Best San Diego to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,079 mile move from California to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 San Diego 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego 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 San Diego to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.81 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,079 miles from San Diego, CA to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $3,549 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Indianapolis move is roughly $8,566. 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 | $2,381 | 300 ft³ | 7.94 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,549 | 450 ft³ | 7.89 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,878 | 750 ft³ | 7.84 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,566 | 1100 ft³ | 7.79 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,379 | 1600 ft³ | 7.74 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,837 | 1800 ft³ | 7.69 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Indianapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (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) |
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.
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can feel overwhelming, especially when you're moving to a city as vibrant and diverse as Indianapolis from San Diego. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Indianapolis, IN . This guide aims to match you with an Indianapolis neighborhood that shares the same vibe and amenities as your San Diego favorite, making the unknown familiar.
| San Diego | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Meridian-Kessler | Historic, upper-scale living |
| Pacific Beach | Broad Ripple | Vibrant nightlife, river proximity |
| North Park | Fletcher Place | Trendy eateries, arts scene |
| Hillcrest | Mass Ave | LGBTQ+ friendly, eclectic shops |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Fountain Square | Lively entertainment, historic charm |
| Little Italy | Lockerbie Square | Cozy eateries, historic ambiance |
| Ocean Beach | Irvington | Bohemian spirit, community feel |
| Del Mar | Zionsville | Quaint downtown, luxury living |
| Carmel Valley | Carmel | Family-friendly, high-ranking schools |
| Mission Hills | Old Northside | Historic homes, tree-lined streets |
For residents accustomed to the coastal luxury of La Jolla, Indianapolis' Meridian-Kessler neighborhood offers a similar upscale experience with its historic homes and leafy, well-manicured streets. If the arts and trendy dining spots of North Park are what you're missing, Fletcher Place in Indianapolis will charm you with its innovative restaurants and vibrant cultural scene. And for those who love the eclectic shops and LGBT-friendly atmosphere of Hillcrest, Mass Ave presents a dynamic mix of independent boutiques, theatres, and rainbow flags that create a welcoming spirit for all. While moving cities can involve a significant adjustment, discovering Indianapolis through the lens of familiar San Diego neighborhoods might just make you feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Indianapolis
Moving can be a significant life event, packed with both excitement and trepidation. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Indianapolis, IN . By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, we hope to offer a balanced view that will help make your decision a little easier.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Crowded beaches
- Competitive job market
- Limited seasons
Indianapolis, IN- Lower cost of living
- Less crowded parks
- Emerging job opportunities
- Distinct seasons
Indianapolis, IN- Landlocked city
- Cold, snowy winters
- Quieter nightlife
- More limited options
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Mild winters
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
While the prospect of moving from the sunny coasts of San Diego to the heartland of Indianapolis might seem daunting, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm and community spirit of the Midwest. Indianapolis boasts beautiful, less crowded parks such as Eagle Creek Park, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. The city's burgeoning culinary scene, highlighted by establishments like Milktooth for a unique brunch experience, is gradually carving out a niche for itself. Costs of living are significantly lower, making desirable neighborhoods such as Broad Ripple not just dream locations but attainable realities. While winters may indeed bring more snow than San Diego's mild climate, they also introduce a variety of seasonal activities like ice skating at the Indy Fuel Tank or immersive holiday markets in the downtown area, fostering a close-knit community vibe.
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Indianapolis, highlighting the significance of food in understanding the cultural vibe and living experience of an area. It aims to provide a clearer picture of the food scene to those considering relocation.
| San Diego | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Smoked Pork Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Elote |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from San Diego to Indianapolis, you’ll notice a shift in the culinary landscape. San Diego is famed for its fresh fish tacos and a robust Mexican influence, with neighborhoods like Ocean Beach home to iconic joints like Hodad's for a quintessential California burger experience. On the other hand, Indianapolis celebrates the Midwest's hearty flavors, best represented by a crispy pork tenderloin sandwich. The food scene in Indianapolis, while more meat-centric with places like St. Elmo Steak House setting the standard, is evolving to include a wider array of options including vegan and international cuisines, evident in the diverse menu at places like Bluebeard. Though Indianapolis might seem less fitness and health-conscious at first glance, the city is home to a growing number of vegan eateries and health-centric initiatives, revealing a dynamic food scene that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering places to dine that remind you of home. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Indianapolis aims to help you locate your next favorite spot, ensuring a smoother transition to your new surroundings.
| San Diego | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Bluebeard | Contemporary cuisine with a creative twist |
| Phil’s BBQ | King Ribs BBQ | Authentic barbecue experience |
| George’s at the Cove | Eagle’s Nest | Iconic views with fine dining |
| Luigi’s at the Beach | Diavola | Cozy Italian with pizza and pastas |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Tortas Guicho Dominguez y El Cubanito | Flavorful Mexican cuisine |
| Fish Market | Caplinger's Fresh Catch | Fresh seafood offerings |
| Craft & Commerce | The Libertine Liquor Bar | Eclectic menu with craft cocktails |
| Hodad’s | Workingman’s Friend | Legendary burgers in a casual setting |
| Mister A’s | The Capital Grille | Upscale dining with a view |
| Kindred | Black Market | Unique vegan and vegetarian options |
For those who crave the creative and modern cuisine Juniper & Ivy offers in San Diego, Bluebeard in Indianapolis presents a similar allure with its innovative dishes and relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere. BBQ lovers transitioning from Phil’s BBQ will find a hearty welcome at King Ribs BBQ, where the smoked meats and homestyle sides speak the universal language of comfort food. And for the times when only the freshest seafood will do, Caplinger's Fresh Catch in Indianapolis serves up a taste of the ocean that rivals San Diego's Fish Market. Each establishment not only provides a reminiscent dining experience but also introduces you to the local flavors that define Indianapolis, allowing you to start weaving new food traditions into your life.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current city to your future home is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and livability between San Diego and Indianapolis ensures you make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and budget.
| Comparison | San Diego | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Colonial, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean Views, Outdoor Living | Spacious Yards, Proximity to Downtown |
Moving from San Diego to Indianapolis, you'll find a stark difference in housing costs, with median home prices and rent significantly lower in Indianapolis. This could lead to more disposable income or the opportunity to invest in a larger property. Architectural styles also vary greatly, with San Diego homes often featuring Spanish Colonial and modern designs while Indianapolis homes tick towards Colonial and Craftsman styles. Though San Diego scores higher in terms of urban lifestyle, indicating a more vibrant city life, the affordability and spaciousness of Indianapolis properties offer a different, but equally appealing, quality of life. Moreover, Indianapolis's emphasis on spacious yards and close proximity to downtown in real estate listings highlights the city's appeal to those seeking a balance between urban and suburban living.
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another brings a plethora of changes, and understanding how the weather in San Diego compares to Indianapolis is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment by knowing what to expect in terms of climate variations.
San Diego, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Tornadoes, Severe Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Diego to Indianapolis, you'll notice a significant difference in winter temperatures and precipitations. Indianapolis experiences a true four-season climate, which includes cold winters with substantial snowfall—a sharp contrast to San Diego's mild and relatively dry winters. Additionally, while both cities enjoy a fair amount of sunshine, San Diego boasts significantly more sunny days, offering more opportunities for year-round outdoor activities. Lastly, adapting to the potential for severe storms and tornadoes in Indianapolis will be crucial, compared to San Diego, where wildfires and earthquakes are more common concerns.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Indianapolis
When considering a move from one city to another, grasping the financial landscape of your new locale is crucial. If your journey is taking you from San Diego to Indianapolis , this comparison provides a clear snapshot of what to expect in terms of cost of living , taxes , income , and more. Understanding these differences can help you budget and plan more effectively for your relocation.
| Comparison | San Diego | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 3.23 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 0.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, Tourism, International Trade | Manufacturing, Health Care & Social Services, Retail Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate-Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
The table sheds light on key financial aspects that significantly influence quality of life when relocating. For example, San Diego has a notably higher average household income compared to Indianapolis. However, the cost of living index in San Diego is almost double that of Indianapolis. This might seem daunting, but considering California's high state income tax rates alongside Indiana's flat rate, your net income might stretch further in Indianapolis, despite the initial income drop. Furthermore, the housing and sales tax rates between the two cities offer a mixed bag, but the overall lower cost of living in Indianapolis could offset potential tax increases you might experience. Additionally, the primary industries in each city reveal the economic diversity and job opportunities you could explore, which is critical when moving. While the figures on poverty and homelessness provide a snapshot of the local socio-economic environment, delving into this information can help you prepare more comprehensively for your move.
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
This quick guide aims to provide a snapshot of the comparison of the politics between San Diego & Indianapolis , focusing on the political and religious makeup of their residents. Whether you're curious about your future neighbors or want to find your community, this comparison might offer some insight.
| San Diego | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | More balanced, but leans Republican in broader state context |
| Local Politics | Progressive on environmental and social issues | Mixed, with emphasis on economic development |
| Religion | Diverse; significant Catholic and non-religious populations | Diverse; strong Protestant presence with growing non-religious demographics |
San Diego's political scene is notably progressive, especially on environmental and social fronts, reflecting its community's strong advocacy for sustainable practices and equality. On the other hand, Indianapolis presents a more balanced political landscape, often mirrored in its focus on economic development and infrastructure, yet it maintains a diversity in religious beliefs with a notable presence of Protestant denominations. Both cities welcome diversity in beliefs and political thought, providing a rich tapestry of viewpoints and cultures. Understanding these dynamics can help you find your place and community in your new city.
San Diego vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another often requires adapting to new daily commutes and traffic conditions. This comparison aims to provide a clearer understanding of what the daily commute and traffic is like, by contrasting the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Indianapolis. Knowing these differences will help you better prepare for life in your new city.
| Comparison | San Diego | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
In San Diego, while the average commute time is slightly less than in Indianapolis, traffic congestion tends to be higher. However, San Diego compensates for this with a more robust public transit system, including services like San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and the North County Transit District (NCTD). Getting around without a car is manageable, albeit challenging. On the other hand, Indianapolis, with its less congested roads, has a less extensive public transit system, making daily life without a car more difficult. Although Indianapolis is part of the IndyGo bus system, the coverage and frequency are lesser compared to San Diego's offerings. Understanding these nuances will help you plan your daily routines and adapt more quickly to your new city.
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