Best Philadelphia to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling life of Philly, the City of Brotherly Love, to the charming landscapes of Des Moines, the Heart of the Midwest, is nothing short of an exciting adventure. You're trading cheesesteaks and historic landmarks for state fairs and scenic prairies, a transition that speaks volumes about your courage to embrace change. Recognizing the significance of such a long distance move, we stress the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your belongings arrive safely in your new home, making the journey as smooth as the adventure itself.
Best Philadelphia to Des Moines Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Philadelphia guide.
5 Best Philadelphia to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country 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
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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 >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small 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.
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings can be daunting. This guide leverages your knowledge of Philadelphia, PA & Des Moines, IA neighborhoods to ease the transition. We've matched top neighborhoods from Philadelphia with their counterparts in Des Moines, based on vibe, amenities, and overall feel, making your move a little less intimidating.
| Philadelphia | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | South of Grand | Affluent with historic charm |
| Fishtown | East Village | Vibrant and artsy community |
| Northern Liberties | Sherman Hill | Diverse with a historic vibe |
| Center City | Downtown Des Moines | Urban center, plentiful amenities |
| University City | Drake Neighborhood | Educational hub, youthful atmosphere |
| Manayunk | Beaverdale | Residential, community-focused |
| Old City | Court Avenue District | Historic with a modern twist |
| Queen Village | Waterbury | Quiet, family-friendly with character |
| West Philadelphia | Ingersoll Avenue Area | Culturally rich, with diverse dining |
| Passyunk Square | Roosevelt Shopping District | Eclectic food scene, walkable |
In comparing these neighborhoods, you'll find similarities that go beyond just the name. Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square is known for its posh atmosphere and lush park, similar to the affluent and historic charm of Des Moines's South of Grand, where stately homes line the streets. Fishtown's vibrant arts scene and eclectic mix of restaurants and bars are mirrored in Des Moines's East Village. This area hosts a variety of specialty shops, local eateries like Luna Bistro, and cultural events that draw a diverse crowd. For those seeking an educational environment similar to University City, Des Moines's Drake Neighborhood offers a youthful atmosphere enriched by Drake University's presence, along with unique shops and cafes like Smokey Row Coffee. These comparisons not only highlight the physical similarities between these neighborhoods but also underscore the sense of community and diverse lifestyles they support.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another represents a significant life change, offering both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes when relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA. By evaluating the pros and cons, this guide aims to help you make an informed decision about your move.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher crime rates
- Expensive living costs
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Harsh winters
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rates
- Affordable living costs
- Minimal traffic
- Milder winters
Des Moines, IA- Less historical sites
- Fewer major sports events
- Less diverse cuisine
- Smaller job market
Philadelphia, PA- Richer history
- Better sports culture
- More diverse cuisine
- Larger job market
Comparing life in Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA unveils distinct contrasts particularly in lifestyle, costs, and amenities. Philadelphia's vast historical sites like the Independence National Historical Park and its vibrant sports culture, hosting teams like the Eagles and Phillies, are unmatched. However, moving to Des Moines offers unique advantages. The city's affordable living costs allow for a higher quality of life, with your dollar stretching further in housing and entertainment. Des Moines excels with its own charms, such as the Des Moines Park System and the renowned Downtown Farmers' Market, making it an appealing place for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life without forgoing cultural experiences and outdoor activities.
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is a vital part of your relocation journey, as food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll explore the local cuisine to give you a taste of what's in store. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Des Moines to help you be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Philadelphia | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Philly Cheesesteak | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Iowa Chop |
| Most popular street food item | Soft Pretzel | Taco Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Cheesesteak | Vegan Soul Food |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Philadelphia, the soft pretzel and Philly Cheesesteak stand as undisputed kings of both street and comfort food, rooted in the busy lives of its residents. The Reading Terminal Market offers a diverse food scene, showcasing everything from Pennsylvania Dutch specialties to international cuisines. Moving to Des Moines introduces you to a more Midwestern palette, notably the pork tenderloin sandwich and a thriving vegan scene. Des Moines embraces its agricultural roots with farm-to-table restaurants like Centro and innovative dining experiences such as Fong's Pizza, blending traditional Italian with unexpected local twists. These dynamics reflect each city's culinary ethos and underscore the unique foodie adventures awaiting you.
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city is about creating a new sense of home, and what better way to do that than through its culinary scene? This restaurant comparison chart is designed to help someone moving from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA find their new favorite eateries by drawing parallels between familiar and new places to dine.
| Philadelphia | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Aposto | Fine dining with a personal touch, similar in quality and inventiveness. |
| Vetri Cucina | Baru 66 | Offers a high-end, French-inspired dining experience comparable to Vetri's Italian fine dining. |
| Federal Donuts | Donut King | For a deep dive into sweet treats that capture the essence of casual indulgence like Federal Donuts. |
| Reading Terminal Market | Downtown Farmers' Market | A diverse array of food stalls and fresh produce, echoing the vibrant atmosphere of Reading Terminal. |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Smitty’s Tenderloin | A go-to for hearty, classic sandwiches with a local twist, much like Pat's iconic status in Philly. |
| Serpico | Clyde’s Fine Diner | Modern diner fare with creative flair, reminiscent of Serpico's innovative dishes. |
| Pizzeria Beddia | Gusto Pizza Co. | Artisan pizza with a creative spin, capturing the spirit of Pizzeria Beddia’s acclaimed pies. |
| La Colombe | Mars Coffee Bar | Specialty coffee with a focus on quality and atmosphere, akin to La Colombe’s renowned coffee culture. |
| El Vez | Malō | Celebrating vibrant flavors and the festive spirit of Mexican cuisine, similar to the dynamic experience at El Vez. |
| Di Bruno Bros. | The Cheese Shop of Des Moines | A treasure trove for cheese and gourmet foods, echoing Di Bruno Bros.'s epicurean delight. |
Moving from Philadelphia's established dining scene to Des Moines offers an opportunity to discover unique culinary gems. For instance, Aposto, with its bespoke dining experience, mirrors Zahav's attention to detail and culinary excellence within a different cultural context. Just as Philadelphia boasts iconic locales like Vetri Cucina for Italian gastronomy, Des Moines answers with Baru 66, where the essence of European dining culture is alive and well. For those missing the bustling atmosphere of Reading Terminal Market, Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers' Market provides a sense of community and variety that feels familiar yet refreshing. It’s these similarities and differences that make the transition exciting, offering a taste of the familiar with a dash of local flavor.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's vital to evaluate the real estate landscape to ensure it meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Making a comparison between Philadelphia, PA, and Des Moines, IA, can provide insightful information regarding housing, cost, architecture, and amenities. This comparison will enlighten you on what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Row Houses | Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to amenities, historical charm | Family-friendly neighborhoods, spacious yards |
In comparing Philadelphia and Des Moines, you'll find significant differences that might influence your decision-making process. Philadelphia's higher median home price and rent reflect its larger urban lifestyle and the premium on its historical charm and proximity to amenities. In contrast, Des Moines offers a more affordable living scenario, which might be appealing to those looking for spacious, family-friendly neighborhoods. While Philadelphia boasts better walkability and bikeability ratings, indicative of a more active urban environment, Des Moines provides a quieter setting with a focus on suburban comfort and less dense living spaces. Understanding these differences is key to choosing a city that aligns with your personal and financial priorities.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another, it's essential to grasp how the weather will shift. This comparison serves to illuminate the differences between Philadelphia, PA and Des Moines, IA weather, aiding you in preparing for your new environment.
Philadelphia, PA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Winter Storms | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When transitioning from Philadelphia to Des Moines, you'll notice the winters are colder, and it snows more in Des Moines. While the summer temperatures are quite similar, Philadelphia tends to be slightly milder in the winter. Des Moines experiences more severe weather events like tornadoes, whereas Philadelphia faces hurricanes and heavy winter storms. Paying attention to these details will ensure you're better equipped for seasonal changes and unexpected weather conditions in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Des Moines
Moving between cities is a significant transition, especially when it involves moving from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA. It’s crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and local economies in Philadelphia and Des Moines will affect your finances. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | Up to 8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 1.29 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lower |
The differences in cost of living between Philadelphia and Des Moines are particularly striking. With Des Moines scoring 81 on the cost of living index compared to Philadelphia's 101.6, your money can generally go further in Des Moines in terms of expenses like housing and groceries. Despite the higher state income tax rate in Iowa, Des Moines's higher affluence level and lower cost of living might offset this, offering a better overall financial situation for many. Furthermore, the prominence of the finance and insurance industries in Des Moines could present new career opportunities not as prevalent in Philadelphia, which leans more towards education and health services. This economic comparison suggests that moving from Philadelphia to Des Moines could be a financially beneficial decision for many.
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA, it's essential to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This quick overview will give you a snapshot of the comparison of the politics and religious climate between Philadelphia & Des Moines . Discover what sets these cities apart and what they share, providing insights into your potential new home.
| Philadelphia | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Highly active with a strong focus on social issues | Moderately active, fiscal issues often at forefront |
| Religion | Pluralistic, large Catholic presence | Diverse, with significant Protestant and Catholic communities |
In Philadelphia, you'll observe a political climate that's robustly Democratic, characterized by a community deeply engaged in social issues. This contrasts with Des Moines, where the political landscape also leans Democratic but with a more moderate activity level, highlighting fiscal concerns. Regarding religion, both cities boast diversity; however, Philadelphia has a notable Catholic majority, while Des Moines has a mix of Protestant and Catholic followers, reflective of Iowa's broader religious landscape. This comparison underlines the subtle but important differences shaping the social fabric of each city, providing a glimpse into what you can expect as you make your move.
Philadelphia vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Philadelphia & Des Moines will help you better adjust to your daily commute and overall experience in your new city. This comparison aims to give you an insight into what driving and transiting are like in each location.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging |
Moving from Philadelphia to Des Moines, you'll find a significant difference in your daily commuting experience. Philadelphia's higher traffic congestion reflects a bustling city life, but its extensive public transit system, including SEPTA, facilitates relatively easier mobility without a car. In contrast, Des Moines offers a quicker commute, indicative of less traffic, but with a lower public transit score, having a car becomes almost essential for efficiently navigating the city. This information should help tailor your expectations and prepare for your new lifestyle in Des Moines.
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