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Iowa to Wisconsin Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from state to state embodies an exciting shift in your life’s journey, often brimming with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind Iowa’s expansive fields and warm-hearted communities for Wisconsin’s picturesque landscapes and bustling cheese markets can feel like stepping into a different world. Recognizing the importance of a smooth transition during such a transformative phase, our commitment lies in connecting you with trusted, reliable professional movers, ensuring this long distance move is as seamless as the unity between these two remarkable states.

6 Best Movers for Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

#1
A Smooth Move, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,293+ data points

Appleton, WI
Full-Service Moves, Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking, Business and Residential Relocation Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3096189 Verify

About A Smooth Move, LLC

A Smooth Move is a family-owned and operated moving company that serves Wisconsin and beyond. It’s proud of its reputation as one of the mos...Read More >>

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#2
Elite Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 788+ data points

Eau Claire, WI
Full Service Move, Labor Only (Loading/Unloading Help), Single Item Move See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3579816 Verify

About Elite Movers

Elite Movers is a professional moving service in Eau Claire that provides full-service moving solutions for local and long-distance relocati...Read More >>

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#3
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,268+ data points

Iowa City, IA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Apartment/Condo Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1471037 Verify

About Adamantine Spine Moving

Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transp...Read More >>

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#4
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional

based on 520+ data points

Burlington, IA
Material Packing, Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 749231 Verify

About Best Move Inc

Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>

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#5
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 621+ data points

Ames, IA
Local moving, Long distance moving, Small moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 608245 Verify

About Hemmen Moving

For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>

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#6
White Glove Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 848+ data points

Marion, IA
Local Moving Services, Residential Moving Services, Commercial & Freight Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT: 2991947 Verify

About White Glove Movers

White Glove Movers is a residential and commercial moving company serving its local community of Marion, the nearby areas of Cedar Rapids, I...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

Moving from one state to another brings its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on Iowa and Wisconsin's aspects, helping you weigh the benefits against the challenges. The two charts below will guide you discern the pros and cons of relocating, ensuring you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lesser lakes
  • Flat landscapes
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Lesser dairy variety
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • More lakes
  • Varied topography
  • Bigger tech hub
  • Rich cheese varieties
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Higher living costs
  • More commercial
  • Less personal space
  • Less farm-to-table
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower living costs
  • Simple living
  • Friendly communities
  • Rich agriculture

When weighing the decision to move from Iowa to Wisconsin, consider the lifestyle changes this relocation entails. Wisconsin's greater number of lakes and varied landscapes offer an exciting terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Places like Devil's Lake State Park and the shores of Lake Michigan are perfect for adventure seekers. The state's burgeoning tech scene, particularly in cities like Madison, provides a vibrant atmosphere for innovation and growth. On the other hand, Iowa's simpler way of living and closely-knit communities present a tranquil lifestyle. The decision ultimately depends on what you're looking for - whether it's Wisconsin's rich cheese varieties and outdoor activities or Iowa's lower cost of living and peaceful community living.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

As you consider relocating, understanding the local culture through its cuisine is essential. Food richly reflects a locale's heritage and lifestyle. In this light, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Iowa & Wisconsin to illuminate the food scene awaiting you in your new home.

IowaWisconsin

Most iconic local food item

CornCheese Curds

Most popular meat dish

Pork Tenderloin SandwichBratwurst

Most popular street food item

Taco TrucksFood Trucks with Cheese Curds

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Corn TacosVegan Cheese Options

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

    1. Zombie Burger
    2. Fong's Pizza
    3. Amana Colonies
    1. The Old Fashioned
    2. Mickies Dairy Bar
    3. Culver's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

68

Upon arriving in Wisconsin, you'll quickly notice the prominence of cheese in local cuisine, with cheese curds topping the list as a must-try. The iconic Bratwurst, found especially in Madison and Milwaukee, underscores the state's German heritage. For a taste of local flavors, The Old Fashioned in Madison offers a traditional Wisconsin experience, while Mickies Dairy Bar provides a classic diner atmosphere. Wisconsin's food scene, rich in dairy innovations, also caters to vegan preferences with a variety of dairy-free cheese options. Culver's, although a fast-food chain, is renowned for its Wisconsin Cheese Curds, cementing its place in the state's culinary landscape.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

Real estate is a pivotal consideration when relocating. Understanding how housing aspects like cost, style, and lifestyle amenities compare between Iowa and Wisconsin is essential. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities that will impact your decision.

When considering a move from Iowa to Wisconsin, you'll find Wisconsin boasts slightly higher living costs, mirrored in both median home prices and rent. However, the architectural preferences shift from Iowa's modern farmhouse aesthetics to Wisconsin's colonial revival style, catering to diverse tastes. The variations in walkability and bikeability scores between the states indicate a marginally more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environment in Wisconsin. Particularly notable are listings in Wisconsin, often highlighting lakeside views and proximity to breweries, reflecting the state's famed love for beer and its abundant natural beauty. These differences can deeply influence your lifestyle choices and day-to-day experiences after the move.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

When planning a move from Iowa to Wisconsin , understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment seamlessly by highlighting key climatic disparities. The following charts distill essential weather characteristics of each state, shedding light on what to expect across seasons.

Summer icon
85/63

Iowa

82/60

Wisconsin

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/14

Iowa

28/13

Wisconsin

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Iowa

32

Wisconsin

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Iowa

48

Wisconsin

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In comparing Iowa and Wisconsin, you'll find these neighboring states share similar humidity levels and quality of air, but there are notable differences in seasonal weather patterns. Wisconsin experiences cooler summer highs and slightly colder winter lows, fitting for those who prefer milder summers. Expect more snowy days in Wisconsin, which sees about 12 inches more snow annually than Iowa. This could mean more opportunities for winter sports but also requires readiness for snowier conditions. Even though both states enjoy a fair amount of sunshine, Iowa has about 17 more sunny days per year. Such insights should help you prepare for your new environment in Wisconsin, from wardrobe changes to seasonal activities planning.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

When relocating, it's crucial to understand the financial landscape of your new home. This comparison aims to highlight the essential economic differences and living costs between Iowa and Wisconsin. Recognizing these distinctions will help you better prepare for your move.

The financial landscapes of Iowa and Wisconsin offer contrasting yet vital insights for anyone planning to move. While Wisconsin demonstrates a slightly higher average household income, it also accompanies a higher cost of living index. The property and state income tax rates vary slightly, reflecting the nuanced economic climates between the two states. Especially significant are the top industries, as they indicate potential employment opportunities and sectors driving the local economies. Understanding these differences sets the groundwork for a smoother transition and financial planning.

Political & Religious Comparison between Iowa and Wisconsin

As you plan your move from Iowa to Wisconsin, understanding this is a comparison of the politics between Iowa & Wisconsin, along with the religious landscape, can provide a vital snapshot of the community ethos you're about to join.

IowaWisconsin

Political Make-up

Swing state, with recent leanings towards the Republican Party in presidential electionsSwing state with a history of close contests in both state and national elections

Local Politics

Political landscape varies widely between urban and rural areasLocal politics also reflect an urban-rural divide, often with more liberal policies in cities

Religion

Christianity is predominant, with a significant presence of evangelical ProtestantsVaried, with a larger percentage of Catholic residents compared to Iowa

While both Iowa and Wisconsin share the distinction of being influential swing states, they each bring a unique political flavor to the table. In Iowa, you might find a more pronounced distinction in political views between urban and rural communities. Conversely, Wisconsin's political tapestries are woven with threads of closely contested elections and a contrast between conservative rural areas and more liberal urban centers. On the religious front, if you lean towards evangelical Protestant beliefs, Iowa may resonate with you, while Wisconsin offers a broader religious canvas, with a notable Catholic demographic. This comparison should give you a nuanced understanding of the social and cultural environment awaiting you.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to Wisconsin

Moving can be a bit overwhelming, especially when considering educational options for your children. To help ease this transition, we've compiled a comparison so you can better understand what the comparisons are between school options from Iowa to Wisconsin . This will aid in making an informed decision on where your child might thrive best.

IowaWisconsin

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Marquette University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary School (Coralville)
Bloomsbury Elementary School (Sioux City)
Hillside Elementary School (West Des Moines)
Swanson Elementary School (Brookfield)
Lake Shore Middle School (Mequon)
North Shore Middle School (Hartland)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
Prairie Ridge Middle School (Cedar Rapids)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Longfellow Middle School (Wauwatosa)
Pilgrim Park Middle School (Elm Grove)
Kettle Moraine Middle School (Dousman)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Decorah High School (Decorah)
Brookfield East High School (Brookfield)
Whitefish Bay High School (Whitefish Bay)
Homestead High School (Mequon)

Top 3 private high schools

Phillips Academy (Exeter)
Choate Rosemary Hall (Wallingford)
The Putney School (Putney)
University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee)
Marquette University High School (Milwaukee)
Madison Country Day School (Waunakee)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Greenhill School (Addison)
The Hockaday School (Dallas)
St. Mark's School of Texas (Dallas)
University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee)
Prairie School (Racine)
Brookfield Academy (Brookfield)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Des Moines Independent Community School District
Elmbrook School District
Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District
Whitefish Bay School District

When analyzing school options between Iowa and Wisconsin, it's apparent that both states boast strong educational institutions across the board. For instance, Iowa's University of Iowa and Wisconsin's University of Wisconsin-Madison stand out as top choices for college-bound seniors, reflecting the high educational standards in both states. Additionally, the presence of highly-ranked private institutions like the University School of Milwaukee in Wisconsin and unique K-12 opportunities in cities such as Milwaukee and Brookfield indicate a versatile array of options catering to varied educational preferences and needs.

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