Best Charlotte to Des Moines Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Charlotte to Des Moines and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,058 mile move from North Carolina to Iowa go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Charlotte to Des Moines moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charlotte compared to Des Moines. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Charlotte to Des Moines Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
2 | You Move Me Charlotte | 9.32 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
4 | Road Haugs Moving & Storage | 9.06 | 9.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Bulldog Moving LLC | 9.00 | 8.42 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Charlotte to Des Moines
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,058 miles from Charlotte, NC to Des Moines, IA will cost on average $2,681 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charlotte to Des Moines move is roughly $6,443. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,802 | 300 ft³ | 6.01 |
1 Bedroom | $2,681 | 450 ft³ | 5.96 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,431 | 750 ft³ | 5.91 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,443 | 1100 ft³ | 5.86 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,292 | 1600 ft³ | 5.81 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,364 | 1800 ft³ | 5.76 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Charlotte guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charlotte to Des Moines Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Adamantine Spine Moving
2815 36th St
Des Moines, IA, 50310
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...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
Registered Drivers | 40 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |

You Move Me Charlotte
4222 Barringer Dr
Charlotte, NC, 28217
About You Move Me Charlotte
You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Piano moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2518689 / 878140 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2024) |

Best Move Inc
Burlington, IA, 52601
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...
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |

Road Haugs Moving & Storage
2700 Hutchison McDonald Rd Suite A
Charlotte, NC, 28269
About Road Haugs Moving & Storage
Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing local residential moves,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Specialty Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2535952 / 882889 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
Bulldog Moving LLC
Charlotte, NC, 28202
About Bulldog Moving LLC
Bulldog Moving LLC is a reputable moving service in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company provides a range of services including local...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long-Distance Moving Services
- Residential Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1670218 / 613925 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 29,677 (2023) |

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.
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not sure where to settle. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Charlotte, NC & Des Moines, IA, aiming to match you with your ideal locale by leveraging your familiarity with your current city's neighborhoods.
Charlotte | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Myers Park | South of Grand | Grand estates, historical charm |
NoDa | East Village | Vibrant art scene, eclectic eateries |
South End | Western Gateway | Urban living, contemporary art |
Dilworth | Sherman Hill | Historic homes, community vibe |
Elizabeth | Roosevelt | Leafy streets, local businesses |
Uptown | Downtown Des Moines | Business hub, cultural venues |
Plaza Midwood | Histogram District | Bohemian flair, unique boutiques |
Ballantyne | Waveland Park | Family-friendly, golf courses |
University City | Drake University Area | Educational centers, youthful energy |
SouthPark | Beaverdale | Upscale shopping, residential |
If you've enjoyed the lively atmosphere and eclectic dining options in NoDa, Des Moines' East Village will resonate with you, boasting an artsy vibe with its array of galleries, trendy restaurants, and unique shops. South End's urban setting and art focus find a similar spirit in the Western Gateway area, famous for its Pappajohn Sculpture Park and modern spaces. On the other hand, the historic essence and serene streets of Myers Park are mirrored in South of Grand, where majestic homes sit among tree-lined avenues, offering a peaceful yet distinguished living experience. These Des Moines neighborhoods not only provide environments reminiscent of those in Charlotte but also promise a seamless transition with their blend of cultural touchstones, community warmth, and lifestyle amenities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charlotte to Des Moines
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the downsides. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Charlotte, NC to Des Moines, IA. By examining these factors through detailed charts, you'll gain a clearer insight into what this move could mean for you.
- Higher humidity
- More traffic
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer snow days
- Lower humidity
- Less traffic
- Lower cost of living
- More snow days
- Quieter nightlife
- Less diverse cuisine
- Smaller job market
- Colder winters
- Vibrant nightlife
- More diverse cuisine
- Larger job market
- Mild winters
Moving from Charlotte to Des Moines presents several lifestyle changes. Charlotte is known for its vibrant nightlife with spots like NC Music Factory and a wide variety of dining options offering everything from traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors. Des Moines, while offering a quieter life, still holds charm with cozy neighborhood spots like East Village for shopping and dining, and the popular Downtown Farmers' Market for local produce and goods. Des Moines' lower cost of living and reduced traffic could mean a more relaxed lifestyle, albeit with colder winters that bring more opportunities to enjoy snowy activities at places like Sleepy Hollow Sports Park. Each city offers unique benefits, making it important to consider what aspects of city life are most important to you.
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Charlotte & Des Moines aims to highlight the distinct flavors and culinary experiences each city offers. Understanding the food scene is crucial for those moving, as it significantly impacts the local culture and lifestyle.
Charlotte | Des Moines | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Carolina BBQ | Corn Dogs |
Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork Sandwich | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
Most popular street food item | Cheese Fries | Taco |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Tempeh Reuben |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Charlotte to Des Moines, you'll notice a significant shift in the food scene, from the tangy and smoky flavors of Carolina BBQ to the heartland classics like Corn Dogs and the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. Neighborhoods in Des Moines such as the East Village offer a rich dining experience with spots like Fong's Pizza, known for its unique Asian-inspired pizzas, and Zombie Burger, a must-visit for burger enthusiasts seeking something out of the ordinary. Des Moines may have fewer food trucks compared to Charlotte, but the city's enthusiasm for local cuisine and an evolving foodie scene is unmistakable.
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Charlotte and Des Moines is designed to ease your transition by guiding you to your new food havens, using your old favorites as landmarks. Whether you're craving luxurious dining experiences or cozy, casual bites, this guide aims to make Des Moines feel like home.
Charlotte | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Fig Tree Restaurant | Bistro Montage | Classic French cuisine with a cozy ambiance. |
Carpe Diem Restaurant & Caterers | Centro | Urban Italian that matches Carpe Diem's eclectic vibes. |
Kindred | Table 128 Bistro & Bar | Farm-to-table dining reminiscent of Kindred's locally sourced dishes. |
Haberdish | Smokey D's BBQ | Southern barbecue with a Des Moines twist, akin to Haberdish's comfort foods. |
Midwood Smokehouse | Jethro’s BBQ | Offering a robust flavor profile similar to Midwood's acclaimed barbecue. |
Soul Gastrolounge | Proof | Contemporary cuisine with a twist, mirroring Soul's innovative plates. |
Peppervine | Harbinger | Creative dishes with a flair resonating with Peppervine's artistic approach. |
Good Food on Montford | Alba | Offering an eclectic mix of dishes in an intimate setting, akin to Good Food's charm. |
LuLu's Maryland Style Chicken & Seafood | Waterfront Seafood Market | Fresh seafood that echoes LuLu's specialty in a laid-back environment. |
Brooks' Sandwich House | George The Chili King | A classic diner experience paralleling Brooks' straightforward, down-to-earth eats. |
Exploring culinary landscapes can be a thrilling experience, especially when transitioning between cities. In Des Moines, places like Bistro Montage and Centro stand out for their ability to offer a taste of familiar with a dash of local flair, much like their Charlotte counterparts. Whether it's sinking your teeth into the authentic French cuisine reminiscent of The Fig Tree Restaurant's elegance at Bistro Montage or enjoying the urban Italian vibe at Centro that mirrors Carpe Diem's eclectic atmosphere, Des Moines welcomes you with open arms and dishes ready to become your new favorites. Each establishment listed not only represents the quality and diversity of the city's dining scene but also assures that no matter where you're from, you'll find a place that feels like home.

Ready to start your move?
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience. Understanding how Charlotte and Des Moines compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle will help you make an informed decision about your move.
Comparison | Charlotte | Des Moines |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Colonial | Ranch and Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, hardwood floors | Energy efficiency, large yards |
As evident from the chart, Charlotte’s median home prices and monthly rent are relatively higher than those in Des Moines, reflecting the city’s growing demand and urban lifestyle score. Charlotte’s architecture leans towards Modern and Colonial, appealing to you if you’re seeking a blend of tradition and contemporary living. Des Moines, however, features more Ranch and Craftsman styles, perfect for those who appreciate classic American architecture with functional, spacious designs. The walkability and bikeability scores slightly favor Des Moines, indicating a more compact city layout. Moreover, Des Moines listings frequently highlight energy efficiency and large yards, catering to those prioritizing sustainability and outdoor living space.

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.
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves adapting to new weather patterns. It's crucial to understand how Charlotte's temperate climate compares to Des Moines's continental weather. This comparison will help you prepare for the changes you might experience, from wardrobe adjustments to potential activities.
Charlotte, NC
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charlotte, NC
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charlotte, NC
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charlotte, NC
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Charlotte | Des Moines |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Storms | Tornadoes, Blizzards |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Charlotte and Des Moines enjoy a similar range of temperatures in the summer, winters in Des Moines are significantly colder and snowier, which could require a wardrobe update. Despite having fewer days of sunshine, Des Moines experiences a higher average annual humidity than Charlotte, potentially affecting your indoor climate preferences. Additionally, understanding the primary natural disaster risks and seasonal allergies in each area can help you prepare your home and health for the move. This adjustment to different weather conditions will be an essential part of your relocation process.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charlotte to Des Moines
When considering a move from one place to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape in Charlotte and Des Moines will impact your wallet. This comparison will help you gauge what changes you might expect in terms of expenses and income, setting the stage for a smooth financial transition.
Comparison | Charlotte | Des Moines |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $70,869 | $60,693 |
Cost of Living Index | 93.2 | 90.9 |
State Income Tax | 5.25 | 8.53 (top rate) |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.07 | 1.55 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 7.00 |
Top 3 Industries | Finance, Technology, Energy | Insurance, Finance, Agriculture |
Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varied affluence |
Poverty | Low | Moderate |
Homelessness | Noticeable | Less visible |
In comparing Charlotte, NC, and Des Moines, IA, for a potential move, it's essential to note that Des Moines boasts a lower cost of living index, suggesting your expenses there could be less than in Charlotte. However, do consider the state income tax rate that tops out higher in Des Moines, which may impact higher earners more significantly. Des Moines presents an attractive option with its lower average costs for housing and living, despite the higher property tax, indicating more money could be saved on daily expenses. Both cities offer diverse job markets but cater to different primary industries, which could influence your employment opportunities depending on your career field.
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
In deciding to move from Charlotte, NC to Des Moines, IA, getting a grasp of the local milieu is essential. This includes understanding the comparison of the politics between Charlotte & Des Moines alongside the religious leanings of their residents. This quick snapshot aims to provide you with an insightful glimpse into these aspects, easing your transition.
Charlotte | Des Moines | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
Local Politics | Active city council; various local initiatives | Strong mayor-council government; active in sustainability projects |
Religion | Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faiths | Diverse, with Christianity also predominant but growing diversity in faith |
When you move to Des Moines from Charlotte, you'll notice both cities share a Democratic tilt in their political makeup, but the way politics play out on a local level differs. Charlotte's city council actively engages in various local initiatives, emphasizing community involvement. In contrast, Des Moines operates under a strong mayor-council government, with a notable focus on sustainability projects, reflecting a progressive stance on environmental issues. The religious landscape in both regions is predominantly Christian, but Des Moines showcases a steadily growing diversity in faith, mirroring its evolving demographic. This comparison highlights the vibrant and occasionally contrasting civic and cultural fabric of your new home.
Charlotte vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to daily commutes and navigating local transportation systems. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, we've created a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charlotte & Des Moines. This will assist you in making an informed decision on how to plan your move and daily travels.
Comparison | Charlotte | Des Moines |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 20 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | More Challenging |
When comparing Charlotte to Des Moines in terms of traffic and transportation, it's clear there are notable differences. Charlotte's average commute time is slightly longer, attributed to its larger size and higher traffic congestion. Although public transit is more available in Charlotte, getting around without a car can still be challenging, and it might be more so in Des Moines, where the public transit system covers less ground. This information is crucial for those planning to relocate and weigh the pros and cons of owning a car or relying on public transportation in their new city.



Additional Resources
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