Iowa to Kentucky Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Kentucky

ConsIowa

• Harsh winters
• Limited entertainment
• Flat landscapes

ProsKentucky

• Milder winters
• Vibrant arts scene
• Scenic hills

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Kentucky

• Higher sales tax
• Less agricultural focus
• Slightly more impersonal

Iowa

• Lower cost of living
• Strong farming community
• Tight-knit communities

Pros of moving from Iowa to Kentucky

• Say goodbye to harsh winters and hello to milder winters
• Look forward to moving away from limited entertainment and moving to Kentucky with a vibrant arts scene
• Swap the flat landscapes of Iowa for scenic hills in Kentucky

Cons of moving from Iowa to Kentucky

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from the lower cost of living in Iowa to live with the higher sales tax in Kentucky
• You'll lose out on the pro of a strong farming community and have to settle with the con of less agricultural focus
• Time to bid farewell to tight-knit communities and get used to a slightly more impersonal environment in Kentucky

Iowa vs. Kentucky: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from Iowa to Kentucky, you will be trading the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich of Iowa for the equally delicious Fried Chicken of Kentucky. And while the locals in Iowa rave about their flavorful Corn-fed Beef Steak and sumptuous Sweet Corn, Kentucky residents know they have tasty BBQ Mutton and Hot Brown Sandwich to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Black Bean Burger they've grown to love, they can get ready for the Bean Soup of Kentucky. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic Iowa eateries like The Machine Shed, Jethro’s BBQ, and Amana Colonies Restaurants. After the boxes are unpacked in Kentucky, don't wait too long before making your way to Kentucky's acclaimed eateries like Jack Fry's, Mammy's Kitchen, and Ramsey's Diner.

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

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between Iowa and Kentucky

• The Prairie School and Craftsman architecture that Iowa is known for will be replaced with the Colonial and Craftsman architecture typical of Kentucky.
• Compared to Iowa's real estate listings that commonly reference large yards and quiet neighborhoods, Kentucky real estate listings often highlight features like historic homes and proximity to parks.
• You can keep your walking shoes packed away; Kentucky is less walkable than Iowa.
• You might want to think twice before moving your bike; Kentucky is less bike-friendly than Iowa.
• Kentucky has less of an urban feel than Iowa.
• Kentucky housing costs are 6% less expensive than they are in Iowa, with a median home price of $201,332 compared to Iowa’s $214,151.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in Kentucky have increased by 47% compared to a 36% increase in Iowa.
• Rent in Kentucky is 21.16% more expensive than in Iowa.

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

• The shades won't be used as much for your move from Iowa to Kentucky. Kentucky gets 4% fewer sunshine days than Iowa.
• Kentucky has lower humidity and a higher average UV index compared to Iowa.
• Say goodbye to the possible tornadoes and blizzards in Iowa, but be on the lookout for potential tornadoes and floods in Kentucky.
• Get ready for warmer summers. The average summer high temperature in Kentucky is 4 degrees warmer than in Iowa.
• The average winter lows in Kentucky are 14 degrees warmer than they are in Iowa.
• Your umbrella might be more overworked in Kentucky. Kentucky receives 14 more inches of rain compared to Iowa.

Financial & Community Snapshot: Iowa and Kentucky

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in Kentucky tend to earn about 15% less than in Iowa
• The COLI in Kentucky will be 8% lower than what you are used to living in Iowa
• The state income tax in KY is 5.00% compared to 8.53% in IA
• The affluence in Kentucky is low compared to moderate in Iowa
• The poverty level is high in Kentucky compared to moderate in Iowa
• In terms of homelessness, it is low in Iowa and moderate in Kentucky

Political and Religious Climate in Iowa vs. Kentucky

• Iowa tends to lean swing state in its political climate
• Kentucky, on the other hand, is often described as leaning Republican
• Kentucky's religious environment can be described as primarily Christian, with a significant Baptist presence
• Iowa's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as Christianity predominates, with a mix of Protestant and Catholic

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Kentucky

How Much Do Iowa to Kentucky Movers Cost?

Moving 666 miles from Iowa to Kentucky will typically cost between $2,500 and $5,500 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.