Moving from Oklahoma to Iowa?

6 Best OK to IA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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OK to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state, such as venturing from the Sooner State of Oklahoma to the expansive fields of the Hawkeye State, Iowa, marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. Oklahoma’s rugged charm and wide-open spaces contrast with Iowa’s lush landscapes and robust agricultural heart, offering a refreshing backdrop for your new beginning. Recognizing the vastness of this journey, it's critical to partner with professional movers you can trust. Our approach at Great Guys Moving ensures you’re supported by the best, using an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with top-notch services for this significant transition.

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

6 Best Oklahoma 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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top ranked movers in cedar rapids 2022 adamantine spine moving image
#2
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
#3
Serenity Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 907+ data points

Norman, OK
Full Service Moving, Packing & Unpacking, Piano Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2439364 Verify

About Serenity Moving Services

Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahom...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in oklahoma city 2023 serenity moving services image
top 10 ranked movers in oklahoma city 2022 serenity moving services image
#4
Sneedworks Logo
Exceptional

based on 199+ data points

Newcastle, OK
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3556816 Verify

About Sneedworks

Sneedworks is a locally owned and operated moving company specializing in commercial and residential moving and storage services. Their team...Read More >>

top 10 oklahoma city 2024 sneedworks image
#5
Bigger Better Movers Logo
Fabulous

based on 364+ data points

Tulsa, OK
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Local Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 3910852 Verify

About Bigger Better Movers

Bigger Better Movers is Oklahoma’s premier option for reliable, high-quality moving services. Its exemplary ratings and qualifications make ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in coweta 2022 big dome moving company image
#6
L
Fabulous

based on 98+ data points

Pryor Creek, OK
Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3928615 Verify

About Lee's Moving

Lee's Moving Inc is a family-owned moving company based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with over 30 years of combined experience in the industry. They ...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oklahoma to Iowa

Making the move from Oklahoma to Iowa is a significant decision that deserves a comprehensive comparison. This guide aims to offer a balanced view by presenting the pros and cons of such a relocation. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages from Oklahoma to Iowa will help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the disparities in climate, culture, and cost of living between these two states.

CONs
PROs
Oklahoma iconOklahoma
  • Extreme summer heat
  • Less outdoor activities
  • Higher tornado risk
  • Lower educational rankings
Iowa iconIowa
  • Cooler summers
  • More nature parks
  • Lower tornado risk
  • Higher educational rankings
Iowa iconIowa
  • Smaller cities
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Higher cost of living
Oklahoma iconOklahoma
  • Larger cities
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Strong energy sector
  • More affordable housing

The transition from Oklahoma's expansive city life—with its vibrant nodes like the Bricktown District in Oklahoma City and the rich cultural heritage of Tulsa—towards Iowa's more serene setting offers subtle yet significant changes. In Iowa, you will enjoy the lush beauty of places like the Maquoketa Caves State Park and the charming allure of Dubuque's Eagle Point Park. Cities such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, while smaller, boast an array of local eateries like the Centro restaurant in Des Moines, which epitomizes the state's farm-to-table cuisine philosophy. Additionally, Iowa's commitment to higher educational standards is epitomized by institutions like the University of Iowa, enhancing the state's allure for families prioritizing education. Despite potential concerns over less diversity and the necessity to adjust to a smaller urban environment, Iowa's lower tornado risk, more temperate summers, and inviting natural landscapes present compelling reasons to consider the move.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oklahoma to Iowa

As you prepare for your move, understanding the local culture is crucial, and what better way to do so than through food? This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Oklahoma & Iowa to help you get a taste of what your new home has to offer, making your transition just a little bit tastier.

OklahomaIowa

Most iconic local food item

Chicken Fried SteakCorn on the Cob

Most popular meat dish

BBQ BrisketPork Tenderloin Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Indian TacosCheese Curds

Most popular vegan food

Fried OkraGrilled Portobello Mushrooms

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • The Amana Meat Shop & Smokehouse
  • The Machine Shed
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

67

Abundance of Food Trucks

56

Foodie Scene

67

Vegan Friendly

45

Experiencing the local cuisine in Oklahoma offers a delicious dive into Southern and Native American culinary traditions. Oklahoma City’s Plaza District and Tulsa's Blue Dome District are prime spots to find bustling food scenes, including food trucks serving up Indian Tacos, a fusion of Native American and Mexican cuisines. For those venturing to Iowa, the state’s rich agricultural roots mean fresh corn on the cob and succulent pork tenderloin sandwiches are never far away. Des Moines’ East Village is a hub for foodies, where innovative restaurants and food trucks showcase the state’s produce. Both states offer unique dining experiences, reflecting their history, culture, and the richness of American regional cooking.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Oklahoma to Iowa

Real estate plays a crucial role when moving, making it essential to understand how Oklahoma and Iowa stack up in terms of housing. This comparison will look at costs, architectural styles, livability, and other key factors, aiming to provide a thorough overview.

Exploring the real estate landscapes in Oklahoma and Iowa reveals some similarities, yet distinctions emerge in what homeowners value. In Oklahoma, the ranch-style architecture predominates, reflecting a preference for spacious, single-floor living. These homes often come with large yards and an open floor plan, catering to those who prioritize space, both inside and outside. Iowa leans towards Craftsman-style homes, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and proximity to schools in real estate listings. These preferences suggest a community-focused lifestyle in Iowa, while Oklahoma offers a blend of urban amenities with a more suburban feel. Both states offer comparable costs of living, but the devil is in the details, reflecting each state's unique way of life.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oklahoma to Iowa

Moving between states means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how Oklahoma weather compares with Iowa weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you prepare for what's ahead, whether it's layering up for the winter or gearing up for the summer.

Summer icon
93°F / 71°F

Oklahoma

86°F / 65°F

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 30°F

Oklahoma

33°F / 14°F

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Oklahoma

34"

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6"

Oklahoma

35"

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When you move from Oklahoma to Iowa, you'll notice distinct differences in weather patterns, especially during winter. Iowa experiences much colder winters with significantly more snowfall, which is important for anyone unaccustomed to heavy winter conditions. The summer temperatures are a bit more forgiving in Iowa, with slightly lower highs. Additionally, Iowa has higher annual humidity levels which can affect comfort and considerations for home maintenance. Understanding these variations can help you prepare better for your new home's seasonal changes.

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

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to compare financial aspects you're accustomed to, with what awaits. This comparison between Oklahoma and Iowa aims to shed light on various monetary and economic elements that could influence your decision. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and the economic environment will ensure a smoother transition.

When delving deeper into the economic factors that distinguish Oklahoma from Iowa, you'll notice a significant difference in average household income, with Iowa leading. This is reflected in the slightly higher cost of living index in Iowa compared to Oklahoma, suggesting that while you might earn more in Iowa, you'll also likely spend a bit more on living expenses. Taxes play a crucial role in this comparison too. Iowa's wider state income tax range indicates you could be paying more or less based on your income bracket, compared to Oklahoma's more narrow range. Moreover, the average property tax in Iowa is higher, which is an essential consideration if you plan to buy a home. However, Iowa's lower average sales tax could help offset some of the increases in other expenses. It's also interesting to note the economic landscapes, with each state boasting diverse leading industries, potentially affecting job opportunities in your field.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oklahoma and Iowa

Considering a move from Oklahoma to Iowa? It's useful to understand the differences in the makeup of the populations in each state. This quick glance will delve into the political, religious, and local politics landscapes of both states, providing a snapshot to help you see the comparison of the politics between Oklahoma & Iowa and how these elements could influence your new life in Iowa.

OklahomaIowa

Political Make-up

Conservative majorityModerately conservative

Local Politics

Strong Republican presenceMixture of Republican and Democratic leanings

Religion

Predominantly Evangelical ChristianMix of Evangelical Christian and Mainline Protestant

While both Oklahoma and Iowa share conservative values, Iowa presents a more diverse political landscape, blending both Republican and Democratic influences. This variety is something you might notice in local politics, where Iowa tends to have more balanced representation across the spectrum compared to Oklahoma's strong Republican presence. Furthermore, Iowa’s religious makeup is varied, hosting a significant number of Mainline Protestants alongside the Evangelical Christian majority you might be familiar with in Oklahoma. Understanding these nuances can help smooth your transition and set realistic expectations for your new life in Iowa.

Education Guide When Moving from Oklahoma to Iowa

When considering a move from Oklahoma to Iowa, understanding the educational landscape is crucial for families. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities in school options to help you make informed decisions. This chart is designed to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Oklahoma and Iowa.

OklahomaIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Oklahoma
Oklahoma State University
University of Tulsa
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Washington Elementary School - Norman
Riverside Elementary - Tulsa
Chisholm Elementary - Edmond
Wickham Elementary - Coralville
Roosevelt Elementary - Ames
Hoover Elementary - Iowa City

Top 3 Middle Schools

Whittier Middle School - Norman
Sequoyah Middle School - Edmond
Central Middle School - Broken Arrow
North Central Junior High - Coralville
Ames Middle School - Ames
South East Junior High - Iowa City

Top 3 High School Schools

Edmond North High School - Edmond
Jenks High School - Jenks
Norman High School - Norman
West High School - Iowa City
Ames High School - Ames
Roosevelt High School - Des Moines

Top 3 private high schools

Cascade Christian Academy - Norman
Bishop Kelley High School - Tulsa
Heritage Hall - Oklahoma City
Xavier High School - Cedar Rapids
Dowling Catholic High School - West Des Moines
Regina High School - Iowa City

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Oklahoma Christian School - Edmond
Crossings Christian School - Oklahoma City
Tulsa Adventist Academy - Tulsa
Scattergood Friends School - West Branch
Maharishi School - Fairfield
Cedar Valley Christian School - Cedar Rapids

Top 3 School Districts

Edmond Public Schools
Jenks Public Schools
Norman Public Schools
Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools

In examining the educational systems of both Oklahoma and Iowa, it's evident that both states boast highly regarded institutions across all levels. For instance, Edmond Public Schools in Oklahoma are well-renowned for their comprehensive educational programs, paralleled by the accolades of the Iowa City Community School District in Iowa. Families moving from Oklahoma to Iowa will find solace in the fact that Iowa's top universities, such as the University of Iowa, mirror the high caliber of education provided by institutions like the University of Oklahoma. Additionally, Iowa’s private K-12 schools, like Scattergood Friends School in West Branch, offer unique educational philosophies that could provide new perspectives for transferring students. This comparison should serve as a solid foundation for understanding the diverse educational landscapes of both states, making your transition smoother and more informed.

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