Moving from Seattle to Des Moines?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Seattle to Des Moines Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the Heart of America is an adventure that marks a significant chapter in your life. Seattle, known for its rain and tech giants, offers a stark contrast to Des Moines’s quiet charm and agricultural prowess. For such a long journey, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your transition is smooth and stress-free. With our unbiased ranking algorithm, we guarantee to connect you with the best movers suited for your needs.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to Des Moines Movers

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

#1
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
#2
People Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,624+ data points

Bothell, WA
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2895681 Verify

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
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#3
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 621+ data points

Ames, IA
Local moving, Long distance moving, Small moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 608245 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in ames 2023 hemmen moving inc image
top 3 ranked movers in ames 2022 hemmen moving inc image
#4
All Service Moving Logo
Superb

based on 5,172+ data points

Seattle, WA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/14/2023)

USDOT: 2083124 Verify

About All Service Moving

All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in seattle 2023 all service moving image
top 3 ranked movers in seattle 2022 all service moving image
#5
Eco Movers Moving Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 6,725+ data points

Seattle, WA
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3227005 Verify

About Eco Movers Moving

Founded in 2019, Eco Movers is a relatively new company with a single goal: provide excellent customer service while sustaining relationship...Read More >>

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Relocating from Seattle to Des Moines Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison between popular neighborhoods in Seattle, WA & Des Moines, IA . This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing neighborhoods in Seattle to their counterparts in Des Moines.

SeattleDes Moines
Capitol HillEast Village

Vibrant arts scene and nightlife

BallardBeaverdale

Rich history and strong community vibe

FremontValley Junction

Eclectic shops and artistic spirit

GreenwoodWindsor Heights

Family-friendly with a quiet charm

Queen AnneSouth of Grand

Stately homes and tree-lined streets

West SeattleWaterbury

Laid-back lifestyle with local shops

BelltownSherman Hill

Diverse dining options and architecture

Pioneer SquareHistoric East Village

Cobblestone streets and cultural hub

MadronaDrake Neighborhood

Academic atmosphere and historic homes

WallingfordHighland Park

Revitalized and family-oriented

In the heart of Des Moines' East Village, the vibrant arts scene and nightlife closely mirror what you'd find in Seattle's Capitol Hill, with both neighborhoods boasting a plethora of dining options, boutiques, and cultural events that attract residents and visitors alike. Over in Beaverdale, a strong sense of community and historic charm give off a vibe similar to Ballard, where Seattleites gather for the busy farmers markets and community events. For those enamored with Fremont's eclectic and artistic spirit, Valley Junction's unique shops and art galleries offer a creative haven in Des Moines. Meanwhile, the academic atmosphere and historic homes of the Drake Neighborhood invite comparisons to Madrona, with both areas offering a blend of academic influences and stately residences amidst lush surroundings. By exploring these neighborhood comparisons, newcomers can find familiar comforts as they navigate the exciting transition to life in Des Moines.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Des Moines

Considering a move from the bustling streets of Seattle, WA, to the tranquil cityscapes of Des Moines, IA? This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of moving from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA , laying out the benefits and drawbacks. Let these charts guide you through the significant changes you can expect, helping you weigh your options meticulously.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • Dense population
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder weather
  • Less congestion
  • Smaller, tight-knit community
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Fewer job opportunities in tech
  • Less diverse
  • Fewer outdoor activities
  • Less seafood variety
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Abundant nature
  • Seafood cuisine

Moving from Seattle to Des Moines involves a significant lifestyle shift. Seattle's bustling tech scene, exemplified by companies like Amazon and Microsoft, contrasts with Des Moines's quieter job market. However, Des Moines offers unique opportunities, especially for entrepreneurs and in the insurance sector. While you might miss Seattle's majestic Mount Rainier views and the fresh Pacific seafood at Pike Place Market, Des Moines has its charm with places like the Gray’s Lake Park and the flourishing culinary scene in the East Village. This transition might mean trading in the dense, rainy cityscape for a calmer, more community-focused environment. While the cultural diversity and outdoor activities of Seattle are unparalleled, Des Moines's affordability and quality of life present an attractive alternative for many.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Seattle to Des Moines

When planning a move, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of your new home, especially something as vital as local cuisine, as food plays a key role in the local culture and daily life. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look through a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Des Moines, offering insights to help you better understand the food scene you're about to dive into.

SeattleDes Moines

Most iconic local food item

SalmonPork Tenderloin Sandwich

Most popular meat dish

PhoSteak de Burgo

Most popular street food item

Taco TrucksFried on a Stick

Most popular vegan food

Mushroom BaoSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Canlis
  • Matt's in the Market
  • Racoon's Club
  • Centro
  • Fong's Pizza
  • Jethro's BBQ

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

87

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

96

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

97

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

97

In Seattle, the food scene is as vibrant and diverse as its neighborhoods. The iconic salmon dish can be enjoyed in waterfront restaurants, while Pho, indicative of Seattle's rich Vietnamese culture, can be found in enclaves like the International District. Taco trucks, a popular street food choice, serve up a variety of flavors, reflecting the city's multicultural influence. Vegan options, like the mushroom bao, are widely available, catering to a health-conscious population. Iconic restaurants such as Canlis and Matt's in the Market offer a glimpse into the city's culinary innovation and tradition. In contrast, Des Moines presents a heartland appeal with its famous Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Steak de Burgo, a testament to its Midwestern roots. The state fair-inspired 'Fried on a Stick' items highlight a playful side of the city's street food culture. With a growing foodie scene, Des Moines provides both traditional and modern dining experiences, such as those found at Centro and Fong's Pizza, where local ingredients meet creative recipes.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Seattle to Des Moines

Finding a great meal can turn a new city into your home. This restaurant comparison between Seattle, WA, and Des Moines, IA, is designed to guide you towards your next favorite eateries, making the transition smoother and more delicious. Let's dive into a culinary journey, comparing top spots in both cities to help you find comfort in familiar yet new flavors.

CanlisAposto

Upscale dining with a personalized touch reminiscent of Canlis

The Walrus and the CarpenterHarbinger

Creatively prepared small plates echo the innovation found at Walrus and the Carpenter

Renee Erickson's Sea CreaturesBubba

Southern comforts that match the vibe of Renee Erickson's establishments

SalumiLucca

Italian delicacies that offer a taste akin to Salumi's artisanal approach

Pike Place ChowderSplash Seafood Bar & Grill

A haven for chowder and seafood enthusiasts much like Pike Place

ManekiAkai Umi

Authentic Japanese cuisine that parallels the experience at Maneki

Dahlia LoungeCentro

American cuisine with a creative twist, evoking the spirit of Dahlia Lounge

Space Needle SkyCity801 Chophouse

Though not in the sky, it offers high-end dining that rivals the experience at SkyCity

Matt's in the MarketProof

The local and fresh ingredients philosophy is mirrored in both these culinary gems

TilthTable 128 Bistro & Bar

Organic and sustainable practices that resonate with Tilth's mission

In your quest for familiar flavors or new culinary explorations in Des Moines, spots like Harbinger stand out as a beacon for those who've loved the creativity at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Harbinger crafts small plates with an innovative twist, providing a unique dining experience. Similarly, if the Italian charm of Salumi captured your heart in Seattle, Lucca in Des Moines awaits with its artisanal approach to Italian cuisine, promising a comforting echo of your Seattle favorites. For those who treasure sustainable and organic dining, Table 128 Bistro & Bar mirrors Tilth’s commitment to these principles, featuring menus rich with local produce and ethically sourced meats. These Des Moines establishments not only offer a taste of Seattle's culinary scene but also embrace the local flavor and hospitality that make them standouts in their own right.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Seattle to Des Moines

When planning a relocation, evaluating the real estate market is crucial to understanding your new living environment. This comparison between Seattle, WA and Des Moines, IA focuses on housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall lifestyle for potential movers.

In comparing Seattle and Des Moines, we see a stark contrast not only in housing costs but in lifestyle as well. Seattle's housing market is quite challenging, with a median home price significantly higher than Des Moines. This could be a deciding factor for many, especially when considering the much more affordable options in Des Moines. The typical architectural styles also reflect the landscapes and lifestyles of each city— modern and Craftsman homes amidst Seattle's lush landscapes and tech-driven environment versus the ranch and Craftsman styles that reflect Des Moines' more laid-back, spacious suburban feel. Seattle scores higher in terms of urban lifestyle, indicating a bustling city life that's rich in culture and amenities, something that is less pronounced in Des Moines. These differences not only highlight the cost of living but also the type of community and lifestyle one might expect upon moving.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Des Moines

Moving from one city to another can significantly alter your day-to-day life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding the weather differences between Seattle, WA, and Des Moines, IA will help you better prepare for your relocation. Here's a comparison to illustrate how the climate varies between these two cities.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

85°F / 65°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

31°F / 14°F

Des Moines, IA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.5

Seattle, WA

36.0

Des Moines, IA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Seattle, WA

31

Des Moines, IA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Seattle enjoys milder summers and winters with more rain and less snow, Des Moines experiences a more distinct range of seasons. Summers in Des Moines can be notably hotter and winters significantly colder, leading to greater annual snowfall. Additionally, the number of sunny days in Des Moines exceeds that of Seattle, which could be a factor to consider if sunshine plays a vital role in your daily wellbeing. Understanding these differences ensures you are well-prepared for the weather changes accompanying your move from Seattle to Des Moines.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Des Moines


When considering a move from one location to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate how the cost of living, tax rates, and economic environments in Seattle and Des Moines might impact your financial health and lifestyle.


Moving from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA will bring about significant financial and lifestyle changes. While Seattle offers a strikingly high average household income, it also comes with a cost of living index far above the national average. In contrast, Des Moines presents a much more affordable living situation, though with a slightly lower average household income. It's important to note that Washington state has no income tax, which may offset some of the higher living costs in Seattle, whereas Iowa has a progressive income tax that peaks at 8.53%. Furthermore, the dominant industries shift from technology and aerospace in Seattle to insurance and financial services in Des Moines, suggesting career opportunities may differ significantly between the two cities.

Political & Religious Comparison between Seattle, WA and Des Moines, IA

When relocating from Seattle, Washington to Des Moines, Iowa, understanding the community you'll be joining is essential. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Seattle & Des Moines , offering insights into the residents' leanings and beliefs. This brief comparison aims to paint a clearer picture of the local environment in both cities.

SeattleDes Moines

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticModerate, with a mix of Democratic and Republican

Local Politics

Progressive policies, environmental focusBalance of progressive and conservative initiatives

Religion

Less religious, with a variety of faithsModerately religious, Christian majority

Moving from the progressive, environmentally-focused city of Seattle might be a change of pace as you adjust to Des Moines's balanced political landscape that embraces both conservative and progressive initiatives. While Seattle's residents tend to lean less religious with a broad spectrum of faiths present, you'll find Des Moines carries a moderate religious atmosphere, predominantly Christian. This blend of political and religious backgrounds could provide a fresh perspective, perhaps offering a different sense of community engagement and local issues priorities.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Des Moines

Moving from Seattle, WA to Des Moines, IA offers a distinct change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Des Moines is designed to help you better understand what to expect when navigating each city.

SeattleDes Moines
2821

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

73

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

64

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingDifficult

Can you get by without car?

In Seattle, the average commute time is longer, and traffic congestion is considerably higher compared to Des Moines. This is partly due to Seattle's larger population density and its geographic constraints, such as water bodies and hills, which limit road expansion. The city does offer a range of public transit options, including buses, light rail, and ferries, making it somewhat possible to get around without a car, especially in the denser urban areas. In contrast, Des Moines has less traffic congestion and shorter commute times, indicative of the city's smaller size and less dense urban development. However, its public transit options are more limited, making it more challenging to rely solely on public transportation for daily commuting.

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