Moving from Iowa to Montana (w/ Free Cost Calculator)
Moving from Iowa to Montana (1,115 miles) typically costs between $2,980 and $9,320 for professional movers, with a standard 2–3 bedroom home averaging around $3,130–$7,420. Costs depend primarily on home size, weight, and distance — smaller 1-bedroom moves start around $2,980, while larger 4+ bedroom relocations can reach $9,320 or more. Renting a truck yourself is the cheapest option, typically running $900–$1,530.
Use the moving cost calculator below to get an estimate based on your home size and services.
Going the other way? See our moving from Montana to Iowa guide.
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Montana?
The table below breaks down estimated costs by home size across full-service movers, containers, and rental trucks for this 1,115-mile route. All ranges reflect typical professional pricing for interstate moves from Iowa to Montana.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $2,980–$5,360 | $1,600–$2,580 | $880–$1,580 |
| 2 bedrooms | $3,130–$6,420 | $1,740–$2,890 | $900–$1,530 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,930–$7,420 | $2,200–$3,660 | $960–$1,730 |
| 4 bedrooms | $5,130–$8,470 | $2,400–$4,000 | $1,070–$1,970 |
| 5 bedrooms | $5,340–$9,320 | $2,620–$4,410 | $1,220–$2,130 |
What affects the cost of moving from Iowa to Montana?
Iowa to Montana moving costs shift based on a handful of variables. The biggest ones:
- How much you're moving: More rooms mean more labor, more truck space, and a higher total. A 1-bedroom move on this route runs far less than a 4-bedroom haul.
- Distance: At 1,115 miles, this is a long-haul interstate move — longer routes like Des Moines to Billings carry higher fuel and mileage costs than shorter regional moves.
- Timing: Peak moving season runs May through August, when prices climb and availability tightens. Moving in spring or fall — and mid-month instead of end-of-month — typically means better rates.
- Add-on services: Packing, specialty items, stairs, long carries, and storage each add cost. Know what you need before you request quotes.
- Move type: Rental trucks (e.g., U-Haul) are cheapest but require the most physical effort. Containers (e.g., PODS) balance price and convenience — you pack, they drive. Full-service movers (e.g., Colonial Van Lines) handle everything but cost the most.
- Delivery window: Tight pickup and delivery windows cost more. Giving movers a few extra days of flexibility on either end can lower your quote.
How to get an accurate quote for your Iowa to Montana move
The fastest way to nail down your budget is to get multiple quotes on the same scope of work — then compare line by line, not just the total.
- Request a walkthrough: Virtual or in-home surveys catch items that get missed on phone estimates and reduce the risk of surprise charges on moving day.
- Ask for a binding estimate: This locks in your price and protects you from unexpected fees after weigh-in on a long-haul move.
- Get at least three quotes: Compare line items — labor, fuel surcharges, packing materials, valuation coverage — not just the bottom line.
- Ask about extra fees upfront: Stairs, long carries, elevators, shuttle service, and packing materials are common add-ons not always included in initial quotes.
- Get timing in writing: Confirm pickup and delivery windows before signing. Vague estimates lead to delays and unexpected storage charges.
Learn more about the average cost of movers in Iowa.
Best moving companies for Iowa to Montana
For a 1,115-mile move from Iowa to Montana, compare at least one interstate moving company, one container option, and one rental truck before booking. Always verify a mover's USDOT number at the FMCSA site before signing a contract.
- Best full-service mover: Colonial Van Lines — handles loading, transport, and unloading on this IA–MT route.
- Best moving container: PODS — you pack and load at your own pace; they handle the 1,115-mile haul.
- Best rental truck: U-Haul — the lowest-cost option for this route if you drive yourself.
How does living in Montana compare to Iowa?
Iowa and Montana differ across housing costs, taxes, weather, and population. Here's a side-by-side look at the key numbers to factor into your relocation decision.
Cost of living
| Metric | Iowa | Montana |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $914 | $974 |
| Average home value | $220,277 | $462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $66,341 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 3.3% |
| Average sales tax | 6.94% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 6.75% |
Weather
| Metric | Iowa | Montana |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 84ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 12ºF |
| Annual rain | 35" | 15" |
| Annual snow | 30" | 49" |
Demographics
| Metric | Iowa | Montana |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 1,132,812 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 58.4-38.5 |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 23.37 |
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Montana?
Montana offers several advantages worth weighing before you make the move:
- Unmatched natural beauty
- Bountiful outdoor opportunities
- Ample economic opportunity
- Delicious unique cuisine
- No traffic
Who regulates interstate moves out of Iowa?
Interstate moves out of Iowa are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to register with the U.S. Department of Transportation and maintain an active USDOT number. Verify any mover you're considering at the FMCSA site before signing a contract.
When is the worst time to move to Montana?
Peak moving season — May through August — is when prices climb and booking availability shrinks. End-of-month dates are also harder to lock down. If you can schedule your Iowa to Montana move in early spring or fall, you'll typically find lower rates and more mover availability.
How far in advance should I book movers from Iowa to Montana?
For a Iowa to Montana move, book at least 6–8 weeks ahead for spring or fall, and 2–3 months ahead if you're moving during peak summer season.
Should I get in-home estimates for a move from Iowa to Montana?
Yes. For a 1,115-mile move, a virtual or in-home walkthrough is worth the time. It helps movers quote accurately, reduces the chance of surprise fees on moving day, and gives you a chance to flag specialty items like large furniture, valuables, or fragile pieces.
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Montana?
Renting a truck and driving yourself is typically the cheapest option — usually $900–$1,530 for a 2-bedroom home on this route. Moving containers are the next cheapest and require less physical effort. Full-service movers cost the most but handle everything for you.
What should you do when you arrive in Montana?
A few high-priority tasks for your first week in Montana:
- Forward your mail and update your address with banks, insurance providers, and the IRS.
- Set up utilities — electricity, gas, water, and internet — before move-in day if possible.
- Change your locks and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Register your vehicle and update your driver's license at the Montana DMV.
- Register to vote at your new Montana address.