Best Tulsa to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the vibrant, bustling streets of Tulsa, OK to the charming, community-focused Des Moines, IA, can be an exhilarating adventure and a significant life change. You're swapping the Oil Capital of the World for the insurance hub and cultural heart of Iowa, leaving behind Tulsa's Art Deco skyline for Des Moines’ friendly faces and green spaces. To ensure this long distance move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it’s crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers, making your transition from Tulsa to Des Moines seamless.
Best Tulsa to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.23 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Serenity Moving Services | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Bigger Better Movers | 8.56 | A- | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Emrick's Van & Storage | 8.17 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Tulsa guide.
5 Best Tulsa to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
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
This listing has been claimed by Serenity Moving ServicesAbout Serenity Moving Services
Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahom...Read More >>
Services
- Full Service Moving
- Packing & Unpacking
- Piano Moving
About Bigger Better Movers
Founded in 2017, Bigger Better Movers is a local Oklahoma moving company that offers residential and commercial relocation services to Oklah...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moves
About Emrick's Van & Storage
Since 1904, Emrick's Van and Storage has provided relocation services to much of Oklahoma, including Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The company's ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Commercial moving
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.
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.
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Tulsa, OK & Des Moines, IA , helping you find a new community that feels like home. By identifying neighborhoods in Des Moines that share characteristics with your favorite Tulsa locales, we aim to provide a smooth relocation experience.
| Tulsa | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Brookside | Beaverdale | Vibrant with local shops |
| Cherry Street | East Village | Unique boutiques & dining |
| Midtown | Drake | Centrally located with a youthful vibe |
| Riverside | Gray's Lake | Nature & trails nearby |
| South Tulsa | Waveland Park | Suburban, family-friendly |
| Maple Ridge | Sherman Hill | Historic homes |
| Greenwood | Highland Park | Rich history |
| Brady Arts District | Western Gateway Park | Art & culture scene |
| Blue Dome District | Ingersoll Avenue | Entertainment & nightlife |
| Owen Park | Union Park | Green spaces & family attractions |
In Tulsa, Brookside not only thrives due to its array of local shops but also boasts a remarkable sense of community—a vibe you'll find mirrored in Des Moines's Beaverdale neighborhood, known for its historic homes and bustling Beaver Avenue. Meanwhile, Cherry Street's unique blend of boutiques, art, and dining finds its counterpart in Des Moines's East Village. This district is famed for its vibrant streetscape, home to local treasures such as RAYGUN, a popular clothing store known for its quirky Midlands pride apparel, and Zombie Burger, serving up gourmet burgers in a unique, post-apocalyptic setting. Similarly, if the historic and refined charm of Tulsa's Maple Ridge is what draws you in, Sherman Hill in Des Moines offers an array of Victorian and early 20th-century homes, close to vibrant downtown attractions, providing a seamless blend of history with modern conveniences.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tulsa to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another is always a mix of emotions and practical considerations. This comparison aims to lay out both sides for those considering relocating from Tulsa, OK to Des Moines, IA . By taking a closer look at the pros compared to the cons , as well as the cons compared to the pros , you'll get an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation decision.
Tulsa, OK- Smaller city vibe
- Lower job growth
- Hotter summers
- Less cultural events
Des Moines, IA- Larger metro area
- Higher job opportunities
- Cooler summers
- More cultural offerings
Des Moines, IA- Slightly higher cost
- Need to rebuild network
- Fewer music venues
- Smaller parks
Tulsa, OK- Cost of living
- Warm community
- Vibrant local music
- Ample park spaces
Moving from Tulsa to Des Moines presents a unique opportunity for growth and change. For instance, Des Moines offers a larger metro area with higher job opportunities in sectors like finance and insurance, not to mention a thriving cultural scene. Check out the Des Moines Art Center or catch a show at the Des Moines Performing Arts for a taste of what this lively city has to offer. On the flip side, leaving Tulsa means saying goodbye to its warm community, vibrant local music scene, and spacious neighborhood parks like the Gathering Place. However, Des Moines compensates with places like Gray’s Lake Park and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, offering new spots for outdoor enjoyment and cultural enrichment. If starting fresh in a city with more job opportunities and a cooler summer climate appeals to you, Des Moines might just be a perfect choice. Don't forget to explore local establishments like Des Moines Partnership for networking opportunities or the Des Moines Parks and Recreation for outdoor activities to quickly feel at home in this vibrant Iowa city.
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding the local food culture is crucial when relocating. With that in mind, we compare the local cuisine between Tulsa & Des Moines to give you a taste of what culinary delights await. This comparison will help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city.
| Tulsa | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue Ribs | Corn on the Cob |
| Most popular meat dish | Bison Steak | Pork Tenderloin |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Okra | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Tulsa, the fusion of traditional Southern cuisine with unique local flavors like Bison Steak or Fried Okra gives the city a distinct culinary identity. For instance, Joe's BBQ offers a deep dive into Tulsa's famed barbecue scene, while The Bison & The Bird showcases the best of local meats. On the other hand, moving to Des Moines presents an opportunity to explore the heart of the Midwest's agricultural bounty, with dishes like Corn on the Cob and Pork Tenderloin taking center stage. Des Moines’ vibrant food scene is further exemplified by places like Zombie Burger, known for its innovative approach to American classics, and Fong’s Pizza, which offers an unexpected twist on traditional pizza with its Asian-inspired toppings.
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison Tulsa to Des Moines is here to guide you in discovering the perfect match for your culinary preferences in your new locale. Whether you're moving for work, family, or adventure, let this be your foodie guide.
| Tulsa | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper | Harbinger | Known for innovative, seasonal dishes |
| Elote Cafe & Catering | El Aguila Real | Authentic Mexican cuisine and a cozy atmosphere |
| Bull in the Alley | 801 Chophouse | Upscale dining experience with a focus on steaks |
| Joe Momma's Pizza | Gusto Pizza Co. | Creative pizza options and a fun vibe |
| Brookside By Day | Cheese Bar | Casual dining with exceptional cheese-based dishes |
| Tally's Good Food Café | Waveland Cafe | Classic diner with a local feel |
| Sisserou's Restaurant | Cafe Fuzion | Exotic flavors and a Caribbean twist |
| Andolini's Pizzeria | Fong's Pizza | Unique pizza offerings with an Asian twist |
| Phryme Steakhouse | Central Standard | Excellent steaks and a classy atmosphere |
| Kilkenny's Irish Pub | The Royal Mile | Authentic British pub experience |
For those who love diving into the local dining scene, this comparative guide serves as a bridge between Tulsa and Des Moines' best offerings. Fans of upscale steak dining who frequented Bull in the Alley in Tulsa can find solace at 801 Chophouse in Des Moines, offering a similarly posh atmosphere and meticulously prepared meat cuts. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados missing Andolini's unique combinations will be intrigued by Fong's Pizza's innovative approach, blending traditional Italian pizza with daring Asian flavors. It's culinary transitions like these that ensure your move between cities will be flavorful and filled with exciting new dining discoveries, making Des Moines feel like your new culinary home.
Ready to start your move?
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Tulsa, OK, and Des Moines, IA is crucial. This comparison will help you understand the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between the two cities, ensuring you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Tulsa | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, proximity to parks | Energy efficiency, renovated kitchens |
In Tulsa, the Art Deco architecture vividly stands out, giving the city a unique aesthetic that's both historical and modern. Conversely, Des Moines boasts a mix of Victorian and Craftsman styles, reflecting its rich architectural diversity and history. When it comes to urban lifestyle, Des Moines edges out slightly with a score of 7 out of 10, indicating a somewhat more vibrant city life than Tulsa. Additionally, Des Moines listings frequently highlight renovated kitchens and energy efficiency, pointing towards a city-wide emphasis on modern living comforts and sustainability.
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.
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Tulsa, OK to Des Moines, IA, understanding the weather differences between the two cities is crucial. This overview helps you anticipate how your lifestyle, activities, and wardrobe might need to adapt to your new home.
Tulsa, OK
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tulsa, OK
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tulsa, OK
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tulsa, OK
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tulsa | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Tornadoes, Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Tulsa to Des Moines will bring notable changes in your weather experience. You'll enjoy cooler summers but brace for significantly colder winters with more snow in Des Moines, something Tulsa residents might not be used to. The difference in annual days of sunshine reflects Des Moines's longer winters and shorter days. Moreover, while both cities face natural disasters like tornadoes, Des Moines also has winter storms to contend with. Understanding these contrasts will help you prepare for your new environment in Des Moines, from winter gear to home heating solutions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tulsa to Des Moines
Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes compare between Tulsa, OK and Des Moines, IA can be crucial if you're planning a move. This information will help you gauge what to expect financially and how it aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
| Comparison | Tulsa | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $51,008 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.4 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0.5-5% | 0.33-8.53% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.88% | 1.29% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.92% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Aerospace, Healthcare | Insurance, Financial Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Relatively High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
When moving from Tulsa to Des Moines, you'll find some financial nuances worth considering. Tulsa offers a slightly lower cost of living and sales tax rate, but Des Moines boasts a higher average household income and possibly more opportunities in booming industries like insurance and financial services. State income tax varies widely in Des Moines, potentially impacting your take-home pay more than in Tulsa. However, the higher affluence in Des Moines could also mean a different quality of life, with potentially better healthcare, education, and infrastructure funding. Weighing these aspects can help you make a more informed decision that aligns with your financial and lifestyle goals.
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing for a move from Tulsa, OK, to Des Moines, IA, it’s useful to understand who your new neighbors might be. This quick guide offers a comparison of the politics between Tulsa & Des Moines , providing insights into the political and religious makeup of residents, helping you to get a feel for the community vibes in both cities.
| Tulsa | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Conservative | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican Stronghold in State Politics | Democratic Stronghold in Local and State Politics |
| Religion | Highly Religious; Christian Dominance | Moderately Religious; Diverse Religious Landscape |
Moving from Tulsa to Des Moines, you'll notice a shift from a conservative political atmosphere to a more liberal-leaning community. This is reflected in local politics where Tulsa’s governance has been historically Republican, while Des Moines boosts a stronger Democratic presence, impacting local policies and city management. On the religious front, Tulsa's population has a significant percentage of residents identifying as Christian, with numerous churches across the city. Des Moines, while still having a Christian majority, presents a more diversified religious landscape, offering places of worship for various faiths. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate into your new community.
Tulsa vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tulsa, OK to Des Moines, IA? Understanding the differences in the daily commute and traffic is essential. This comparison between Tulsa & Des Moines will help you gauge what to expect on the roads and with public transit options in these cities.
| Comparison | Tulsa | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Easier than Tulsa, but a car is beneficial |
The average commute time in Tulsa and Des Moines is remarkably close, with Des Moines having a slight edge. However, when considering the traffic congestion and the availability of public transit, Des Moines appears to be slightly more commuter-friendly. While Tulsa scores lower in public transit availability, necessitating reliance on a car, Des Moines offers a bit more flexibility with a slightly better public transit system. Ultimately, while you can manage without a car in both cities, your daily life in Des Moines might be a tad easier in this regard.
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