Best California to Indiana Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to Indiana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,309 mile CA to IN move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 346 California to Indiana moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to Indiana. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best California to Indiana Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | MVM Moving & Storage | 9.22 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to Indiana
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,309 miles from California to Indiana will cost on average $3,745 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to IN move is roughly $9,044. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup in California and dropoff in Indiana as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve California to Indiana movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,512 | 300 ft³ | 8.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,745 | 450 ft³ | 8.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,204 | 750 ft³ | 8.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,044 | 1100 ft³ | 8.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,075 | 1600 ft³ | 8.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,619 | 1800 ft³ | 8.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indiana to California guide.
Popular California to Indiana Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from California to Indiana
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular California to Indiana Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best CA to IN Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Chico, CA, 95973
About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
MVM Moving & Storage
6429 Highview Dr
Fort Wayne, IN, 46818
About MVM Moving & Storage
Since 2006, MVM Moving and Storage has been assisting residents of Fort Wayne, IN, streamline their relocation process with its cost-effective...
Services
- Residential Move
- Commercial Move
- Local Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3098388 / 76046 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 75,000 (2021) |
Bulldogs Moving Co.
Noblesville, IN, 46060
About Bulldogs Moving Co.
Bulldogs Moving Co., based in Lapel, Indiana, is a local moving company dedicated to providing high-quality services for residential and commercial...
Services
- Full-service Moves
- Packing / Unpacking
- Loading / Unloading
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3784131 / 1472268 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2021) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Indiana
Moving across states is a big decision, and it's important to weigh all factors carefully. This guide aims to provide an honest comparison between California and Indiana, highlighting the good and the bad aspects of such a relocation. By examining both sides of the coin, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.
California- High living cost
- Heavy traffic
- State income tax
- Earthquake risks
Indiana- Lower living cost
- Less congestion
- No state income tax
- Lower natural disaster risk
Indiana- No ocean access
- Fewer entertainment options
- Less diversity
- Smaller tech industry
California- Warm beaches
- Entertainment hubs
- Cultural diversity
- Innovative tech scene
When moving from California to Indiana, you're trading the bustling streets of Los Angeles and the tech hubs of Silicon Valley for the tranquil parks of Indianapolis and the cultural charm of Bloomington. Imagine swapping the crowded beaches of Santa Monica for the serene shores of Lake Michigan or trading in the high-paced nightlife of San Francisco for cozy evenings at local Indianapolis restaurants and cafes. Although Indiana may not boast the same entertainment industry as Los Angeles, cities like Indianapolis and Bloomington offer vibrant local arts scenes, including live music at The Bluebird and exhibits at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Moreover, the absence of state income tax and lower overall cost of living mean you can enjoy a spacious home in a welcoming neighborhood, such as Carmel or Fishers, all while exploring a diverse range of local eateries and shops that contribute to the unique flavor of your new state.
California vs. Indiana Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between California & Indiana sheds light on the rich diversity and cultural significance of food in these areas. Understanding the food scene where you're moving can significantly enhance your relocation experience, helping you to immerse in and appreciate the local culture better.
| California | Indiana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip Steak | Beef and Noodles |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Corn Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Plant-based Burgers | Seitan Steak |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In California, the food scene is vividly diverse with health-conscious options being a significant focus. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are bursting with food trucks offering everything from gourmet tacos to avant-garde vegan dishes. Places such as Chef Tanya’s Kitchen and The French Laundry showcase the state's commitment to innovative and high-quality cuisine. Indiana’s food landscape, while different, has its charm with home-style comfort foods dominating. The pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try, and for a true taste of Indiana, visiting establishments like St. Elmo Steak House offers an authentic experience. Both states provide unique culinary adventures, promising to be a feast for the senses.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Indiana Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical factor in relocating, making it essential to understand how California and Indiana compare in aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle amenities. This comparison aims to provide clarity and assist in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | California | Indiana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish | Colonial, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to the ocean, Energy-efficient features | Large yards, Proximity to schools |
Choosing between California and Indiana involves weighing distinct lifestyles and housing markets. California's real estate boasts modern and Spanish architectural styles and is priced significantly higher, reflecting its coastal living and energy-efficient homes, catering to those who prioritize proximity to the ocean and an urban lifestyle. Conversely, Indiana offers more affordable housing with traditional Colonial and Ranch styles, emphasizing larger yards and schools close by. This makes Indiana appealing for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle with a focus on community and family-friendly amenities.
California vs. Indiana Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather in California compared to Indiana might affect you is crucial when planning a move. This comparison will highlight climatic differences, helping you adjust to your new environment.
California
Indiana
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
Indiana
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
Indiana
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
Indiana
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | Indiana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Varies widely, generally moderate | Generally good, urban areas can be moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornados, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both California and Indiana enjoy warm summers, the winter season brings a stark contrast, with Indiana experiencing significantly colder temperatures and more snowfall. Interestingly, while both states deal with natural disasters, the types they encounter differ, with California being prone to earthquakes and wildfires, whereas Indiana faces tornados and floods. Another noteworthy aspect is the higher annual humidity and fewer days of sunshine in Indiana, which might require some adjustments if you're moving from the generally sunnier and drier California.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Indiana
When relocating from one state to another, observing the financial landscape can significantly impact your decision-making. By comparing key economic factors, you'll understand how the cost of living and financial opportunities in California stack up against those in Indiana, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
| Comparison | California | Indiana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $66,785 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 92.95 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3% | 3.23% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 0.87% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.68% | 7.00% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Relocating from California to Indiana, you'll discover significant cost of living differences. For example, the average household income in California is higher, but so is the cost of living. Indiana offers a more affordable housing market, with a lower cost of living index and consistent state income tax rate. Notably, both states share agriculture as a key industry but diverge with California's strong presence in technology and entertainment versus Indiana's focus on manufacturing and healthcare. Understanding these differences will enable you to better navigate your financial transition.
California vs. Indiana Political & Religious Comparison
In this quick comparison, we explore the comparison of the politics between California & Indiana , alongside a glance at the prevailing religious beliefs of each state's residents. This overview aims to furnish you with an at-a-glance understanding of the political and religious landscape you're moving from and to.
| California | Indiana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Conservative/Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive urban centers | Conservative with progressive pockets |
| Religion | Multicultural and diverse | Predominantly Christian |
When considering the political and religious makeup of California and Indiana, you'll encounter distinct differences. California is known for its liberal stance and progressive politics, especially in urban areas, contributing to a diverse and multicultural environment which supports a wide array of religions and beliefs. On the other hand, Indiana leans more conservative, with a largely Christian population influencing its local politics, although you'll find progressive pockets, particularly in academic communities and urban neighborhoods. Understanding these dynamics will help you anticipate and adapt to the cultural shift as you make your move.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Indiana
Moving across state lines entails a load of considerations, especially when it comes to education for your family. To aid your decision-making, we’ve compared the educational landscapes of California and Indiana, focusing on schools and districts. The purpose of this chart is to better understand the comparisons between school options in California and Indiana.
| California | Indiana |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) UCLA UC Berkeley Stanford UniversityIndiana University Purdue University University of Notre Dame | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Waldorf School of Peninsula (Los Altos) Hollywood Schoolhouse (Los Angeles) The Nueva School (Hillsborough)Signature School Inc. (Evansville) West Lafayette Community School Corporation (West Lafayette) Fall Creek Elementary (Fishers) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools The Nueva School (Hillsborough) The Mirman School (Los Angeles) Castilleja School (Palo Alto)West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School (West Lafayette) Brown County Junior High (Nashville) Fall Creek Junior High (Fishers) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto) Troy High School (Fullerton) Whitney High School (Cerritos)Signature School Inc. (Evansville) Carmel High School (Carmel) West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School (West Lafayette) | |
Top 3 private high schools The Thacher School (Ojai) Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The College Preparatory School (Oakland)Culver Academies (Culver) Park Tudor School (Indianapolis) Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (Indianapolis) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Nueva School (Hillsborough) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica) Head-Royce School (Oakland)Traders Point Christian Academy (Whitestown) University High School of Indiana (Carmel) The Orchard School (Indianapolis) | |
Top 3 School Districts Palo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District Irvine Unified School DistrictCarmel Clay Schools West Lafayette Community School Corporation Zionsville Community Schools | |
When comparing educational opportunities between California and Indiana, it's evident that both states offer exceptional choices for families. In California, institutions like UCLA and Stanford University highlight the state's strong emphasis on higher education excellence. Meanwhile, Indiana's notable institutions, including Purdue University and University of Notre Dame, showcase a commitment to producing distinguished professionals. Noteworthy is California's The Nueva School, a leader in innovative education for grades pre-K through 12, compared to Indiana's Signature School Inc., the state's standout for combining rigorous academics with a diverse curriculum. Whether seeking top-tier elementary education or distinguished high schools, both states cater to a range of educational preferences with their excellent districts and private institutions.
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