Chicago to Des Moines movers & cost
Chicago to Des Moines covers approximately ~330 miles. For a 2-bedroom household, expect roughly $3,000–$5,200 with a full-service mover. This pairing is part of the broader Illinois to Iowa corridor — see that page for the full state-level picture.
Chicago to Des Moines cost by home size
| Home size | Typical full-service cost |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,900–$3,400 |
| 2 bedroom | $3,000–$5,200 |
| 3 bedroom | $4,300–$7,200 |
| 4+ bedroom | $6,500–$10,000 |
Use the moving cost calculator for a number specific to your exact move date and home contents.
Why people make this move
- Lower housing costs and property taxes than Illinois
- Des Moines has a strong insurance and finance sector, driving steady job-related relocation
- A shorter, more regional move than most Illinois outbound corridors
National carriers that serve this route
Every major national van line operates between Chicago and Des Moines. Read real reviews before booking:
Climate and lifestyle
Illinois and Iowa share a nearly identical Midwest climate — cold, snowy winters and humid summers — essentially no climate adjustment on this corridor.
What to know about this corridor
- At just over 300 miles, DIY and container options are often price-competitive with full-service movers on this corridor
- Des Moines has grown steadily and consistently ranks well on cost-of-living comparisons relative to its job market
Planning basics for this move
- Get 3+ written estimates at least 4–8 weeks out, and confirm whether each is binding, non-binding, or binding-not-to-exceed.
- Verify your mover's USDOT/MC number on FMCSA SAFER before you pay any deposit.
- Ask specifically how weight vs. cubic-foot pricing applies to your quote — the two methods aren't directly comparable between companies.
- Confirm your delivery window in writing.
Who oversees movers on this route
Any moving company handling an interstate shipment between Chicago and Des Moines must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and hold an active USDOT number. Check a mover's registration and safety record directly on FMCSA SAFER before booking — see our full guide on verifying a USDOT/MC number.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move from Chicago to Des Moines?
For a typical 2–3 bedroom household, expect roughly $3,000–$7,200 with a full-service mover, depending on total weight and time of year. See the table below for other home sizes.
How far is it from Chicago to Des Moines?
Approximately ~330 miles by road, putting this move in the 250–1,000 miles range.
Why do people move from Chicago to Des Moines?
Lower housing costs and property taxes than Illinois. Des Moines has a strong insurance and finance sector, driving steady job-related relocation. A shorter, more regional move than most Illinois outbound corridors.
What's the best time of year to move from Chicago to Des Moines?
Fall through early spring (October–April) is typically cheaper and less in-demand than summer, which is peak moving season nationwide.
Is it cheaper to move myself from Chicago to Des Moines than to hire movers?
A DIY truck rental is usually the cheapest option if you're willing to drive it yourself and have help loading/unloading. A moving container splits the difference — you load it, a carrier drives.