Best Oakland to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,238 mile move from California to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Oakland to Indianapolis moving companies and more than 20,000 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 Oakland compared to Indianapolis. 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 Oakland to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.81 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Oakland to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,238 miles from Oakland, CA to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $3,684 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Indianapolis move is roughly $8,896. 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 and dropoff 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 movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,471 | 300 ft³ | 8.24 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,684 | 450 ft³ | 8.19 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,103 | 750 ft³ | 8.14 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,896 | 1100 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,860 | 1600 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,378 | 1800 ft³ | 7.99 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Indianapolis 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) |
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) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Soft Touch Moving
5136b E 65th St
Indianapolis, IN, 46220
About Soft Touch Moving
Soft Touch Moving has more than 20 years in the moving and relocation industry. It has consistently provided quality full-service moving,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 707793 / 331362 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2023) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
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.
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Deciding to move can feel like stepping into the unknown, but comparing familiar locales from your current city can ease the transition. This guide focuses on comparing local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Indianapolis, IN to help you find a new home that feels just right. By identifying similarities in atmosphere, culture, and amenities, you can start to picture your life in a new yet comfortably comparable neighborhood.
| Oakland | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Broad Ripple | Vibrant arts scene and eclectic dining options |
| Montclair | Meridian-Kessler | Quiet, tree-lined streets and family-friendly vibes |
| Piedmont Avenue | Mass Ave | Bustling with shops, restaurants, and nightlife |
| Temescal | Fountain Square | Hip and artsy atmosphere with a touch of historic charm |
| Jack London Square | Wholesale District | Waterfront views and entertainment hub |
| Grand Lake | Canal Walk | Gorgeous water views and pedestrian-friendly paths |
| West Oakland | Fletcher Place | Industrial past with a modern, creative edge |
| Lake Merritt | Eagle Creek | Natural beauty with parkland and outdoor activities |
| Glenview | Irvington | Historic architecture and a growing food scene |
| Dimond District | SoBro (South Broad Ripple) | Community-focused with a casual vibe |
In Broad Ripple, akin to Rockridge, you'll find a diverse array of restaurants and bars, mirroring the lively atmosphere of its Oakland counterpart. Both neighborhoods are celebrated for their walkability and cherished by locals for weekend brunches and evening excursions. If the historic charm and bustling streets of Piedmont Avenue draw you, Mass Ave in Indianapolis offers a similar experience—with an array of theaters, galleries, and boutiques set along a pedestrian-friendly avenue. Meanwhile, Eagle Creek echoes Lake Merritt's commitment to outdoor activities and green space, boasting extensive parklands that offer hiking, bird-watching, and watersports, promising a seamless transition for those who cherish the great outdoors. On the dining front, Fountain Square presents an array of artisanal eateries and live music venues, reminiscent of Temescal's vibrant food scene and thriving cultural community.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Indianapolis
Moving from one city to another can be a journey filled with both excitement and apprehension. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation from Oakland, CA to Indianapolis, IN . By comparing the cons and pros through detailed charts, you can have a clearer understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for your new life in Indianapolis.
Oakland, CA- High cost of living
- Congested traffic
- Less severe weather
- Frequent earthquakes
- Proximity to beaches
Indianapolis, IN- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Seasonal variety
- No earthquakes
- Accessible parks
Indianapolis, IN- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer food options
- Fewer tech jobs
- Less public transit
- Fewer landmarks
Oakland, CA- Vibrant cultural scene
- Diverse food options
- Tech job opportunities
- Extensive public transit
- Iconic landmarks
Each city brings its own unique set of advantages and challenges. For instance, although Oakland's high cost of living and congested traffic might discourage you, its vibrant cultural scene, diverse food options, and tech job opportunities are truly unmatched. Places like Jack London Square and Oakland Museum of California offer rich cultural experiences. On the other hand, Indianapolis welcomes you with a lower cost of living, less traffic, and beautiful seasonal changes. You'll enjoy a slower pace of life with access to beautiful parks such as Eagle Creek Park and historical sites like Indiana State Museum. Both cities offer unique benefits depending on what you value most in your lifestyle.
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Indianapolis, highlighting the significant role food plays in understanding and enjoying a new city's local culture. With this comparison, you can be better informed about the food scene in your new home.
| Oakland | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Prime Rib |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Impossible Burger | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Oakland to Indianapolis, you'll experience a distinct shift in culinary landscapes. Oakland's vibrant food scene is known for its innovation and diversity, with renowned restaurants such as Chez Panisse setting standards for farm-to-table dining. The city's streets brim with food trucks offering a tantalizing array of international flavors, reflecting its multicultural population. In contrast, Indianapolis presents a hearty Midwestern menu, with the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigning supreme. This city has also seen a burgeoning food scene, where establishments like St. Elmo Steak House have become culinary institutions. Whether seeking vegan delicacies or farm-fresh meals, both cities offer neighborhoods rich in culinary delights. Yet, each maintains its unique gastronomic identity, inviting you to explore local tastes and traditions.
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Embracing new culinary experiences is crucial when relocating, and this restaurant comparison aims to make Indianapolis feel like home by aligning with Oakland's dining scene. Find your new favorite eateries in Indianapolis, drawing from Oakland's vibrant food landscape.
| Oakland | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Vida | High-end dining with inventive plates |
| Burma Superstar | Chapati | Offers unique flavors akin to Burma Superstar |
| Wood Tavern | Bluebeard | Casual, yet upscale dining with a creative menu |
| Shakewell | Livery | Latin-inspired dishes in a lively atmosphere |
| Homeroom | Garfield Brewery | Casual and friendly vibe, known for their mac 'n' cheese |
| Laurel Hardware | The Eagle | Similar cozy atmosphere with great food |
| Pizzaiolo | King Dough | Artisanal pizzas that echo the commitment to quality |
| Mua | The Brass Ring Lounge | A place for cocktails and eclectic eats |
| Ramen Shop | Ramen Ray | Authentic ramen that rivals Ramen Shop's offerings |
| Fentons Creamery | Graeter's Ice Cream | Historic spot for unique ice cream flavors |
The transformation from Oakland to Indianapolis need not mean a compromise on your culinary favorites. For instance, those accustomed to the high-end, meticulously plated dishes of Commis in Oakland will find a similar level of creativity and quality at Vida, known for its innovative approach to dining. On the casual end, fans of Homeroom's beloved mac 'n' cheese will find solace in Garfield Brewery's homey vibe and equally comforting dishes. For pizza aficionados, King Dough offers artisanal pies that channel the quality and ethos of Pizzaiolo, ensuring that your quest for the perfect slice remains on track. Relocating doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love; it's about discovering their counterparts in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Comparing Oakland and Indianapolis will help you understand the differences in housing costs, styles, and the overall lifestyle you can expect in each city.
| Comparison | Oakland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Contemporary | Colonial and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Bay views, Proximity to public transit | Spacious yards, Family-friendly neighborhoods |
When moving from Oakland to Indianapolis, you'll notice significant changes in the housing market. Oakland's real estate is notably pricier, reflecting its demand and the high cost of living in much of California. You're likely to find homes with bay views and a strong emphasis on access to public transit. On the other hand, Indianapolis offers a more affordable housing market, with features like spacious yards and an emphasis on family-friendly neighborhoods highlighted in listings. This shift represents not just a change in economic landscape but lifestyle as well, from the vibrant, urban setting of Oakland to the more relaxed and spacious environment of Indianapolis.
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Oakland, CA to Indianapolis, IN, understanding how the weather compares between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes and better prepare for your new environment.
Oakland, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornadoes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Oakland to Indianapolis, you'll experience more distinct seasons, including warmer summers and much colder winters in Indianapolis. While Oakland enjoys a moderate climate year-round with minimal temperature fluctuations, Indianapolis experiences a wider range of temperatures, as well as greater annual snowfall, which is something to prepare for. Moreover, the shift in top seasonal allergies could impact your day-to-day life, depending on sensitivities. Anticipating these changes will help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Indianapolis
When planning a move from Oakland, CA to Indianapolis, IN, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're transitioning into. The comparison between Oakland and Indianapolis across various money-related aspects helps illuminate the cost adjustments you'll encounter. This understanding is key to a smoother relocation experience.
| Comparison | Oakland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (max) | 3.23 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 0.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varied |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Moving from Oakland to Indianapolis, you'll find the cost of living strikingly lower, particularly in housing, which is reflected in the indices. However, the average household income also dips in Indianapolis, balanced by Indiana's notably lower state income tax. Industries driving the economy of each city differ, hinting at varied job opportunities. In Oakland, technology takes the lead, while in Indianapolis, healthcare and manufacturing are dominant. This economic backdrop directly influences the city's affluence, poverty levels, and homelessness rates, underlining the importance of understanding how these dynamics might impact your personal financial situation post-move.
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Oakland & Indianapolis aims to provide a quick snapshot of both cities, focusing on the political and religious makeup of their residents. By understanding these differences, you can better anticipate the community dynamics of your new home.
| Oakland | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on progressive policies | Moderate with a mix of conservative and progressive attitudes |
| Religion | Diverse; strong Buddhist and Christian communities | Primarily Christian, with a variety of denominations represented |
When moving from Oakland to Indianapolis, you'll notice differences in the political and religious landscapes. Oakland, with its strong Democratic leaning, often emphasizes progressive policies. You might find the Bay Area's diverse religious background, including significant Buddhist and Christian communities, a contrast to Indianapolis's predominantly Christian population. Indianapolis, despite leaning Democratic, showcases a broader mix of political ideologies compared to Oakland, blending both conservative and progressive perspectives within its local politics. Understanding these nuances will help you engage more effectively with your new community.
Oakland vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When moving from Oakland, CA to Indianapolis, IN, it's crucial to understand how the daily commute and traffic will change. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Indianapolis will help acquaint you with what to expect and how to better navigate your new city.
| Comparison | Oakland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but it's challenging | No, a car is necessary |
In Oakland, the average commute time is significantly longer due to higher traffic congestion, making it an 8 out of 10 in terms of busyness on the roads. However, the availability of public transit scores a 7 out of 10, indicating a relatively robust system that you can rely on, although owning a car could simplify things. On the other hand, Indianapolis has lighter traffic with a congestion score of 4 out of 10, and an average commute time that's quicker. Yet, the city's public transit system is not as extensive, scoring only a 3 out of 10, making a car almost essential for getting around efficiently. This shift in necessity and convenience between the two cities offers a unique set of challenges and advantages when planning your daily commute.
Additional Resources
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