Best Indianapolis to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Indianapolis to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 183 mile move from Indiana to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 52 Indianapolis to Chicago 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 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 Indianapolis compared to Chicago. 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 Chicago 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 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.82 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | You Move Me Indianapolis | 8.75 | 8.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Indianapolis to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 183 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL will cost on average $1,937 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Chicago move is roughly $4,625. 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 | $1,306 | 300 ft³ | 4.35 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,937 | 450 ft³ | 4.30 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,191 | 750 ft³ | 4.25 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,625 | 1100 ft³ | 4.20 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,647 | 1600 ft³ | 4.15 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,387 | 1800 ft³ | 4.10 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Indianapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Chicago 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) |
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. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning to move and want to find familiar vibes in a new city, it helps to compare your current neighborhood to potential new ones. This guide uses Indianapolis, IN & Chicago, IL neighborhoods to help you transition smoothly, matching similar areas so you can feel right at home from day one.
| Indianapolis | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Broad Ripple | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife, artsy scene |
| Meridian-Kessler | Lakeview | Family-friendly, historic homes |
| Fountain Square | Logan Square | Booming with creative energy, dining |
| Carmel | Lincoln Park | Upscale, great parks |
| Fishers | Roscoe Village | Quiet, community-focused |
| Zionsville | Ravenswood | Charming, with a small-town feel |
| Nora | Andersonville | Diverse, rich culture |
| Mass Ave | Southport Corridor | Trendy shopping, dining |
| Irvington | Bucktown | Artsy, historic neighborhood |
| Eagle Creek | Hyde Park | Lush parks, cultural institutions |
Translating the charm of Indianapolis neighborhoods into the diverse landscape of Chicago, you'll find many parallels that make both cities unique yet comforting. For example, Broad Ripple's lively atmosphere resonates well with Wicker Park's vibrant culture and nightlife, offering a plethora of dining and entertainment options such as Subterranean for live music. Meridian-Kessler's historic homes find a match in Lakeview's quaint streets, where family-friendly parks like Lincoln Park provide a serene escape. Meanwhile, the artistic pulse of Fountain Square is mirrored in Logan Square's creative vibe, punctuated with unique venues like The Whistler for cocktails and art galleries. These connections highlight the seamless transition possible from Indianapolis to Chicago, allowing you to feel a sense of belonging in your new urban canvas.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Chicago
Moving cities is a significant decision, offering a blend of both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the move from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL , highlighting the positives and negatives inherent to such a relocation. Understanding these aspects will empower you to make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and aspirations.
Indianapolis, IN- Lower job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less public transit
- Smaller nightlife
Chicago, IL- Greater job market
- Larger cultural diversity
- Extensive public transit
- Vibrant nightlife
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Expensive housing
- Noisier environment
- Heavier traffic
Indianapolis, IN- Lower cost of living
- More affordable housing
- Quieter living
- Easier traffic
The move from Indianapolis to Chicago opens up opportunities for enhanced career growth due to Chicago's larger and more diverse job market. For those looking to immerse themselves in culture and nightlife, Chicago does not disappoint. With areas like the vibrant Wicker Park and the historically rich Logan Square, you will find an abundance of shops, museums, and restaurants to explore. However, the cost of living in Chicago is notably higher, with housing expenses surpassing those in Indianapolis. Traffic in Chicago can also be more congested, but the city's extensive public transit system, including the 'L' train and buses, provides effective alternatives to getting around the city. While every city has its pros and cons, Chicago's lively atmosphere and cultural offerings may very well justify the move.
Indianapolis vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food reflects the essence of a city's culture and lifestyle. In understanding what life might be like in a new place, considering the local cuisine is critical. This brief overview aims to highlight the comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Chicago , offering insight into each city's culinary scene, helping you to adapt more seamlessly to your new home.
| Indianapolis | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef Brisket | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When comparing the local cuisines of Indianapolis and Chicago, notable differences highlight each city's unique culinary identity. For instance, Chicago’s deep-dish pizza has earned international recognition and can be best experienced in renowned establishments like Lou Malnati’s. On the other hand, Indianapolis’ charming food scene is exemplified by comfort food classics, such as the pork tenderloin sandwich found at local favorites like Milktooth. Chicago's food scene is also distinguished by its diverse street foods, epitomized by the Chicago-style hot dog, a must-try experience along the bustling streets of neighborhoods like Wicker Park or The Loop. Furthermore, both cities show a growing trend in health consciousness and vegan-friendly options, making the move exciting for foodies of all tastes.
Indianapolis vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city is exciting, yet finding that perfect spot to dine can truly make a new city feel like home. This comparison chart will help you transition from Indianapolis, IN, to Chicago, IL, with ease, matching your favorite eateries to find your new favorite restaurants, making the move from Indianapolis to Chicago feel like home .
| Indianapolis | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Both are iconic for exquisite steaks and upscale dining experiences. |
| Bluebeard | avec | Innovative, family-style Mediterranean dining mirrors Bluebeard's creativity and atmosphere. |
| Milktooth | Lula Cafe | Both considered brunch kings, offering a unique twist on morning classics with locally sourced ingredients. |
| The Eagle | Roister | Similar in serving hearty, comfort food in a relaxed, yet sophisticated setting. |
| Shapiro’s Delicatessen | Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen | Classic deli fare that's been serving communities for generations. |
| Beholder | Girl & The Goat | Both are known for bold flavors and unique dishes in a trendy, upscale atmosphere. |
| Goose the Market | Publican Quality Meats | Both specialize in high-quality meats and sandwiches in a casual, butcher-shop setting. |
| BRICS | Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams | Gourmet ice cream offerings with a focus on inventive flavors and quality ingredients. |
| Zest! Exciting Food Creations | Bad Hunter | Both focus on innovative, plant-based dishes for the modern palate. |
| Patachou | Beatrix | Market-inspired dishes and a health-conscious menu reflect Patachou's ethos in a chic, welcoming space. |
In the heart of Chicago, places like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse and avec stand out for not only mirroring Indianapolis favorites like St. Elmo Steak House and Bluebeard but for also bringing their own unique flair to the table. Gibsons, much like St. Elmo, is celebrated for its refined atmosphere and classic steakhouse menu, inviting diners into a world of culinary excellence. Meanwhile, avec’s approach to rustic, yet modern Mediterranean dishes offers a fresh perspective on communal dining, similar to the experience at Bluebeard, but with a Chicago spin. This guide serves as a bridge, connecting you to new culinary adventures in Chicago while paying homage to the tastes of Indianapolis.
Ready to start your move?
Indianapolis vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. Understanding how housing options in Indianapolis, IN, and Chicago, IL compare can greatly impact your decision. This comparison aims to highlight key differences in cost, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle to better inform your move.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Colonial | Greystone, Modern Condo |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Quiet streets | Lakefront views, Access to public transit |
When relocating from Indianapolis to Chicago, you'll notice significant differences in housing costs and styles. Chicago's median home price and rent are higher, reflecting its more dense, urban environment. The city's architecture, with its iconic Greystones and sleek, modern condos, contrasts with Indianapolis's more suburban-style Ranch and Colonial homes. Chicago's higher walkability score also points to a lifestyle that relies less on cars and more on public transit and walking - a shift that can dramatically change your daily routine. Additionally, listings in Chicago often mention lakefront views and access to public transit, spotlighting the city's vibrant urban lifestyle compared to Indianapolis's emphasis on quiet streets and large yards.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Indianapolis vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another involves adjusting to a new climate. If you're contemplating a move from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather compares in these cities is crucial for your preparation.
Indianapolis, IN
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Snowstorms, Windstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Indianapolis to Chicago, expect slightly cooler temperatures, especially during winter. Chicago's lake-effect snow means dealing with more snowfall than Indianapolis. However, both cities enjoy a similar number of sunny days. Chicago's superior air quality could be a positive change, especially for those sensitive to allergens. Remember, preparing for Chicago's windier climate will also help you adjust more comfortably to the weather differences.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Chicago
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and other financial aspects in Indianapolis will compare to those in Chicago. This comparison will provide clear insights into what to expect financially and assist in planning accordingly.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,479 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 3.23 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.81 | 2.13 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Noticeable |
| Homelessness | Lower than average | Higher than average |
Moving from Indianapolis to Chicago, you'll notice not only a significant increase in average household income but also a steeper cost of living and higher taxation rates. It's essential to consider how these changes will impact your budget, especially with Chicago's property and sales tax rates being noticeably higher. However, Chicago also offers higher affluence and more opportunities in top industries like finance and information technology. Despite these financial adjustments, understanding these differences will enable smoother financial planning for your move.
Indianapolis vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape for those moving from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL . Understanding these aspects can help newcomers acclimate to their new city by offering insight into the local culture and community values.
| Indianapolis | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed urban and suburban policies | Urban-focused, with strong labor and social justice movements |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population including local churches | Highly diverse, with large Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities; notable landmarks include St. Patrick’s Cathedral |
Understanding the political and religious makeup of your new city can be crucial for a smooth transition. Indianapolis, while leaning Democratic, showcases a blend of urban and suburban political views. This contrasts with Chicago’s strongly Democratic stance, where politics are deeply intertwined with urban issues and a vibrant spirit of activism. Religion in both cities reflects a rich tapestry of faiths. Indianapolis is home to a robust Christian community with elements of diversity sprinkled throughout. Chicago, with its historic churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples, offers a broader spectrum of religious experiences, illustrating the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
Indianapolis vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL, it's essential to understand the differences in the daily commute and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Chicago will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Possible |
While the average commute time in Indianapolis might be shorter, Chicago offers a more robust public transportation system, making it feasible to live without a car. In Indianapolis, having a vehicle is almost a necessity due to the limited public transit options. However, in Chicago, the extensive CTA network with its buses and trains, including the famous 'L', provides a viable alternative to driving. The denser traffic congestion in Chicago might seem daunting initially, but the city's investment in public transit offsets this challenge, offering a more sustainable and less stressful way to navigate the urban landscape.
Additional Resources
Indianapolis Moving Services
Popular Indianapolis to Illinois Routes
Popular Moving Resources
