value system on many national issues. However, the approach to local politics can vary: Kansas City is known for being actively engaged in social issues, reflecting a vibrant scene of civic engagement, while Des Moines prides itself on strong community-driven initiatives, often showcasing a more collaborative approach to tackling local challenges. Religion plays an essential role in the fabric of both cities, with Christianity being the predominant faith. Each city offers a rich tapestry of religious communities and places of worship, catering to a diverse population seeking spiritual connection and community involvement.
Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Des Moines
Moving from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Kansas City & Des Moines will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like.
Kansas City | Des Moines |
---|---|
2420 Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | |
53 Traffic Congestion (out of 10) | |
64 Availability of Public Transit (out of 10) | |
Possibly, with effortChallenging Can you get by without car? |
While Kansas City and Des Moines both offer unique commuting experiences, you'll find that Kansas City has a slight edge in terms of public transit availability. The average commute time is shorter in Des Moines, likely due to less traffic congestion. Getting by without a car is somewhat more feasible in Kansas City, attributed to its broader public transportation network and services. However, in Des Moines, this might pose more of a challenge, suggesting a greater reliance on personal vehicles to navigate the city efficiently.
Popular Kansas City, MO to Iowa Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes