Best Memphis to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Home of the Blues in Memphis, TN, to the vibrant and bustling city of Des Moines, IA, known for its rich agricultural history and the iconic Iowa State Fair, marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the mouth-watering barbecue and soulful music of Memphis for Des Moines's dynamic cultural scene and expanding culinary horizons can feel like stepping into a whole new world. To ensure this transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it's crucial to entrust your move to the most reliable and trusted professional movers, which is where we come in, guiding you every step of the way with our unbiased rankings of the country's best moving services.
Best Memphis to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Garrett's Hauling | 8.80 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. | 8.61 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC | 8.58 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Memphis guide.
5 Best Memphis to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 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
About Garrett's Hauling
Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Ger...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.
Country Club Moving and Packing Inc. is a family-owned moving company that has been providing high-quality, low-price moves since 1994 in Me...Read More >>
Services
- Local and Long Distance Moving
- Whole House Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in providing...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
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.
Memphis vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
To help you ease into a new city, we’ve crafted a guide that allows you to compare popular neighborhoods in Memphis, TN & Des Moines, IA . This comparison uses neighborhoods you know well as a baseline to find your new favorite spot in an unfamiliar city. Whether you're in search of bustling streets or quiet retreats, this guide is your compass to feeling right at home.
| Memphis | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Sherman Hill | Historic charm, vibrant community |
| Downtown | East Village | Rich in culture, dining, and shopping |
| Cooper-Young | Beaverdale | Quaint homes, local eateries |
| East Memphis | Waveland Park | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Germantown | Windsor Heights | Upscale shopping, quiet neighborhoods |
| Collierville | Johnston | Spacious parks, community focused |
| South Main | Historic Valley Junction | Artsy, eclectic shops |
| Crosstown | Drake | Young professionals, vibrant nightlife |
| Harbor Town | Gray's Lake | Waterside living, recreational options |
| Berclair | Highland Park | Diverse community, affordable housing |
Imagine living in Sherman Hill, where the historic charm of Midtown Memphis blends seamlessly with a vibrant community atmosphere reminiscent of Cooper-Young. You'll find architectural gems and a spirited social scene. For those who love the rich, cultural tapestry of Downtown Memphis, Des Moines' East Village offers a diverse dining and shopping experience, including local favorites like Zombie Burger and unique boutiques. Waveland Park, akin to East Memphis, provides a wonderful suburban backdrop for family living, boasting access to excellent schools and serene parks like Waveland Golf Course. The transition from Memphis to Des Moines can bring exciting new local spots to discover, while still providing the comfort of the neighborhood vibes you’ve grown to love.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Memphis to Des Moines
Embarking on a move from Memphis, TN to Des Moines, IA requires a balanced assessment to appreciate the beauty and challenges of such a transition. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of moving between these cities, showcasing the pros and cons of relocating from the soulful rhythms of Memphis to the heartland charm of Des Moines.
Memphis, TN- Higher crime rates
- Hot, humid summers
- Less job opportunities
- Smaller tech scene
Des Moines, IA- Lower crime rates
- Milder summers
- Strong job market
- Growing tech hub
Des Moines, IA- Less cultural events
- Smaller historic district
- Higher taxes
- Less culinary variety
Memphis, TN- Vibrant music scene
- Rich cultural heritage
- Lower cost of living
- More diverse cuisine
In transitioning from Memphis to Des Moines, one trades the vibrant, bluesy nights of Beale Street for the tranquil evenings by the Des Moines River. While Memphis boasts historic venues like the Stax Museum that resonate with the soul of American music, Des Moines invites you with open arms into its burgeoning tech scene, with companies thriving in the Downtown Des Moines Partnership area. Des Moines does not fall short on green spaces either, offering serene retreats in places like Gray’s Lake Park vs. the larger, but busier Shelby Farms Park in Memphis. Each city has its unique flavor with restaurants such as the renowned Central BBQ in Memphis and the innovative culinary delights at Alba in Des Moines. The move might present challenges, such as adapting to a smaller cultural scene in Des Moines, yet it offers a refreshing pace of life and new opportunities to explore.
Memphis vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is a vital part of immersing yourself into the culture of a new city. Here, we’ll make a comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & Des Moines so you can get a taste of what your life might be like in your new home.
| Memphis | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue Ribs | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Smoked Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | BBQ Nachos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Tofu | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When relocating from Memphis to Des Moines, you'll find that both cities boast unique and iconic dishes reflective of their rich cultural heritages. In Memphis, the barbecue scene is king. Areas like Beale Street are home to legendary establishments like The Rendezvous, known for its dry-rubbed ribs, which are a must-try. On the other hand, Des Moines offers a diverse culinary scene, with the Iowa State Fair's famous pork tenderloin sandwich standing out as a local favorite. The East Village in Des Moines is bursting with vibrant eateries like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, offering a quirky take on classic American food. Whether you're craving Memphis's smoky barbecue flavors or Des Moines's hearty heartland cuisine, both cities cater to food lovers seeking authentic and memorable dining experiences.
Memphis vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city means finding new favorite spots, especially when it comes to dining out. Food is a significant part of making somewhere feel like home. This comparison chart will help you trade your beloved Memphis eateries for similar vibes in Des Moines, ensuring you don't miss a beat—or a bite. Compare the top restaurants in Memphis to Des Moines to find your new favorite eateries.
| Memphis | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken | Bubba | Southern comforts with a unique twist, similar to Gus's down-home vibes |
| Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar | Centro | Offers sophisticated dining with an extensive wine selection, echoing Flight's upscale experience |
| Central BBQ | Smoky D's BBQ | Renowned for its BBQ, offering an authentic taste comparable to Central BBQ's smokiness |
| The Beauty Shop Restaurant | Clyde’s Fine Diner | Creative and funky menu options in a retro-chic environment, reminiscent of The Beauty Shop’s uniqueness |
| Hog & Hominy | Barntown Brewing | Features innovative, chef-driven American cuisine, aligning with Hog & Hominy’s reputation for culinary creativity |
| Acre | Harbinger | Focuses on locally sourced, seasonally inspired dishes, offering a similar upscale and intimate dining experience as Acre |
| Rendezvous | Jethro's BBQ | A Des Moines staple for BBQ lovers, drawing parallels with Rendezvous' iconic status in Memphis |
| Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen | Lucca | Serving modern Italian dishes in an elegant setting, mirroring Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen's sophisticated Italian offerings |
| Bryant’s Breakfast | Waveland Cafe | Known for its homestyle breakfasts and cozy atmosphere, comparable to Bryant’s Breakfast's beloved charm |
| Dyer's Burgers | Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Offers inventive burgers in a fun atmosphere, akin to Dyer's unique and historical burger experience |
Des Moines boasts an array of dining experiences that echo the culinary diversity found in Memphis. If you're looking for a taste of the South, Bubba’s Southern comforts will remind you of Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken’s authentic flavors, while Smoky D's BBQ's hearty fare pays homage to the smoky goodness of Central BBQ. For those who appreciate innovative dining, Harbinger’s seasonally inspired cuisine is akin to the experience at Acre, emphasizing local ingredients and creative dishes. And should you crave the familiar comfort of a well-loved breakfast or a unique burger experience, Waveland Cafe and Zombie Burger + Drink Lab offer comparable cozy and quirky alternatives to Bryant’s Breakfast and Dyer’s Burgers respectively. Each Des Moines establishment stands ready to welcome you with open arms and delicious flavors that mirror the best of Memphis.
Ready to start your move?
Memphis vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight key factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle between Memphis, TN, and Des Moines, IA, making it easier to find your perfect home.
| Comparison | Memphis | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Craftsman, Tudor |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, spacious backyards | Modern updates, open concept |
When examining the housing landscape, considering the median home prices and monthly rent shows you'll find more affordable options in Memphis compared to Des Moines. Architecture styles reflect the cultural and historical differences between the two, with Memphis homes often featuring Colonial and Ranch styles, while Des Moines boasts Craftsman and Tudor designs, catering to diverse tastes. Des Moines slightly edges out in terms of walkability and bikeability, indicating a more condensed urban layout conducive to pedestrian and cycling activities. The urban lifestyle score suggests Des Moines offers a slightly more vibrant city life, likely due to its downtown renewal projects. Popular listing features such as hardwood floors in Memphis versus modern updates in Des Moines highlight regional preferences in home amenities and designs.
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.
Memphis vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When relocating, it's crucial to understand how weather differs between your current home and your new one. This comparison between Memphis, TN, and Des Moines, IA weather illuminates key differences and similarities, guiding you in preparing for your move.
Memphis, TN
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Memphis, TN
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Memphis | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Tornadoes, Blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Considering the weather differences outlined above, you'll notice significant changes moving from Memphis to Des Moines, especially in winter temperatures and snowfall. Des Moines experiences much colder winters with ample snow, which can affect daily life and necessitates different preparations for the winter months. The summer temperatures are milder in Des Moines, offering a respite from the intense heat and humidity of Memphis. Understanding these variations will help you adapt quickly to your new environment and ensure that your wardrobe and home are well-suited to the climate in Des Moines.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Memphis to Des Moines
When contemplating a move from one city to another, taking a deep dive into the financial landscape of both locales is crucial. A comparison of Memphis, TN, and Des Moines, IA, on factors related to money and economy will illuminate the cost of living, tax differences, and economic opportunities awaiting you. These insights will ultimately guide you in making an informed decision and preparing for your move.
| Comparison | Memphis | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $44,317 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.2 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 (Tennessee does not have a state income tax for wages) | 0.33 - 8.53 (progressive) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.97 | 1.53 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Transportation, Business Services, Health Services | Finance and Insurance, Manufacturing, Health Care |
| Affluence | Moderate | Relatively High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less Visible |
Moving from Memphis to Des Moines brings significant financial changes, particularly in terms of average household income and cost of living. In Des Moines, you'll notice a higher average income which aligns with its somewhat higher cost of living index. The state income tax in Iowa varies, which could impact your take-home pay, unlike in Tennessee, which doesn't tax wages. However, the lower property and sales taxes in Des Moines could offset some of these differences, making it an attractive option for a financially sound move. Moreover, the top industries in Des Moines pivot more towards finance and insurance, suggesting different career opportunities compared to Memphis’ focus on transportation and business services. Understanding these nuances is key to preparing for a smooth transition to your new home.
Memphis vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
When looking to relocate, understanding the community you're moving into can make the transition smoother. This comparison of the politics between Memphis & Des Moines offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, providing insights into the societal environment you're about to embrace.
| Memphis | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on urban issues, economic inequality | Emphasis on education, healthcare |
| Religion | Highly religious, diverse Christian denominations | Moderately religious, diverse religious communities |
In both Memphis and Des Moines, the prevailing political atmosphere leans Democratic, though Memphis shows a more pronounced tendency in this direction. This reflects in local politics where Memphis prioritizes urban development and addressing economic disparities. Des Moines, while still focusing on progressive values, places a significant emphasis on education and healthcare reforms. Religion plays a fundamental role in Memphis with a variety of Christian denominations prominently present. Des Moines, though moderately religious, prides itself on a diverse array of religious communities, underscoring its inclusivity. Understanding these cultural nuances can help you adapt and connect with your new neighborhood more effectively.
Memphis vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Memphis & Des Moines is designed to help you understand what to expect in your daily commute and traffic situations as you adjust to your new city.
| Comparison | Memphis | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Somewhat possible |
While both Memphis and Des Moines offer unique living experiences, their transportation dynamics reveal distinct contrasts. In Memphis, the average commute time is slightly longer, and traffic congestion is more common, which might test your patience on busier days. The availability of public transit is ranked lower, making a car almost a necessity for efficient daily navigation. On the other hand, Des Moines presents a slightly more accommodating scenario. With shorter commute times and less traffic congestion, your daily journeys can be less stressful. Moreover, the city's higher public transit score indicates a better, though still challenging, potential for getting around without a car. This comparison underscores the importance of considering your transportation options and potential daily commute in planning your move.
Popular Memphis, TN to Iowa Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
