Best South Dakota to Iowa Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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SD to IA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state isn't just a change of scenery; it's an adventure that promises new experiences and opportunities. Leaving behind South Dakota's stunning Monument Health and vast, serene landscapes for Iowa's rolling hills, vibrant communities, and the welcoming spirit of the 'Hawkeye State' is a transition filled with anticipation. In this pivotal moment, it's vital to entrust your journey to reliable professional movers, ensuring that this long-distance move is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We at Great Guys Moving offer just that, connecting you with the best movers in the country through our unbiased ranking algorithm, so you don't have to guess who to trust with your new beginning.

South Dakota iconArrow iconIowa icon

Best South Dakota to Iowa Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.24A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Dial-A-Move Inc.8.94A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.91A+Authorized For HHGContact
Dial-A-Move8.28A+Authorized For HHGContact
The Moving Guys, LLC8.09NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to South Dakota guide.

6 Best SD to IA Moving Companies

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

Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,268+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
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1
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
based on 520+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb8.94/10
based on 483+ data points

About Dial-A-Move Inc.

Family-run Dial-A-Move is a professional moving company incorporated in 2001. It has a location in Aberdeen, SD, offering a wide range of af...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving options
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

885778 / 386322

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb8.91/10
based on 843+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Launched in the 1980s, Two Men and a Truck serves residential and commercial customers all over the country. The company opened its Sioux Fa...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2575221 / 904586

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved170,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Dial-A-Move Logo
Very Good8.28/10
based on 108+ data points

About Dial-A-Move

Dial-A-Move is your one-stop shop for affordable moving options. It has offices in Watertown, Aberdeen, and Huron, serving the Midwest and b...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving options
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

885778 / 386322

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
The Moving Guys, LLC Logo
Good8.09/10
based on 157+ data points

About The Moving Guys, LLC

The Moving Guys, LLC is a locally-owned moving company based in Rapid City, providing comprehensive moving services to the Black Hills commu...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3199241 / 160684

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved175,000 (2022)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from South Dakota to Iowa

Moving from one state to another can bring about significant changes in your lifestyle, environment, and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from South Dakota to Iowa , helping you to weigh your options carefully. By examining the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Lesser populous cities
  • Colder winters
  • Limited cultural venues
  • Scarce public transit
Iowa iconIowa
  • More urban opportunities
  • Milder winters
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Improved public transit
Iowa iconIowa
  • Less open nature
  • Higher cost of living
  • More impersonal
  • Busier pace
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Vast open spaces
  • Lower cost of living
  • Strong community bonds
  • Peaceful lifestyle

While moving to Iowa, you'll notice a shift towards a more urbanized setting with greater cultural and recreational opportunities. Cities like Des Moines offer a rich array of cultural venues such as the Des Moines Performing Arts and the Des Moines Art Center, providing ample entertainment and educational prospects. On the flip side, South Dakota's vast open spaces and community-oriented lifestyle, epitomized by towns like Sioux Falls with its Falls Park, offer a serene and close-knit community feel that might be less prevalent in Iowa's busier urban centers. However, Iowa compensates with its more moderate winter climates and additional urban opportunities, making it attractive for those seeking a balance between vibrant cultural life and the convenience of more developed public infrastructure.

South Dakota vs. Iowa Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Iowa aims to enlighten you on the unique food scene of each state. Understanding the culinary culture is essential when moving, as food plays a significant role in the local lifestyle and community vibe.

South DakotaIowa
Most iconic local food itemChislicCorn on the Cob
Most popular meat dishBison steakPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular street food itemIndian TacosWalking Tacos
Most popular vegan foodWild Rice SaladBBQ Tempeh
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Cattleman's Steakhouse
  • Minervas
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When relocating from South Dakota to Iowa, you'll notice a shift in the culinary landscape. Iowa is renowned for its corn and offers a unique experience with dishes like the iconic Corn on the Cob and Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a favorite amongst locals. Des Moines, in particular, is a hub for food enthusiasts, boasting must-visit establishments like Zombie Burger and Acheson, where the vibrant food scene is evident. Iowa's greater emphasis on health and vegan options reflects in its higher ratings for fitness, health conscientiousness, and vegan-friendliness. This transition brings you closer to a diverse gastronomy that promises to indulge your taste buds while providing healthier options.

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South Dakota vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, diving into the real estate market and getting familiar with housing comparisons between South Dakota and Iowa can significantly influence your decision. Understanding the differences in housing cost, style, and the overall lifestyle each state offers is crucial for a smooth transition.

ComparisonSouth DakotaIowa
Typical Architecture StyleRanchColonial Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, garagesEnergy efficiency, close to schools

Moving between South Dakota and Iowa, you'll notice significant differences beyond just the numbers. South Dakota's homes often come with spacious yards and garages, reflecting a preference for privacy and personal space. In contrast, Iowa listings frequently highlight energy efficiency and proximity to schools, catering to community-oriented and environmentally conscious buyers. Additionally, the slight edge in walkability and bikeability scores in Iowa suggests a more community-friendly environment, which might appeal to those looking for a balance between urban conveniences and the tranquility of suburban life.

South Dakota vs. Iowa Weather Considerations

When relocating, understanding the weather differences between your current and future home is crucial. This guide compares the weather from South Dakota to Iowa, providing essential insights into what you can expect. These comparisons will help you adapt more easily to your new environment.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

86°F / 65°F

Iowa

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 10°F

South Dakota

31°F / 14°F

Iowa

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23"

South Dakota

34"

Iowa

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
39"

South Dakota

33"

Iowa

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSouth DakotaIowa
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersBlizzards, TornadoesTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from South Dakota to Iowa, you'll notice subtle but significant weather differences. While summer temperatures are roughly the same, Iowa experiences slightly higher winter temperatures and increased humidity year-round. This could affect your day-to-day comfort and may require an adjustment in your home's humidity control. Iowa sees more rainfall annually, which contributes to its lush landscapes but also increases the risk of flooding, a contrast to South Dakota's more arid climate. Such insights can be invaluable as you plan your relocation, helping you prepare for anything from wardrobe changes to seasonal allergies.

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

When contemplating a move from one state to another, understanding how your finances will be affected is crucial. This comparison will offer a clearer picture of what to expect when transitioning from South Dakota to Iowa, focusing on crucial economic aspects and how they affect cost of living, taxation, and employment opportunities.

ComparisonSouth DakotaIowa
Avg. Household Income$69,728$69,588
Cost of Living Index94.195.9
State Income Tax0%Up to 8.53%
Avg. Property Tax1.22%1.53%
Avg. Sales Tax4.5%6%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Retail, HealthcareManufacturing, Finance, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateModerately High
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessLowModerate

While both South Dakota and Iowa present opportunities for a stable financial future, there are notable differences. South Dakota's absence of state income tax is a significant advantage for residents, potentially offering more net income at your disposal when compared to Iowa's progressive tax rate that can go up to 8.53%. However, Iowa edges ahead in average household income and harbors a slightly higher cost of living. These distinctions underline the importance of considering tax implications and employment prospects in your field of work when planning your move. This comparison should serve as a starting point for deeper financial planning before making the interstate transition.

South Dakota vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison

This is a comparison of the politics between South Dakota & Iowa, aiming to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the population in both states, helping newcomers understand their new community.

South DakotaIowa
Political Make-upLean ConservativeModerately Balanced
Local PoliticsRepublican-stronghold in rural areasDemocratic in urban, Republican in rural areas
ReligionChristian majority (Protestant and Catholic)Christian majority (Protestant and Catholic)

When moving from South Dakota to Iowa, you'll find that the political landscape shifts from a generally conservative one to a more balanced political environment. While South Dakota is known for its Republican-leaning rural areas, Iowa presents a mixed political scene, with urban areas leaning Democratic and rural regions often being Republican strongholds. Both states share a Christian majority in terms of religious makeup, comprising mainly Protestant and Catholic communities. This blend of political and religious views in Iowa compared to South Dakota could offer you a diverse and possibly more balanced social environment.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Iowa

Moving can be a complex decision, especially when considering the education for your children. This comparison aims to provide a clearer understanding of the options between South Dakota and Iowa schools, helping you make an informed decision for your family's educational needs.

South DakotaIowa

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University
University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Explorer Elementary (Harrisburg)
Endeavor Elementary (Harrisburg)
Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)
Grant Wood Elementary (Bettendorf)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)
Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Northwest Junior High (Coralville)
South East Junior High (Iowa City)

Top 3 High School Schools

Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)
West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf)

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls)
Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)
Regina High School (Iowa City)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Aberdeen Christian School (Aberdeen)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Great Plains Lutheran High School (Watertown)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Des Moines Christian School (Urbandale)

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Harrisburg School District
Brookings School District
Iowa City Community School District
West Des Moines Community Schools
Pleasant Valley Community School District

Choosing between South Dakota and Iowa for your child's education involves considering various top schools and districts that offer unique qualities. In South Dakota, the Sioux Falls School District is notable for its diverse educational programs, serving as a central hub for some of the state's top high schools like Roosevelt and Lincoln High. Meanwhile, Iowa's Iowa City Community School District is home to nationally recognized schools such as West High School, offering rigorous academic programs and a multitude of extracurricular activities. Additionally, while considering higher education, both states boast renowned universities, with South Dakota seniors often attending South Dakota State University and Iowa's students favoring the University of Iowa. Such comparisons aim to enrich your understanding and aid in making the best educational decision for your family.

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