Best Des Moines to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 476 mile move from Iowa to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Des Moines to Indianapolis 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 Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.82 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 476 miles from Des Moines, IA to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $2,186 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Indianapolis move is roughly $5,234. 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 | $1,472 | 300 ft³ | 4.91 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,186 | 450 ft³ | 4.86 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,606 | 750 ft³ | 4.81 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,234 | 1100 ft³ | 4.76 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,532 | 1600 ft³ | 4.71 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,384 | 1800 ft³ | 4.66 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Indianapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Adamantine Spine Moving
2815 36th St
Des Moines, IA, 50310
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
Best Move Inc
Burlington, IA, 52601
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...
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (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) |
Hemmen Moving
1293 W Ave
Ames, IA, 50014
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...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (2023) |
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.
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we're providing a comparison between popular neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA & Indianapolis, IN . This comparison will help you find a new neighborhood in Indianapolis that closely matches the vibe and lifestyle of your current Des Moines neighborhood.
| Des Moines | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Broad Ripple | Active, community-centric |
| East Village | Mass Ave | Arts and entertainment hub |
| Waveland Park | Meridian-Kessler | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| Sherman Hill | Woodruff Place | Historic district, diverse architecture |
| Drake | Butler-Tarkington | Near university, vibrant community life |
| Highland Park | Fountain Square | Cultural, eclectic mix |
| Ingersoll Park | Irvington | Quiet, artsy, historic community |
| Southwestern Hills | Garfield Park | Green spaces, community-focused |
| Waterbury | Meridian Hills | Upscale, tranquil settings |
| Roosevelt | Fletcher Place | Historic charm, trendy eateries |
Each Des Moines neighborhood has its unique charm and appeal, and Indianapolis offers similarly vibrant communities to make you feel at home. For instance, Beaverdale's tight-knit community and bustling local scene find its counterpart in Broad Ripple, known for its active nightlife, local shops, and art scene. East Village residents will appreciate Mass Ave's lively entertainment options, boutique shopping, and thriving culinary scene, mirroring East Village's vibrant lifestyle. For those enjoying the historic ambiance and peaceful atmosphere of Sherman Hill, Woodruff Place in Indianapolis offers an equally rich history and stunning architectural diversity. Moreover, lovers of Des Moines' Highland Park's eclectic mix of culture and community will find a kindred spirit in Fountain Square, where art, music, and unique dining experiences combine to create a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Indianapolis
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, often marked by a complex blend of emotions and practical considerations. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Indianapolis, IN , ensuring you can make an informed decision about your upcoming move.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller city vibe
- Less cultural venues
- Lower job diversity
- Fewer major events
Indianapolis, IN- Larger city benefits
- More cultural diversity
- Greater employment options
- More significant events
Indianapolis, IN- Less personal feel
- More traffic
- Higher living costs
- Louder urban life
Des Moines, IA- Close-knit community
- Easy navigation
- Lower living costs
- Quiet neighborhoods
When moving from Des Moines to Indianapolis, you're transitioning from a smaller, more intimate city into a bustling metropolis rich with opportunities and activities. For example, Indianapolis's Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a marvel of interactive and educational exhibits, a significant step up from the more limited offerings in Des Moines. Furthermore, the thriving culinary scene in areas such as Mass Ave and Broad Ripple offer a diverse array of dining experiences, from cozy cafes like Coat Check Coffee to gourmet restaurants. While you may miss the quieter, more laid-back vibe and the lower cost of living of Des Moines, the vibrant neighborhoods, cultural diversity, and increased job opportunities in Indianapolis present an exciting new chapter full of possibilities.
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
When relocating, it's essential to understand the local culture, and food plays a significant role in this. With our comparison of local cuisine between Des Moines & Indianapolis , you'll be better informed about the culinary scene in your new city.
| Des Moines | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Shrimp Cocktail |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chops | Hoosier Tenderloin |
| Most popular street food item | Italian Beef Sandwich | Indian Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Des Moines, the iconic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich showcases the area's agricultural roots, best enjoyed at local diners and pubs across the city, such as the historical High Life Lounge. On the other hand, Indianapolis prides itself on its Shrimp Cocktail, especially at the famed St. Elmo Steak House, a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Both cities boast vibrant food scenes, with Indianapolis slighting ahead, particularly in terms of vegan offerings and health-conscious options. Indianapolis's Fletcher Place neighborhood, home to Bluebeard, is a gastronomic haven, offering a variety of sophisticated tastes and culinary experiences that reflect the city’s diverse culture.
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Des Moines and Indianapolis aims to assist in the quest for new favorite eateries, translating familiar flavors into a new culinary context. Whether craving high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide will help bridge the gap between two vibrant cities.
| Des Moines | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| 801 Chophouse | St. Elmo Steak House | Known for high-end steaks and elegant dining. |
| A Dong | Pho Vn Cuisine | Offers an authentic Vietnamese dining experience. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Kuma's Corner | Famous for creative burgers and a rock-themed environment. |
| Fong's Pizza | Goodfellas Pizzeria | Renowned for unique pizzas and a casual, lively atmosphere. |
| Centro | Napolese | Offers artisanal pizzas and Italian dishes in a chic setting. |
| La Mie Bakery | Amelia's | Comparable for its freshly baked breads and cozy cafe vibe. |
| Django | Bluebeard | Both restaurants excel in European-inspired culinary experiences. |
| Latin King | Livery | Offers a Latin-inspired menu with a contemporary twist. |
| Proof | Beholder | Both are known for their innovative dishes and upscale dining. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Sunken Ship | Celebrated for its craft beers and hearty pub fare. |
When you're exploring culinary options in Indianapolis, you'll find establishments that match the character and quality of Des Moines's dining scene. For example, St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis mirrors the prestige and culinary excellence of 801 Chophouse, making it a must-visit for steak enthusiasts. Similarly, the innovative and flavorful pizzas at Goodfellas Pizzeria are likely to remind you of the unique offerings at Fong's Pizza. While the ambiance and menu items may vary, the commitment to quality and memorable dining experiences remains the same, promising a smooth transition to your new culinary adventures in Indianapolis.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, evaluating real estate is crucial to understand how your lifestyle might change. This comparison focuses on important housing aspects between Des Moines, IA, and Indianapolis, IN, offering insights into each city's living conditions.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks | Historical districts |
Understanding the nuances between Des Moines and Indianapolis can help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your move. While home prices are slightly more affordable in Indianapolis, the trade-off is higher median rent compared to Des Moines. Interestingly, the architectural styles in each city reflect their unique histories—Colonial Revival in Des Moines signifying its older, more traditional roots and Victorian in Indianapolis pointing to its rich, historical charm. Walkability and bikeability scores also indicate a slightly more active and accessible urban lifestyle in Indianapolis. When looking at real estate listings, you'll notice a focus on proximity to parks in Des Moines, highlighting the city's emphasis on outdoor accessibility, whereas Indianapolis listings often boast about being located in or near historical districts, showcasing the city's deep-rooted heritage and vibrant culture.
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA, to Indianapolis, IN, it's crucial to understand how the weather Des Moines compares with Indianapolis. This comparison will help you adapt more smoothly to your new environment.
Des Moines, IA
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Tornadoes, Severe Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Des Moines to Indianapolis, you'll notice subtle differences in weather that could impact your daily life. Indianapolis experiences a slightly warmer winter with a few less days of snow annually, potentially making winter activities or commuting a bit easier. The slightly higher average annual UV index in Indianapolis suggests a tad more sun exposure, something to consider for outdoor activities and skin protection. Despite these differences, the moderate air quality and similar humidity levels in both cities mean that, for the most part, your adaptation should be smooth, especially with protective measures against seasonal allergies common to both locales.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Indianapolis
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a decision. This comparison will highlight the key differences in money and finance factors between Des Moines, IA and Indianapolis, IN, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Flat 3.23% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.55% | 0.87% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Healthcare | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately Lower |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
By examining the financial landscape of Des Moines and Indianapolis, you can see distinct differences that might influence your decision. The average household income in Des Moines is notably higher than in Indianapolis, which could be a deciding factor for some. However, it's also important to consider the cost of living and state income tax, where Indianapolis presents a flatter, potentially more predictable tax rate, despite a slightly higher cost of living index. Property taxes in Indianapolis are considerably lower, possibly making homeownership more accessible or affordable. These aspects, combined with the dominant industries in each city, could greatly impact your financial well-being and opportunities in these locations.
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Des Moines, IA to Indianapolis, IN, it's essential to grasp a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Des Moines & Indianapolis. This quick overview provides a glimpse into the political orientations and religious inclinations, offering a clearer understanding of the community landscape you're transitioning into.
| Des Moines | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with progressive elements | Moderate, with a history of bipartisan initiatives |
| Religion | Mixed, with a strong Christian presence | Religiously diverse, predominantly Christian |
Despite both cities leaning Democratic, the nuances in local politics are noteworthy. In Des Moines, progressive elements have started to shape the local political scene, reflecting a shifting demographic and changing attitudes. Meanwhile, Indianapolis boasts a history of bipartisan initiatives, showcasing a willingness to cross the aisle for the city's benefit. Religion in both cities is predominately Christian, but the religious landscape is comprehensive, fostering a diverse community that values various beliefs and practices. This melting pot of ideologies provides a rich cultural experience, blending traditional values with modern perspectives.
Des Moines vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Indianapolis, IN? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between these two cities will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like after the move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with some difficulty | Yes, but a car makes it easier |
The average commute time in Indianapolis is slightly longer than in Des Moines, suggesting that traversing Indianapolis might take a bit more planning during peak hours. Traffic congestion is also higher, reflecting its larger population and busier streets. While Des Moines has an emerging public transit system, Indianapolis offers slightly better accessibility to public transit, making it easier for residents without cars. However, possessing a vehicle in both cities could significantly enhance your mobility and reduce dependency on public transportation schedules.
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