Best Chicago to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 184 mile move from Illinois to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 49 Chicago 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago 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 Chicago to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.81 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 184 miles from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $1,938 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Indianapolis move is roughly $4,627. 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 | $1,307 | 300 ft³ | 4.36 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,938 | 450 ft³ | 4.31 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,192 | 750 ft³ | 4.26 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,627 | 1100 ft³ | 4.21 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,650 | 1600 ft³ | 4.16 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,391 | 1800 ft³ | 4.11 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Indianapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (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) |
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.
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
When moving to a new city, it's helpful to find a piece of your old home in your new location. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Indianapolis, IN . Discover neighborhoods in Indianapolis that mirror the essence of your Chicago favorites, making the unfamiliar familiar.
| Chicago | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Broad Ripple | Vibrant arts and dining scene |
| Wicker Park | Fountain Square | Creative and eclectic vibe |
| The Loop | Downtown Indianapolis | Urban core, historic landmarks |
| Gold Coast | Meridian-Kessler | Historic homes, upscale living |
| Old Town | Irvington | Charming architecture, strong community |
| River North | Mass Ave | Bustling nightlife, trendy restaurants |
| Andersonville | Lockerbie Square | Quaint, historic neighborhood feel |
| Hyde Park | Woodruff Place | Lush landscapes, grand homes |
| South Loop | Wholesale District | Entertainment options, high-rise living |
| Logan Square | Garfield Park | Cultural attractions, historic homes |
If you're moving from Chicago's Lincoln Park with its lush green spaces and thriving arts scene, you'll find a similar spirit in Broad Ripple, where local galleries, vibrant murals, and the Monon Trail await your exploration. Wicker Park residents will feel at home in Fountain Square, where HI-FI Indy hosts live music that rivals Chicago's Double Door. For those accustomed to The Loop's urban buzz, Downtown Indianapolis offers an array of historic sites like the Indiana Historical Society and the iconic Monument Circle. Meanwhile, Gold Coast's blend of luxury and historic charm finds a match in Meridian-Kessler, noted for its prestigious homes along Meridian Street. Each neighborhood's unique offerings, from Irvington's storied streets to the artistic pulse of Mass Ave, ensure that no matter where you're from, you can find a slice of home in Indianapolis.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Indianapolis
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN. By examining the cons related to Chicago and the corresponding pros in Indianapolis, as well as the pros of Chicago against the cons in Indianapolis, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from your new home.
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Colder winters
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
Indianapolis, IN- More affordable
- Milder winters
- Less congestion
- Spacious living
Indianapolis, IN- Quieter city
- Less diversity
- Fewer attractions
- Car-dependent
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse food scene
- Rich cultural attractions
- Better public transit
While Indianapolis offers a more relaxed pace of life with its spacious living and reduced cost of living, it’s not without its trade-offs. For instance, you might find the quieter city a stark contrast to Chicago's vibrant nightlife, where venues like The Chicago Theatre offer entertainment galore. Similarly, food enthusiasts moving from Chicago’s diverse culinary scene might miss the vast array of dining options, though Indianapolis has its gems like Milktooth for brunch lovers. Cultural attractions and the ease of public transit in Chicago are unmatched, with iconic sights like The Art Institute of Chicago. However, Indianapolis compensates with charming neighborhood parks and less congestion, making day-to-day life less stressful and more connected to nature.
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
Considering moving and worried about missing out on your favorite dishes? This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Indianapolis . Food significantly shapes the local culture and your living experience. Compare these two food scenes to feel right at home in your new city.
| Chicago | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Sugar Cream Pie |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-Style Hot Dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan | Tempeh |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move from Chicago to Indianapolis, you'll find that both cities boast vibrant foodie cultures, each with its unique vibes. In Indianapolis, neighborhoods like Broad Ripple and Fountain Square offer eclectic dining experiences perfect for exploring local flavors. At the iconic St. Elmo Steak House, you can savor the city's arguably best steak or dive into the culinary creativity at Bluebeard, housed in a renovated warehouse. Whereas Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, Indianapolis prides itself on the tender, crispy Pork Tenderloin Sandwich - a must-try for any new resident. No matter the city, adventurous eaters and those who appreciate the culinary arts will find themselves at home.
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
When moving to a new city, finding places that make it feel like home is essential, especially when it comes to dining out. This restaurant comparison between Chicago and Indianapolis is designed to help you discover your next favorite eateries, using your current Chicago favorites as a guide. Whether you're in search of high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic food experiences, this guide has got you covered.
| Chicago | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Bluebeard | Avant-garde New American cuisine |
| Giordano's | Giorgio's Pizza | Classic deep-dish Chicago-style pizza |
| Girl & The Goat | Bluebeard | Inventive and eclectic dishes |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | The Mug | Traditional American diner experience |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | St. Elmo Steak House | Renowned for steaks and seafood |
| The Purple Pig | Bar One Fourteen | Adventurous small plates |
| Gene & Jude's | King Dough | High-quality ingredients in a casual setting |
| Publican | Tinker Street | Seasonal and local New American dishes |
| Roister | Beholder | Bold flavors and unique combinations |
| Duck Duck Goat | Yokohama | Japanese cuisine with a modern twist |
In your quest for culinary delights that reminisce the vibrant Chicago food scene, Indianapolis offers a variety of options that cater to every palate. For fans of deep-dish pizza reminiscent of Giordano's, Giorgio's Pizza in Indianapolis brings the Windy City's iconic dish to life with their carefully crafted, cheesy, and saucy pies. Meanwhile, if Alinea's innovative dining has been a cornerstone of your Chicago experiences, you'll find a similar avant-garde approach to cuisine at Bluebeard, where the menu is always fresh and inventive. And for those evenings when nothing but a steak will do, St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis mirrors the quality and ambiance of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, providing a similarly exceptional dining experience centered around premium meats and exceptional service. Indianapolis proves that moving away from Chicago doesn't mean leaving behind the rich and diverse dining options you've come to love.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role in relocating, making it essential to understand how the cities of Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN compare in terms of housing. This comparison spans cost, architecture style, and lifestyle qualities, providing a comprehensive view to aid your move.
| Comparison | Chicago | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern & Historic Mix | Midwestern with Victorian Influences |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Nearby amenities, Lake views | Spacious yards, Proximity to highways |
While Chicago presents a mix of modern and historical architecture, offering stunning lake views and vibrant urban life, Indianapolis provides a more laid-back Midwestern feel with Victorian architectural influences, showcasing more spacious living arrangements and a quieter urban atmosphere. The difference in the median home price and rent between the two cities reflects the cost of living, with Chicago being notably higher. The bikeability and walkability scores also indicate that Chicago offers a more accessible urban lifestyle compared to Indianapolis, factoring in the overall urban lifestyle score. These differences outline the unique living experiences, making it crucial to consider your lifestyle preferences when choosing between the two cities.
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another often means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather in Chicago compares to Indianapolis can help you prepare better for your relocation. This comparison will allow you to adjust expectations and plan accordingly.
Chicago, IL
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Extreme Cold | Tornadoes, Severe Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Chicago and Indianapolis share similar temperatures during summer, the winter months are slightly colder in Chicago. However, it's worth noting that Indianapolis experiences a higher annual rainfall and fewer days of sunshine. This could mean a slight adjustment for those used to the drier climate of Chicago. Moreover, while both cities deal with pollen and mold as top seasonal allergies, Indianapolis is more prone to severe weather events like tornadoes. Considering these differences is vital for a smooth transition between these two cities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Indianapolis
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare how your financial situation might change. This comparison will help you understand the differences in cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN, ensuring you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Chicago | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 3.23 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.12 | 0.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 7.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Technology |
| Affluence | Varied | Moderate |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lesser |
When you look closer at the differences between Chicago and Indianapolis, the contrast in cost of living and taxes stands out. Chicago's higher average household income might look appealing, but it's paired with a higher cost of living and taxes, including property and sales tax. Indianapolis, on the other hand, offers a more affordable living situation with lower taxes, which could mean more disposable income at the end of the month. The variation in the top industries between these cities suggests different job market dynamics, which could be a critical factor depending on your career. Understanding these differences will assist you in making a financially sound decision on your move.
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Chicago to Indianapolis brings a variety of changes, including in the political and religious landscapes. This snapshot provides a comparison of the politics and religion between Chicago & Indianapolis , giving you a quick understanding of what to expect in your new home.
| Chicago | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | More politically diverse |
| Local Politics | Liberal policies | Mixed liberal and conservative |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Catholic presence | Diverse, Protestant majority |
When moving from Chicago to Indianapolis, you'll notice a shift from a heavily Democratic city to one with a more politically diverse landscape. Indianapolis has a unique blend, where local politics might reflect a mix of liberal and conservative viewpoints, contrasted against Chicago's traditionally liberal policies. In terms of religion, both cities offer diversity, but where Chicago has a significant Catholic community, in Indianapolis, you might find a stronger Protestant presence. Adjusting to these differences can be an exciting part of your relocation journey.
Chicago vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN? One critical aspect to consider is the difference in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Indianapolis will provide you with the insights needed to navigate your new city like a pro.
| Comparison | Chicago | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
Moving from the bustling streets of Chicago to the more laid-back roads of Indianapolis means adjusting to a significant shift in your daily commute. Chicago offers an extensive public transit system, rated highly in the nation, allowing residents to navigate the city without a vehicle comfortably. This contrasts with Indianapolis, where the public transit options are far more limited, making car ownership almost essential for daily life. Furthermore, while the average commute time in Chicago might be longer, the traffic congestion in Indianapolis tends to be less severe, allowing for a smoother driving experience.
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