Alabama to Iowa Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from Alabama to Iowa

ConsAlabama

• High humidity
• Limited winter activities
• Hurricanes
• Intense summer heat
• Limited public transport

ProsIowa

• Less humidity
• Snow-based recreation
• No hurricanes
• Milder summers
• Better public transport

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Iowa

• Less diverse food scene
• Fewer landmarks
• No ocean access
• Cold winters
• Different social culture

Alabama

• Southern cuisine
• Historical sites
• Beach access
• Warm winters
• Southern hospitality

Pros of moving from Alabama to Iowa

• Say goodbye to high humidity and hello to less humidity
• Look forward to moving away from limited winter activities and moving to Iowa with snow-based recreation
• Swap the hurricanes of Alabama for no hurricanes in Iowa
• Get ready for milder summers in Iowa

Cons of moving from Alabama to Iowa

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from southern cuisine in Alabama to live with a less diverse food scene in Iowa
• You'll lose out on the pro of historical sites and have to settle for the con of fewer landmarks
• Time to bid farewell to beach access and get used to no ocean access in Iowa
• Swap warm winters for cold winters

Alabama vs. Iowa: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from Alabama to Iowa, you will be trading the iconic Barbecue Ribs of Alabama for the equally delicious Corn on the Cob of Iowa. And while the locals in Alabama rave about their flavorful Pulled Pork Sandwich and sumptuous Conecuh Sausage Dog, Iowa residents know they have tasty Pork Chop and Taco Pizza to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Okra Gumbo they've grown to love, they can get ready for the Roasted Vegetables of Iowa. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic Alabama eateries like Dreamland BBQ, Highlands Bar and Grill, and Big Bob Gibson BBQ. After the boxes are unpacked in Iowa, don't wait too long before making your way to Iowa's acclaimed eateries like The Machine Shed, Avidity, and Zombie Burger.

When comparing lifestyles, Iowa shows a greater emphasis on fitness and health consciousness than Alabama. Food truck fans will discover a less desirable selection in Iowa compared to what you are used to in Alabama. Also, the overall foodie scene is less bustling in Iowa.

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between Alabama and Iowa

• The Antebellum and Craftsman architecture that Alabama is known for will be replaced with the Colonial and Ranch architecture typical of Iowa.
• Compared to Alabama's real estate listings that commonly reference large yards and porches, Iowa real estate listings often highlight features like energy efficiency and community parks.
• Make sure you unpack those walking shoes. Iowa is more walkable than Alabama.
• Make sure the movers take care of your bike. Iowa is more bike-friendly than Alabama.
• Iowa has more of an urban feel than Alabama.
• Iowa housing costs are 5% less expensive than they are in Alabama, with a median home price of $214,151 compared to Alabama’s $226,045.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in Iowa have increased by 36% compared to a 45% increase in Alabama.
• Rent in Iowa is 26.70% more affordable than in Alabama.

Your Move, Your Forecast: Key Weather Differences between Alabama and Iowa

• The shades won't be used as much for your move from Alabama to Iowa. Iowa gets 4% fewer sunshine days than Alabama.
• Iowa has similar humidity and a lower average UV index compared to Alabama.
• Say goodbye to the possible hurricanes and tornadoes in Alabama, but be on the lookout for potential tornadoes and blizzards in Iowa.
• Get ready for colder summers. The average summer high temperature in Iowa is 4 degrees colder than in Alabama.
• The average winter lows are 22 degrees colder than they are in Alabama.
• Your umbrella might be neglected in Iowa. Iowa receives 22 fewer inches of rain compared to Alabama.

Financial & Community Snapshot: Alabama and Iowa

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in Iowa tend to earn about 17% more than in Alabama
• The COLI in Iowa will be 5% higher than what you are used to living in Alabama
• The state income tax in IA is 9 compared to 5 in AL
• The affluence in Iowa is steady compared to moderate affluence in Alabama
• The poverty level is low in Iowa compared to moderate poverty in Alabama
• In terms of homelessness, it is stable in Alabama and low in Iowa

Political and Religious Climate in Alabama vs. Iowa

• Alabama tends to lean conservative in its political climate
• Iowa, on the other hand, is often described as moderately conservative to moderate
• Iowa's religious environment can be described as Protestant with a strong Catholic presence
• Alabama's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as evangelical Protestant

Education Guide When Moving from Alabama to Iowa

How Much Do Alabama to Iowa Movers Cost?

Moving 933 miles from Alabama to Iowa will typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.