Moving from Florida to Iowa

Iowa's central location makes it accessible to multiple carrier routes. Use this to your advantage - get quotes from both eastern and western regional carriers. Consider agricultural transport companies that often have competitive rates for household moves during off-peak farming seasons.

Iowa experiences temperature swings from -20°F to 95°F versus Florida's 40°F to 95°F range. Your energy bills will shift dramatically - much higher heating costs (potentially $150-300/month in winter) but lower summer cooling costs. Iowa's tornado season (April-June) requires different emergency preparedness than hurricane planning.

Iowa's median home price ($194,000) is roughly half of Florida's, potentially saving $150,000+ on housing. However, Iowa has a 8.53% top income tax rate versus Florida's zero. For homeowners, the housing savings typically outweigh tax increases unless you're in the top 10% of earners.

Allow 12-16 weeks for the full process. Iowa's agricultural economy means housing markets move slowly - factor in 6-8 weeks for home selling/buying. School registration requires early enrollment. Plan the actual move for late spring/early summer to avoid both Iowa winter and Florida hurricane season.

Replace hurricane supplies with tornado preparedness gear. Install a weather radio system and identify basement shelter areas. Iowa's straight-line winds require different roof/siding considerations than Florida's hurricane building codes. Your Florida generator will work but may need cold-weather modifications.