Best Indianapolis to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Indianapolis to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,102 mile move from Indiana to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Indianapolis to Irvine 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 Terry Moving & Storage), 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 Indianapolis compared to Irvine. 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 Indianapolis to Irvine Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
3 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.81 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | You Move Me Indianapolis | 8.75 | 8.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Indianapolis to Irvine
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,102 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,569 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Irvine move is roughly $8,614. 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 | $2,394 | 300 ft³ | 7.98 |
1 Bedroom | $3,569 | 450 ft³ | 7.93 |
2 Bedrooms | $5,910 | 750 ft³ | 7.88 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,614 | 1100 ft³ | 7.83 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,449 | 1600 ft³ | 7.78 |
5+ Bedrooms | $13,915 | 1800 ft³ | 7.73 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Indianapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Irvine Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |

Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |

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) |

You Move Me Indianapolis
Speedway, IN, 46224
About You Move Me Indianapolis
You Move Me Indianapolis is a professional moving company founded in September 2012 with the goal of revolutionizing the local moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Senior Moving
- Premium Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3821121 / 1382732 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2022) |

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.
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, it can be comforting to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We will compare popular neighborhoods between Indianapolis, IN & Irvine, CA to find the closest similarities, easing your transition.
Indianapolis | Irvine | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Broad Ripple | Woodbridge | Vibrant community life |
Meridian-Kessler | Turtle Rock | Upscale homes, green spaces |
Fletcher Place | Quail Hill | Scenic views, dining options |
Fall Creek Place | Northwood | Family-friendly, community parks |
Butler-Tarkington | University Park | Educational institutions nearby |
Irvington | Woodbury | Historic charm, modern amenities |
Mass Ave | Irvine Spectrum | Retail and entertainment hub |
Bates-Hendricks | Portola Springs | Nature and community focus |
Lockerbie Square | Shady Canyon | Exclusive, architectural interest |
Cottage Home | Pavilion Park | Quaint, close-knit atmosphere |
Exploring neighborhoods like Broad Ripple in Indianapolis, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene, you'll find a similar vibrancy in Irvine's Woodbridge area, where community events and local dining shine. If you're transitioning from the historic charm and mature landscapes of Meridian-Kessler, you'll appreciate the upscale homes and extensive greenbelts in Turtle Rock. Meanwhile, Mass Ave's eclectic blend of theatres, art galleries, and eateries finds its counterpart in the Irvine Spectrum, a bustling retail and entertainment hub. Each Irvine neighborhood reflects a piece of what makes Indianapolis neighborhoods unique—whether it's through community focus, natural beauty, or the architectural charm—ensuring you find a new place to call home that resonates with familiar comforts.

Things to Do in Irvine
- Hike at Irvine Regional Park
- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Irvine
Moving from one city to another offers a unique opportunity to weigh the good with the bad, providing an honest reflection of what each location has to offer. This comparison between Indianapolis, IN and Irvine, CA is designed to help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of relocating, ensuring you make an informed decision.
- Lower job growth
- Colder winters
- Less diverse cuisine
- Smaller tech industry
- Lower average income
- Higher job growth
- Warm winters
- Global cuisine
- Larger tech industry
- Higher average income
- Expensive housing
- Faster pace
- Heavier traffic
- Denser living
- Less historical sites
- Affordable housing
- Relaxed lifestyle
- Easy traffic
- Wide open spaces
- Rich cultural history
While Indianapolis boasts more affordable living and an easygoing lifestyle, Irvine offers a dynamic job market and global cuisine that's hard to match. For those moving to Irvine, embrace the chance to dine at places like Din Tai Fung for world-renowned dumplings or enjoy the great outdoors at the Orange County Great Park. Though you might find the housing market and daily pace in Irvine challenging, the city's tech job opportunities, higher income potential, and year-round warm weather present a bright future. Additionally, Irvine's commitment to green living with multiple neighborhood parks, such as the Quail Hill Trailhead, offers a great environment for both work and play.
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis, IN & Irvine, CA is vital as food greatly reflects the local culture and living experience of an area. By examining the food scenes, you'll be better informed about the culinary delights awaiting you in your new city.
Indianapolis | Irvine | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | California Burrito |
Most popular meat dish | Beef Manhattan | Grilled Fish Tacos |
Most popular street food item | Popcorn | Banh Mi |
Most popular vegan food | Grain Bowl | Vegan Ramen |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Irvine, CA from Indianapolis, IN, you'll notice a distinct shift in the local food scene towards more health-conscious and diverse options. Irvine's strong health and fitness culture is reflected in its restaurant offerings, with greater availability of fresh, locally sourced produce, and a vibrant vegan scene that includes popular items like vegan ramen. The abundance of food trucks and a lively foodie scene ensure you'll always find something new and delicious to try. Whether you're exploring the rich culinary traditions of Taco Rosa or the innovative dishes at Oak Grill, Irvine's dining landscape is a testament to California's ever-evolving food culture.
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can truly make a new city feel like home. If you're moving from Indianapolis to Irvine, this restaurant comparison chart will ease your transition. Our guide uses Indianapolis restaurants as a reference to discover comparable spots in Irvine, ensuring you won't miss out on flavors you love.
Indianapolis | Irvine | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
St. Elmo Steak House | Houston's | Classic steakhouse vibes |
Bluebeard | Bosscat Kitchen & Libations | Inventive American cuisine |
Milktooth | Plush Karaoke Lounge & Restaurant | Unique brunch experience |
The Eagle | Bruxie | Best for chicken and waffles |
Cafe Patachou | Le Diplomate Cafe | Comfort food favorite |
Goose The Market | Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee | For top-tier sandwiches and snacks |
Rook | AnQi by House of AN | Asian fusion with a modern twist |
Bazbeaux Pizza | Pizza 900 | Authentic wood-fired pizza |
Beholder | North Italia | For a modern and innovative menu |
Festiva | Taco Rosa | Authentic Mexican with a gourmet twist |
In the process of exploring Irvine's dining scene, you’ll find places like Houston's that offer a steakhouse atmosphere reminiscent of St. Elmo Steak House but with its unique California flair. Venturing into Bosscat Kitchen & Libations will remind you of the cutting-edge American cuisine you loved at Bluebeard, but with a distinctive Southern California innovation. And for those mornings when nothing but a comforting brunch will do, Plush Karaoke Lounge & Restaurant provides an unconventional but memorable brunch experience akin to what Milktooth offered, combining great food with entertainment. Each restaurant listed not only captures the essence of your Indianapolis favorites but also serves as a window into Irvine's vibrant and diverse culinary landscape.

Ready to start your move?
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
When preparing for a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This is especially true when comparing two distinctly different cities. Let's explore how Indianapolis and Irvine compare in terms of housing to facilitate your decision-making process.
Comparison | Indianapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Traditional, Mid-century | Modern, Mediterranean |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to downtown | Sustainability features, community amenities |
When diving deeper into the housing differences between Indianapolis and Irvine, several factors stand out. Indianapolis generally offers more affordable housing options, both in terms of home purchases and rentals. However, Irvine boasts a significantly higher walkability score, making it a great option for those who prefer to get around on foot. Irvine's architecture tends towards modern and Mediterranean styles, reflecting its upscale nature and focus on sustainability. Furthermore, Irvine's listings often highlight community amenities and green living options, catering to a lifestyle that's increasingly attractive to many homebuyers today.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding the climate differences is essential. Comparing the weather between Indianapolis, IN, and Irvine, CA offers a stark view into how your lifestyle may change. Knowing this can help you prepare for the new conditions waiting for you.
Indianapolis, IN
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Indianapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Tornados, Winter Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Indianapolis to Irvine means preparing for milder winters and enjoying more sunshine throughout the year. While both cities have relatively high summer temperatures, Irvine's winter temperatures are significantly warmer, making outdoor activities feasible year-round. Additionally, the difference in annual rainfall and the absence of snow in Irvine reflect a drier climate, reducing the need for winter gear but possibly requiring more frequent watering of your garden. Adapting to the different natural disaster risks, such as earthquakes and wildfires in Irvine, compared to tornados and winter storms in Indianapolis, will also require some preparation and education.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Irvine
Moving across the country involves a range of considerations, with financial implications being among the most crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how your expenses and income potentials might shift when relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Irvine, CA, highlighting the key aspects of the economic landscape you’re about to navigate.
Comparison | Indianapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $58,479 | $105,774 |
Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 3.23 | 9.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.87 | 0.76 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.00 | 7.75 |
Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail | Technology, Education, Health Services |
Affluence | Modest | High |
Poverty | Notable | Lower |
Homelessness | Evident | Managed |
When moving from Indianapolis to Irvine, you'll notice a significant jump in both the average household income and the cost of living. Irvine boasts a higher average income, reflecting its strong technology and health services job markets. However, the cost of living index is more than double that of Indianapolis, in part due to California's higher housing and utility costs. State income tax is another critical area where differences emerge, with California’s rate notably higher. Despite these financial adjustments, Irvine offers a high-affluence environment with a managed level of homelessness and a lower poverty rate, indicating a trade-off between higher costs and quality of life improvements.
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the differences in the political and religious makeup of residents as you move from Indianapolis, IN to Irvine, CA . This comparison should help you get a feel for the community vibe in both cities.
Indianapolis | Irvine | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Historically Republican, trending Democratic |
Local Politics | Diverse, with a balance of liberal and conservative views | Highly engaged community with emphasis on environmental policies and local governance |
Religion | Christian majority, with a growing presence of other faiths | Multi-faith community with significant numbers of Christians, Jews, Muslims, and Buddhists |
While both Indianapolis and Irvine lean towards Democratic values in federal elections, there's a nuanced local political landscape that you'll encounter. Indianapolis enjoys a balanced set of liberal and conservative perspectives, reflecting its Midwestern roots. Irvine, however, has seen a shift in its historically Republican leanings, now demonstrating strong Democratic support, particularly with a focus on environmental and sustainable living policies. Religion in both cities showcases diversity, but Irvine stands out with its multi-faith community that actively engages in interfaith dialogues, symbolizing the city's inclusive and diverse cultural fabric.
Indianapolis vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making the move from Indianapolis, IN to Irvine, CA brings along changes in many aspects of life, one being your daily commute. This comparison is focused on giving you a better understanding of what the daily commute and traffic is like between Indianapolis & Irvine.
Comparison | Indianapolis | Irvine |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 25.5 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Challenging |
While the average commute time in Indianapolis and Irvine is quite similar, the experiences differ greatly due to various factors. In Indianapolis, the reliance on a car is almost a necessity, given the city's public transit system scores lower in availability. On the other hand, Irvine offers a better public transit system, making it a bit easier, though still challenging, to get by without a car. Traffic congestion in Irvine is also notably higher, which is indicative of its busier roads and can impact your daily commute time. Knowing this, planning your commute and considering alternative transit options can enhance your moving experience.



Additional Resources
Indianapolis Moving Services
Popular Indianapolis to California Routes
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