Moving from Illinois to Iowa
If you have decided to move from Illinois to Iowa, it can be helpful to learn a little bit more about the state. Although the two states are Midwest neighbors, there are always plenty of differences from one state to another. For example, you might be moving from a large urban city to a more rural environment in Iowa. As you prepare for this exciting adventure, we have put together some information regarding the benefits of living in Iowa, moving costs, and helpful tips for relocating.
Benefits of Moving from Illinois to Iowa
Contrary to what many people believe, Iowa is more than just miles of cornfields. It is actually filled with beautiful scenery, fantastic change of season, affordable housing, and fun things to do. Here are just a few of the benefits you will enjoy living in Iowa.
Low Cost of Living
If you are looking to enjoy a more affordable way of life, Iowa is the perfect place for you. The overall cost of living in Iowa is about 10% below the national average and even much lower in the state’s smaller towns. In fact, if you live in two of the area’s Quad cities, Davenport or Bettendorf, you will be living in some of the most affordable metropolitan areas in the entire nation. This means you can even work in the Quad cities of Moline/East Moline on the Illinois side while enjoying the affordability of living in Iowa. Iowa also has some of the cheapest housing in the entire country. Even in the most expensive areas of the state, you can typically purchase a newly built 2000+square foot home for around $220,000.
Excellent Education
If you are planning to move to Iowa, you don’t have to plan on paying for private education. The state boasts excellent public schools with small class sizes. Iowa also has the highest literacy rate in the nation at 99% and the highest graduation rate at 90%. Furthermore, Iowa consistently ranks at the top for the highest ACT and SAT scores in the nation.
Safety
If you are moving with a family, safety might be a concern when choosing a place to live. Luckily, Iowans don’t have to worry about safety. The state has the second lowest murder rate in the country and consistently ranks among the top 5 safest places to live.
Friendly People
There’s just something about living in a friendly community that can really improve one’s quality of life. When it comes to friendly neighbors, no one can compare to Iowans. It is not unusual to be welcomed into the neighborhood with a fresh baked pie or to have a complete stranger strike up a conversation with you. People in Iowa are known for their hospitality and are some of the nicest people you will meet!
Most Popular Cities to Live in Iowa
Des Moines
Des Moines is considered one of the best cities to live and raise a family. Residents enjoy English colonial and Tudor-style homes amid quiet neighborhoods with excellent schools. There are also great restaurants and modern lofts in the downtown area that attract a younger millennial crowd. The city is a major hub for insurance companies including some of the biggest in the country such as Nationwide, EMC Insurance, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield. This provides great employment opportunities for people in this sector and has been ranked among the best cities for business. Des Moines housing prices are also well below the national average, making life in this city more affordable than most other metropolitan cities.
Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids offers unmatched affordability with a strong and supportive community for entrepreneurs to launch a business. The city also has a strong agricultural presence offering ample job opportunities for people in this industry. Cedar Rapids has also been nationally recognized for its outstanding public school system and is also home to fantastic liberal art schools, Coe College and Mount Mercy University. Residents get to enjoy a beautiful change of season, easy daily commutes, and a more relaxed and laid-back way of life.
Davenport
Located about halfway between Chicago and Des Moines, Davenport is on the border of Iowa and Illinois and is part of what is referred to as the Quad Cities. If you are looking for a city that is both walkable and affordable, Davenport is the place for you. Davenport offers very affordable housing options, making it possible to work in Illinois and live in Iowa. It is home to Saint Ambrose University and hosts the largest air show in the state of Iowa.
Iowa City
Residents of Iowa City get to enjoy the charm of a college town with the cultural and recreational amenities of a bigger city. It is home to more than just the University of Iowa. Iowa City also boats great restaurants, incredible farmer’s markets, and a historic downtown complete with the Iowa Avenue Literary Walk. Iowa City is also located just minutes from Coalville Lake where residents can enjoy boating, fishing, and skiing.
Cost of Moving from Illinois to Iowa
The cost to move from Illinois to Iowa will depend on a number of factors such as the exact distance you are moving, the number of items being moved, and additional moving services such as packing and unpacking. These things considered, the average cost to move from Illinois to Iowa with Allied is $2,888.91. Allied is proud to offer hassle-free upfront pricing for customers and we even encourage you to get an estimate using our Instaquote listed above.
How to Move from Illinois to Iowa
Moving can be a stressful time and moving from one state to another can present even more challenges. Luckily, Allied has over 90 years of experience moving customers just like you so we know exactly what it takes to execute a seamless interstate move. Our goal is to simplify the moving process for you by helping you every step of the way from packing and loading to full transport of your belongings. Let the trusted professionals at Allied get you on your way to your new home in Iowa.
Call Allied today for more information about our moving services or start by using our Instaquote above!