Moving from North Dakota to Iowa?

6 Best ND to IA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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ND to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the start of an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Transitioning from the Peace Garden State, known for its sprawling landscapes and close-knit communities, to the Hawkeye State, with its rich agricultural heritage and welcoming small towns, means saying goodbye to one beloved backdrop and embracing another. It's crucial to ensure this significant journey is smooth and stress-free by hiring trusted and reliable professional movers – that's where we come in, offering you the best options vetted through our unbiased ranking algorithm.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to North Dakota guide.

6 Best North Dakota to Iowa Movers

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

#1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,268+ data points

Iowa City, IA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Apartment/Condo Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 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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#2
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Exceptional

based on 810+ data points

West Fargo, ND
Local Moving, Junk Removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3220190 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

With more than 30 years of experience in the industry of moving families and businesses, Two Men and a Truck is a globally recognized moving...Read More >>

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#3
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
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#4
Quality Pack & Load Logo
Exceptional

based on 362+ data points

Bismarck, ND
Full-service moving services, Full-service packing services, Commercial moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3092102 Verify

About Quality Pack & Load

Quality Pack & Load is a professional moving company established in 2009. It's a family-owned and operated business with a reputation fo...Read More >>

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#5
Midwest Moving Company Logo
Very Good

based on 728+ data points

West Fargo, ND
Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving, Junk Removal See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3263587 Verify

About Midwest Moving Company

Midwest Moving Company is a professional moving company with locations in North Dakota, Minnesota, Colorado, and North Carolina. This mover ...Read More >>

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#6
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Very Good

based on 45+ data points

Grand Forks, ND
Local moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3220190 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a full-service national moving company with over 35 years of experience. Based in Lansing, Michigan, they have more t...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from North Dakota to Iowa

Moving can be an adventure filled with opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to honestly reflect on the move from North Dakota to Iowa , highlighting not just the positives but also considering the potential drawbacks. It's designed to help you weigh your options thoroughly.

CONs
PROs
North Dakota iconNorth Dakota
  • Harsh winters
  • More remote
  • Fewer cities
  • Less diversity
  • Lower job growth
Iowa iconIowa
  • Milder winters
  • More populous
  • More urban
  • More diverse
  • Higher job growth
Iowa iconIowa
  • Busier lifestyle
  • Fewer landscapes
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less tight-knit
  • More urbanized
North Dakota iconNorth Dakota
  • Quieter living
  • Vast landscapes
  • Lower cost of living
  • Close-knit communities
  • Rich nature

When considering a move from North Dakota to Iowa, it's important to explore beyond the basic pros and cons. Iowa offers a vibrant cultural scene, including well-known restaurants such as Zombie Burger in Des Moines, an eclectic eatery that's beloved by locals and visitors alike. Iowa's urban centers like Des Moines and Iowa City boast abundant neighborhood parks and recreational activities, catering to both families and singles seeking enjoyable outdoor time. Contrast this with North Dakota's expansive, dramatic landscapes, offering unique outdoor experiences such as the vistas at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Yet, despite these differences, both states provide distinctive lifestyle opportunities, whether you're looking for the quiet community-driven life characteristic of North Dakota or the dynamic and diverse environment that Iowa promises.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from North Dakota to Iowa

As food is an integral part of local culture and greatly influences what living in an area is like, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between North Dakota & Iowa . This comparison will help better inform you about the food scene in your new home.

North DakotaIowa

Most iconic local food item

Knoephla SoupPork Tenderloin Sandwich

Most popular meat dish

Buffalo SteakPork Chop

Most popular street food item

Taco-in-a-BagCorn Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Lentil BurgersBlack Bean Burger

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Kroll's Diner
  • The HoDo Restaurant
  • Pitchfork Steak Fondue
  • The Machine Shed
  • Zombie Burger
  • A Table

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

67

Abundance of Food Trucks

57

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

68

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

46

In moving from North Dakota to Iowa, you'll notice a shift in the local food scene that reflects each state's cultural identity and agricultural background. For instance, while North Dakota offers the comfort of Knoephla Soup, famous in German-Russian communities, Iowa boasts the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, speaking to its rich farming history. In Iowa, a vibrant foodie scene is evident, with restaurants like The Machine Shed and Zombie Burger providing insights into the state’s culinary diversity. With a higher score in food truck abundance and vegan-friendly options, Iowa's larger cities like Des Moines and Iowa City offer bustling street food scenes and a variety of dining experiences that cater to all tastes and lifestyles.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from North Dakota to Iowa

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities between the housing markets in North Dakota and Iowa , covering aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these factors can significantly impact your choice and transition into your new home.

The housing comparison between North Dakota and Iowa reveals some interesting differences. For example, the median home price in North Dakota is higher than in Iowa, suggesting that Iowa could be a more budget-friendly option for homebuyers. Iowa's housing market tends to feature Colonial Revival-style homes, often with updated kitchens and closer proximity to schools, while North Dakota's market is characterized by Ranch-style homes with spacious yards and ample garage space. Additionally, both states offer a decent level of bikeability, but Iowa scores slightly higher in urban lifestyle, walkability, and bikeability, indicating a somewhat more active community environment. These differences reflect the unique character and priorities of each state's real estate market, offering potential movers distinct living experiences.

Weather Considerations for Moving from North Dakota to Iowa

Moving from one place to another brings many changes, and understanding how the weather compares between North Dakota and Iowa is crucial for your adaptation. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and be better prepared for your new home environment.

Summer icon
82°F / 57°F

North Dakota

85°F / 64°F

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
18°F / 0°F

North Dakota

31°F / 14°F

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
17-20"

North Dakota

30-38"

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
38-45"

North Dakota

28-38"

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When relocating from North Dakota to Iowa, you'll notice differences in weather that could impact your daily life. Iowa experiences slightly higher average temperatures in both summer and winter, providing a more moderate climate. Although both states enjoy a comparable number of sunshine days, Iowa sees significantly more rainfall, which contributes to its higher average humidity. On the other hand, North Dakota receives more snowfall, a reflection of its colder winters. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare for seasonal changes and adjust more comfortably to your new environment.

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

When you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial factors between North Dakota and Iowa will compare to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will guide you in planning your finances effectively for a smooth transition.

Although North Dakota and Iowa share several economic characteristics, including a moderate level of affluence and lower levels of poverty and homelessness, there are notable differences in their financial landscapes. North Dakota enjoys a marginally higher average household income and a slightly more affordable cost of living index. However, Iowa's broader range in state income tax rates offers a nuanced perspective for potential taxpayers, especially those in higher income brackets. Additionally, the significance of agriculture in both states' economies is evident, but North Dakota's emphasis on energy and Iowa's focus on manufacturing and finance demonstrate distinct industrial priorities. Understanding these differences can significantly aid in financial planning for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between North Dakota and Iowa

When considering a move from North Dakota to Iowa, it's insightful to compare the regions beyond just the landscapes and job markets. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between North Dakota & Iowa . Understanding these elements can help you gauge the social climate you’re moving into.

North DakotaIowa

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeModerate, with swings in national elections

Local Politics

Republican dominance in state legislatureMixed, with a history of both Republican and Democratic leadership

Religion

Lutheran, CatholicCatholic, Evangelical Protestant

As you embark on your move from North Dakota to Iowa, understanding the differing political landscapes and religious profiles of each state could be essential for a seamless transition. North Dakota tends to lean more conservative, with the Republican party having significant influence in local politics, which is reflected in the state's governance and policy priorities. On the other hand, Iowa boasts a more moderate political climate, often seen as a battleground state during presidential elections, indicating a diverse range of political views among its residents. Additionally, while both states have strong Christian foundations, North Dakota's population has a higher concentration of Lutherans and Catholics, whereas Iowa sees a substantial representation of Catholic and Evangelical Protestant communities. Knowing these dynamics could help you better integrate and connect with your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from North Dakota to Iowa

Making a move from North Dakota to Iowa can be a significant life change, especially when considering the best educational opportunities for your family. To help with your decision, we've put together a comparison to better understand what the comparisons are between school options from North Dakota and Iowa. This insight will assist in your transition and ensure a smooth start in your new home state.

North DakotaIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

North Dakota State University
University of North Dakota
Minot State University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Freedom Elementary (West Fargo)
Independence Elementary (Fargo)
Liberty Elementary (Bismarck)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)
Bowman Woods Elementary (Cedar Rapids)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ben Franklin Middle School (Fargo)
Discovery Middle School (Fargo)
Horizon Middle School (Bismarck)
North Central Junior High (Coralville)
Ames Middle School (Ames)
Oak Ridge Middle (Cedar Rapids)

Top 3 High School Schools

Century High School (Bismarck)
Fargo North High School (Fargo)
Red River High School (Grand Forks)
Ames High School (Ames)
West High School (Iowa City)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)

Top 3 private high schools

Shanley High School (Fargo)
Bishop Ryan Catholic School (Minot)
Oak Grove Lutheran School (Fargo)
Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Regina High School (Iowa City)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Dakota Adventist Academy (Bismarck)
Oak Grove Lutheran School (Fargo)
Shiloh Christian School (Bismarck)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf)

Top 3 School Districts

Fargo Public Schools
Bismarck Public Schools
West Fargo Public Schools
Iowa City Community School District
Cedar Rapids Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools

In evaluating the educational landscape between North Dakota and Iowa, a few key differences emerge. North Dakota State University and University of Iowa are prime destinations for college-bound seniors in their respective states, highlighting the strong academic culture present. Elementary schools, such as Liberty Elementary in Bismarck and Wickham Elementary in Coralville, are noted for their exceptional educational programs, illustrating the importance both states place on early education. High school education in both states also differs, with states boasting highly-regarded institutions like Fargo North High School and Ames High School, known for their college-preparation programs. When choosing the best educational path in your new state, consider these variables for a decision that best fits your family's needs.

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