Best Indianapolis to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Indianapolis to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,073 mile move from Indiana to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Indianapolis to Portland 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 You Move Me Portland), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Indianapolis compared to Portland. 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 Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | 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 Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,073 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, ME will cost on average $2,694 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Portland move is roughly $6,475. 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 | $1,811 | 300 ft³ | 6.04 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,694 | 450 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,452 | 750 ft³ | 5.94 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,475 | 1100 ft³ | 5.89 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,338 | 1600 ft³ | 5.84 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,415 | 1800 ft³ | 5.79 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Indianapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
You Move Me Portland
9442 SW Barbur Blvd
Portland, OR, 97219
About You Move Me Portland
You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2388358 / 820850 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2020) |
SC Moving Services
25 Augusta St
South Portland, ME, 04106
About SC Moving Services
SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2324405 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2016) |
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. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Use this guide to help you explore and understand Indianapolis, IN & Portland, ME neighborhoods by aligning familiar areas with those of your new city.
| Indianapolis | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Broad Ripple | East Bayside | Artsy vibe, eclectic dining |
| Mass Ave (Arts District) | Old Port | Vibrant arts scene |
| Carmel | Deering Center | Suburban feel, family-friendly |
| Fountain Square | West End | Trendy, cobblestone streets |
| Irvington | Back Cove | Historic charm, close-knit community |
| Lockerbie Square | Munjoy Hill | Beautiful old homes, ocean views |
| Butler-Tarkington | Rosemont | Quiet, academic influence |
| Zionsville | Stroudwater | Quaint, village-like atmosphere |
| Downtown Indy | Portland Downtown | Central business district |
| Meridian-Kessler | North Deering | Established, leafy neighborhoods |
If you're fond of the vibrant arts scene on Mass Ave in Indianapolis, you'll likely enjoy the eclectic mix found in Portland's Old Port neighborhood, where galleries, theaters, and unique shops await. Broad Ripple’s artsy vibe echoes in East Bayside, known for its local breweries and culinary experimentation. Over in Portland, the historic charm and close-knit feel of Back Cove remind you of Irvington’s classic American elegance, complete with parks and tree-lined streets. Meanwhile, if you appreciate the quiet, academic air of Butler-Tarkington, you'll find comfort in Rosemont with its serene surroundings and community spirit.
Things to Do in Portland
Walk along the Eastern Promenade- Explore Portland Museum of Art
- Shop at Portland Farmers' Market
- Catch a show at State Theatre
- Dine in the Old Port District
- Visit Children's Museum & Theatre
- Bike the Greenbelt Walkway
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Portland
Making the leap from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, ME involves evaluating both the benefits and drawbacks of this decision. This comparison will help you reflect on the good and the bad of relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, ME , aiming to provide you with a balanced perspective through a side-by-side analysis.
Indianapolis, IN- High summer humidity
- Limited coastal access
- Flat landscape
- Smaller food scene
Portland, ME- Cooler, refreshing summers
- Beautiful coastal views
- Scenic mountains and hills
- Vibrant culinary diversity
Portland, ME- Higher cost of living
- Remote northeastern locale
- Limited major sports teams
- Less industry diversity
Indianapolis, IN- Affordable housing
- Central location
- Thriving sports culture
- Rich automotive history
Venturing to Portland, ME will introduce you to breathtaking coastal landscapes, making places such as Old Port and Eastern Promenade perfect for leisurely strolls. The vibrant culinary scene in Portland surpasses that of Indianapolis with its array of seafood spots like Scales. On the flip side, brace yourself for a higher cost of living, which could impact your decision depending on your budget priorities. While you may miss the central location of Indianapolis, places like Eagle Creek Park offer unique experiences that are equally captivating within Indiana's hub. Understanding these nuances will enrich your relocation journey.
Indianapolis vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and daily life. By comparing the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Portland , you'll gain better insight into the food scene you'll be seeing in your new home.
| Indianapolis | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular street food item | Breaded Pork Tenderloin | Wood-Fired Pizza |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burger | Vegan Sushi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city | ||
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, you'll find the food scene rich and diverse, especially in prominent neighborhoods like the Old Port and the Arts District. The abundance of food trucks throughout the city, scoring 9 out of 10, lets you explore unique local flavors such as wood-fired pizza and creative regional spins on lobster rolls without much effort. Restaurants like Fore Street lead the way in upscale dining, showcasing the freshest seafood the region offers. Beyond the renowned seafood, Portland caters to various diets with its celebrated vegan establishments, proving the city is genuinely vegan-friendly. For seafood lovers, the nearby Casco Bay brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy Portland's most famous dish, the lobster roll.
Indianapolis vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food is important for making an area home. This restaurant comparison will help someone find their new favorite eateries by using their current hometown, Indianapolis , as a guide to discover the culinary gems in their new city, Portland .
| Indianapolis | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | Fore Street | Known for its wood-fired cooking and sustainable, local ingredients |
| Milktooth | Hot Suppa | Offers inventive brunch dishes in a cozy setting |
| Bluebeard | Chaval | A shared plates concept with a focus on local and seasonal fare |
| Pizzology | Otto | Celebrated for its creative pizza toppings and dedication to quality pies |
| Siam Square | Green Elephant | Vegetable-focused dishes with bold Asian flavors |
| Rook | Eventide Oyster Co. | Modern twists on classic dishes, especially seafood |
| The Jazz Kitchen | Blue Rooster Food Co. | Combines vibrant music nights with comfort food classics |
| Nada | El Rayo Taqueria | Offers vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine in a lively atmosphere |
| Harry & Izzy's | Petite Jacqueline | American bistro with a European twist, much like its Indianapolis counterpart |
| The Eagle | Empire Chinese Kitchen | Known for its eclectic mix of comfort dishes and serene dining experience |
When it comes to enjoying a refined dining experience, Fore Street in Portland is reminiscent of Indianapolis's iconic St. Elmo Steak House, both establishments priding themselves on locally sourced ingredients and a storied reputation. One can relish creative brunch offerings at Hot Suppa, echoing the ingenuity behind Milktooth in Indy, with their shared penchant for transforming breakfast into a culinary adventure. Fans of Asian cuisine will appreciate Green Elephant's flavorful, vegetable-focused dishes in Portland, which excellently mirrors the vibrant and bold flavor profiles found at Siam Square in Indianapolis.
Ready to start your move?
Indianapolis vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how the housing costs and living conditions in Indianapolis compare to those in Portland . This guide helps you make a well-informed decision by examining these key differences.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | New England Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Backyard, Garage | Water views, Historic charm |
Moving from Indianapolis to Portland may present a financial adjustment due to the higher median home price in Portland. The increased cost comes with the charm of New England Colonial architecture, which often features prominently in real estate listings, emphasizing water views and historic charm. Portland's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its urban design, making it an ideal choice if you value outdoor activities and accessible city living. The transition may also bring new experiences; explore Portland's highly-rated urban environment where local cafes and vibrant neighborhoods are within easy (reach) .
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, ME
1. Munjoy Hill : With its close proximity to the Eastern Promenade, this vibrant neighborhood offers easy access to parks and walking trails that you and your pet will love exploring together.
2. West End : Known for its tree-lined streets and pet-friendly cafes, the West End is a welcoming community with plenty of spots for you and your furry friend to enjoy, like the popular Tandem Coffee + Bakery.
3. East End : This neighborhood boasts several parks and open spaces that are ideal for pets, and you can often find other pet owners mingling at Rising Tide Brewing Company, which welcomes leashed dogs in their outdoor beer garden.
Indianapolis vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. This comparison between Indianapolis, IN and Portland, ME will provide insights into the differences in climate, helping you prepare for your new environment.
Indianapolis, IN
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Indianapolis to Portland, you may notice that winters in Portland are harsher, with lower temperatures and more snowfall compared to Indianapolis. Summers in Portland, however, are slightly milder. Portland experiences more days of sunshine annually, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Despite higher annual rainfall, Portland's air quality is generally better, making it a pleasant change. Lastly, while tornadoes are a concern in Indianapolis, Portland's primary weather challenges include winter storms, which may require some adjustment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Portland
When moving from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living compares. This chart is designed to help you see the financial differences and considerations when relocating from Indianapolis to Portland .
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,479 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 3.23 | 7.15 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.87 | 1.30 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.00 | 5.50 |
| Top 3 Industries | Health Care, Manufacturing, Retail | Healthcare, Education, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
When comparing the financial landscapes, you'll notice that Portland generally has a higher cost of living index, implying more expensive daily expenses. While both cities have a similar average household income, Portland's higher state income tax can impact your net income. On the positive side, Portland enjoys a lower sales tax rate compared to Indianapolis, which can slightly ease the burden of everyday spending. It's also helpful to know that while Portland has a high affluence level, it faces significant challenges with homelessness compared to Indianapolis.
Indianapolis vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of Indianapolis and Portland. By understanding the comparison of the politics between Indianapolis & Portland , you can better anticipate cultural adjustments and community dynamics.
| Indianapolis | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Conservative | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | Indianapolis City Government | Portland City Government |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | More Religious Diversity |
Moving from Indianapolis to Portland means experiencing a shift in both political and religious landscapes. While Indianapolis leans conservative, you might find Portland's liberal outlook more progressive. The local politics of each city reflect these differences, with Indianapolis's political sphere focusing on traditional values, while Portland supports progressive initiatives. Additionally, religious diversity in Portland offers a broader spectrum of faith-based communities compared to the predominantly Christian demographic in Indianapolis, which could introduce you to a wider range of cultural practices and perspectives.
Indianapolis vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Welcome! In this guide, we're offering a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Portland to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like when you move.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | Yes |
In Portland, you'll find that the shorter average commute time can make your morning and evening transitions smoother compared to Indianapolis. Portland's public transit system is more widespread, making it easier to navigate without relying on a car. The city's lower traffic congestion also contributes to a more enjoyable driving experience. This could be especially appealing if you're considering minimizing your dependence on a vehicle. If you enjoy the idea of accessible public transit with the option to go car-free, Portland provides an enticing environment.
Additional Resources
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